Illinois Helmet Laws
Our state of Illinois holds the distinction of being one of only three states with no helmet laws for motorcycle riders. Nineteen states (including the District of Columbia) currently have universal helmet laws requiring riders and passengers of all ages to wear a helmet. The remaining states hold laws mandating that motorists under a certain age wear a helmet while operating the vehicle. Only Iowa and New Hampshire stand alone with Illinois in an absence of any state-wide motorcycle helmet laws.
Unfortunately, this is not a distinction we can be proud of. Although there are legitimate arguments that the choice to wear a helmet lies with the rider, safety experts strongly advise that all motorcycle riders wear a helmet, regardless of age or experience. Even the most experienced biker can be struck by a negligent motorist. In the majority of cases, a helmet serves not to protect the rider from their own errors, but from the error of others.