Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Injured in a motorcycle accident in Milwaukee? Our team of motorcycle accident injury attorneys has the experience and capabilities to secure the compensation you need. Contact us today for a free case review.

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Being injured in a motorcycle accident can be a life-altering event, often leaving you with not only physical injuries but also the burden of navigating complex legal and insurance processes. At Phillip S. Georges PLLC, we understand the turmoil and uncertainty that follows a motorcycle accident. Our dedicated team of Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorneys is well-versed in the unique challenges that arise in such cases, including dealing with insurance companies, proving liability, and securing fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

With our comprehensive knowledge of Wisconsin’s traffic laws and a client-centered approach, we are dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you need and deserve. Whether it’s handling intricate legal procedures, negotiating with insurance companies, or representing you in court, having The Wolf Pack™ attorneys on your side offers a substantial advantage. Our goal is to alleviate the stress of the legal aftermath of your accident, provide some peace of mind during this difficult time, and to allow you to focus on your recovery.

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Getting Help Is Easy

Getting the help you need is easy. Contact us for a free consultation about your case today.

You Have The Right To Compensation

We will fight to get you the maximum compensation you need and deserve after your accident.

No Fee Unless You Get Paid

We work on contingency. That means there are no upfront costs, no fees, and no risk. If you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid.

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Our Motorcycle Accident Legal Services
Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Milwaukee
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Wisconsin Motorcycle Laws
Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Milwaukee
Fighting Insurance Companies After a Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident
What To Do After Motorcycle Accident in Milwaukee
Motorcycle Accident Law FAQs

Our Motorcycle Accident Legal Services

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Milwaukee, our dedicated team of Milwaukee personal injury lawyers is here to help. We specialize in providing comprehensive legal services tailored to the unique challenges of motorcycle accident cases. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

Why Choose The Wolf Pack™ for your motorcycle accident case?

Specialized Knowledge and Experience: Our lawyers have extensive experience in handling motorcycle accident claims in Milwaukee. We understand the specific laws and regulations affecting motorcycle riders and use this expertise to build a strong case for you.
Personalized Attention: We believe every client deserves personalized attention. Our team takes the time to understand the details of your case, ensuring that your legal strategy is specifically tailored to your needs.
Aggressive Advocacy: We are committed to fighting for your rights. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, our lawyers advocate aggressively to ensure the best possible outcome.
No Fee Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we successfully recover compensation for you. This approach allows you to focus on recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.

Comprehensive Legal Services for Motorcycle Accident Claims

Our legal services cover all aspects of your motorcycle accident claim, including:

Accident Investigation: We thoroughly investigate the accident to gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies.
Medical Documentation: Our team works with medical professionals to document your injuries and their impact on your life.
Insurance Negotiation: We handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Litigation: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights.
Support and Guidance: Throughout the legal process, we provide ongoing support and guidance, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Statistics

In 2022, Wisconsin recorded 1,921 motorcycle accidents. This figure reflects a slight decrease from the previous years, with the average number of motorcycle crashes from 2018 to 2022 being around 1,976. The National Highway Traffic Administration reports that less than 5% of motorcyclists walk away uninjured after an accident, with 75% suffering minor injuries and 20% suffering serious or critical injuries.

80 motorcyclists were killed in these accidents in 2022. This number shows a decline from 2021, which had 120 fatalities. However, the average number of motorcyclist deaths from 2018 to 2022 stands at 95. Similarly, the number of motorcyclists injured was 1,606 in 2022, with an average of 1,674 injuries over the same period.

Speeding and impaired driving are significant contributors to vehicle accidents in Wisconsin. In 2022, there were 18,171 accidents involving a speeding vehicle, resulting in 157 deaths. Drunk driving accidents, while less frequent than speeding, tend to have a higher death rate. In Wisconsin, 23.5% of adults binge drink, the highest rate in the nation, which is notably higher than the national average of nearly 17%.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Milwaukee

Motorcycle accidents in Milwaukee are caused by a wide variety of factors, but understanding the most common causes can help prevent motorcycle crashes in the future and help be better prepared from a legal perspective in case it happens to you.

