Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Recovering Compensation for Injured Motorcycle Riders in Chicago

At Chicago Injury Center, our legal team knows how devastating motorcycle accidents can be. Whether the crash happened on Lake Shore Drive, the Dan Ryan, or a quiet neighborhood street, injured riders often face severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost wages. Our trusted Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer team focuses on delivering results that reflect the full impact of your injuries.

Motorcycle Accident Settlements & Verdicts Recovered by Our Law Firm in Chicago

$5,250,000 Settlement – James was riding through a South Side intersection when a driver turned left in front of him, causing a violent crash. He lost his leg above the knee. Surveillance footage and an expert medical report helped us build a strong case against the driver and their rideshare employer.

$2,800,000 Settlement – Twenty-year-old Marcus was killed when his motorcycle struck a stalled semi on I-55. The truck had no hazard lights or warning cones. We uncovered violations of Illinois trucking regulations and held the logistics company accountable for failing to follow emergency protocols and creating a deadly roadside hazard.

$1,250,000 Settlement – Lena lost her husband, Carlos, when a teen driver veered into his lane on the Kennedy Expressway. Our investigation revealed distracted driving and cell phone use. We pursued compensation through the driver’s insurance company and recovered the full amount available for Lena and her young children.

Why Choose Chicago Injury Center

Chicago Injury Center is led by a top Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer team with a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for injury victims. Our law firm is recognized by Super Lawyers and has a 10/10 rating on Avvo. With decades of experience handling cases on behalf of injured motorcyclists across Cook County, we’ve earned a reputation for aggressive advocacy and results-driven legal representation.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle

Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers handle a wide range of serious cases throughout the city, including:

• Collisions with passenger vehicles
• Hit-and-run accidents
• Drunk driving crashes
• Lane-splitting incidents
• Defective motorcycle or parts
• Road hazard accidents involving poor city infrastructure

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

Most motorcycle accidents occur due to driver negligence and unsafe road conditions. Some of the most common factors include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, unsafe lane changes, and impaired driving. Intersections like Western and Peterson, Cicero and Roosevelt, and stretches of Lake Shore Drive are frequent sites of serious crashes.

Potholes, poor lighting, and missing traffic signs also contribute to dangerous riding conditions. Many motorcycle accidents occur because other drivers simply don’t see or respect motorcycle riders. Our top Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys investigate every detail to hold negligent drivers and responsible agencies fully accountable.

What Are the Most Common Injuries Associated with Motorcycle Accidents?

Common motorcycle accident injuries our legal team sees in Chicago motorcycle accident cases include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI), often caused by direct head impact, even with a motorcycle helmet
• Spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or total paralysis
• Fractures, especially to the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis
• Severe road rash, which may cause nerve damage or require skin grafts
• Internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening, as it isn’t always immediately obvious
• Amputations, often necessary after crush injuries or severe tissue damage

These injuries can lead to permanent disability, chronic pain, and the need for ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation. Most motorcycle accident victims are unable to return to work, facing steep medical bills and lost wages. Our top motorcycle accident lawyers work to recover maximum compensation for the long-term impact of these serious injuries.

What Damages Can Motorcycle Accident Victims Recover in Chicago?

In a serious motorcycle accident, the physical, emotional, and financial impact can be overwhelming. Our top Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer helps clients recover compensation for a wide range of losses tied to their injuries. This includes current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity if you’re unable to return to work.

We also seek damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the cost of ongoing rehabilitation or long-term care. If your motorcycle or gear was damaged or destroyed, we’ll pursue full property damage compensation as part of your claim. In fatal crashes, surviving families may be entitled to wrongful death damages covering funeral costs, loss of companionship, and lost household income.

What Is the Average Payout for a Motorcycle Accident in Chicago?

Based on Law.com’s VerdictSearch, the average payout for a motorcycle accident in Chicago is $2,156,955, while the median recovery is $582,967. Reported case values range from as low as $2,100 to over $14.5 million, depending on the circumstances.

Settlement and verdict amounts vary widely depending on several key factors:

• Who was at fault, and whether liability is disputed
• The severity and type of injuries (e.g., head injury, spinal cord injuries, amputation)
• The total medical expenses and future treatment needs
• Lost income and reduced earning potential
• Where the case is filed, Cook County tends to produce higher jury verdicts

Every motorcycle accident claim is different, and our top Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer builds each case for maximum recovery.

Example Motorcycle Accident Cases in Cook County

$8,000,000 Settlement – Two-Rider Crash Caused by Commercial Vehicle

Ronald and Margaret Furst were on a motorcycle when a stopped car was pushed into them by a Safelite van. Both suffered serious orthopedic and neurological injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and spinal fractures. The couple was hospitalized and later required ongoing treatment, surgeries, and therapy. The case settled at trial for $8 million, with Safelite contributing $7.9 million and the other driver’s insurance company paying $100,000.

$3,150,000 Settlement – Severe Leg Injuries After SUV Turns Into Motorcyclist

Cathy Ball was riding her motorcycle when an SUV made a left turn and struck her, crushing her left leg. She required multiple surgeries, including knee fusion, and faced future hip and ankle procedures. Ball also sustained shoulder and wrist injuries and was left unable to return to work. The defense contested the value of her future care and lost income. The parties settled for $3.15 million following mediation.

$750,000 Settlement – Shoulder Fracture in Stop Sign Violation Crash

Edmund Pujol was hit by a westbound vehicle that allegedly ran a stop sign in Chicago at Kimball and Balmoral. He sustained a serious fracture in his dominant shoulder, requiring multiple surgeries and ongoing physical therapy. Pujol claimed permanent loss of strength and function, missing a year of work and giving up motorcycle riding. Hertz, the vehicle owner, settled the case pre-trial for $750,000.

