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Illinois Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

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$1.47 Billion in
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Settlements

Total reviews: 126 | Average rating: 4.9

5

If ever needed. I will gladly go to the Collins law firm again. They were always quick to respond any questions. Happy to say case is closed and all went well .

5

I’ve had the opportunity to co-counsel with John Risvold and he is a great attorney. He brings a high level of experience, strategic insight, and tenacity to every case. Truly an asset to the personal injury field. Rest assured, your case is in good hands with this firm

5

Chris Gauther was our attorney and he was very communicative and thorough! We highly recommend the firm! Patty the paralegal was awesome as well! Overall we had a great experience!

5

I had an outstanding experience with Collins Law Firm following my car accident in McHenry County, IL. From start to finish, the team was responsive, knowledgeable and truly had my best interests at heart. A special thank you to Chris Gauthier, who handled my case with professionalism and care. His guidance made a stressful situation much more manageable. I highly recommend Collins Law Firm to anyone in need of strong, compassionate legal representation.

5

My brother suffered horrific injuries in a hit and run accident that involved a drunk driver. I called a couple of other law firms before I VERY fortunately found Collins Law Firm. Our attorney, Ed Manzke, worked diligently and expeditiously to get my brother the highest compensation available in our personal injury case. Ed surpassed our family’s expectations not only in his knowledge and work ethic, but in his genuine compassion for my brother’s situation. He made accommodations that facilitated meeting with us in person WHILE my brother was still in the hospital undergoing surgeries and procedures. Frankly, Ed was the only attorney that offered to do this and it helped speed our case along at a point when we felt that time was of the essence. Additionally, Ed’s assistant, Amber Blevins, deserves acknowledgment for all of her hard work as well. She always offered to answer any questions we had throughout the process and would often reach out to check on my brother’s condition on her own, or at Ed’s request. It means so much when you’re going through a devastating event, that you feel heard, seen and supported. If you want professionals that truly fight for you and treat you as if you’re their only client, then I HIGHLY recommend you contact Collins Law Firm!

5

I cannot speak highly enough of attorney Ed Manzke and his assistant, Amber Blevins, at The Collins Law Firm. Ed worked diligently and with great integrity to help me receive compensation for a lead paint disaster at my residence. From start to finish, Ed, Amber, and the entire team were professional, responsive, and compassionate.

Ed’s thorough guidance and legal expertise gave me tremendous confidence throughout the process. He was always available to answer questions, explain next steps, and provide reassurance when needed. Amber’s attention to detail and communication were equally impressive—she was organized, proactive, and supportive at every turn.

Their combined professionalism, empathy, and commitment truly set them apart. I am deeply grateful to Ed, Amber, and the Collins Law Firm for their outstanding work. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of trusted and skilled legal representation. Thank you, Ed!

5

Fantastic law firm! Christopher Gauthier kept me up to date every step of the way, and helped me figure out a game plan. Im very satisfied with my service here!

5

John Risvold was recommended by a friend and he was a great fit!
Professional and pleasant from the first conversation we had!
He was always available and kept me informed of progress! Patty and Chris worked and made sure I was comfortable and getting all the information needed.
I would highly recommend John and his team.

5

My lawyer was Chris Gotti. He is the best lawyer I could have ever asked for hands down. He was always on top of things and whenever he had news, he would always communicate with me right away! He is very understanding and friendly to talk to and will make you feel comfortable right away! Pick Chris Gotti as your lawyer! He won’t let you down I promise you!

5

Ed and Amber were wonderful to work with. Very professional and achieved a fair settlement for a dog bite/attack. Definitely recommend choosing Collins Law Firm.

5

The staff at Collins Law Firm was very professional and cooperative. From Patty the Legal Assistant to Chris Gauthier, the Attorney who handled my case. Chris G was even polite to refer me to another lawyer in a different field for something else I needed help in. Things were handled quickly and firmly and I knew all the steps along the way because Chris G kept in contact with me at all times. The result of my case was very pleasing, and I will always deal with Collins Law Firm if I ever need legal assistance, which I don't hope I will but they are my choice if I do.

