Michael Swidrak Killed in Mettawa Motorcycle Accident

Personal Injury - July 26, 2026

Investigation Underway After Michael Swidrak Died in Mettawa Car Accident While Riding Motorcycle on Illinois Route 60

METTAWA, ILLINOIS (July 26, 2026) – A 43-year-old cyclist identified as Michael Swidrak has tragically died in a Mettawa car accident along Illinois Route 60.

Lake County officials are saying that the incident occurred around 8:50 PM on Monday, July 6. Michael Swidrak was riding a motorcycle when a 2024 Chevrolet truck traveling eastbound on Route 60 made a left turn directly in front of his vehicle.

The motorcycle was not able to avoid the collision and struck the passenger side of the Chevrolet. Michael Swidrak was thrown from his motorcycle and sustained critical injuries.

He was transported to a local area hospital to receive treatment. Unfortunately, he was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.

A full investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash remains ongoing.

Liability for Mettawa Motorcycle Accident

Every person operating a motor vehicle in the state of Illinois must use certain precautions to avoid car accidents. This necessitates that they maintain their vehicle at a safe speed and abide by all traffic regulations. According to Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/11-801, the driver of any vehicle, intending to make a left turn, must first yield the right of way to any vehicle that is approaching from the opposite direction and close enough so as to pose an immediate hazard. Many different factors could contribute to a left turn collision.

• Distraction: Drivers may be distracted by looking at their phone or reaching for a dropped object.
• Intoxication: A driver making a left turn may be intoxicated through their use of drugs or alcohol.
• Fatigue: Drivers are substantially more likely to be involved in collisions if they are fatigued.
• Poor Weather: Inclement weather can make the roadways more slick and reduce visibility. This can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists and pedestrians who have a small profile.

Left turns are among the most dangerous maneuvers that drivers make. Drivers are roughly 10 times more likely to be involved in a collision when making a left turn as opposed to a right turn. If a driver turns into the path of another vehicle before they are struck by that vehicle, this could be construed as negligence. Depending on the unique facts of any case, there may be multiple liable parties for a car accident. This is particularly true if a vehicle was being used during a rideshare service or other commercial purpose.

What to Do After Mettawa Motorcycle Accidents

Motor vehicle collisions can be especially dangerous for any person riding a motorcycle. According to the NHTSA, “In 2024, there were 6,228 motorcyclists killed — 16% of all traffic fatalities. NHTSA data show that this is one of the highest number of motorcyclists killed since at least 1975.” It is important that certain actions are taken after any motorcycle accident in Illinois.

• Any surveillance footage that may have captured the accident should be sought. This footage may become unavailable over the coming days and weeks.
• All of the medical records related to a person’s injuries should also be preserved. They can help reveal how an accident took place.
• The police report gathered after the crash is another important piece of evidence. But this report is far from complete. Many fatal crashes will also result in an accident reconstruction report that can be far more useful.
• The nature and purpose of any driver’s trip prior to a collision should be understood. It matters whether or not a vehicle was being used for any type of commercial purpose.

Motorcycle accidents are often highly preventable. They tend to be the result of drivers that are not paying sufficient attention to the road ahead of them, especially during turns. When a motorcycle accident does happen, ensuring that evidence is properly collected and reviewed is critical to protect the rights of accident victims. Insurance companies are notorious for doing everything in their power to subvert the best interests of individuals and families who have been affected by car accidents. This is why it can be so important that these incidents are properly investigated by an outside party.

Investigating Mettawa Motorcycle Accidents

Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extends our deepest condolences to the family of Michael Swidrak. Any person who may have more information is encouraged to reach out to law enforcement. This was an entirely preventable tragedy that should’ve never happened. Many important questions are yet to be answered.

Do you need more information about a Mettawa motorcycle accident? Our team of accident investigators may be able to assist you. We are committed to helping people understand their rights and taking proactive measures to make Illinois safer for all people. Whether you just have legal questions or need any other type of support, we may be able to assist you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.