Motorcycle accidents in Chicago often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection riders have compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles. Understanding the types of injuries commonly sustained and the compensation available is crucial for motorcycle accident victims and their families.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Head and Brain Injuries

Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of motorcycle accidents. Even with a helmet, riders can suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Concussions
• Skull fractures
• Facial injuries and fractures
• Eye injuries

These injuries can result in long-term cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, and the need for lifelong medical care.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause severe damage to the spinal cord, potentially resulting in:

• Partial or complete paralysis
• Loss of sensation
• Chronic pain
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Respiratory problems

Broken Bones and Fractures

Motorcycle accidents commonly cause multiple fractures, including:

• Leg and ankle fractures
• Arm and wrist fractures
• Rib fractures
• Pelvic fractures
• Collarbone fractures

Complex fractures may require multiple surgeries, metal implants, and extensive physical therapy.

Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries

When riders are thrown from their motorcycles, they often slide across the pavement, causing:

• Severe abrasions (road rash)
• Deep lacerations
• Muscle damage
• Nerve damage
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Types of Compensation Available

Economic Damages

Economic damages compensate for measurable financial losses:

Medical Expenses

• Emergency room treatment
• Hospital stays and surgeries
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Prescription medications
• Medical equipment and assistive devices
• Future medical care needs

Lost Income

• Wages lost during recovery
• Reduced earning capacity
• Lost benefits and bonuses
• Future income loss due to disability

Property Damage

• Motorcycle repair or replacement
• Damaged riding gear and equipment
• Personal property damaged in the accident

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of consortium (impact on relationships)

Punitive Damages

In cases involving particularly reckless or intentional conduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

Challenges in Motorcycle Accident Cases

Anti-Motorcycle Bias

Unfortunately, motorcyclists often face unfair stereotypes and bias from insurance companies, juries, and even law enforcement. Common misconceptions include:

• Motorcyclists are reckless or dangerous
• Motorcycle accidents are always the rider's fault
• Riders assume the risk by choosing to ride

Experienced motorcycle accident attorneys know how to combat these biases and present the facts objectively.

Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies often use various tactics to minimize motorcycle accident claims:

• Claiming the rider was speeding or reckless
• Arguing that helmet non-use contributed to injuries
• Minimizing the severity of injuries
• Offering quick, low-ball settlements

Factors Affecting Compensation

Severity of Injuries

More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation due to increased medical costs, longer recovery times, and greater impact on quality of life.

Degree of Fault

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you're found to be less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Available Insurance Coverage

The amount of insurance coverage available from the at-fault party can limit potential recovery. This is why uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is crucial for motorcyclists.

Steps to Maximize Your Compensation

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay after an accident, see a doctor immediately. Some injuries, particularly head injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Medical documentation is crucial for your claim.

Document Everything

• Take photos of the accident scene, vehicles, and injuries
• Get contact information from witnesses
• Keep detailed records of medical treatment
• Document how injuries affect your daily life
• Save all receipts related to the accident

Don't Accept Quick Settlement Offers

Insurance companies often make quick, low settlement offers before the full extent of injuries is known. Don't accept any offer without consulting an experienced motorcycle accident attorney.

Hire an Experienced Attorney

Motorcycle accident cases are complex and require attorneys who understand the unique challenges riders face. An experienced attorney can:

• Combat anti-motorcycle bias
• Accurately value your claim
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• Gather and preserve evidence
• Work with medical experts and accident reconstructionists