Helmet Usage & Injuries: In Wisconsin, a large proportion of motorcyclists who died in accidents were not wearing helmets. For instance, in 2011, 91% of motorcyclists who died in accidents were not wearing helmets. By 2015, helmet usage by Wisconsin motorcyclists was reported to be just 19% (Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program).
Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug use are unfortunately common factors in Wisconsin motorcycle accidents. In 2022, Wisconsin reported 6,230 alcohol-related crashes and 1,821 drug-related crashes.
Speeding: Another common factor in motorcycle accidents is speeding. In 2022, there were 17,895 speed-related crashes in Wisconsin. Speeding increases the risk of losing control and reduces the reaction time to avoid collisions.
Age Factor: Certain age groups are more prone to being involved in fatal motorcycle accidents. In Wisconsin, motorcyclists between the ages of 50-59 are most likely to die from a motorcycle accident, followed by those 59+ and then the 20-29 age group.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Here’s an overview of the most common motorcycle accident injuries in Wisconsin.

Brain & Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and skull fractures are some of the most severe injuries in motorcycle accidents, particularly when helmets are not used.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries range from mild discomfort to complete paralysis. Incomplete spinal cord injuries may allow some sensory or motor function retention, while complete spinal cord injuries usually result in irreversible paralysis. Spinal stenosis, another consequence, can cause pain, numbness, and weakness due to pressure on the nerves.
Road Rash: This is a common injury where the skin is scraped away due to sliding along the road surface during an accident. Road rash can vary in severity from minor abrasions to deep wounds exposing muscle and other soft tissues.
Facial Injuries: In the absence of helmet protection, the face is extremely vulnerable in motorcycle accidents. Common facial injuries include scrapes, bruises, fractures, loss of teeth, and disfigurement
Other Common Injuries: Other common injuries include broken bones (often in the legs, arms, hands, and feet), chest injuries (like lacerated lungs and fractured ribs), eye injuries, open wounds, amputations, and rider’s arm, where damage to the upper arm can lead to permanent paralysis. In the worst cases, these accidents can result in death.

Wisconsin Motorcycle Laws

Understanding Wisconsin’s motorcycle laws is essential for riders to ensure their safety and compliance with legal requirements. These laws not only help prevent accidents but also play a significant role in determining liability and compensation in the event of a crash.

Wisconsin Helmet Laws

Helmet Requirement for Minors: Wisconsin law mandates that all motorcycle riders under the age of 18 wear a helmet. This requirement also extends to passengers under 18 years old.
Helmet for Permit Holders: Riders with a learner’s permit or instructional motorcycle permit are required to wear a helmet.
Adult Riders: Motorcyclists over the age of 18 and those who possess a full license have the option to decide whether or not to wear a helmet.

Wisconsin’s Comparative Negligence Law

Fault Determination: Wisconsin is an at-fault state, meaning the party responsible for causing an accident is liable for damages.
Comparative Negligence: Even if the injured rider is partially at fault, they can still recover damages if they are able to prove that the other party shared at least 50% of the fault. This means even if you’re determined to be 50% at fault, you can still get compensation. However, the compensation amount will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them.

Wisconsin Motorcycle Insurance Laws

Liability Insurance: Wisconsin law requires motorcyclists to carry liability insurance, including at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage per accident.

Important Wisconsin Motorcycle Traffic Laws

Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, where a motorcycle moves between lanes or rows of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is strictly prohibited in Wisconsin.
Passenger Rules: Passengers must be at least 12 years old, and the motorcycle must have a passenger seat and footrests.

Motorcycle Accident Statute of Limitations in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. For fatal accidents, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within two years.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Milwaukee

Motorcycle accidents in Milwaukee can be devastating, often resulting in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Understanding the types of compensation available is crucial for victims seeking to recover from these accidents.

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Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to the financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. These typically include:

Medical Expenses: This covers past, present, and future medical costs associated with hospitalization, therapy, medication, and any other medical treatments required due to the accident.
Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to time off work resulting from injuries.
Reduced Earning Capacity: If the injury affects your ability to work in the future, you may be compensated for the reduction in your earning capacity.
Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any other property damaged in the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages cover the intangible losses suffered by the victim, which are more challenging to quantify. They include:

Pain and Suffering: This encompasses the physical pain and emotional distress endured due to the accident and subsequent injuries.
Emotional Damages and Trauma: Compensation for psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Disfigurement: If the accident results in scarring or other physical changes, victims may be compensated for the emotional and psychological impact of these changes.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your ability to enjoy daily activities, hobbies, or life events is impaired due to the accident, you may seek compensation for this loss.

Fighting Insurance Companies After a Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident

In the event of a motorcycle accident in Milwaukee caused by another driver, victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries, typically from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, this process can be complicated, as insurance companies may exhibit biases against motorcycle riders and challenge the victim’s claim. They might aggressively try to prove that the motorcycle rider was responsible for the accident or argue that the rider does not deserve full compensation due to their own mistakes or the lack of proper safety gear.

