Chicago Accident and Injury Lawyer Blog

A motorcycle and an automobile collided late Sunday night in Humboldt Park, injuring six people. Four of the six were in critical condition. All six were taken to area hospitals.

Early reports don't indicate whether the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet. Illinois is one of just a few states in the country that does not require motorcycle riders to wear helmets.

The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that while overall traffic fatalities were down in 2007, motorcycle fatalities rose by more than 18%. Illinois recorded 135 motorcycle fatalities in 2008. A majority of fatal crashes happen between May and September, when more motorcycles are on the road. July and August account for the most fatalities.

The legislative coordinator of ABATE of Illinois, an organization dedicated to preserving the rights of motorcyclists, says that prevention of accidents is the key.

The Illinois State Police offer these safety tips to motorcycle riders:
* Wear a helmet and other protective gear.
* Improve your visibility by wearing brightly colored clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night.
* Be alert for animals alongside and on the roadway.
* When riding with another motorcycle, stagger your position. This allows both riders to take evasive action safely should the need arise.
* Be aware of what's ahead. Safe riders remain aware of developing situations 12-16 seconds ahead. This includes other vehicles, potholes, roadway obstructions, and other potential hazards.
* Don't ride in the middle of the lane where oil and grease from cars and trucks collects. Avoid the potentially slick areas by riding in the tire tracks of other vehicles.
* Take a safety course.
* Never drink and drive.