Motorcycle accidents are some of the most deadly types of crashes on the road. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, there are more than 2,500 motorcycle wrecks each year in the state, nearly all which caused injuries. In 2013, 92 riders lost their lives in crashes on Wisconsin roadways.
When motorcycle riders are seriously injured or killed in accidents, they or their families will want to discuss their legal options with a local motorcycle accident attorney in Milwaukee. For legal help, you are welcome to contact the Law Offices of Stephen B. Strnad, S.C. for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
Our firm is dedicated to helping injured motorcycle accident victims obtain justice, which is to obtain financial compensation for the harms and losses that they suffered as a result of another’s negligence. One of the first things we look at when we begin a new case is the cause of the accident.
Below are some of the most commonly cited causes of motorcycle accidents our firm encounters:
• The driver or rider were under the influence;
• The driver did not see the motorcyclist passing or making a turn;
• The motorcyclist went straight through an intersection or tried to overtake the car improperly;
• The driver or rider was speeding or acting recklessly;
• The driver was texting or talking on the phone while driving;
• There was a flaw in the bike, such as faulty tires;
• The rider was lane splitting;
• There were unexpected road hazards, such as potholes, animals or slick pavements; and
• The rider did not have proper training and lacked manoeuvring skills. This is especially an issue with high-performance bikes.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Riders often sustain catastrophic — if not fatal — injuries. “While there is no ‘typical’ motorcycle crash, what is ‘typical’ is that a motorcycle crash is a violent event. More than 80 percent of all reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death to the motorcyclist,” explains the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Because motorcyclists are not protected in a large metal frame like drivers are, they are often thrown from their bikes, a common injury pathway. Some of the most common types of motorcycle injuries include the following.
• Head trauma and traumatic brain injuries
• Amputation
• Burns, lacerations, road rash, scarring and puncture wounds
• Back injuries and spinal cord injuries
• Injuries to the extremities
• Internal organ damage
Can you file a motorcycle claim or lawsuit?
All motorcycle accident cases in Wisconsin are based on negligence. The party most at fault will be responsible for the damages they cause. If the accident was caused by the driver or a bike manufacturer, you can file a claim or lawsuit to recover your damages.
Some victims mistakenly think that because they were partly at fault, they are disqualified from filing a suit. This is not true. The state of Wisconsin abides by a rule known at comparative fault rule. This rules essentially states that you can still pursue legal action and recover damages, as long as you are 50 percent or less at fault. Your final settlement will be reduced by your degree of fault.
If your loved one was incapacitated by or killed in a motorcycle accident, you will want to take your case to a local injury/wrongful death attorney.
Consulting a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Milwaukee
If you or your loved one were involved in a serious motorcycle wreck, we encourage you to call our caring, accomplished team at the Law Offices of Stephen B. Strnad, S.C. in Milwaukee. We can help negotiate your settlement and take the legal steps necessary to hold negligent parties liable for the damages you sustained.
Call us today at 414-939-5293 for a free, no-obligation consultation.