Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
When a motorcycle accident turns your life upside down, excuses won’t cover your medical bills, missed paychecks, or the pain you’re stuck carrying. At Ankin Law, we don’t settle for apologies—and we don’t let insurance companies lowball injured riders. Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers are aggressive, experienced, and unafraid to go toe-to-toe with anyone standing between you and the compensation you’re owed.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash in Chicago, you are worth more than a quick payout—you deserve real justice. We’ll dig into the facts, take on the fight, and push for every dollar you need to recover and move forward. You focus on getting back on your feet. We’ll handle the rest.
Consultations are free, and we don’t get paid unless we win. At Ankin Law, we fight for our clients like it’s personal—because to us, it is.
Why Hire the Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Ankin Law for Your Case?
With over a century of combined legal experience and deep roots in Chicago, Ankin Law delivers results. We’ve recovered hundreds of millions for injured victims across Illinois—and we’re ready to help you get maximum compensation.
- We offer 24/7 support
- There are no upfront fees
- You only pay if we win your case
Call (312) 600-0000 to schedule your FREE consultation with Ankin Law.
Table of Contents
Understanding Illinois Motorcycle Accident Laws
Understanding Illinois motorcycle accident laws is essential if you’ve been injured in a crash. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. If you’re more than 50% responsible, you may not recover any damages. Navigating these laws on your own can be overwhelming—especially when you’re recovering from injuries.
Motorcyclists in Illinois are not required by law to wear helmets, but wearing one can influence how fault and damages are assessed. Additionally, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by exploiting legal gray areas or assigning undue blame.
That’s where we come in. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers understand the nuances of Illinois law and know how to protect your rights. We’ll guide you through the claims process, handle negotiations, and fight for the full compensation you deserve—so you can focus on healing.
You don’t have to face this alone. At Ankin Law, we fight to help you achieve justice in the wake of your crash. Call us at (312) 600-0000.
Your Guide to Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Chicago
Knowing what to expect after your motorcycle accident can give you peace of mind in an otherwise unstable time. From the moment the crash occurs, every action you take can impact your ability to recover compensation. Our motorcycle accident lawyers can serve as your guide to the legal process, helping you avoid costly mistakes and build a strong case against the negligent party.
Center:
Injured by a medical provider? Check out our medical malpractice knowledge center to learn more about medical malpractice cases.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Taking the right steps after your crash can help you preserve evidence and put you on the path toward a smoother recovery. After an accident, you should:
- Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident and request emergency medical help. A police report will provide an official record, which is crucial for your legal claim.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical care ensures your health and documents your injuries for your case.
- Document the Scene: If you’re physically able, take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, injuries, and relevant signs. Get contact and insurance information from all drivers and names of witnesses.
- Not Admit Fault: Avoid discussing fault with the other driver or anyone else at the scene. Statements made in the heat of the moment could be used against you later.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Let your insurer know about the accident, but avoid making detailed statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
- Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Legal guidance early on can protect your rights and ensure critical evidence is preserved. An attorney can handle communications and start building your case immediately.
Motorcycle Accident Case Timeline
Once you’ve made it through the immediate aftermath of the crash, you can begin working on your motorcycle accident case. While every case is unique, most motorcycle accident claims follow a general timeline:
Initial Consultation and Case Review (Days to Weeks)
After your accident, your attorney will gather information, review police and medical reports, and evaluate the strength of your case.
Investigation and Evidence Collection (Weeks to Months)
This includes interviewing witnesses, securing medical documentation, analyzing insurance policies, and consulting accident reconstruction experts.
Filing the Claim (Within Months)
Your lawyer may negotiate with insurance companies or file a formal lawsuit if a fair settlement isn’t offered.
Discovery and Negotiation (Several Months to Over a Year)
Both sides exchange evidence and continue negotiations. Many cases settle during this phase without going to trial.
Trial (If Necessary)
If settlement isn’t reached, your case may go to trial. Your attorney will represent you in court to seek full compensation.
Illinois Statute of Limitations
In Illinois, you have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can permanently bar you from recovering damages. Exceptions are rare, so it’s essential to act quickly.
The sooner you begin the legal process, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Early action helps preserve evidence, locate witnesses, and build a solid case from the start. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait—consult with Ankin Law as soon as possible.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Chicago
Motorcycle accidents in Chicago can happen in an instant—and the consequences are often severe. The city’s busy roads, unpredictable traffic, and changing weather conditions make it especially hazardous for motorcyclists. Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders stay alert and also help victims recognize when they have a valid personal injury claim.
