Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Seeking Justice and Maximum Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims

If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash, you don’t have to face the legal process by yourself. A trusted Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer can help you make sense of what comes next and stand with you every step of the way.

Our firm is deeply rooted in the Chicago community, and we’re committed to helping injured motorcycle riders seek accountability. We fight to protect the rights of motorcycle accident victims and pursue maximum compensation through aggressive legal representation.

Settlements & Recovered by Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Chicago

Our law firm has decades of experience handling motorcycle accident settlements across Chicago, helping injured riders and passengers recover the compensation they need to move forward.

• $7,900,000 Settlement – James was riding his motorcycle near South Pulaski Road when a driver made a sudden left turn into his path. The crash resulted in a leg amputation. The life-changing nature of his injuries and extensive future medical needs played a significant role in securing this settlement.
• $570,000 Settlement – Carlos, a 41-year-old tech worker from the West Loop, was thrown from his bike after a car attempted to pass in a no-pass zone. He suffered nerve damage leading to drop foot. The insurance company claimed the condition was pre-existing, but expert medical evidence helped prove otherwise.
• $330,000 Settlement – Tanya was riding as a passenger when a car veered into their lane on I-55, causing a violent motorcycle crash. She suffered multiple injuries. Fault was shared between both drivers, but we successfully argued that Tanya deserved compensation regardless of who caused the collision.
• $250,000 Settlement – Marcus was the victim of a hit-and-run while riding his motorcycle on West Roosevelt Road. The crash left him with broken ribs and a lengthy recovery. Even though the driver fled, we used nearby camera footage and witness accounts to build a strong case on Marcus’s behalf.

Why Choose Our Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Our top-rated Chicago personal injury attorneys have earned recognition for delivering results in complex personal injury cases. With over $450 million recovered for Chicago motorcycle accident victims, our legal team is trusted by riders across Illinois. We’ve been recognized by Super Lawyers and maintain a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating for client satisfaction and professional conduct.

Backed by decades of experience, we know how to build strong cases that hold negligent drivers accountable. If you’re looking for the best motorcycle accident lawyer to stand by you after a crash, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence and support.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle

Motorcycle crashes can happen in many different ways, and the cause of the accident often plays a key role in how a case is handled. Our top-rated Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys represent riders injured in all types of crashes, from single-bike wrecks to multi-vehicle collisions.

• Rear-end motorcycle accidents
• Head-on collisions
• Left-turn motorcycle accidents
• Lane-change or sideswipe accidents
• Dooring accidents
• Intersection collisions
• Cornering or curve-loss accidents
• Low-side crashes
• High-side crashes
• Run-off-road motorcycle accidents
• Hit-and-run motorcycle accidents
• Collisions with fixed objects
• Motorcycle collisions with passenger cars
• Collisions with trucks or commercial vehicles
• Group riding accidents
• Fatal motorcycle accidents

What Are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Chicago?

Many motorcycle accidents in Chicago occur because of preventable driver errors, poor road conditions, or mechanical failures. Understanding what caused the crash is one of the first steps our top Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys take when building a strong case for injured riders.

• Distracted drivers often cause crashes by texting, using phones, or multitasking behind the wheel.
• Speeding or aggressive driving reduces reaction time and increases crash severity and risk.
• Failure to yield the right of way leads to dangerous, preventable intersection collisions.
• Drunk or drugged driving impairs judgment and coordination, causing deadly motorcycle collisions.
• Following too closely doesn’t allow enough space to stop safely behind motorcycles.
• Inexperienced or unlicensed riders may struggle with control or handling in high-risk situations.
• Lane splitting or weaving between vehicles increases the risk of sideswipes in tight or fast-moving traffic.
• Poor road conditions, like loose gravel or potholes, can quickly cause a bike to slide.
• Adverse weather, such as rain or fog, limits visibility and reduces traction.
• Limited visibility or blind spots prevent drivers from seeing nearby motorcycles during lane changes.
• Defective motorcycle parts or equipment failure can cause crashes through unexpected loss of control.
• Poor motorcycle maintenance increases the chance of mechanical failure during normal riding.
• Opening car doors in traffic (“dooring”) can send riders flying into traffic or pavement.
• Distracted or negligent left-turning drivers often turn across a rider’s lane without looking.
• Unsafe or illegal lane changes by other vehicles result in unexpected collisions with motorcycles.
• Sudden stops by traffic ahead cause rear-end crashes with limited braking space.
• Roadway construction or unmarked hazards force riders into dangerous or unstable roadway conditions.
• Lack of proper lighting or reflective markings makes motorcycles nearly invisible at night.
• Reckless or high-speed riding reduces control and increases the chance of severe crashes.
• Lack of protective barriers or guardrails leaves riders exposed during run-off-road accidents.

