May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

There is a certain population of motorists in Illinois and elsewhere who seem to be forgotten by other drivers. Motorcyclists are often found out and about, yet they seem invisible to most people with whom they share the road. As May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, it seems an appropriate time to go over a few stats, as well as some suggestions to help keep these vulnerable motorists safe.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2018, nearly 5,000 motorcyclists lost their lives in crashes nationwide. While this is a decrease from the year previous, it is still a concerning number. Of those riders who survive collisions, the injuries they suffer are often severe and tend to have long-term consequences.

Motorcycle riders have a much higher chance of dying in collisions than occupants of passenger cars. Why? They lack protection. Wearing protective clothing and a helmet is always recommended and may be life-saving.

Along with wearing proper protective equipment, the NHSTA suggests that riders take the appropriate driving and safety courses, ride responsibly and inspect their vehicles before every ride. As far as other drivers go, the only real suggestion is to pay attention. Motorcycles are harder to see due to their size; therefore, driving free of distraction or impairment so one is fully aware of his or her surroundings is a must to prevent collisions with motorcyclists.

The losses experienced by victims of motorcycle accidents or — in the event of a fatality — their surviving family members, can be significant. Illinois residents who have suffered injuries or lost loved ones in motorcycle collisions may be entitled to seek compensation for their losses through legal means. With the assistance of counsel, maximum relief for any damages deemed recoverable — whether economic or non-economic in nature — may be achieved.