Motorcycle Accidents in Wisconsin: Know Your Rights Before You Ride

As Wisconsin’s scenic roads call to motorcyclists each spring and summer, it’s crucial to understand the legal landscape before you ride. While motorcycling offers freedom and exhilaration, it also comes with increased risks — and knowing your rights ahead of time can make all the difference if you’re ever involved in a motorcycle accident in Wisconsin.

At Bykhovsky Law, we’ve represented many riders across Wisconsin who’ve been injured due to the negligence of others. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road.

Wisconsin Motorcycle Laws Every Rider Should Know

Wisconsin Motorists Laws has specific rules in place for motorcyclists. Understanding them not only helps you stay safe but protects your legal rights in case of a crash:

Helmet Use: Only required for riders under age 18 and those with instructional permits. However, wearing a helmet is always strongly recommended.
Insurance: All riders must carry motorcycle liability insurance. This covers bodily injury and property damage to others if you’re at fault.
Lane Splitting: Illegal in Wisconsin. You must ride fully within a single lane, just like other vehicles.
Passenger Rules: Motorcycles must be equipped with a proper seat and footrests if carrying a passenger.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes often aren’t the rider’s fault. The most frequent causes include:

Drivers failing to yield or check blind spots
Unsafe lane changes or sudden stops
Left-turn accidents at intersections
Distracted or impaired drivers
Hazards like gravel, potholes, or slick road conditions

Even experienced riders can be vulnerable, especially when other drivers aren’t paying attention.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

If you’re injured in a crash, here are key steps to protect your health and your legal claim:

Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked. Some issues develop later.
Call Law Enforcement – A police report is a critical piece of evidence.
Gather Information – Get names, contact info, and insurance details of everyone involved. If possible, take photos of the scene.
Do Not Admit Fault – Stick to the facts when speaking to police or insurance companies.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer – Don’t wait. The sooner you get legal help, the better.

Understanding Your Right to Compensation

If someone else was at fault for your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical bills
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Property damage (e.g., your motorcycle)
Permanent disability or disfigurement

Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault — as long as you’re not more than 50% responsible.

How Bykhovsky Law Can Help

Motorcycle accident claims are unique. They often involve severe injuries, uncooperative insurance companies, and biases against motorcyclists. At Bykhovsky Law, we push back. We:

Investigate the crash thoroughly
Work with medical experts to assess long-term injuries
Negotiate aggressively with insurance adjusters
Fight in court, if needed

Ride Safe — and Know We’re Here if You Need Us

Motorcycling is a passion for many Wisconsinites, and it should stay that way. But when the worst happens, it’s vital to know your rights — and to have a trusted legal team ready to protect them.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our personal injury lawyer for a free consultation. We’ll help you get back on the road — and back on your feet.

📞 Call us today for a Free Consultation.