Personal Injury Attorney Chicago Update: Motorcycle Accidents

This week’s Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer’s update centers around motorcycle safety. Every year, hundreds of people are injured in motorcycle accidents.

IDOT, State Police and Advocacy Groups Launch “Start Seeing Motorcycles” Campaign

SPRINGFIELD — In order to put a spotlight on motorcycle safety as the 2010 riding season gets underway, Governor Pat Quinn has proclaimed May Motorcycle Awareness Month in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois State Police (ISP) and motorcycle safety advocates are urging the public to “Start Seeing Motorcycles.”

The overall number of traffic fatalities in Illinois dropped from 1,043 in 2008 to 911 in 2009. Motorcycle fatalities decreased from 135 in 2008 to 130 in 2009.

“We are very encouraged to see a drop in the number of motorcycle fatalities on our roads and would like to see that trend continue,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “This campaign reinforces the importance of motorcycle safety. We urge every motorist on the road to be on the lookout for motorcycle riders and to ‘Share the Road’ with them.”

“When you ride, be aware of your surroundings, others may not see you. Whenever there is a motor vehicle versus a motorcycle accident, most of the time the operator’s comment is, ‘I did not see the bike” said Larry Kolling, Gold Wing Road Riders Association’s IL District Motorist Awareness Coordinator.

“The Illinois State Police is committed to sustaining the downward trend of traffic crash fatalities in Illinois, and ensuring the safety of motorcyclists,” said Acting Illinois State Police Director Jonathon Monken. “Troopers throughout the state will continue to monitor speed limits, check license endorsements, and enforce “Fatal Five” moving violations.”

If you or anyone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident, please contact our experienced Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers. All consultations are absolutely free.