EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS
DeKalb County, IL Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Trusted Attorneys for Injured Riders and Their Passengers in DeKalb, Sycamore, Malta, Kirkland, and Sandwich
Motorcycle riding offers freedom, adventure, and economical transportation. However, riders in DeKalb County, Illinois, face significant risks on public roads. Even a low-speed collision can result in catastrophic injury or death due to the lack of protective vehicle structure.
At John J. Malm & Associates, we have built our reputation on standing up for injured individuals and families throughout DeKalb County and across Illinois. For decades, we have represented victims of serious motor vehicle collisions, including catastrophic motorcycle crashes, with skill, preparation, and relentless advocacy. We understand that a motorcycle accident can upend every aspect of your life in an instant, leaving you with mounting medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about the future. Our DeKalb County injury attorneys approach every case with the resources, courtroom experience, and strategic focus necessary to hold negligent drivers accountable and pursue the full compensation our clients deserve.
Illinois Motorcycle Accident Overview
According to the latest Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Crash Facts report:
- In 2024, motorcycles were involved in approximately 3,361 total crashes statewide, including 142 fatal crashes and 2,385 injury crashes.
- That year, 144 motorcyclists were killed and 2,556 were injured, including 928 with serious (“A”) injuries.
- In the prior year (2023), Illinois recorded 3,147 motorcycle crashes, with 161 fatal crashes and 2,204 injury crashes statewide.
- In 2023, 168 motorcyclists were killed, and 2,373 were injured across the state.
These data reflect a recurring pattern: motorcycle crashes make up a small share of total vehicle crashes (about 1.1%–1.2%), but account for a disproportionately high share of traffic fatalities and serious injuries on Illinois roads.
Although DeKalb County’s annual crash counts are lower than those of more populous counties, the risk dynamics, such as rural intersections, state routes, and fast-moving vehicles, mirror statewide trends.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous in DeKalb County, Illinois
Motorcyclists are uniquely vulnerable on the road:
- Lack of external protection: Unlike cars and trucks, motorcycles do not offer a protective frame, airbags, or a safety cage, which magnifies injury severity.
- Smaller profile: Motorcycles are harder for other drivers to see, especially in blind spots or at intersections.
- High speeds and curves on rural roads: Roads common in DeKalb County, such as Illinois Route 72, include faster segments and curves where motorcyclists are exposed to greater risk.
As a result, even crashes at lower speeds can result in serious injury or fatality. These statewide statistics support that pattern: although motorcycles account for only about 1% of total crashes, they contribute to around 12%–13% of traffic deaths in Illinois.
Common Causes of DeKalb County Motorcycle Crashes
Crash reports and legal analyses identify several frequent causes of motorcycle accidents in Illinois:
Collisions With Other Vehicles
- Failure to Yield/Left-Turn Collisions: Other drivers often fail to see an oncoming motorcycle when turning left at intersections, a leading cause of multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes.
- Blind Spot Collisions: Drivers changing lanes without checking mirrors or blind spots can cut riders off.
Rider and Driver Behavior
- Speeding: High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of a crash.
- Distracted Driving: Cellphone use and driver inattention contribute directly to collisions.
- Alcohol or Impairment: Impaired riders and drivers are a major risk factor in fatal motorcycle crashes.
Road Conditions
- Surface Hazards: Gravel, debris, potholes, and uneven pavement are hazards that disproportionately affect two-wheel stability.
- Rural Intersections and Curves: Roads common to DeKalb County feature rural intersections and curves that can be dangerous at speed.
Loss of Control
- Skidding, braking too hard, or loss of control on curves often leads to single-vehicle crashes.
- Weather conditions can exacerbate these control issues even when speed and attentiveness are adequate.
Injuries Commonly Seen in Motorcycle Crashes Throughout DeKalb County
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries. Common injury patterns include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head trauma from impact, even when helmets are worn.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage that can lead to partial or full paralysis.
- Fractures: Broken bones in the legs, arms, pelvis, ribs, and shoulders are widespread.
- Road Rash and Soft Tissue Trauma: Severe abrasions that may require grafts and long-term care.
- Internal Organ Damage: Because the torso is exposed, internal bleeding and organ trauma are common.
The Legal Landscape After a DeKalb County, IL Motorcycle Crash
In Illinois, injured motorcyclists may have several legal options:
Establishing Negligence
To recover compensation, an injured rider must generally prove that another party acted negligently, such as failing to yield, running a red light, or driving while distracted.
Comparative Fault
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule: a rider may recover damages if they are not more than 50% at fault for the crash, but recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault.
Types of Recoverable Damages
Motorcycle accident victims may pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Each case is unique, and DeKalb County riders who have suffered serious injuries should consult experienced counsel to understand their rights and the strength of their claim.
Why DeKalb County Riders Need Skilled Legal Representation
Motorcycle accident cases frequently involve complex liability issues, significant medical documentation, and high-stakes negotiations with insurance companies. At John J. Malm & Associates, our injury attorneys understand the nuances of motorcycle crash litigation and the unique challenges riders face in Illinois. We stand ready to assist injured motorcyclists and their families with personalized, aggressive legal advocacy from the initial consultation through resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions about Motorcycle Accidents in DeKalb County & Illinois
Q: Are motorcycle accidents common in Illinois?
A: While motorcycle crashes represent a small percentage of total vehicle accidents, they account for a disproportionate share of serious injuries and fatalities. In 2023, there were over 3,000 motorcycle crashes, with 168 riders killed and 2,373 injured statewide.
Q: What percentage of Illinois traffic fatalities involve motorcycles?
A: Motorcycles accounted for roughly 12%–13% of all traffic fatalities in recent years, even though they comprise a small share of registered vehicles.
Q: Does helmet use affect injury outcomes?
A: Yes. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of fatal and serious traumatic brain injuries, though Illinois’ adult helmet law is limited. Injuries are typically more severe when helmets are not worn.
Q: Who can be held liable in a motorcycle accident?
A: Other motorists, government entities responsible for roadway maintenance, and even manufacturers (for defective parts) may be liable, depending on the crash circumstances.
Q: How soon should I contact an attorney after a crash?
A: As soon as possible. Early legal guidance helps preserve evidence, manage insurance communications, and protect your rights.
Contact the Compassionate DeKalb County Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in DeKalb County or anywhere in Illinois, time matters. Evidence can disappear, memories fade, and insurance adjusters will act quickly to minimize payouts. You deserve prompt, informed, and relentless representation to pursue the compensation you need for medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, and future needs.
Contact our experienced DeKalb County, IL motorcycle accident attorneys today for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your options and fight for the justice you deserve.