Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Seasoned Injury Attorneys for Chicago Bikers and Their Passengers

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand that motorcycle accidents are among the most devastating events on Illinois roads. Our Chicago personal injury law firm represents injured riders and grieving families throughout the Chicago area—helping them recover medical costs, lost income, and the justice they deserve.

Motorcycle accidents are especially dangerous in an urban setting like Chicago, where congested streets, distracted drivers, and blind intersections create a perfect storm of hazards. Riders have far less protection than occupants of passenger vehicles, and insurance companies often try to blame the motorcyclist—even when the other driver was clearly at fault.

“Motorcycle riders face some of the most dangerous conditions on Illinois roads, and they deserve to be treated fairly—not blamed—for the careless actions of others. At John J. Malm & Associates, we fight to ensure that injured riders and their families receive the justice and compensation they need to move forward. We take pride in standing up to insurance companies and holding negligent drivers accountable. It’s our mission to protect the rights of every motorcyclist we represent.” – John J. Malm, Chicago motorcycle crash attorney

Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Chicago and Illinois

Motorcycle crash data from the Illinois Department of Transportation reveals a troubling trend: although motorcycles make up less than 2% of registered vehicles, they account for over 12% of statewide traffic deaths.

Illinois Motorcycle Crash Facts (2022–2023):

• 142 motorcycle fatalities in 2022
• 168 motorcycle fatalities (preliminary) in 2023
• 19 deaths occurred in Chicago in 2022
• Over 2,200 motorcyclists injured statewide in 2022
• Riders not wearing helmets were involved in 62.6% of fatal crashes
• Alcohol impairment was a factor in over 37% of motorcyclist fatalities

Motorcycle crashes represent just 1.1% of total crashes, but 14.1% of fatal crashes—an alarming disparity that highlights how dangerous these accidents are.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Chicago

Many Chicago motorcycle accidents stem from negligent or inattentive drivers. The most common causes include:

• Left-turn collisions: Drivers often misjudge a motorcyclist’s speed and turn directly in front of them.
• Lane changes: Larger vehicles fail to check blind spots, striking motorcyclists during merges.
• Rear-end collisions: At stoplights or in traffic, motorcyclists are especially vulnerable.
• Speeding and aggressive driving: Especially in heavy traffic zones or when drivers are frustrated.
• Dooring incidents: In bike lanes or on one-way streets, drivers open car doors into a rider’s path.
• Distracted driving: Cell phone use continues to be a leading cause of preventable accidents.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Chicago

Motorcycle injuries tend to be more severe than those from other types of motor vehicle accidents. Even with protective gear, riders can suffer life-altering harm. Some of the most common injuries we see in our practice include:

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Even with a helmet, riders can suffer concussions or more serious head trauma. TBIs often result in long-term cognitive or physical impairment.

2. Spinal Cord Injuries

Crashes can cause herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or even paralysis. Many clients require extensive rehab or assistive devices for life.

3. Fractures and Broken Bones

Collarbone, leg, arm, and pelvic fractures are all common in motorcycle crashes due to the impact with pavement or other vehicles.

4. Road Rash and Lacerations

When a rider is thrown from a bike and slides across the asphalt, layers of skin can be torn away. These injuries are not only painful but also prone to infection and scarring.

5. Internal Organ Damage

Internal bleeding or punctured lungs may not be immediately apparent but can be fatal if not treated quickly.

6. Amputations

In severe cases—especially high-speed crashes or collisions with trucks—a limb may be severed or require surgical amputation.

Liability After a Chicago Motorcycle Accident

To recover damages, the injured rider must show that the other party was negligent. This means proving:

• The at-fault driver owed a duty of care.
• That duty was breached (e.g., by speeding or failing to yield).
• The breach caused the accident and the rider’s injuries.
• The rider suffered measurable damages (e.g., medical bills, lost income).

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Depending on the case, multiple parties may be responsible:

• A driver who failed to yield or was texting
• A commercial trucking company whose employee struck a rider
• A government agency that failed to maintain safe road conditions
• A vehicle or parts manufacturer if mechanical failure contributed

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault—but you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 50% responsible.

Damages You Can Recover in a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Claim

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement or disability
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed)

How Our Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers Help Motorcycle Accident Victims

At John J. Malm & Associates, we know how insurance companies operate. They often attempt to shift blame onto motorcycle riders, claiming they were reckless or speeding. Our team:

• Conducts independent crash investigations
• Works with accident reconstruction experts
• Obtains black box data or surveillance footage
• Interviews witnesses and law enforcement
• Negotiates directly with insurers and, when needed, prepares your case for trial

We’ve helped many Chicago-area riders and families recover meaningful compensation after life-changing crashes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Motorcycle Accident Claims

How long do I have to file a claim in Illinois?

Under Illinois law, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (735 ILCS 5/13-202). For property damage, the statute of limitations is 5 years. However, don’t wait—evidence disappears quickly.

What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Illinois does not have a universal helmet law. While wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for safety, not wearing one does not automatically bar you from recovering damages. However, insurers may try to argue it contributed to your injuries—our attorneys are skilled at pushing back on that.

Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are found to be less than 50% at fault, your damages will be reduced proportionally (735 ILCS 5/2-1116). For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages were $100,000, you would receive $80,000.

What is the average settlement value for a motorcycle accident?

There’s no universal “average,” but settlements often reflect the severity of injuries, extent of medical care, and lost income. For serious injury cases, six- or even seven-figure recoveries are possible. Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers offer free consultations to help estimate what your claim may be worth.

Should I talk to the insurance company?

Not before speaking with a lawyer. Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things that hurt your claim. Let us handle all communications while you focus on healing.

Contact the Top-Rated Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash in Chicago, we’re ready to help. You shouldn’t have to fight the insurance company alone—or deal with mounting bills while you recover.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we’ve earned the trust of motorcycle riders here in Chicago and across Illinois by standing up to negligent drivers and holding insurance companies accountable. We’ll guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and skill.

Call 844-MALMLAW or visit www.malmlaw.com to schedule your free consultation today.

Let us help you get back on the road—and get the justice you deserve.