5

My decision to go with Ed Manske and Amber Blevins to handle my mom’s injury case was one of the best decisions I’ve made! From the beginning Ed took the time to listen and put me and my mom at ease. When we made a decision to open a case it came at a time when I was overwhelmed with my mom’s medical situation including countless hospital visits, therapy, bills, doctor appointments etc so throwing a dart and picking a lawyer added to my plate. Both of them were beyond outstanding! They were both extremely professional, communicated expectations, we never seemed rushed to get off the phone quite the contrary they made sure we didn’t have any additional questions. Ed is genuine and truly makes you feel like you are his only case. Thank you so much!

5

I found myself in a car accident situation where I didn’t know who to turn to or what to do. Chris was easy to talk to and I’m glad that the Collins Law firm handled my case all the way through. I’m blessed to have had them, and definitely recommend to anyone who needs fair and compassionate council. Thank you, Collins Law!

5

This is by for the best experience I have had with a law firm, Collins Law Firm. From the onset of the car accident away from our home town, I did not know whom to call but with a search on the internet, I found this firm online. I was so pleased with initial call and conversation. The agents I have dealt with are professional, knowledgeable, very helpful, great tone on the phone and very patient. They took the time to explain what needs to be done and the expectation. My recent agent Chris G. is so awesome. He always showed empathy besides being patient knowledgeable and understanding. He never beat around the bush with my questions, just gave me straight answers. For real!! I will definitely recommend Collins Law Firm to friends and relatives. Their agents exceeds 100% and gives satisfactory RESULTS.

5

Every business dreams to have a lawyer like Rob Dawidiuk! Through acquisitions, Rob and his team helped me grow to become the largest Massage Envy franchisee in the country. He handled every transaction, every negotiation, and every touch point to a better outcome than planned. Purely flawless. Pure diplomacy. Rob and his team lead the negotiation and sale of my business to the private equity firm tax-efficiently for the best possible exit. Rob then helped me to acquire a second national franchise (FedEx Ground) in two different states over a period of four years totaling 16 separate transactions and did them all to his standard of excellence. I've been very fortunate to have Rob in my corner for the last eleven years not only for his M&A expertise, but also for his day-to-day business counsel and support. - Peter Bray

5

What John and especially Chris did to help me reach the settlement I wanted was truly awesome. Chris had great communication and kept me in the loop with my case the whole time, answering questions and going back and forth with the at fault party’s insurance. On top of being a diligent advocate they were genuinely nice and caring people. I’ve never worked with lawyers before but these guys were great and although I don’t live in the state they practice I’d highly recommend them to anyone who’s been in an accident and needs representation.
Go with The Collins Law Firm.
You won’t regret it.

5

Rob Dawidiuk does a great job as your general counsel and handling transactions and litigation. He makes himself available to answer any questions or concerns and helps you work through them. I highly recommend Rob as your attorney.

5

I have worked with Rob Dawidiuk of Collins Law Firm on several matter pertaining to my company. He was always responsive, knowledgeable, and professional. On some complicated matters, including a commercial property sale, his expertise was key in getting deals done and representing my interests. I've recommended Rob to other business associates and will continue to do so.

5

I have had the pleasure of working with Rob Dawidiuk for virtually all of our corporate legal needs. He's brilliant, works very hard, and always in our best interest.

5

I have worked with Robert Dawiduk for over 10 years, Rob has helped me not only to successfully negotiate tough business contracts but also with the sale of multiple businesses.

I highly recommend Rob for your business; he is fair, highly responsive, provides direct feedback, and offers the best solutions for successful outcomes.

5

Rob Dawidiuk is an outstanding attorney and really great to deal with. We have worked on many many transactions together!

5

I have been working with Rob Dawidiuk on a foreclosure file for the last two years. Rob is a conscientious and thoughtful attorney that looks at the whole picture in the case. He is available when I call. Rob has been a long-term attorney associated with this bank and will be in the future.

5

My wife and I recently closed on our first home and Rob Dawidiuk was incredible in helping us through the entire process. He was quick in responding to any questions we had at any point and guided us each step of the way! Throughout the entire process, Rob went explained the process in a way that was easy for us to understand and made us feel confident that we knew what we were signing up for. Thank you so much for all of your help!

5

My husband and I worked with Rob Dawidiuk for our real estate closing. Rob is kind, honest, and responsive. I would highly recommend working with Collins Law.

5

My family has worked with Collin's and Rob Dawidiuk for almost 20 years. We met Rob when they were representing our insurance carrier for an Asbestos brake shoe claim, for which we had no liability. Rob immediately filed for a dismissal, and the plaintiff's attorney was shocked that Rob wouldn't put more time into the case because he could bill the insurance company for more time.

