Illinois Motorcycle Accident Law
Motorcycle accidents have an increased risk of fatality and injury over car or truck accidents.Accident laws in Illinois are meant to protect the riders, passengers and other vehicles while traveling on the roadways.
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Significance
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The laws are special because many motorcycle accidents are dangerous. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, the risk of a motorcyclist driver or rider being killed in an accident is greater than the risk of a driver or passenger in an automobile. Most fatal accidents take place during the weekend.
Helmets
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Illinois is one of three states that does not require motorcycle riders to wear helmets. Illinois lawmakers have tried to vote on motorcycle laws for several years, but the bill never makes it through the legislative process. The Secretary of State and insurance companies suggest riders wear helmets for increased safety.
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Other laws
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A motorcycle rider could be found at fault in an accident if he fails to wear or use required equipment. Riders must wear eyewear unless their motorcycle has windscreen. Motorcycle riders must also use headlights during the day. Illinois also does not allow motorcycles to lane split, or ride their vehicles between the lanes while traveling the same direction as traffic.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit motorcycle image by Goran Bogicevic from Fotolia.com