Who is at Fault in a U-Turn Accident in Milwaukee?

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.

When you are stopped at an intersection that permits U-turns, you will likely witness some close calls when two drivers attempt to proceed in the same direction. However, if the two were to crash, who would be liable? As always, the answer depends upon the specifics of the situation, but here are some general pointers about U-turn crashes in our state.

What is a U-Turn?

A U-turn is a sharp left-hand turn at an intersection into the opposite lane. Generally, drivers are required to yield to oncoming traffic before crossing the intersection. Because many don’t, accidents can easily occur at intersections like these. In some cases, though, the other driver may be at fault, for instance, if he was speeding, running the red light, driving while distracted or impaired, or otherwise acting negligently or recklessly behind the wheel.

Are U-Turns Legal in Wisconsin?

Yes. Wisconsin law permits U-turns at controlled intersections, unless there are signs or signals to the contrary. Even still, all drivers are responsible for proceeding with caution, keeping a lookout, and using their judgment in determining whether it is safe to execute a left-turn into traffic.

Who has the right of way in a U-Turn?

U-turn accidents often occur when a driver fails to follow Wisconsin right of way laws. The law requires drivers turning left to yield to oncoming traffic and only turn left once the traffic has broken. This applies at both a green-light intersection and an uncontrolled intersection.

If you are at an intersection that allows U-turns and see the green arrow, you have the right of way. However, if you have a red light, you need to yield to oncoming traffic. Both drivers must stay in the closest lane and avoid cutting across traffic. If you are making your turn on a green light (not a green arrow), the other drivers have the right of way.

Drivers turning left onto oncoming traffic are also required to yield. Although oncoming traffic need not stop for a driver making a U-turn, it’s incumbent upon all drivers to proceed cautiously and to keep a lookout.

What Should I Do If I Am Injured In A U-Turn Accident?

After you seek the medical treatment you need for your injuries, reach out to a personal injury attorney right away. Our firm has extensive experience representing injured motorists in right-of-way accidents and U-turn collisions and can gather evidence to support your claim.

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.