Eau Claire Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Fighting For Motorcycle Accident Victims in Wisconsin
Motorcycle accidents can be catastrophic, leaving riders with severe and life-altering injuries. At Bye, Goff & Rohde in Wisconsin and Minnesota, we understand the particular risks motorcyclists face on the road and are dedicated to helping them seek justice and compensation for their losses after a crash.
Our experienced Eau Claire motorcycle accident lawyers have represented motorcycle accident victims for decades, providing comprehensive legal counsel and representation when needed. We fight to secure fair compensation for any medical bills, lost wages, or other damages resulting from an accident.
We know how challenging recovery from a motorcycle crash can be, both emotionally and financially. Our team works diligently to ensure you get the representation you deserve while seeking justice against negligent parties responsible for your injuries. Contact us today to learn how we can help with your case.
If you have recently suffered an injury from a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence, contact us at (534) 202-5404 to schedule a free consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyer in Eau Claire.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Taking the right steps after a motorcycle accident can strengthen a personal injury claim and ensure medical and financial needs are addressed.
- Seek Medical Attention: A medical evaluation is crucial, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not be instantly noticeable.
- Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement to file an accident report. This document is an official record and can be valuable evidence in a claim.
- Gather Evidence: Make sure to take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries. Collect all contact information from witnesses and the at-fault driver.
- Avoid Discussing Fault: Statements made at the accident scene or to insurance companies could be used against the injured party. It is best to consult an attorney before providing a statement.
- Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Legal guidance can help navigate the complexities of a claim, from negotiating with insurance companies to filing a case if necessary.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders are much more likely to get in an accident than other drivers due to their smaller size and lack of protection. According to the Wisconsin and Minnesota Department of Transportation (WisDOT), there were over 2,000 motorcycle accidents, 112 of which were fatal, reported in 2020 alone.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted Drivers: Other motorists on the road often fail to pay attention and may not see motorcyclists until it’s too late.
- Intoxicated Drivers: Drunk driving is a significant factor in many motorcycle crashes throughout the state.
- Poor Weather Conditions: Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to slick roads, heavy rain, and snow. This is especially true when combined with other factors like low visibility or sudden braking by other vehicles on the road.
- Road Hazards: Everything from potholes to debris can lead to dangerous conditions for motorcyclists.
- Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, speeding, and other forms of aggressive driving can easily lead to a deadly motorcycle accident.
At Bye, Goff & Rohde, our experienced attorneys understand the dangers you face when you take to the roads across the state, and we are dedicated to helping you. We offer comprehensive legal services and fight for total financial compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and any further damages associated with your accident.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can be particularly dangerous due to the lack of protection that riders have compared to those in cars. At Bye, Goff & Rohde, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Some of the most common injuries that motorcyclists suffer in accidents include:
- Head Injuries: Brain trauma, skull fractures, and concussions are all severe head injuries caused by motorcycle collisions.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can cause paralysis or other life-altering disabilities.
- Road Rash: This happens when skin scrapes against asphalt or concrete at high speeds during a crash. It can cause severe lacerations and infections if not treated properly.
- Broken Bones: Motorcycles don’t offer much protection for riders, so broken bones are common in these types of accidents.
- Internal Bleeding/Organ Damage: Severe internal bleeding or organ damage can occur due to blunt force trauma suffered in an accident.
Following an accident, it is crucial to have a comprehensive medical evaluation performed so that you can document any injuries related to your accident. Having an official record written by a doctor is excellent evidence that is hard to refute in a legal case. It is also required for us to make an accurate estimate of the compensation you are entitled to.
Motorcycle Laws & Regulations in Eau Claire
Understanding the specific motorcycle laws and regulations in Eau Claire is essential for riders and can impact your ability to claim compensation after an accident. Wisconsin law requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets if they are under 18 or have a motorcycle instruction permit. However, wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and is advisable for all riders.
In addition to helmet laws, Wisconsin mandates that motorcycles have at least one working headlamp, tail lamp and stop lamp. They should also have standard safety features like two mirrors and a muffler. Eyes should be on the road, given that lane splitting, or the act of riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Wisconsin. Awareness of these regulations enhances safety and aids in legal proceedings if a dispute about fault arises after an accident.
To schedule a free consultation, give us a call at (534) 202-5404 or contact us online with our motorcycle accident attorney in Eau Claire.
What Damages Could Be Recovered?
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may be entitled to recover damages from both the at-fault driver’s insurance company and their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Damages that can be recovered following a motorcycle accident injury in Wisconsin and Minnesota generally fall into two categories: special damages (economic) and general damages (non-economic).
- Special Damages refer to compensation for financial loss associated with medical treatment and rehabilitation costs or lost wages due to being unable to work while recovering.
- General Damages are typically awarded for intangible losses such as pain and suffering or emotional distress resulting from physical injuries or disability caused by the accident.
In some cases where a person’s negligence or recklessness was particularly egregious—such as when driving under the influence of alcohol—punitive damages may also be available; however, it is worth noting that these are rarely awarded.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, motorcycle accident victims have a limited time to pursue legal action. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases, which include those arising from motorcycle accidents, is generally three years from the accident date. Missing this deadline could result in losing the right to pursue compensation.
There are some exceptions to this rule. If the accident involves a government entity, like a city-owned vehicle or hazardous road conditions maintained by the state, the timeframe for filing a claim could be shorter. Additionally, the deadline could be extended if the victim was a minor during the accident.
Because each case is unique, consulting an attorney as soon as possible after an accident can help preserve critical evidence and ensure the claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Working for You
Our Eau Claire motorcycle accident attorneys at Bye, Goff & Rohde want to hear more about your situation. We have worked hard to help clients seek justice since 1974, refusing to back down against big businesses, corporate attorneys, and insurers. We will stand by you every step of the way during your case, offering invaluable legal guidance and advice whenever necessary. Call us to find out what we can do for you.
Why Choose Us?
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer from Bye, Goff & Rohde can be invaluable in your case. Motorcycle accident cases can be complex and require a thorough understanding of the law. We know the legal process necessary to build a strong case and will ensure all evidence is presented correctly to maximize the potential for recovering damages.
Our team of Eau Claire motorcycle accident attorneys will help you identify all liable parties, evaluate available damages, and calculate a fair settlement amount. We also know how to negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement offer. We will represent you in court and fight for your rights during legal proceedings if needed. Additionally, our attorneys provide guidance on documenting your injuries and losses effectively, which is critical in proving the extent and impact of your injuries. Our firm stays updated on any changes in laws and regulations that could affect your case, ensuring your rights are fully protected at every stage.
When negotiating a settlement, we will consider factors such as medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical therapy expenses, permanent disability or disfigurement caused by the accident, and reduced earning capacity due to injuries sustained in the accident. We will also review any applicable insurance policies (including uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage) as well as applicable statutes of limitation to ensure that your case is appropriately handled within state laws. Our thorough approach helps in building a comprehensive claim that addresses both immediate and long-term needs of the injured party.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Eau Claire Today
Bye, Goff & Rohde will work diligently on your behalf, seeking to maximize recovery of monetary damages related to your injury claim so that you are able to move forward with life after an accident. In addition to legal support, we can connect you with resources such as financial advisors and support groups to assist you in rebuilding your life post-accident.
Contact Bye, Goff, Rohde today to get started with our Eau Claire motorcycle accident lawyers.
"I Knew I Was in Good Hands"Steve Goff and his staff helped me through a painful and emotional 3 + years in many ways. They were very diligent with all communications, they promptly and respectfully answered any questions or confusions that came up for me.
- Maryjo
