TRAFFIC SAFETY

Motorcycle Safety

Motorcycle riders have the same rights and responsibilities as other roadway users. Because of their size and vulnerability in a crash, it is important to pay special attention to motorcycles.

Statistics *

• In Illinois, 74 percent of motorcycle fatalities were persons not wearing helmets. Thirty-five percent (35%) of the crash fatalities involved riders with a BAC of .08 or higher.
• Helmets saved the lives of 1,829 motorcyclists nationally in 2008.
• If all motorcyclists had worn helmets, an additional 823 lives could have been saved.
• Motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries.
• 5,290 fatalities were reported in 2008 motorcycle crashes compared to 2,294 in 1998. This is a 100% increase in 10 years.
• There are more than one million registered motorcycles in the U. S.
• 29% of motorcycle riders in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher . In cases where the rider was between age 40-49, the rate increased to 41%.
• In 2008, 35% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, compared to 23% for passenger vehicles.

Quick Links

• Illinois Rules of the Road, Chapter 5
• Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual