A place with a nickname like “the Windy City” may not seem like the most inviting locale to ride a motorcycle, but that doesn’t deter the countless motorcycle enthusiasts in Chicago. Located on Lake Michigan, Chicago, Illinois, is a great place to cruise on a motorcycle, enjoying the area’s scenic views.
Chicago is also one of the largest cities in the United States, and, as with many large cities, traffic can slow to a crawl during busy times of the day. Riding a motorcycle can help commuters save gas and find parking, especially when seemingly every street corner and parking lot is full.
However, driving a motorcycle is also a big responsibility. If you aren’t familiar with the motorcycle laws in Illinois, you could get ticketed or end up in an accident. Fortunately, the Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers are ready to help if you’re injured in a crash. Contact us to review your case at (312) 635-5400.
How Powell And Pisman Injury Lawyers Can Help After An Accident In Chicago, IL
Imagine for a moment that the worst happens and you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Chicago, Illinois. How exactly can a law firm help you after a crash?
At Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, we help accident victims get back on their feet by pursuing fair compensation for their injuries. If you’ve suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident on Chicago’s streets, we can represent you throughout the claims process. Our firm has an impressive record of:
- Negotiating with insurance companies for fair settlements
- Challenging insurers in court when they refuse to settle
- Traveling to visit clients who are confined to the hospital or their homes
- Using our extensive medical connections to assist injury victims
- Only charging a fee if we win our clients’ cases
- Obtaining millions of dollars for our clients
- Responding to client questions and concerns 24 hours a day
Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers are familiar with all relevant state laws. If you have questions about your rights or what the law says, schedule an appointment to discuss your case with a knowledgeable legal advocate.
Illinois Motorcycle Laws Every Driver Should Know
Illinois cares about the safety of motorcycle riders. The state’s motorcycle laws are an attempt to protect the safety of everyone who gets around on two wheels by minimizing avoidable accidents. Here are a few key points to be aware of:
Rider Safety
According to Illinois law, you can only ride a motorcycle that has a permanent and regular seat designed for a rider. Only two people can ride on the seat if it’s designed to hold multiple passengers.
Additionally, you may only ride on a motorcycle while sitting astride the seat and facing forward. Your handlebar grips may not be higher than your head. Finally, no one may ride a motorcycle if their feet can’t rest on the footrests while the vehicle is in motion.
Helmets
Surprisingly, Illinois doesn’t require motorcycle riders to wear helmets. However, the state strongly encourages riders to don federally approved helmets, as they’ve been shown to decrease the likelihood of traumatic brain injuries.
Motorcycle Equipment
Motorcycles can only legally be operated on public roads if they’re well-maintained and properly equipped. Before riding your bike in public, you must ensure that it has the following:
- A functioning muffler that limits noise
- A rearview mirror
- A working horn
- A headlamp, which must be illuminated whenever the motorcycle is in operation
- Working signal devices
- Red reflectors and brake lamps visible from at least 500 feet away in normal conditions
- Functioning brakes on both wheels
Technically, turn signals are only required on motorcycles manufactured after 1972. However, if your bike was made before then and doesn’t have turn signals, you’re required to use proper hand signals whenever you turn or change lanes.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is against the law in Illinois, as in many other states. This means you can’t ride between the lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic — you must stay within your lane at all times.
However, that restriction also comes with a benefit. Motorcycle riders are entitled to use the entire lane while driving, which means other vehicles can’t infringe on your space or attempt to pass you, despite the smaller size of your conveyance.
Contact Our Chicago Motorcycle Crash Lawyer For A Free Consultation
Riding around Chicago on a motorcycle can be a pleasant way to see the city, especially when the weather is nice. However, riding a motorcycle is only safe when you obey state laws and other drivers respect your rights.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident due to the reckless or aggressive actions of another motorist, contact Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation and take legal action.