Bicycle Safety in Wisconsin

Riding a motorcycle is fun, but it can also be risky because of the actions of others on the road. Unlike other vehicles, you don't have much protection if you crash. Additionally, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous on roads with a lot of potholes or if you're riding in unsafe weather conditions. Below are some tips for staying safe while riding.

Staying Safe on a Motorcycle in Wisconsin

Take a Safety Course: Riding a motorcycle requires good judgment and skill, and a safety course will help you achieve that. A motorcycle safety course will teach you the rules of the road and what to do in unpredictable riding situations.

Wear Appropriate Gear: The right gear will protect you from debris, road rash, and the elements. Your gear should feature a helmet, leather jacket, eye protection, leather pants, over the ankle boots, and non-slip gloves. Appropriate protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities.

Keep Your Bike Maintained: Replace the air filter, change the oil regularly, and maintain your bike's tire pressure. Inspecting your motorcycle before you hit the road is also a good idea. Check your turn signals, headlights, taillights, fuel, brakes, handlebars, and mirrors.

Stay Alert: Being aware of your surroundings and riding defensively can prevent motorcycle accidents that could be caused by dangerous driving.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Riding too closely behind another vehicle is unsafe. It is advisable to stay a few seconds away from the car or motorcycle in front of you. This allows you enough space to stop during an emergency. Additionally, you should always have an escape route in mind if you cannot stop in time.

Be Visible: One of the most significant mistakes riders make is assuming they are visible to other motorists. Most motorcycle accidents are a result of drivers not seeing the motorcycle. You can stay visible by avoiding other motorists' blind spots, driving with a headlight, and wearing reflective clothing. Using your hand and turn signals can also help ensure you are visible.

Common Motorcycle Road Hazards

Distracted or Drunk Drivers: Although it may not be easy to identify if someone is drunk driving, it is wise to be attentive to your surroundings and take appropriate measures.

Rain or Snow: The hazardous weather can create slippery and unsafe road conditions. Avoid riding while it is raining or snowing.

Tar or Debris: Since tar has a different texture from asphalt, it can compromise traction. Additionally, parts of tire treads and other debris on the road can be hazardous to motorcycles.

Contact a Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Wisconsin, working with a Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorney is in your best interest.

At Natasha Misra Law, we are equipped to offer the guidance you need to know whether you are entitled to compensation. We will provide the representation you need to pursue compensation if you qualify. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Cycling is an excellent option for exercising, enjoying the fresh air, and commuting. However, bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries to cyclists hit by negligent drivers.

What are Wisconsin's Bicycle Safety Rules?

As you ride your bike in Appleton, Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or any other area in Wisconsin, follow the following bicycle safety rules:

Wear your helmet: 70 to 80 percent of bicycle accidents involve head injuries. Wearing helmets minimizes the possibility of sustaining head injuries. Always check for a Consumer Product Safety Committee sticker before purchasing a helmet.

Go with the Flow: Cyclists should ride in the same direction as traffic, and by doing so, you'll be more visible, allowing other road users to respond appropriately and quickly. When cycling against traffic, you may miss the red and green lights or enter an intersection at an unsafe or improper time.

Be Spatially Aware: Ride in a straight line without going off course and maintain at least 3 feet from parked vehicles to avoid "dooring accidents."

Obey Traffic Laws: Even though you’re on a bike, you still have to obey the rules of the road. Don’t forget to stop at stop signs, signal when you’re turning, and always make sure you’re alert and aware of your surroundings.

Stay Visible: When riding a bike a night you’re even less likely to be seen by motorists. To make sure you’re as noticeable as possible, use a reflector when riding at night.

Why is Bicycle Safety Important?

Although riding a bike may be fun, you can pick up serious injuries from a bike accident. Bike safety helps to make cycling enjoyable. Simple bicycle safety measures like wearing a helmet can reduce a significant proportion of bicycle accident fatalities.

Common Causes of Bike Accidents

Several factors contribute to bicycle accidents in Wisconsin. Bicycles are not easy to see, and most riders are unfamiliar with road laws. However, even if road users are unfamiliar with road laws, it should not be used as an excuse. Here are some of the causes of bike accidents:

Dangerous Roads: Unkempt roads cause 3% of bicycle accidents in the United States.

Low Visibility: Bikes are small, and most drivers may be unable to see them, particularly at night.

Distracted Driving: When drivers and riders use their phones or get distracted by other passengers, music, or thoughts, they may end up causing accidents.

Failure to Yield: Right of way in crossing paths or where traffic merges can help prevent accidents. A bike accident is more likely to occur when a motorist fails to yield to a rider in a crosswalk or bike lane.

Bike Safety Tips

Plan your route
Pay attention
Obey traffic signs
Tie your shoelaces
Avoid using your phone or listening to music while cycling
Anticipate what other motorists may do and act appropriately
Use the right-hand signals
Ensure all parts of the bike are working
Have rear and front lights during the day or at night

Contact a Wisconsin Bike Accident Attorney

At Natasha Misra Law, we want you and your loved ones to remain safe on the roads. However, we're ready to offer legal support if you get involved in an unexpected bicycle accident.

‍Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get treated fairly.

Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.