Are There Motorcycle Laws to Protect Riders in Illinois?

Yes, there are laws in Illinois that protect riders and also establish guidelines for responsible riding. Riding a motorcycle comes with risks, and understanding the motorcycle laws in Illinois is critical for ensuring your safety and the safety of others. If you’re a motorcyclist in Illinois, our motorcycle accident lawyers have summarized what you need to know about the laws designed to protect you.

Summary of Illinois Motorcycle Laws

Motorcycle laws in Illinois are part of the Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/). These laws encompass everything from safety equipment requirements to operational guidelines. Whether you’re a lifelong rider or new to motorcycles, compliance with these laws is essential for avoiding fines, accidents, or legal issues.

Key Illinois Motorcycle Laws

Below are summarized highlights of crucial Illinois motorcycle laws that every rider should know:

Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

According to 625 ILCS 5/11-1405, motorcycles carrying passengers must have:

• Footrests for passengers (except sidecars or enclosed cabs).
• Specific safety gear like glasses, goggles, or transparent shields for both the operator and a passenger thereon. These protective devices must meet shatter-resistance standards, as outlined in 625 ILCS 5/11-1404.

Additionally, Illinois helmet laws say riders may use a motorcycle helmet with a built-in intercom system for vocal communication, regulated under 625 ILCS 5/11-1403.3. Though Illinois riders are not legally required to wear helmets, the Illinois Secretary of State urges riders to protect themselves with a helmet to reduce the chance of fatal head injuries.

Rider Position and Seating

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-1403, riders of a motor-driven cycle must:

• Operate their motorcycle while seated facing forward on the regular, permanent seat. Riders must sit astride the seat with one leg on each side of their motorcycle.
• Ensure the handlebars do not exceed the height of the operator’s head when seated on the motorcycle.
• Have at least one hand positioned on the handlebars while riding.

Passenger Regulations

Passengers must:

• Sit facing forward and astride, behind, or next to the operator—according to 625 ILCS 5/11-1403.
• Keep their feet placed on footrests at all times during operation.

Additionally, operators may not carry more passengers than a motorcycle is designed for and equipped to accommodate safely, per 625 ILCS 5/11-1406.

Regulations for Safe Motorcycle Riding

• Motorcyclists riding two abreast must not impede the normal flow of traffic and should stay within a single lane on a multi-lane road, as required by 625 ILCS 5/11-1505.1.
• Riders may not overtake or pass other vehicles in the same lane, also known as lane splitting, per 625 ILCS 5/11-703(c).
• All motorcycles on highways must have at least one headlight on, showing a white light visible from 500 feet in the direction of travel, according to 625 ILCS 5/12-201.
• Performing wheelies or other stunts on public roadways is strictly prohibited under 625 ILCS 5/11-1403, as such actions compromise the safety of both the operator and other road users. Operators must maintain both wheels on the ground while in motion to ensure full control of the motorcycle at all times.

How Do These Laws Protect Riders?

Illinois motorcycle traffic laws are in place to safeguard motorcycle drivers from bodily injury that could arise due to reckless behavior or lack of safety equipment. For example, the recommendation for helmets and the requirements for protective gear help prevent serious injuries in case of motorcycle crashes. Rules regarding rider position and seating also ensure that riders have proper control over their bikes, reducing the risk of motorcycle accidents.

Moreover, passenger regulations help maintain stability and balance on a motorcycle while preventing overcrowding, which can cause motor vehicle accidents. These laws not only protect riders but also promote responsible riding practices that keep everyone on the road safe.

Safe Motorcycle Riding in Illinois

To ensure safe riding practices on a motor-driven cycle or moped, and to obtain a motorcycle license, individuals are encouraged to complete an approved motorcycle training course, which is often a requirement for obtaining a Class M or Class L license, according to the Illinois Secretary of State.