Common tactics insurance companies use to reduce your compensation include:

Quick Settlement Offers: Insurers may try to settle claims quickly, often before the full extent of injuries is known. This tactic is used to minimize payouts, as accepting an early offer can prevent you from claiming additional costs that may arise from unforeseen complications related to your injuries.
Recorded Statements: Adjusters may ask for a recorded statement early in the claim process. The goal here is to catch you saying something that can be used against you later.
Medical Record Requests: Insurance companies might ask for access to your entire medical history under the guise of assessing your accident-related injuries. This is often a strategy to find pre-existing conditions or past injuries that they can use to argue that your current injuries were not caused by the accident.
Dragging Out the Claim: In some cases, insurance companies may intentionally delay responding to your communications or processing your claim. This tactic is meant to pressure you into accepting a lower settlement or to let the statute of limitations expire, which would bar you from filing a lawsuit.
Misrepresentation and Bad Faith Tactics: Insurance companies might misrepresent the terms of your policy, or act in ‘bad faith’ by unreasonably denying or delaying the payment of your claim. They might also try to intimidate claimants by using legal jargon or complex procedures.
Blaming the Victim: A common tactic is to argue that the victim was at fault, or at least partially at fault, for the accident. This can involve scrutinizing the victim’s actions during the accident or their lifestyle choices, like not wearing a helmet, even if it’s not legally required.
Disputing the Severity of Injuries: Insurers often contest the seriousness of the injuries sustained in the accident. They may argue that the injuries are not as severe as claimed or that they were pre-existing.
Social Media Monitoring: Insurance companies may monitor your social media accounts for any posts or activities that could contradict your claims of injury or loss.

At Phillip S. Georges, PLLC, we are well aware of these tactics and challenges, and we are prepared to assist clients in overcoming them. The firm recognizes the tactics insurance companies may use and strives to help clients achieve a favorable resolution to their claims. This includes collecting evidence to establish the negligence of the other driver involved in the accident and addressing the complex aspects of the claim process.

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What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Milwaukee

After a Milwaukee motorcycle accident, there are several key steps to ensure your health and legal rights are protected. Firstly, seek immediate medical attention to address any injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Reporting the accident to the police is also essential, as their report provides important documentation. It’s important to review this report and correct any inaccuracies, especially since biases against motorcycle riders might influence its content.

Promptly contacting a Milwaukee motorcycle accident lawyer like Phillip S. Georges can provide you with necessary legal guidance. Keeping thorough records of all medical treatments, injuries, expenses, and impacts on your work and earnings is vital. Be cautious with social media and avoid discussing your accident publicly, as insurance companies might use this against your claim. Gather any evidence related to the accident, such as photos and witness information.

Be aware of early settlement offers from insurance companies and consult your lawyer before accepting them. Following the advice and guidance of your attorney can significantly impact the success of your claim and help in securing the compensation you deserve.

Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Law FAQs

Factors affecting your case include the extent of your injuries, evidence of fault, witness testimony, your adherence to traffic laws, helmet use, and the insurance policies involved. The severity of injuries and the clarity of fault play significant roles.

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and, in severe cases, punitive damages. The amount varies based on the specifics of your case.

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they take a percentage of the settlement or court award.

In Wisconsin, not wearing a helmet can affect your case, especially if head injuries are involved. However, it doesn’t automatically negate your claim. The impact depends on the specifics of the accident and injuries.

Not having insurance can complicate your claim. In Wisconsin, motorcyclists are required to have insurance, and not having it can lead to legal penalties and challenges in recovering damages.

If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, you may claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage, if available. Otherwise, you might have to sue the driver directly, although collecting damages can be difficult.

Liability depends on who was at fault. It could be the motorcycle operator, another driver, or a combination. In some cases, the manufacturer might be liable if a defect caused the crash.

The time frame varies widely depending on the complexity of the case, the extent of injuries, and the insurance companies’ responsiveness. It can range from a few months to several years.

A lawsuit’s duration depends on various factors, including court schedules, the case’s complexity, and the willingness of parties to settle. It generally takes anywhere from a year to several years.

Initially, you’re responsible for your medical bills. You may seek reimbursement through insurance claims or a personal injury lawsuit. Health insurance or MedPay can also cover costs in the interim.

While not mandatory, having a lawyer is highly advisable, especially for significant injuries or complex cases. Lawyers can navigate the legal system, deal with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation.

It’s best to call a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. Early legal advice can help preserve evidence, start the claims process, and provide guidance on dealing with insurance companies.

Consult with your attorney before accepting any offer. Attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies and ensure the settlement offer fairly compensates for your losses and injuries.

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