Reduce Your Risk of Getting into Motorcycle Accidents: The Motorcycle Laws in Illinois
Do you know the laws for riding a motorcycle in Illinois? It is good to know them to avoid being in trouble with the authorities in the event of motorcycle accidents. Abiding by the laws also ensures that you and other road users are safe.
In 2022 alone, there were 146 motorcycle accidents in Illinois. Like cyclists, motorcyclists have a high risk of injury during a car crash. If you have been injured, it’s time to contact a Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer to schedule a consultation.
Insurance Law for Motorcycle Accidents
Insurance laws are one of the motorcycle laws in Illinois. However, it is often overlooked. The state requires all motorcycles to have the minimum amount of liability insurance.
Like you wouldn’t drive your car without insurance, you should never ride your motorcycle without insurance. Therefore, you need to have an insurance policy that covers the following:
- $25,000 per person
- $50,000 per accident for personal injury claims
- $20,000 for property coverage
Keep in mind that the above amounts are only the minimum coverage you should have as a motorist. You can pay a higher amount depending on your finances.
License
You need a class M or class L license or permit to ride your motorcycle in Illinois. Class M is for motorcycles with over 150cc displacement, and class L license is for motorcycles below 150cc displacement.
You should also be 18 years and above. All riders must also complete the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) motorcycle rider course. You must pass a written exam, a vision test and pay a fee to get your license.
If you go riding without your license, you will be in trouble with the authorities—it is subject to commensurate punishment.
Riders aged 16 or 17 must do a rider education program and go for a motorcycle training course to learn more about motorcycles and safety measures.
Equipment
You will not only be in trouble with the law if you ride a motorcycle without a side view mirror, but it can also cause a motorcycle accident. The law also requires motorcycles to have at least one side mirror on the left or right.
In addition to that, your motorcycle must have a license plate light, taillights, stoplights, headlights, brakes on both wheels, and a horn that is audible 200 feet away. If you are carrying a passenger, you must wear glasses for eye protection unless your motorcycle has a transparent shield.
Even though there is no law on wearing helmets in Illinois, it is highly recommended while riding. The helmets can prevent traumatic brain injury if you get into a motorcycle accident.
Operation Law Concerning Motorcycle Accidents
There is an operation law you have to follow to ride your motorcycle in Illinois. You may have a license and know how to ride a motorcycle, but you must follow the operation laws to avoid getting in trouble with the authorities. The following operation laws ensure that you maintain safety while on the road.
- You should never ride your motorcycle under the influence of alcohol. It is dangerous not only to your life but to other road users. If you are found guilty of driving under the influence, you’ll lose your riding privileges and pay high fines.
- You must use your headlamps for increased visibility while on the road
- At least one of your hands should always be on the handlebar
- Lane splitting and riding on one wheel are prohibited
The Illinois laws on motorcycles are meant to protect all road users. Without the laws, there would only be an increase in accidents. Abiding by the laws ensures that you maintain safety while on the road. Contact Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers today to get help if you need counsel.
