Illinois Motorcycle Laws

Warmer weather in Illinois brings motorcycles back to our roads, and it’s everyone’s job to keep them safe. Drivers of cars and trucks have the responsibility of being aware of bikes around them, and bikers have a set of laws to obey, laid out by the Illinois state government.

On the road, motorcycle riders in Illinois are required to use their headlight during daylight (and obviously, night time) hours, and they must wear a helmet. Modulated headlights are permitted. Eye protection is required unless the bike is built with a windscreen (though goggles are still a good idea), and the bike’s handgrips must be below head height. The law allows helmet speakers for communication only, not for listening to music or other distractions. There’s no lane splitting permitted, and there’s also no restriction on the age of passengers. For the safety of everyone on the road, motorcycle mufflers can’t be modified to amplify or increase noise.

Off road, there are some different rules. Eye protection’s not required (though still recommended), neither are headlights. There’s no limit on sound levels off road, and bikers don’t have to wear helmets. Mufflers are not required; registration and a vehicle title are. All of these statues are designed with the motorcyclists’ safety in mind, not to limit personal freedom on (or off) the road.

Knowledge is key when it comes to staying safe on the road, and understanding all state laws and regulations could prove to be the difference between life and death in the event of a serious accident. If you’re going out on a motorcycle in the state of Illinois,

Here are some of the most important regulations to understand:

Helmets – Although the use a safety helmet while riding a motorcycle is not required by Illinois law, it is highly recommended in order to minimize the risk of a serious head injury or death should an accident occur.

Helmet speakers – Helmet speakers are approved for communication purposes only (Sec. 11-1403.3).

Headlights – The daytime and nighttime use of headlights is required (Illinois Vehicle Code, Sec. 12-1201a).

Handlebars – Handgrips/handlebars must be below the height of the driver’s head (Sec. 11-1403c).

Lane-splitting – Lane-splitting is not authorized (Sec. 11-703).

Left/right mirrors – At least one is required by Illinois law (Sec. 12-102).

Maximum sound levels – Maximum volumes (based on a distance of 50 feet): 80-82dBA at less than 35mph; 86dBA at more than 35mph (Illinois Environmental Protection Regulations, Sec. 902-122).

Minimum Illinois insurance requirements – Compulsory liability insurance in the minimum limits (20/40/15).

Passenger requirements – If carrying a passenger, a proper seat (Sec. 11-1403a) and footrest (Sec. 11-1405) are required for him/her. Illinois has no age-restrictions for passengers of motorcycles.

Two motorcycles in one lane – A motorcyclist sharing a single lane with another motorcyclist is not illegal, as it is not referenced in the Administrative Code or Statues.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact 844 See Mike, for a free consultation at 312-224-4695. 844 See Mike, handles personal injury cases throughout Illinois. 844 See Mike, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you. This litigation strategy will provide you with the best possible compensation.

Lastly, 844 See Mike, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire our Chicago personal injury law firm–just the opportunity to seek justice. Call us today at 312-224-4695.