As a business owner, this show of high ethics is why we have been with Collins since then through thick and thin.

They have handled every aspect of legal work for our business (employment law, contract, real estate, product liability, etc).

5

Excellent business to partner with. Rob Dawidiuk has helped our business with all general counsel needs throughout the United States. Not only are they outstanding legal counsel, but also great people. I strongly recommend to anyone.

5

As in-house counsel for a nonprofit corporation, I worked with Rob Dawidiuk as our trial attorney on a complex case. After years of motions, discovery, and partial summary judgments, Rob defended us in a four-day trial and Rob was successful in winning on all issues in the case. It is a pleasure to work with Rob who is a very competent and skilled attorney.

5

Working with Ed Manzke and Amber was an absolute blessing. From the moment I reached out, they treated me with kindness, understanding, and a level of professionalism that immediately put me at ease. They didn’t just handle my case—they truly cared about my well-being and fought hard to get the best possible outcome. They explained everything clearly, kept me informed at every step, and never made me feel like just another client. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion made all the difference, and I can’t recommend them highly enough. If you need lawyers who are not only skilled but also genuinely care, Ed and Amber are the ones to call.

5

Chris did a great job! I highly recommend him for any case.

5

Really good people John is very patient and responsive with handling you personal request

5

John Risvold exceeded our expectations! I was involved in a car crash which resulted in needing several neck and back surgeries, as well as numerous other medical procedures. When the medical bills started piling up and I wasn't feeling better, I sought legal help. My husband and I met with John Risvold, who explained the legal process and stood by us every step of the way, exhibiting patience and professionalism. It was a great relief to offload our anxiety and legal work to him and we always felt that John had our back. The case went to trial and John (and Chris Gauthier) gave a master class on how to litigate a civil claim. We won the case and are extremely happy with how we were treated. We strongly recommend John Risvold and The Collins Law Firm!

5

John at Collins Law has been wonderful help. I'm forever grateful he tackled this case, handled it with care, was efficient, and compassionate. He responded to any questions I had at incredible speed & in great detail. He cares for his clients, and has been wonderful during this trying time. You cannot ask for a better experience, highest respects for John. Highly reccomend.

5

I cannot say enough great things about Chris Gauthier!. He has demonstrated outstanding negotiation skills, resolving my case efficiently and effectively. Chris ability to analyze the situation, provide sound advice, and keep me informed at every step was both reassuring and impressive. What stood out the most was his dedication to achieving the best possible outcome from me. Chris treated my case with care, making me feel valued and supported throughout the entire process.

If you're looking for a lawyer who is knowledgeable, communicative, and truly cares about your best interests, I highly recommend Christopher Gauthier!

5

Working with Ed J. Manzke and THE COLLINS LAW FIRM has been great. Communication, follow-up, advice, and experience were all excellent. Before I met Ed, I was at a low point, as a drunk driver had dramatically changed my life. I was seriously wondering what I could do, and he provided us with a light at the end of the long tunnel. Thank you to everyone at the firm for all their help; we are lucky to have had your support.

5

Ed and his team worked tirelessly to help me with a personal injury situation. They are friendly and kind and want to help you achieve the highest level of settlement resolution. Definitely recommend them as a legal team!

5

I had an outstanding experience with Ed from the Collins Law Firm as my injury lawyer. I was involved in a car accident and was connected with Ed from this firm. Ed was incredibly empathetic, always taking the time to listen and prioritize my needs throughout the entire process. His communicative and transparent approach ensured that I was informed and comfortable with every decision made. Ed’s dedication and support were instrumental in navigating my case, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a compassionate and effective injury lawyer.

5

I received the best over the phone consultation, he was very helpful and informative, thank you so much

5

John has helped me out on a couple of times. He really cares about people and helping them . That is a rare thing with most people and very refreshing to see!!

5

I called Collins law firm when I was hit by an SUV. Edward Manzke was my attorney. I couldn't be more then happy with him. He didn't treat me as a client, he treated me as a human being, that was important to me. Thank you . Ed.

5

I had a very positive experience with the Collins Law Firm. Ed Manzke was easy to communicate with and very informative. I appreciate all the time they put into my case and making sure I knew what was going on every step of the way.

