Motorcycle Accidents

Driving a motorcycle leaves you exposed to all the elements. It’s an amazing feeling. But there isn’t very much protecting you from the other drivers on the road. Driving defensively only does so much. After all, four wheels are greater than two. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Wisconsin, you’re facing medical bills, lost wages, and potentially life-altering injuries. 

The experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Pasternak & Zirgibel understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face, from insurance companies that unfairly blame riders to the severe nature of motorcycle injuries.

Wisconsin has specific laws protecting motorcycle riders’ rights that impact accident cases:

• Lane Sharing: While not explicitly legal, Wisconsin doesn’t prohibit careful lane sharing in certain circumstances
• Helmet Requirements: Wisconsin doesn’t require helmets for riders over 18, and this cannot be used against you in court
• Insurance Requirements: All motor vehicle operators must carry minimum liability coverage
• Comparative Negligence: Wisconsin follows comparative negligence rules, meaning you can still recover damages even if partially at fault

Understanding these laws helps us build stronger cases and counter insurance company arguments designed to reduce your compensation.

Moped accidents share many characteristics with motorcycle accidents, including severe injuries and insurance company bias. Wisconsin law treats mopeds differently than motorcycles in some respects, but the fundamental challenges remain the same:

• Limited protection for riders in collisions
• Driver inattention and failure to see smaller vehicles
• Insurance companies minimizing claims
• Complex intersection and traffic pattern issues

Whether you were riding a motorcycle, moped, or scooter, Pasternak & Zirgibel has the experience to handle your case effectively. We understand the nuances of Wisconsin vehicle laws and how they apply to different types of two-wheeled vehicles.

Immediate Case Investigation

We begin investigating your case immediately, preserving crucial evidence before it disappears. This includes:

• Accident scene photography and measurements
• Vehicle inspection and mechanical analysis
• Witness interviews and statement collection
• Traffic camera and surveillance footage recovery
• Police report analysis and officer interviews

Medical Documentation and Expert Consultation

We work with qualified medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your future. This includes consulting with:

• Trauma specialists and emergency medicine physicians
• Neurologists for brain injury assessment
• Orthopedic surgeons for bone and joint injuries
• Life care planners for long-term care cost projections
• Vocational rehabilitation specialists for earning capacity analysis

Insurance Company Negotiations

Our attorneys handle all communications with insurance companies, preventing you from making statements that could harm your case. We know the tactics insurers use to minimize motorcycle accident claims and counter them effectively.

Trial Preparation and Litigation

When insurance companies refuse to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. Our trial experience and reputation often motivate insurers to negotiate more seriously during settlement discussions.

Pasternak & Zirgibel represents motorcycle accident victims throughout Wisconsin, including:

• Milwaukee and the surrounding suburbs
• Madison and Dane County
• Green Bay and northeastern Wisconsin
• Kenosha and southeastern Wisconsin
• Wisconsin Dells and central Wisconsin
• All rural areas and smaller communities statewide

We understand the unique challenges of motorcycle accidents on Wisconsin’s diverse roadways, from busy urban intersections to rural highways and scenic touring routes.

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents. However, it’s crucial to contact an attorney immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

What if the insurance company says I was partially at fault for the accident?

Wisconsin follows comparative negligence rules, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. The key is proving the other party was more responsible for the accident.

Do I need to wear a helmet to recover damages in a motorcycle accident?

No. Wisconsin doesn’t require helmets for riders over 18, and choosing not to wear one cannot be used against you in court to reduce your compensation.

How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?

Case value depends on many factors including injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, and the degree of the other party’s fault. Our attorneys provide honest assessments based on similar cases and current circumstances.

Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?

Never provide statements to the other party’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to get information that can be used to minimize your claim.

What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?

Wisconsin requires minimum liability coverage, but some drivers operate illegally without insurance. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may provide compensation, and we can explore other recovery options.

How long does a motorcycle accident case take to resolve?

Timeline varies based on injury severity, insurance cooperation, and whether litigation is necessary. Simple cases may resolve in months, while complex cases involving severe injuries may take years.

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?

Seek medical attention first, then contact police to file a report. Document the scene if possible, collect witness information, and contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as practical.