Distracted Driving
Distracted drivers pose one of the biggest threats to motorcyclists. Whether it’s texting, using GPS, or eating behind the wheel, even a moment of inattention can lead to a life-changing crash. On major roadways like Lake Shore Drive, I-90 (Kennedy Expressway), and I-94 (Dan Ryan Expressway), fast-moving traffic means motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to distracted drivers who fail to check blind spots or change lanes without warning.
Failure to Yield
Many motorcycle accidents occur when other drivers fail to yield the right of way, especially at intersections or when turning left across traffic. Busy areas like Western Avenue, Ashland Avenue, and intersections near Michigan Avenue are common sites of such incidents. Drivers often misjudge the speed or distance of an oncoming motorcycle, leading to dangerous collisions.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to avoid a collision. Motorcyclists struck by speeding vehicles often suffer serious injuries due to the lack of protective barriers. Speeding is particularly common on expressways like the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) and Stevenson Expressway (I-55), where aggressive driving and lane weaving increase the risk of accidents.
Impaired Driving
Drunk or drug-impaired drivers endanger everyone on the road—but motorcyclists are at greater risk due to their exposure. Nighttime riding on popular entertainment corridors like Clark Street, Division Street, or Rush Street increases the likelihood of encountering impaired drivers leaving bars or clubs.
Road Hazards and Poor Maintenance
Uneven pavement, potholes, debris, and poor signage are especially dangerous for motorcycles. Streets like Cicero Avenue and Stony Island Avenue—known for heavy traffic and frequent construction—can pose additional risks if not properly maintained.
Doorings
In dense areas like Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, and the Loop, motorcyclists often face danger from parked cars when drivers or passengers suddenly open doors without checking for oncoming traffic. These incidents, known as “doorings,” can cause serious accidents.
Call (312) 600-0000 for a free case review today
Who Is Liable for a Motorcycle Accident in Illinois?
Determining liability in a motorcycle accident in Illinois involves identifying who was at fault for the crash. Under Illinois law, liability is based on comparative negligence, meaning more than one party can share fault. If you are less than 50% responsible, you can still recover damages—though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Common liable parties include other drivers, who may have been distracted, speeding, or impaired; vehicle manufacturers, if a defect caused the accident; or even government entities, if poor road conditions or lack of signage contributed to the crash.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto motorcyclists to minimize payouts. That’s why it’s critical to work with a motorcycle accident attorney who can investigate the circumstances, gather evidence, and hold the right parties accountable.
How Much Is a Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
The value of a motorcycle accident case in Illinois depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the extent of your financial losses. There is no one-size-fits-all number, but compensation is generally calculated based on economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
These are tangible losses that can be clearly calculated:
- Medical expenses: hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and future medical care.
- Lost income: wages lost while recovering and any future earning capacity if you’re unable to return to work.
- Property damage: the cost to repair or replace your motorcycle.
Non-Economic Damages
These cover more subjective losses:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Permanent disability or disfigurement
In serious cases, particularly those involving long-term injuries or wrongful death, settlements or verdicts can reach six or even seven figures. For example, a rider who suffers a spinal injury requiring lifelong care may receive substantially more than someone with minor fractures.
If you’re found partially at fault for your accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers work closely with medical experts and financial analysts to calculate the true cost of your injuries. Call Ankin Law at (312) 600-0000 today.
How We Maximize Your Compensation
At Ankin Law, we don’t just handle motorcycle accident cases—we dominate them. Our team knows the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts, and we don’t let them get away with it. From the moment you hire us, we go on the offensive: securing evidence, consulting top experts, and building a rock-solid case designed to demand top dollar.
We’re not here to settle for “good enough.” We dig into every angle—lost wages, future medical care, pain and suffering—and we don’t back down until every dollar is on the table. If they want a fight, we’ll take it to trial. If they want to talk, they’ll talk on our terms.
With Ankin Law, you’re not just getting legal representation—you’re getting a team that knows how to win and isn’t afraid to push for every penny you deserve. We know your worth, and we make sure the other side does too.
Call Ankin Law to Get Started With Your Recovery Today
You’ve been through enough—now it’s our turn to take the wheel. At Ankin Law, we don’t just represent injured riders; we fight for them like it’s personal. No insurance company, no defense attorney, and no excuse stands a chance against our team. Your initial consultation is free, and we don’t get paid unless you win. So why wait? Contact Ankin Law today and let us show you what aggressive, results-driven representation really looks like. (312) 600-0000.