In 2022, there were 1,010 motorcycle accidents in Cook County, Illinois. Many of those motorcycle accidents occurred in Chicago. Forty-four people lost their lives, and hundreds were injured. Motorcycle crashes cause catastrophic injuries for riders and passengers. If you were injured in a motorcycle wreck, a Chicago motorcycle accident attorney could help you prove how the accident occurred to establish liability for damages.
What Causes Motorcycle Crashes in Chicago?
Many factors contribute to the cause of motorcycle accidents. A Motorcycle Crash Causation Study published in February 2019 cited hundreds of contributing factors for motorcycle accidents, including human error, weather conditions, roadway design, highway conditions, and many others.
Common causes of Chicago motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Weather conditions
- Impaired driving (drugged, buzzed, and drunk driving)
- Drowsy driving
- Failing to follow traffic laws (i.e., failing to yield right of way, following too closely, improper lane changes, etc.)
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Road rage and aggressive driving
- Defective motorcycle parts
Determining the cause of a motorcycle accident is crucial. You must prove that the other party caused the crash to recover compensation for damages. Unfortunately, insurance companies often blame the motorcyclist for the accident, even when the rider did nothing wrong. Therefore, you need evidence to prove that you did not contribute to the cause of the motorcycle accident.
How Do You Prove Causation for a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Chicago?
Our Chicago motorcycle accident attorney investigates the crash to determine fault. Evidence used to build a solid case for fault and liability includes:
- Police and accident reports
- Footage from traffic cameras
- Video from nearby surveillance cameras
- Statements made by the drivers and passengers
- Testimony from eyewitnesses
- Cell phone records
- Data collected from vehicle data recorders
- Evidence collected at the accident scene
- Opinions and reports from accident reconstructionists and other experts
Insurance adjusters investigate crashes and gather evidence to use against motorcyclists. Never admit fault or agree to make a statement before you talk to a personal injury attorney.
What Damages Can I Recover for a Chicago Motorcycle Accident?
If you prove that the other driver caused the accident, you can recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages. The types of damages in a motorcycle accident claim include:
- Expenses related to medical treatment and care, including physical therapy and other rehabilitative therapies
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Loss of income and benefits
- Out-of-pocket expenses and costs
- Assistance with household chores and personal care
- Physical pain and suffering
- Decreases in the enjoyment of life and quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Impairments and disabilities
- Decreases in earning potential and future lost wages
The amount you receive for a motorcycle accident claim depends on many factors. Your injuries and financial losses are factors. However, the strength of your evidence and ability to prove what caused the motorcycle accident are also factors. Protect your rights by seeking immediate medical care and legal advice after a motorcycle crash.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation with a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney
You deserve fair compensation for your damages. Call our law firm to schedule a free consultation with our Chicago personal injury attorney to discuss how we can help you with your accident claim.