Should You Repair or Replace Your Motorcycle After An Accident?

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.

After a motorcycle accident, the decision to repair or replace your motorcycle depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident and the severity of the crash. Your bike may suffer minor damages such as dents and scratches or be totaled during an accident. Whether you file a claim with your insurance carrier, the other driver’s insurer, or pay for repairs out of your pocket depends on the extent of the damages and who was responsible for the accident.

If you are in a roll-over or run-off-road accident and the motorcycle has minor damages, replacing the whole bike may be unnecessary. Instead, you might want to get it repaired. However, if you are involved in a more serious collision, your motorcycle may be totaled. Regardless of whether your motorcycle is repairable or totaled, you should file a claim with your insurance company or the at fault party’s insurance company to seek compensation.

Motorcycle Safety Inspection Checklist after An Accident

Checking your motorcycle thoroughly after a crash is essential as it helps you identify the slightest damages. You should not ride the motorcycle home if you notice significant damages after an accident. Instead, you should have it towed to a repair shop for a full evaluation of the damage.

However, if your only option is to ride your motorcycle home after a collision (and you believe it is safe to do so) it is best to conduct a motorcycle safety inspection to ensure a safe ride. Here is an essential checklist:

Tires – Check the motorcycle tires for cuts and gushes and ensure the tread is in good shape to help keep the bike moving.
Roll your motorcycle – Roll the bike forward and backward to identify any strange rattling or crunching noises. Strange sounds could be an indicator of significant damages from the accident.
Brakes – You should also inspect your brake system for impairments that could impact your ability to brake.
Motorbike controls – It helps to check if the bike controls are all intact to allow you to control your motorbike as usual. Perform a visual check to ensure the clutch and foot controls are still effective.
Lights and signals – These tools are vital since they help show other road users your intentions on the road. Therefore, you should ensure your lights and signals are all working before hitting the road.

Repair It vs. Replace It

Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace your motorcycle depends on the extent of the damage. For example, you could choose to take it to a repair shop where the repair costs will be sent to the insurance adjuster. Alternatively, the insurance company may declare your bike totaled and compensate you with its actual cash value.

Contact Natasha Misra Law for Legal Representation

If you are a rider in Milwaukee, Madison, Hales Corners, Appleton, or Green Bay who has been involved in a motorcycle accident, then you should consult with a motorcycle accident attorney. At Natasha Misra Law, we help motorcycle accident victims determine the true value of their claims and fight to get them the compensation they need to get healthy and back on the road. Contact us online or call us at 414-635-2858 to schedule a free consultation today.

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.