What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?

Motorcycle accident injuries are often severe due to the lack of protection riders have compared to occupants in passenger vehicles. Some of the most common injuries include broken bones, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal bleeding, and damage to joints or ligaments.

Many injured riders also suffer from long-term complications like chronic pain, limited mobility, or permanent disability. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work. Our top-rated Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys help riders recover compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll caused by motorcycle accident injuries.

What Damages Can Chicago Motorcycle Accident Injury Victims Recover?

In a motorcycle accident lawsuit, injured victims can pursue both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages cover the financial losses caused by the crash, including medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and future treatment needs. Lost wages from missed work and reduced earning capacity due to long-term injuries are also included, along with the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged motorcycle and riding gear.

Non-economic damages reflect the personal toll of the accident. These may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, permanent disability or disfigurement, and loss of companionship in wrongful death claims.

What Is the Average Motorcycle Accident Case Worth in Chicago?

According to Law.com’s VerdictSearch, the average motorcycle accident case in Chicago is worth approximately $2,156,955, with a median value of $582,967. Reported case values range from as low as $2,100 to as high as $14,564,000, depending on the specific details of each claim.

The value of a motorcycle accident case in Chicago can vary widely based on several key factors, including:

• Severity of the injuries sustained (seriously injured victims typically recover more in damages)
• Extent and cost of medical treatment and future care needs
• Whether the injuries are permanent or lead to disability
• Time missed from work and loss of future earning potential
• Emotional distress, pain, and suffering
• Fault or negligence of the at-fault driver
• Availability and quality of evidence (e.g., medical records, police reports, witness statements)
• Whether the case settles or goes to trial
• Insurance coverage available through the at-fault party or the rider’s policy
• Strength of legal representation and expert testimony

Example Motorcycle Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

$14.5 Million Jury Award After Bus Turns in Front of Motorcycle

William Hickey Jr., a city worker, was riding his motorcycle when a Pace transit bus turned left in front of him in Lockport. Hickey struck the rear of the bus, was ejected, and suffered catastrophic injuries, including a shattered leg, compartment syndrome, multiple fractures, and, eventually, a below-knee amputation. He underwent over a dozen surgeries, required long-term care, and suffered from depression and PTSD. The defense claimed Hickey was speeding, but surveillance footage supported his case. A jury awarded $14.5 million, reduced to $8,010,000 due to 45% contributory negligence.

$8 Million Settlement for Couple Injured in Chain-Reaction Motorcycle Crash

Ronald and Margaret Furst were riding a motorcycle when a van rear-ended a stopped car in a four-way intersection, pushing it into their path. Both were airlifted and hospitalized. Ronald suffered fractures and a traumatic brain injury; Margaret sustained spinal fractures requiring a fusion. They both reported chronic pain and lasting limitations. The case settled during trial for $8,000,000, with Safelite paying $7.9 million and Tichawa’s insurance company contributing $100,000.

$2.5 Million Settlement for EMT Left Paralyzed in Chicago Crash

Oscar Moreno, a 29-year-old EMT, became paraplegic after a car turned left into his path on Western Avenue. Despite wearing a helmet, he sustained a spinal cord injury, skull fractures, broken ribs, and other catastrophic injuries. After extensive surgeries and months of inpatient rehab, he was permanently paralyzed from the waist down. Without filing a lawsuit, his attorneys secured a $2,500,000 settlement from the driver’s auto and homeowner’s insurance policies.

$750,000 Settlement for Shoulder Injury After Motorcycle Ejection

Edmund Pujol, a school teacher, was ejected from his motorcycle after a driver ran a stop sign on Kimball Avenue. He suffered a four-part fracture to his dominant right shoulder, underwent multiple surgeries, and endured long-term pain and limited mobility. He claimed loss of ability to ride and missed a year of work. Before trial, Hertz (the vehicle owner) agreed to a $750,000 settlement.

