General Facts
In 2009, Illinois experienced a total of 124 fatal crashes involving motorcycles (motorcycles, motor scooters, motorbikes, mopeds, etc.), of which 122 crashes resulted in the death of 130 motorcycle operators and passengers. The other two crashes resulted in the deaths of two persons who were not riding motorcycles.
The 130 motorcyclists killed in 2009 account for over 14% of all motor vehicle fatalities. Motorcycle registrations, however, account for approximately 3% of all motor vehicles registered.
In 2009, there were 349,690 motorcycle registrations – an increase of over 76% when compared to the 198,444 motorcycle registrations in 1999. (Figures reported by the Secretary of State.)
The 130 motorcyclist fatalities in 2009 represent a 26% increase compared to the 103 motorcyclists killed in 1999.
Age and Gender of Motorcyclists Killed
Since 1999, motorcyclists aged 45 or older have experienced the greatest increase in fatalities of any age group. In 1999, less than 14% of the motorcyclists killed were 45 or older. By 2002, that percentage had escalated to 37%. In 2009, motorcyclists aged 45 or older accounted for over 39% of the motorcyclists killed. The oldest motorcycle fatality in 2009 was 78.
Almost 14% of the motorcyclist fatalities in 2009 were under the age of 25, with the youngest being 18. The average age of all the motorcyclists killed in 2009 was 40.
Over 86% of the motorcyclists killed were male
Motorcycle Operator’s License
Over 80% of the 116 motorcycle operators killed in 2009 were licensed to operate a motorcycle.
When Motorcyclists are Killed
Generally, the hours of 6:00 p.m. on Friday through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday are deadlier for motorcyclists than other periods of the week. In 2009, 73 (59%) of the fatal crashes involving motorcycles occurred during the weekend.