5

Shawn & his team are not only very professional, they are so caring & patient! The Collins Law firm will be the first I’ll call with any future questions or concerns.

5

I would highly recommend the Collins Law Firm. I deeply appreciate their professionalism, their expertise in environmental law, their attention to detail, and their consistent communication. Shawn was meticulous in his explanations of the process and our choices, and was always available to answer follow up questions with patience and care (including a phone meeting with me the weekend of his daughter's wedding). I am grateful for the representation provided by the whole team at Collins--thank you!

5

Outstanding
The Collins Law team is outstanding. You will find that each lawyer is passionate and focused to achieve the best outcome for their clients. In a recent case in which I was involved in, was related to the emission of toxic fumes. Although legal team members specialized in environmental law, Shawn brought in scientists as well as physicians as resources. to support my case. Communication between the team and I was excellent. They explained the case and proceedings and updated me throughout with personal phone calls and meetings. At any time when I had questions related to my case, immediate answers were provided .
Throughout complex litigation they made me feel involved and explained and they also made me feel that my case and my input was valued.

5

My experience with the Collins Law Firm was top notch! In a world where concern for others seems to be lacking, Shawn Collins and his team were professional, compassionate, and always clear when explaining tedious information.
I thank everyone for your hard work and diligence to win my case…it is sincerely appreciated!

5

The Collins Law Firm team helped me with cases for my parents and I am very satisfied with the settlement. The team did great job with communication throughout the process. They were very good at explaining details of what needed to be done. All of them really care about my family and worked really hard to get justice for them. I am very happy I choose the Collins Law Firm over any other to handle our cases. Thank you Collins team!

5

I hired Shawn Collins from the Collins Law Firm in Naperville. He represented me and others who contracted cancer because of a corporation that was responsible for releasing toxins into the environment. Shawn and his team of attorneys and scientists worked with diligence to prove their case. Shawn is an excellent communicator and is empathetic to his client's frustration and pain. He and his team can be trusted to fight for you as if you were part of their own family. Thank-you Shawn and team from Collins Law Firm.

5

I had a fantastic experience with The Collins Law firm. Their team of attorneys are truly exceptional. They are accommodating, kind, responsive and provide expert legal guidance and support to achieve the best possible outcome. I always feel they have my best interest at heart and are always willing to spend extra time if you have questions. I highly recommend the Collins Law Firm to anyone in need of legal assistance! Thank you Shawn Collins for outstanding service, I appreciate you and everyone on your staff.

5

“The Collins Law Firm is excellent!! This was my first experience with a law firm, and I have nothing but high praise for Shawn Collins, and his entire law office. Every time there was a need for getting me information, a meeting was held that was detailed, concise, and complete. Their communication was excellent, and kept me informed of every step of my lawsuit. If I ever had a question, it was quickly and completely answered. Every staff member at Collins Law Firm was the utmost professional, yet very kind and caring. I felt they really were concerned about me and what was best for me. I am so happy I was represented by Collins Law Firm. Shawn Collins is the best! I wholeheartedly recommend the firm to anyone looking for superb, knowledgeable representation! Thank you so much Collins Law Firm for what you did for me!"

5

Shawn Collins and his AMAZ8NG team achieved what I had no idea was possible. My goal.was to get a company that had been illegally releasing cancerous gas into the air by my home and school for almost 40 years SHUT DOWN to protect the residents and their children. Not only is that company shut down in our area but the other locations are being stopped as we speak. The Collins Law Firm has saved thousands of lives by fighting for me and others affected by cancer. It is heartbreaking to know that many have lost their lives and are still suffering because of this company. No amount of money from a settlement will ever give us our health back again but at least the future residents will be safe and this will force other similar companies to THINK about the safety of the people that live near their locations and follow the guidelines THOUGHTFULLY put in place by the EPA.
Thank you Shawn Collins and the Collins Law Firm

5

We hired Shawn Collins and The Collins Law Firm about 5 years ago to handle a very complicated personal injury case involving our daughter with special needs. He took the time to meet with us on multiple occasions to get to know our family, especially our daughter. Due to the complexities of our case and various other factors, our case took many years to finally get resolved. Although the case took a while, Shawn Collins and The Collins Law Firm always kept us updated and informed. They were always very accommodating and made sure to answer any questions we had along the way. The Collins Law Firm was always responsive and informative, and provided thorough and detailed information when necessary. Additionally, Shawn Collins is not your stereotypical attorney. He had and continues to have a genuine and caring interest in our family, and in the best interest of our daughter. We have been more than pleased with the services we received, and we highly recommend Shawn Collins and The Collins Law Firm. Our family is truly and eternally grateful!