Why You Need a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Many motorcycle accident cases in Chicago present unique legal challenges. Riders often face bias from insurance companies and opposing attorneys who argue that they were reckless, regardless of what actually happened. Many cases are filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, where success depends on presenting clear evidence, expert analysis, and strong legal arguments.

These crashes often result in severe or life-changing injuries, making it even more important to document every detail–from the accident scene to ongoing medical care. Insurance carriers move quickly to protect their interests, often offering low settlements or denying fault altogether.

Knowing when to hire an attorney for a motorcycle accident can make a significant difference. The sooner you have an experienced lawyer on your side, the better your chances of building a solid case and protecting your ability to recover compensation.

How Common Are Motorcycle Crashes in Chicago?

In 2023, IDOT reported 575 motorcycle collisions in the City of Chicago. Of these, 8 led to fatalities, 323 resulted in injuries, and 244 motorcycle accidents caused property damage.

Though motorcycle crashes made up a small percentage of the city’s 203,594 total accidents, motorcycle accident statistics reveal a much greater risk of serious injury or death for riders compared to occupants of passenger vehicles.

Where Do Motorcycle Accidents Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Most motorcycle crashes occur in high-traffic areas, especially near major intersections and along busy commuter routes.

Some of the most common locations include stretches of Lake Shore Drive, Western Avenue, Ashland Avenue, and intersections along Cicero Avenue and 95th Street. Crashes frequently occur near expressway entrances and exits, where drivers fail to check blind spots or make sudden lane changes.

Riders are also at risk near industrial areas and job sites, especially around large employers or distribution centers, where trucks and commercial vehicles are more common. Areas around downtown, including near Union Station and the Loop, see a higher number of incidents involving distracted driving.

Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers have handled many cases in these locations and understand how local traffic patterns contribute to serious collisions.

What Illinois Laws Govern Motorcycle Accident Claims?

When pursuing a motorcycle accident claim in Chicago, our legal team relies on both Illinois motorcycle laws and local city ordinances to prove liability and recover damages for our clients. These laws not only define how riders must operate their bikes but also guide how courts and insurance companies evaluate fault after a crash.

The Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/) includes specific provisions for motorcycles–covering lane usage, signaling, passing, and equipment requirements. In the case of a fatal motorcycle accident, the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/) allows surviving family members to seek compensation for their loss and related financial harm.

When more than one party shares responsibility, the Illinois Joint Tortfeasor Contribution Act (740 ILCS 100/) permits recovery from multiple negligent drivers based on their share of the fault.

Chicago riders must also follow local rules that impact liability. Under Municipal Code 9-48-080, motorcyclists must ride facing forward, seated properly, with at least one hand on the handlebars. 9-64-020 of the Municipal Code outlines legal parking requirements for motorcycles, and 9-76-050 sets specific lighting standards for safe operation in city traffic.

Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers use these laws to challenge unfair blame, build strong claims, and protect injured riders, especially in crash-prone areas like Ashland Avenue, North Avenue, and the Kennedy Expressway.

How Long Do Victims Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Illinois?

The motorcycle accident statute of limitations gives riders two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit (735 ILCS 5/13-202). If that deadline passes, you could lose your right to compensation–no matter how serious your injuries are or how clearly the other party was at fault.

For families pursuing wrongful death claims, the two-year period typically begins on the date of their loved one’s passing. Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers work quickly to gather evidence, file necessary paperwork, and make sure your claim is preserved before the deadline expires.

Who Is Legally Liable for Motorcycle Accidents in Chicago?

Legal liability for motorcycle accidents in Chicago depends on the specific facts of the crash and who contributed to it.

In many cases, negligent drivers are held responsible for unsafe behaviors like speeding, failing to yield, or making improper left turns. Commercial drivers and their employers may be liable if a motorcycle collision involves a truck or delivery vehicle. Rideshare drivers can also be sued if the crash occurred while they were working.

In some situations, government entities may be responsible for poor road conditions, missing signs, or other roadway hazards. Liability may also fall on a motorcycle manufacturer if a defective part contributed to the accident. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers carefully examine each case to determine who is at fault and pursue every available path to compensation.