Why You Need a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Working with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney gives you a strong advantage when dealing with the unique challenges these cases present. Riders are often unfairly blamed, and insurance companies use that bias to reduce or deny valid claims.

Proving fault may require accident reconstruction, traffic experts, and detailed medical records to show how the crash caused your injuries. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer can coordinate expert testimony, preserve key evidence, and fight for the fair settlement you deserve after a serious motorcycle crash.

How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents in Chicago?

According to 2023 data from the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were 575 motorcycle accidents reported in Chicago. These crashes resulted in 8 motorcycle deaths and 329 injuries, including 90 catastrophic injuries, 211 moderate injuries, and 28 minor injuries.

Where Do Motorcycle Crashes Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Motorcycle accidents in Chicago often happen on high-traffic roads and intersections where visibility is limited or drivers make sudden moves. Areas like Lake Shore Drive, the Kennedy Expressway, and major surface streets like Western Avenue and Cicero Avenue are common crash sites due to heavy congestion, frequent lane changes, and speeding.

Poor road conditions, worn lane markings, and limited lighting in some corridors also increase risk. Intersections with complex traffic patterns or poor signage create added hazards. Our experienced Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers investigate the accident scene to identify contributing factors and hold the at-fault party accountable.

What Illinois Laws Govern Chicago Motorcycle Accident Claims?

The Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/) governs how motorcycle riders must operate on public roads. It includes rules on lane use, speed, signaling, and safety equipment. Violations of this code can influence liability in motorcycle accident cases.

The Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/) allows families to recover damages after fatal motorcycle accidents. Eligible survivors can pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.

In motorcycle accident claims involving multiple negligent drivers, the Illinois Joint Tortfeasor Contribution Act (740 ILCS 100/) allows fault to be divided among all responsible parties. This ensures that each party pays its fair share.

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. If a motorcycle accident victim is found less than 51% at fault, they may still recover compensation. However, the award is reduced by their percentage of fault. A Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer can push back against unfair blame to protect your right to recovery.

Section 9-48-080 of Chicago’s Municipal Code governs how motorcycle riders must operate their vehicles in Chicago. It restricts unsafe riding practices like carrying more passengers than allowed or failing to maintain proper control. Violations may impact fault in a motorcycle accident lawsuit.

Illegally parked vehicles can obstruct traffic or sightlines, causing or contributing to motorcycle crashes. Section 9-64-020 of the Municipal Code addresses where vehicles may legally stop, park, or stand. Your motorcycle accident lawyer may cite violations of this ordinance when proving that another party’s actions led to the crash.

Section 9-76-050 of Chicago’s Municipal Code requires the city to maintain safe road surfaces. Motorcycle accidents caused by potholes, uneven pavement, or unsafe construction zones may lead to a claim against a government entity. A skilled attorney can investigate whether the city failed to correct dangerous road conditions.

How Long Do Injured Motorcyclists Have to File a Claim Under Illinois Motorcycle Laws?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, injured motorcycle riders generally have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can bar recovery entirely. An experienced attorney can help you meet all filing requirements and protect your right to fair compensation.

For fatal motorcycle crashes, surviving family members have two years from the date of death to file a claim under the Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/). A top Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer can guide families through the process and pursue damages for loss of companionship, financial support, and funeral costs.

Who Is Legally Liable for Motorcycle Crashes in Chicago?

Legal liability for motorcycle crashes in Chicago can extend to several parties depending on how the accident happened. The most common is a negligent driver who failed to yield, made an unsafe turn, or was distracted.

In some cases, an employer may be liable under vicarious liability if the at-fault driver was working at the time. Motorcycle manufacturers and parts suppliers may be responsible if a defective component contributed to the crash. Government entities can also be held liable for poor road design or failure to maintain safe surfaces. A Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer will investigate all possible sources of fault.

Common Defenses in Chicago Motorcycle Accident Cases

Defendants in Chicago motorcycle accident cases often raise several common defenses to avoid liability. One is comparative negligence, claiming the rider’s own actions—like speeding or improper lane use—contributed to the crash. Others rely on the sudden emergency doctrine, arguing the driver couldn’t have avoided the accident. Claims of rider recklessness are also frequent, including accusations of aggressive riding or disregard for traffic laws.

Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer counters these tactics with evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, and accident reconstruction, as well as expert testimony, to show the rider was not at fault and deserves full compensation for serious injuries and property damage.

How to Strengthen Your Motorcycle Accident Claim in Chicago

To strengthen your motorcycle accident claim in Chicago, start by seeking immediate medical treatment and maintaining all medical records, as they connect your injuries to the crash. Take photos of the accident scene, your bike, visible injuries, and road conditions. Keep damaged gear and parts as physical proof.

If anyone witnessed the motorcycle collision, get their names and contact details–they may help support your version of events. Finally, never give a recorded statement to the insurance company without first speaking to a Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer who can protect your rights and guide your next steps.

How Our Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help

Our Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys handle every part of your case so you can focus on recovery. We start by investigating the crash–gathering police reports, traffic camera footage, and witness statements. When needed, we work with accident reconstruction experts to show exactly how the motorcycle accident happened and who’s at fault.

Our legal team handles all negotiations with the insurance company and won’t hesitate to take your motorcycle accident lawsuit to trial if you’re being lowballed. We fight for the maximum compensation injured riders deserve.

Chicago Motorcycle Accident FAQs

Consult a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near You!

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident in Chicago, don’t face the aftermath alone. Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers handle personal injury lawsuits and wrongful death claims with skill, compassion, and determination. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.