There were 3,275 motorcycle accidents in the state of Illinois in 2021. Of those, 168 motorcyclists died from the accident, and 2,381 suffered severe, even catastrophic injuries. Motorcyclists have little to no protection when hit by a 3,000-pound – or heavier – vehicle. Illinois is one of only three states with no motorcycle helmet laws, although the state does require protective eyewear.
The survival rate for a motorcyclist often depends on the severity of the crash, whether the motorcyclist wears protective gear, and his or her experience level. Motorcycle accidents are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. According to the NHTSA, more than half of all motorcycle accidents occur in intersections, either because a driver fails to see the motorcyclist or misjudges the distance from the motorcyclist during a left-hand turn.