Common Defenses Following Motorcycle Crashes

After a motorcycle collision, at-fault parties and their insurance carriers often use common defenses to avoid paying full and fair compensation.

One frequent claim is that the rider was speeding or driving recklessly. We counter this by analyzing crash scene evidence, surveillance footage, and expert analysis to show the rider’s actual behavior. Another common defense is that the rider wasn’t wearing a helmet. In Illinois, helmet use is not legally required, and we argue that a lack of a helmet doesn’t excuse another driver’s negligence.

Defendants also claim the rider “came out of nowhere” or was in a blind spot–arguments we challenge with witness testimony, visibility studies, and crash reconstruction. We are prepared for these tactics and build strong cases that focus on facts, not assumptions or bias against riders.

How to Strengthen Your Chicago Motorcycle Accident Claim

To strengthen your Chicago motorcycle accident claim, take immediate steps after the crash to protect your rights. Start by calling 911 and requesting a police report, which will serve as a key piece of evidence explaining how the accident occurred. Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor, and follow all treatment plans.

Document the scene with photos, gather witness contact information, and keep detailed records of your injuries, expenses, and missed work. Avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company without legal guidance. Most importantly, contact a Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to preserve evidence and start building your claim the right way.

How Our Law Firm Can Help You File a Personal Injury Claim

When working with one of our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers, we handle every step of your personal injury claim so you can focus on healing. We begin by investigating the crash, gathering key evidence such as the accident report, medical records, and witness statements. If needed, we consult accident reconstruction experts to clarify how the collision occurred and who’s at fault.

Our team also manages all communication with the insurance company, pushing back against lowball offers and delays. We calculate your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs, and negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement. If the insurer refuses to take responsibility, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial.

From start to finish, we stand with you and fight for your recovery.

FAQs

How much does a Chicago motorcycle accident attorney cost?

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront–we only get paid if we win your case.

Who can file a motorcycle accident claim in Illinois?

Injured riders, passengers, or surviving family members of a deceased rider can file a claim if someone else’s negligence caused the crash.

Can injured motorcycle passengers file a motorcycle accident claim?

Yes, injured passengers can file a claim against the negligent party, whether it was the motorcyclist or another vehicle involved in the crash.

How is negligence proven in Chicago motorcycle accident cases?

Negligence is established by proving four legal elements:

• Duty – the defendant had a legal obligation to act safely,
• Breach – they violated that duty,
• Causation – the breach directly caused the accident,
• Damages – the rider suffered harm, such as injuries, medical bills, or lost wages.

We gather evidence to support each element in your motorcycle accident case.

How are motorcycle crash cases different than those involving passenger cars?

Motorcycle and car accidents differ in impact and complexity. Motorcyclists often suffer more serious injuries and face bias from insurance companies, making it harder to prove fault and secure fair compensation.

What if the motorcycle rider was partially responsible for the accident?

Illinois personal injury law follows a modified comparative negligence rule (735 ILCS 5/2-1116). Riders can still recover damages if they’re less than 50%at-fault motorcycle accident, but their percentage of fault reduces compensation.

What if the injured motorcycle rider didn’t wear a helmet at the time of the crash?

There are no Chicago motorcycle helmet laws making helmets legally required. Not wearing one won’t automatically prevent you from filing a claim or recovering damages for your injuries.

Do Illinois victims have to report accidents even if there are no serious injuries involved?

Yes. Illinois law requires drivers to report any accident that causes injury, death, or property damage over $1,500, even if the injuries seem minor at the time.

How long do motorcycle accident cases take to resolve?

Each case is different. Most motorcycle accident cases settle in a few months, while others–especially those with severe injuries or disputed liability–can take a year or longer to resolve through litigation.

What are the motorcycle accident insurance requirements in Illinois?

Motorcycle insurance requirements in Illinois include minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 for property damage to cover injuries and damages you may cause.

What if the at-fault party has no insurance?

You can still pursue compensation by filing an uninsured motorist claim through your own insurance policy if the at-fault driver lacks valid coverage.

Consult a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near You!

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle crash, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Our Chicago motor vehicle accident lawyers are here to answer your questions, explain your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. We handle every case on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win for you.

Let us take the pressure off your shoulders while you focus on healing. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with a trusted motorcycle accident attorney near you. We’re ready when you are.