Ivan and Judy H

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Each year, thousands of people are involved in motorcycle accidents, and sadly, many of these people are seriously injured or killed.

In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,286 motorcyclists died as a result of an accident in the U.S. in 2016. Add this to the 88,000 motorcyclists who were injured in 2015 (The latest year for which there are statistics.) and that makes motorcycles much riskier than cars. Moreover, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to be killed in a crash than drivers and passengers in cars.

Many of these injuries and deaths are caused by the negligence of other drivers. Distracted drivers, drunk drivers, tired or inattentive drivers hurt and kill motorcyclists. That is where we can help.

At The Collins Law Firm, getting compensation for personal injury victims is what we do. Our motorcycle accident attorneys have spent decades aggressively protecting accident victims and their families, and we know what it takes to get you the full compensation you deserve. Moreover, you pay nothing unless you recover money, so there is nothing to lose. Call us at (630) 527-1595 or fill out out contact form for your FREE CONSULTATION and let us start fighting to get you justice right away.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Should You do if You Have Been in a Motorcycle Accident?

Should You Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

How do Our Attorneys Fight on Behalf of Clients?

What Kinds of Motorcycle Accident Cases do We Handle?

What Types of Injured Motorcycle Accident Victims do We Represent?

What are the Primary Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

What Risk Factors Make Riding a Motorcycle More Dangerous?

What Steps Should You Take to Stay Safer on the Road?

How do the Laws Regarding Motorcyclists Affect You?

Who can be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?

How is Fault Determined?

What Damages Can You Recover in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?

What Are the Motorcycle Crash Statistics in Illinois?

What Should You do if You Have Been in a Motorcycle Accident?

The minutes right after an accident are extremely stressful, however, there are some steps you should take to protect yourself, if you are able.

  1. Make sure you are safe. Make sure to get out of the road and out of the path of other vehicles. Then call 911.
  2. Get medical help if you need it. Check yourself for injuries even if you do not think you are severely injured. Adrenaline may be masking the pain and some injuries have a delayed reaction time. Call an ambulance and get to a hospital if you have any concern about whether you’ve been seriously injured.
  3. Exchange information with the other driver. This should include your name, contact number, driver’s license and insurance information. However, do not say anything else to the other driver.
  4. Report the accident to the police. This is especially true if the accident is serious. The police will respond to the scene; take notes on what happened; possibly issue a ticket; and make a police report. Make sure to tell your side of the story. The police report may have an assessment of fault, so you should order a copy of the report because it could be helpful in a personal injury case.
  5. Start collecting evidence. Take pictures of the other vehicle, your motorcycle and the scene. Talk to any witnesses and get their name and contact information. Take some notes about the accident while it is fresh in your mind. Keep any clothing or a helmet that has been damaged.
  6. See a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Seeing a doctor is critical to determine if you are hurt and provides proof for your claim. Remember to use your insurance even if the other driver was at fault. And take photos of any injuries.
  7. Keep excellent records. Keep all medical bills, doctors’ reports and motorcycle repair bills. In addition, keep any documents relating to days off work and lost pay. Finally, keep a journal of the accident and all the ways that it has affected you physically and mentally, including ways it has interfered with your daily life.
  8. DO NOT talk to the other party’s insurance agents or lawyers. They are trained to get you to say something that will hurt your case.

In fact, you may want to have a checklist of things to do after an accident in the glove compartment of your car. This can help if you are stressed and not thinking clearly.

Should You Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

Motorcyclists face unique challenges when they are involved in a crash with an automobile. First of all, motorcyclists are more likely than the driver of the car to be seriously injured, and then they face anti- motorcycle bias when they try to pursue a claim in court. Many American automobile drivers resent motorcycles and blame them for accidents because they are harder to see. In addition, negative cultural stereotypes give jurors the impression that motorcyclist are reckless, rough and disreputable. This false assumption leads them to believe that the motorcyclist was more likely to have caused the accident. In reality, motorcyclists are a very diverse group of people and the driver of the car is more likely to be at fault when a motorcycle and an automobile collide.

