Illinois State Police Report Spike in Motorcycle Fatalities as Summer Begins

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Police reported four motorcycle fatalities in the past week, as summer begins, a season historically linked to the highest number of motorcycle crashes. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows 47% of motorcycle fatalities from 2013 to 2022 occurred during summer months. Although motorcycles make up less than 3% of registered vehicles, they account for about 12% of all traffic deaths. So far in 2025, Illinois has recorded 44 motorcycle fatalities. Authorities say impaired driving and speeding are leading causes, with 59% of fatalities involving impairment and 40% of serious injuries involving speed.