Pedestrian And Bicycle Accident Safety In Wisconsin

By Howard J. Eglash, Personal Injury Attorney

As temperatures rise in Wisconsin, more people spend time outdoors walking, running, and biking. Increased activity is a positive sign of the season, but it also brings higher risk. Pedestrian and bicycle accidents tend to increase in late spring and early summer, especially in busy areas of La Crosse, Sparta, and surrounding communities.

Understanding how these accidents happen, who may be responsible, and what steps to take after an incident helps protect both your safety and your legal rights.

Why Accidents Increase In Late Spring

Warmer weather brings more foot and bicycle traffic, often at the same time vehicle traffic increases. Drivers may not be fully adjusted to sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists after winter months.

Several seasonal factors contribute to higher risk:

• Increased outdoor activity in residential and downtown areas
• More bicycles on roads and trails
• Drivers distracted or in a hurry during busy travel periods

Even in familiar areas, these changes create new hazards for everyone on the road.

Common Causes Of Pedestrian And Bicycle Accidents

Many pedestrian and bicycle accidents involve driver negligence. These incidents often occur at intersections, crosswalks, and along road shoulders.

Common causes include:

• Failure to yield at crosswalks
• Distracted driving
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Unsafe turns at intersections

Visibility also plays a role. Drivers may fail to notice a pedestrian or cyclist, especially during early morning or evening hours.

Understanding Your Rights In Wisconsin

Wisconsin law provides protections for pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers are required to yield the right of way in many situations, including marked crosswalks and certain intersections.

At the same time, pedestrians and cyclists must also follow traffic laws. This includes obeying signals, using designated crossing areas when available, and riding with traffic when on roadways.

When an accident occurs, liability depends on the specific facts. Wisconsin follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning fault may be shared between parties. This can affect the amount of compensation available.

Injuries And Their Impact

Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable in collisions because they lack physical protection. As a result, injuries are often severe.

Common injuries include broken bones, head trauma, and spinal injuries. Recovery may require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work.

Beyond physical recovery, these injuries can create financial strain through medical bills and lost income. Understanding your legal options is important in these situations.

What To Do After An Accident

Taking the right steps after an accident helps protect both your health and your ability to pursue a claim.

After a pedestrian or bicycle accident:

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Call law enforcement to report the incident
• Document the scene with photos and witness information
• Avoid discussing fault at the scene

Even if injuries seem minor, medical evaluation is important. Some conditions may not be immediately noticeable.

How Drivers Can Help Prevent Accidents

Drivers play a critical role in reducing accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Increased awareness and caution can prevent many incidents.

Drivers should:

• Slow down in areas with high foot or bicycle traffic
• Yield at crosswalks and intersections
• Check for cyclists before turning or opening doors
• Stay focused and avoid distractions

Small changes in behavior can significantly improve safety for everyone.

Staying Safe As A Pedestrian Or Cyclist

Pedestrians and cyclists can also take steps to reduce risk. Staying visible, following traffic rules, and remaining alert all contribute to safer conditions.

Using crosswalks, wearing reflective clothing when appropriate, and avoiding distractions such as mobile devices can help prevent accidents.

Taking The Next Step

Pedestrian and bicycle accidents can have serious consequences. Knowing your rights and acting quickly after an incident helps protect your ability to recover compensation.

At Bosshard Parke, we help injured individuals throughout La Crosse, Sparta, and western Wisconsin navigate personal injury claims with clarity and confidence. Our team works to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the support you need.

If you have been injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, contact Bosshard Parke today to schedule a consultation and discuss your 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.