However, when motorcycle accident cases go to trial, injured motorcyclists typically receive smaller verdicts than automobile drivers with similar injuries. In addition, many insurance companies are more likely to 1) deny that the car was at fault and defend the automobile driver instead of settling with the injured motorcyclist, or 2) offer a smaller settlement amount.

For these reasons, it is critical that a motorcyclist who is injured in a crash that was caused by an automobile driver retain a motorcycle accident lawyer. At The Collins Law Firm, our experienced, aggressive motorcycle accident lawyers fight for the maximum compensation that Illinois law allows for motorcycle injury and fatality cases.

How do Our Attorneys Fight on Behalf of Clients?

Whether you are hurt in a car accident, motorcycle crash, drunk driving accident or distracted driving crash, our lawyers can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and help you get back on your feet. As soon as our lawyers are retained by a motorcyclist who has been injured or by the family of a deceased motorcyclist, we begin aggressively preparing your case to help get you a favorable settlement. In a typical case (there are always exceptions), we will:

  1. Thoroughly investigate your accident and determine how much your claim is worth.
  2. Collect critical documents such as: traffic light data, repair estimates, lost wage forms from employers and cell phone records.
  3. Order a police report.
  4. Photograph the vehicles and the scene of the crash.
  5. Talk to witnesses, police officers and the victims and get their statements.
  6. Gather all medical records, bills and reports from treating physicians.
  7. Find and review any videotape that may show the crash.
  8. Give you the legal advice you need to strengthen your personal injury case.
  9. Retain the best experts to help prove your case, including recreating the crash with an accident reconstructionist, if necessary.
  10. Review any computer recordings or "black boxes".
  11. Keep you informed about the status of your case, so you can focus on getting better.
  12. Talk to and negotiate with the insurance company.
  13. Represent you aggressively in court if the insurance company refuses to settle.

What Kinds of Motorcycle Accidents Cases do We Handle?

At The Collins Law Firm, we handle many different types of motorcycle accidents cases. These include:

  • Head-on crashes
  • Left-turn or right-turn crashes
  • Sideswipes
  • Intersection accidents
  • Rear-end collisions
  • Lane change accidents
  • Distracted or fatigued drivers
  • Speeding drivers
  • DUI accidents
  • Teen drivers or reckless drivers
  • Underinsured or uninsured motorists
  • Motorcycle defect accidents
  • Hazardous road condition accidents
  • Serious or "catastrophic" injury
  • Wrongful death accidents

Recent Motorcycle Cases at the Firm

The Firm represented a young woman who as a passenger on a motorcycle was thrown from the vehicle after a rear-end collision with an SUV. Our client sustained significant injuries including a herniated cervical disc that required surgery. The lawsuit was settled for the confidential policy limits.

We are currently representing a motorcyclist hit by a teen driver in Kendall County. The teen driver made an improper left turn which caused the motorcycle to collide with the vehicle’s passenger side. The motorcyclist was knocked unconscious and suffered facial trauma and multiple head injuries. This case involves the teen driver’s insurance policy as well as the motorcyclist’s underinsured driver policy.

What Types of Injured Motorcycle Accident Victims do We Represent?

Many injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents are very serious and can result in hospitalization, surgery and/or months of medical treatment or rehabilitation. Some even cause permanent damage. People with injuries like these may well have a significant motorcycle accident claim and should have legal representation. The types of injuries that we see in our clients include:

What are the Primary Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

  • Distracted driving.
  • Drivers speeding.
  • Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Drivers who fail to yield.
  • Drivers who fail to keep a lookout.
  • Drivers who fail to follow stop signs or traffic lights.
  • Drivers following too closely behind a motorcycle.

What Risk Factors Make Riding a Motorcycle More Dangerous?

  • Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see.
  • Motorcycles are much more likely to overturn than automobiles.
  • Bad road conditions affect motorcycles much more than cars.
  • Weather can also be dangerous or deadly to motorcyclists.
  • Motorcyclists have so much less protection in an accident.
  • Gender: Men are more likely to be affected by motorcycle accidents than women. In fact 90% of fatalities involve men.
  • Age: Young men in their 20’s have a much greater risk of dying in a motorcycle accident.
  • Helmet Use: Helmets reduce the risk of dying in a motorcycle accident by 37%, and the risk of brain injury by 69%.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Over 25% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes in 2016 were alcohol impaired.
  • Motorcycle Size: Smaller and sportier motorcycles have the most fatalities, although the number of large motorcycle crashes appears to be going up.

