La Crosse Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Our experienced La Crosse motorcycle accident attorneys at Bye, Goff & Rohde can help if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident. Our law firm has helped countless clients navigate the complexities of their cases and provided them with knowledgeable legal representation. We understand that these types of accidents can be devastating for victims and their families, which is why we are committed to providing our clients with compassionate and dedicated service throughout every step of their case. 

With decades of combined experience in personal injury law, our attorneys will fight aggressively on your behalf for the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s negotiating settlements or taking your case to trial, our team is here to help you get justice. Contact us today for more information about how we can assist with your motorcycle accident claim.

Call Bye, Goff & Rohde today at 608-602-7272 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyer in La Crosse.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

A variety of factors, including distracted driving, impaired driving, dangerous road conditions, inadequate safety equipment, and vehicle defects, can cause motorcycle accidents. 

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents. This behavior occurs when drivers fail to pay attention to the roadway due to distractions such as texting or talking on the phone. It can also include eating or drinking while driving, using devices inside the car like GPS systems or radio controls, or engaging in conversations with passengers. 

Impaired driving is another major cause of motorcycle accidents. Driving under the influence can impair vision, reaction time, and decision-making skills, making it difficult for drivers to navigate through traffic and stay safely on their intended course. 

Dangerous road conditions can also lead to serious motorcycle accidents. Poorly maintained roads with large potholes, cracked pavement, sharp edges on guardrails, improper or missing signage, and/or poor lane markings can all contribute to rider injuries and fatalities. Additionally, inclement weather, such as rain or snow, can make roads slippery, reducing visibility and increasing the chances of an accident. 

Finally, vehicle defects are another major factor contributing to yearly motorcycle crashes. Despite regular maintenance, these problems may still arise from faulty parts, resulting in issues like brake failure or tire blowouts.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be very serious and require extensive medical treatment. 

The most common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Fractures: One of the most common types of injury sustained in motorcycle accidents. Common bones that are fractured during motorcycle accidents include the arms, legs, hands, and feet. 
• Contusions: Another common type of injury seen in motorcycle crashes. In more severe cases, these can cause bleeding under the skin and hematomas that could require medical attention. 
• Lacerations: Occur when sharp objects come into contact with the skin and cause cuts that can range from superficial to deep, depending on the object involved. Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable to this type of injury because they lack protection from external elements such as road debris while riding. 
• Burns: A risk for motorcyclists due to exposure to heat sources such as exhaust pipes or proximity to other vehicles' engine parts. These burns can vary significantly in severity based on what kind of heat source was encountered during the crash.
• Dislocations: Occur when bikers land awkwardly after being thrown off their bikes or if part of their body is pinned between an object and their bike as a result of the accident. This type of injury usually affects joints such as elbows or knees but can sometimes be found on shoulders or hips. 
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Brain injuries are a risk for those involved in motorbike accidents due to the lack of protection they have while riding. Motorcycles do not provide the same level of protection as a car, and riders can suffer severe head trauma in the event of an accident. This is especially true if they are not wearing a helmet, which can help absorb some of the impact from an accident. Symptoms commonly associated with TBIs include loss of consciousness, memory problems, confusion, difficulty thinking clearly, and even seizures. 
• Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs): These are severe and often life-altering medical conditions that can occur if someone's spine is exposed to extreme force during a collision. Depending on where along the spinal cord the injury occurred, symptoms may include paralysis, chronic pain, and/or diminished sensation throughout the body below the affected area. 
• Internal Organ Damage: Occurs when organs within the body suffer trauma due to excessive force placed upon them during an accident. These organs may not function correctly following an accident, necessitating surgery or long-term treatments.

Understanding the potential severity of these injuries can underscore the importance of preventative safety measures while riding motorcycles. Wearing proper protective gear, including helmets and reinforced clothing, can mean the difference between minor and life-threatening injuries. Early intervention through medical care after an accident can significantly improve recovery outcomes and should always be pursued following an accident.

Who Can Be Found Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?

The most common scenario in which someone can be held liable for a motorcycle accident is when another driver or vehicle has caused the accident. This could be due to another driver’s negligence, such as failing to yield the right of way, running a red light, or making an unsafe lane change. The other vehicle may have had a defective part or malfunctioned, leading to the collision. In these cases, the part or vehicle’s manufacturer may be found liable for damages suffered by the motorcyclist.

In addition to drivers and manufacturers of vehicles, other parties may also be at fault for motorcycle accidents. Poorly maintained roads and highways can cause accidents if improperly repaired. Road debris left on the roadway by construction crews can also lead to hazardous conditions that cause accidents. If insufficient signage is present on streets, motorcyclists could easily miss important warnings and instructions that would help them avoid collisions with other vehicles or objects.

La Crosse Traffic Guidelines & Safety Tips

Being aware of local traffic guidelines and implementing them into daily riding habits can significantly improve safety for motorcyclists in La Crosse. Every state has specific traffic laws, and being informed about Wisconsin’s regulations is crucial for all riders. Wisconsin’s Department of Transportation provides comprehensive resources on motorcycle safety, including mandatory helmet use for riders under 18 and riding education certifications for new bikers. Understanding these regulations can help prevent accidents and provide riders with a legal foundation if they are involved in a roadway incident.

In addition to adhering to state laws, local riders are encouraged to maintain heightened awareness on roads like WI-16 and US-53, often frequented by heavy traffic and fast-moving vehicles. Paying close attention to signage, adhering to speed limits, and maintaining safe distances from other vehicles are all essential practices. Engaging in community workshops or local riding groups, where shared safety practices and experiences can also be vastly beneficial in promoting a collective culture of vigilance and protection on the roads.

To schedule a free consultation, call our motorcycle accident attorneys in La Crosse at 608-602-7272 or contact us online today.