Do I Have to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet in Illinois?

Want to start an argument among a group of motorcycle riders? Ask them about helmet laws. These laws generate heated debate among riders, safety advocates, and governments throughout the U.S.

Here’s what’s important to know when asking the question, do I have to wear a motorcycle helmet in Illinois? Illinois: The state has no helmet law whatsoever. For better or worse, there is no law saying riders or passengers must wear helmets, regardless of their age or experience. (State Rep. Daniel Didech introduced a bill to require helmets in 2024, but nothing came of it.)

That said, it’s a smart idea to wear a helmet even though there’s no legal requirement to do so in Illinois. Here are a few reasons why.

Motorcycle Helmets Save Lives

The safety data on motorcycle helmets is crystal clear: wearing a helmet is 37 percent effective at preventing fatalities, according to CDC data. Anything that can help riders die in a collision is important, particularly since motorcycle riders are about 22 times more likely to die in a crash than people in passenger cars (per mile traveled).

Helmets Help Prevent Brain Injuries

Helmets provide critical protection against traumatic brain injuries, which are among the most catastrophic injuries that can occur in motorcycle crashes. The CDC reports that wearing a helmet is 69 percent effective at preventing head injuries. That’s significant, as traumatic brain injuries cause permanent health effects, including memory issues, personality changes, movement and coordination issues, and reduced cognitive function.

Helmets Reduce Facial Injuries in Crashes

Facial scars from road rash or other motorcycle accident injuries can cause severe pain, permanent disfigurement, and deep emotional distress. Wearing the helmet protects the face in the event of a crash, significantly reducing the chances of facial injuries.

Setting a Good Example for Younger Riders

No matter how much they deny it, many young people look to older friends and family for examples of how to act. This is often true for younger motorcycle riders as well. Older riders who wear helmets can set a good example for younger riders and promote better road safety for everyone.

Choosing a Good Motorcycle Helmet

Any helmet is better than no helmet, but here are a few tips for choosing an effective helmet:

• Make Sure the Helmet Fits Correctly – Your helmet should fit snugly to help it stay in place and cradle your head in a crash. However, you should not feel painful pressure points. Try wearing a helmet for about 30 to 45 minutes to see if you notice any pain. If you do, find another one.
• Make Sure the Helmet Meets Federal Standards – Most motorcycle helmets must meet federal safety standards. A helmet that meets these standards usually has a DOT sticker on the back of the helmet’s exterior.
• Never Buy a Used Helmet – Helmets are generally one-time-use items. A used helmet may not protect your head in a crash, so always get a new helmet, even if it costs more.

What If You Crash and Weren’t Wearing a Helmet?

Because Illinois does not require motorcycle riders or passengers to wear helmets, helmet use shouldn’t be a factor in a motorcycle accident claim. However, insurance companies may try to blame motorcycle riders for their injuries if they weren’t wearing a helmet.

What injured motorcycle riders must remember is that not wearing a helmet didn’t cause the crash on its own. They may have sustained more severe injuries, but they are not liable if they didn’t cause the accident. Any injured rider should contact an attorney right away if an insurer tries to blame them for their own injuries.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, our legal team here at Law Tigers is ready to help. For decades, we’ve helped defend the rights of wronged motorcycle riders by providing skilled representation and sound legal advice across the United States. To get a free case evaluation or to schedule your free consultation, call us at Law Tigers today at 1-800-529-8443.