What Steps Should You Take to Stay Safer on the Road?

  • Wear a helmet. This is the most important safety rule. If you follow none of the other rules, follow this one. Helmets save lives. Not all states require that you wear a helmet, but helmets prevent serious brain injury. Save your brain; wear a helmet.
  • Obey the rules of the road. This one is easy. Signs, speed limits and lane markings are there to keep you safe. Do not ignore them. Do not speed, cut off other drivers or fail to yield to another vehicle who has the right of way. Following these rules will make for a more enjoyable-- not to mention safer-- ride.
  • Steer clear of bad weather. Check upcoming weather before you head out on the road. Certain weather conditions like rain, wind and fog can make riding a motorcycle dangerous. Avoid riding in bad weather and have a plan for what to do if the weather changes when you are on the road.
  • Try to stay as visible as possible. You cannot assume that drivers are looking out for you. In fact, many times they cannot even see you if your motorcycle slips into their blind spot. Keep your lights on when driving and wear bright, reflective clothing to increase your chance of being seen, especially at night.
  • Ride defensively. It would be nice if drivers in cars drove carefully around motorcycles, but you cannot count on this. It is your responsibility to drive defensively: give yourself lots of room to make turns and change lanes, and give motorists lots of notice when you do. Refrain from speeding, sudden moves, and cutting in front of cars.
  • Get familiar with your motorcycle. Inexperienced riders are the most likely to get hurt. If you cannot handle your motorcycle at all speeds and in every type of weather, practice in a safe place before you go out riding. Every motorcycle is different. Get familiar with how it handles, and where all the controls are so you won’t be surprised on the road.
  • Check your bike before every ride. This is also an important step. Check your brakes, tires, and fluid levels and you will save yourself a lot of trouble.
  • Do not drink and drive. Alcohol and motorcycles do not mix. Under no circumstances should you drink and drive.

How do the Laws Regarding Motorcyclists Affect You?

Motorcyclists must have a special driver’s license. You cannot drive a motorcycle with a regular driver’s license. The requirements vary from state to state, but usually, motorcyclists must take special training classes that teach them the basics of handling and riding a motorcycle and then pass a written and driving skills test. In Illinois, you must pass a written test and a rider skill test to get a motorcycle license. However, if you are 18 or older; have a valid driver’s license and have passed an IDOT approved motorcycle training course, you are exempt from this requirement. If you are in an accident and do not have a valid motorcyclist’s license, this will hurt your case.

Some States Require a Helmet when riding on a motorcycle. Nineteen states across the country--but not Illinois--require that all riders wear a helmet. Some states require helmets for younger riders. Be aware of the requirements in your state, and check the laws when riding outside of your home state.

Motorcyclists may be required to wear other protective gear. These laws also vary from state to state and may require riders to wear protective eye wear or padded clothing. In Illinois, eye protection is required for riders of all ages. This protection can consist of glasses, goggles, a wind screen or windshield. Check the requirements in your state.

Motorcyclists may need special equipment on their bike. Some states require riders to equip their motorcycle with reflectors, turn signals or safety lamps. Motorcycles in Illinois must have a passenger seat and footrest for any passengers, a muffler and one side-view mirror. Helmet speakers are only allowed for communication, not entertainment.

Motorcyclists are not allowed to lane-split. Lane-splitting is a term for riding between two lanes of traffic, and it is illegal in every state except California.

Prohibitions in Illinois. State law prohibits handgrips above head height of the operator, riding no-handed, and riding on one-wheel—also called doing a wheelie.

Who can be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?

The other driver. There are various parties who may be liable in a motorcycle accident. First and foremost is the driver of the other vehicle. If that driver has caused harm to a motorcyclist, then the motorcyclist’s attorney will file a claim against the other driver’s insurance company.

The agency constructing and maintaining the roads. If the road conditions caused the accident, a motorcyclist may sue the agency responsible for building or maintaining the road. So, even if no other cars were involved, you still may have a case. Missing or faulty traffic signals, potholes, blind corners, and uneven surfaces: all of these can cause a motorcycle accident. However, if you are planning to sue a government agency, be aware that the statute of limitations may be very short, so do not wait.

