Motorcycle Accidents In Wisconsin As Spring Approaches

By Howard Eglash, Personal Injury Attorney

As temperatures begin to rise across Wisconsin, motorcycles return to the roads. Early spring marks the start of riding season for many enthusiasts in La Crosse, Sparta, and throughout western Wisconsin. While warmer weather brings excitement and freedom, it also brings increased accident risk.

Spring motorcycle accidents are common for a reason. Drivers are not yet used to sharing the road with motorcycles, road conditions remain unpredictable after winter, and riders may be eager to get back on the road after months off. Understanding these risks and knowing your legal rights can make a significant difference if a crash occurs.

Why Early Spring Is A High-Risk Time For Riders

Motorcycle accident risk increases in early spring for several key reasons:

• Drivers are out of practice looking for motorcycles after a long winter
• Potholes and pavement damage are common after freeze-thaw cycles
• Loose gravel from winter sanding remains on rural roads
• Cold pavement reduces tire traction
• Weather changes quickly, creating slick or damp road surfaces

Even experienced riders can be caught off guard by early-season hazards. Unlike passenger vehicles, motorcycles do not have the same stability or structural protection. A minor roadway issue for a car can be dangerous for a motorcycle.

Most Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents In Wisconsin

Motorcycle crashes frequently involve driver negligence rather than rider error. Some of the most common causes include:

• Left-turn accidents at intersections
• Unsafe lane changes where drivers fail to check blind spots
• Distracted driving
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Following too closely
• Failure to yield

Left-turn collisions are especially dangerous. A driver turning left may misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or fail to see it entirely. Because motorcycles have a smaller profile, drivers often claim they “didn’t see” the rider.

In addition, spring road damage plays a role. Potholes and uneven pavement can destabilize a motorcycle, especially at higher speeds.

Driver Awareness And Shared Responsibility

Motorcycle safety depends heavily on driver awareness. Many drivers unconsciously scan for larger vehicles and overlook smaller ones. Riders are vulnerable because they lack the physical protection of a car frame, airbags, and seatbelts.

At the same time, motorcyclists must also operate cautiously. Wisconsin law requires all drivers and riders to exercise reasonable care. However, insurance companies sometimes unfairly assume that riders were speeding or taking risks.

This is where understanding Wisconsin’s fault rules becomes critical.

Wisconsin Comparative Negligence Law

Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

• If you are found more than 50 percent at fault, you cannot recover damages.
• If you are 50 percent or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but are found 20 percent responsible, your recovery would be reduced to $80,000.

Insurance companies may attempt to shift blame to reduce payouts. They might argue that the rider was speeding, weaving, or not wearing protective gear. A thorough investigation helps ensure fault is assigned fairly.

Common Motorcycle Injuries

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the rider’s exposure. These may include:

• Broken bones
• Road rash and severe abrasions
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Amputations

Even with helmet use, injuries can be life-altering. Recovery may involve surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care.

What Injured Riders Should Know About Insurance

Motorcycle insurance coverage differs from auto insurance in important ways. Riders should understand:

• Wisconsin requires minimum liability coverage for motorcycles
• Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is critical
• Medical payments coverage may be optional but helpful

If another driver causes the accident, their liability insurance typically covers damages. However, if that driver has insufficient coverage, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist policy may apply.

Insurance companies may try to offer quick settlements before the full extent of injuries is known. Accepting an early offer can limit your ability to recover future medical costs or lost income.

Compensation After A Motorcycle Accident

If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Property damage

Severe injuries often affect earning ability long-term. Calculating these future losses requires careful documentation and, in some cases, expert analysis.

Steps To Take After A Motorcycle Crash

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, protect your rights by taking these steps:

• Call 911 and request medical assistance
• Seek medical evaluation even if injuries seem minor
• Obtain a police report
• Take photographs of the scene and vehicle damage
• Gather witness contact information
• Avoid giving recorded statements to insurers without legal advice

Prompt medical documentation strengthens your claim. Delays in treatment can be used by insurers to question the severity of your injuries.

Staying Safe This Spring

As riding season begins, awareness and preparation matter. Riders can reduce risk by:

• Wearing protective gear
• Taking refresher safety courses
• Checking tire pressure and brakes before riding
• Avoiding high-risk road conditions
• Staying visible with bright clothing

Drivers also play a crucial role by checking blind spots carefully and yielding appropriately.

Spring should be about enjoying Wisconsin’s scenic roads, not navigating the aftermath of a preventable crash. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, understanding your rights early can protect your ability to recover fair compensation.

At Bosshard Parke, we help injured riders throughout La Crosse, Sparta, and western Wisconsin pursue the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Bosshard Parke today at 608-782-1469 or reach out through our website to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult an attorney at Bosshard Parke.