Motorcycle Safety in Illinois

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Car Accidents

Motorcycling has increased over the years in popularity; however, injuries are still prevalent. According to the Center for Disease and Prevention (CDC) more than 34,000 motorcyclists were killed between 2001 and 2008, and there was 55% increase from 2001 to 2008. In the same time period, there were about 1,222,000 people treated in emergency rooms for non-fatal motorcycle accidents, an increase of about 46%. Most of these injuries were to the leg and foot or the head and neck. Though enjoyable to ride, these statistics show that safety should be the number one concern for all motorcyclists and to take extreme precaution. No vehicle operator can be too safe - most of the time it is other people you have to worry about. There are things that a motorcyclist can do to keep safe. An obvious one is wearing a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmet- whether your state requires it or not. The testing that certifies a helmet to be DOT approved is to make sure that the helmet is the highest level of quality and safety for great impact. Clothing to help protect from injury, such as bright colors or reflective material, will help others see the motorcyclists better. The way a motorcyclist drives is extremely important. Never drive a motorcycle after drinking, or let anyone else who has been drinking, drive a motorcycle (or any motorized vehicle). Keeping a safe distance, following speed limits and being aware of the road surface are more ways to ensure safety while riding a motorcycle. Even if you have taken all of the proper precautions, you may still be involved in an accident. If you have been in a motorcycle crash due to the negligence of another person, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a Southwest Cook County personal injury attorney today who is familiar with the laws and rights for motorcyclists. Your personal injury lawyer