The motorcycle manufacturer or designer. If the crash was caused by some problem with the motorcycle itself, you may be able to sue the designer or manufacturer of the bike. These lawsuits are product liability lawsuits and work differently than typical motorcycle accident cases. They fall into two categories: 1) manufacturing defects and 2) design flaws. A good motorcycle accident attorney will know who to sue.

How is Fault Determined?

There are four elements to a negligence lawsuit: duty, breach, harm and causation. All drivers have a duty to drive safely and follow the rules of the road. If a driver breaches this duty and causes an accident, he or she may be liable for damages. This can be easy to determine in simple cases where a driver broke a traffic law, such as ignoring a stop sign. At other times this can be more difficult to determine, for example, when you are trying to prove that the defendant did not act like a "reasonable person" and drive with care. Occasionally, the other driver’s behavior was so risky that they are charged with recklessness. An example of this would be an accident involving a drunk driver, and in such a situation you might be entitled to higher damages. Finally, the accident resulting from a breach must be determined to have caused harm to the plaintiff for a case to be filed.

Shared fault: What if both the motorcyclist and the other party were at fault? Maybe there were several factors involved: perhaps a speeding motorcycle and a car who made an unsafe turn. In these situations, the percent that each driver was at fault will be determined. At this point the legal standard of comparative damages comes into play, and individuals who are partly responsible for an accident receive damages at a reduced rate based on the percentage that they are at fault. For example, if the motorcyclist was 30% responsible for an accident, he or she will only be able to collect 70% of the damages. Of course, if a motorcyclist is responsible for over 50% of the accident, he or she will not be eligible for damages and may be sued.

What Damages can You Recover in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?

There are three types of damages that can be recovered in any accident:

  1. Economic damages:
    1. Medical bills: you are entitled to compensation for all past and future medical expenses.
    2. Lost wages: You can be reimbursed for all past and future lost income resulting from the accident (including loss of income in a wrongful death case).
    3. Property damage to your motorcycle: You can recover for all repair bills or the fair market value of your motorcycle if it is totaled.
  2. Non-economic damages:
    1. Pain and suffering: You may be entitled to compensation for any physical and emotional that you experience due to your motorcycle accident.
    2. Disability: You can be compensated for any permanent disability that prevents you from enjoying activities which you used to enjoy.
    3. Disfigurement: You are entitled to compensation for disfiguring injuries such as amputations, or scars that are the result of your accident.
    4. Wrongful death damages: such as loss of companionship or support.
  3. Punitive damages:
    1. These are only awarded by juries in cases with an especially egregious offender.

What are the Motorcycle Crash Statistics in Illinois?

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, motorcycle crashes accounted for only 1.1 percent of all crashes in Illinois in 2016, however, motorcycle fatalities accounted for 14.3 percent of all motor vehicle accident deaths. Sadly, 154 motorcyclists were killed and 2,692 more were injured--including 943 serious injuries—in the state in 2016. The following maneuvers were involved in the crashes:

  • Going Straight Ahead - 1,920
  • Passing/Overtaking - 109
  • Making Left Turn - 144
  • Making Right Turn - 110
  • Slow/Stopped in Traffic - 271
  • Skidding/Control Loss - 385
  • Changing Lanes - 57
  • Other - 473
  • Parked - 148

Attorneys Defending the Rights of Individuals Hurt in Motorcycle Accidents

All too often, drivers fail to look out for motorcycles on the highway and city streets. This is especially true in Illinois. If a driver has cut you off or turned straight into your bike, we can help you recover the money you are entitled to. Not only can we help get the compensation you need to fix your motorcycle, but we can also help you recover any lost wages and money needed to pay for medical bills.

We also assist our clients who have lost loved ones due to a fatal motorcycle accident. Recovering emotionally should be your top priority; allow us to shoulder the legal burden so you can begin to move forward with your life.

Do Not Wait: Call The Collins Law Firm for Aggressive Legal Representation

If you are in an accident, it is important to obtain legal representation quickly so your attorney can gather crucial evidence. Contact The Collins Law Firm today at (630) 527-1595, extension 221 for Shawn Collins or extension 226 for Edward Manzke, to schedule a free consultation with an experienced member of our legal team.

For More Information, Read Our Motorcycle Accident Blog.

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