SAFETY TIPS FOR THE WISCONSIN MOTORCYCLE SEASON
Appleton Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
As the weather warms up, more and more motorcycles are coming out of the garage, with riders ready to hit the road. Before you hop on your bike, remember to put safety first. Motorcycle riders have a higher risk of accidents and injuries than car passengers because of the lack of a protective chassis on a motorcycle. As a rider, be aware of these increased risks and keep the following safety tips in mind when you go out for a ride:
- Always wear a helmet. Although riders age 18 and over are not required to wear helmets in Wisconsin, wearing one can significantly reduce your chance of suffering from a head injury in the event of a collision.
- Never drink and ride. Alcohol lowers your sense of coordination and your reaction time, increasing your risk of being involved in an accident.
- Wear durable, protective outerwear. This includes heavy pants, a durable jacket, and boots or shoes that completely cover your feet and ankles.
- Always drive the speed limit.
- Be aware of all potential obstacles on the road. Motorcyclists are more susceptible to roadway hazards such as potholes, road sand, uneven pavement, and sharp turns than individuals riding in cars and other automobiles.
- Completely inspect your motorcycle before going for a ride. A broken or faulty part can cause an accident.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, 83 motorcyclists died on Wisconsin roadways in 2013.
Wisconsin’s Motorcycle License Law
In Wisconsin, an individual must hold a Class M driver’s license to be able to legally operate a motorcycle. Any individual found operating a motorcycle without a license is subject to a $200 fine for each violation.
Individuals must complete a written and road test at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) location to obtain a Class M license. If an individual passes one of the courses offered by the Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program, he or she is not required to take the DMV road test to obtain a motorcycle license. These courses cover issues related to motorcycle safety and responsibility through classroom instruction and range training. The following courses are available for Wisconsin motorcyclists ranging from novices to advanced riders:
- Basic Rider Course for Motorcycles;
- Basic Rider Course for Scooters;
- Basic Rider Course for Three-Wheel Motorcycles;
- Basic Rider Course 2; and
- Advanced Rider Course.
If You Are Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
Seek medical attention right away. If you do not receive medical treatment, you run the risk of having your injury become much more serious by being left untreated. You also may lose credibility for your personal injury claim.
Once you have received adequate medical care, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to determine the next step for your case. He or she will examine your case and determine the party responsible for your injury. This party may be another driver, the government entity in charge of maintaining the stretch of road where your injury occurred, or your motorcycle’s manufacturer if your injury was caused by a faulty part.
Appleton Personal Injury Attorneys
If you have suffered from an injury resulting from a motorcycle accident, contact Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. at 920-739-7366 to speak with one of our team’s experienced Appleton personal injury attorneys about your case and your legal options. Since 2004, Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. has been voted the best law firm in the Fox River Valley. Contact us today to experience the high-quality, compassionate service we provide to each and every one of our clients.