La Crosse provides a beautiful and engaging backdrop for motorcycle enthusiasts—along the scenic Mississippi River or down Losey Boulevard. Unfortunately, motorcyclists also face real hazards on La Crosse roadways that can result in serious injury or even death. Approximately 2,000 motorcycle accidents occur in Wisconsin each year, resulting in more than 65 deaths and 1,500 injuries.
If you were injured in a La Crosse motorcycle accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your medical bills and other losses. Contact an experienced La Crosse motorcycle accident lawyer from Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers for a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options.
Injured in La Crosse? Get Nicolet.
Why Choose Us for Your La Crosse Motorcycle Accident Case
Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers is more than just a law firm; it’s a part of the La Crosse motorcycling community. We are proud to work in La Crosse and aim to serve and help our friends, neighbors, and fellow community members with their legal needs following a motorcycle accident.
At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we understand the unmatched experience motorcycling offers. We also understand how a negligent driver can turn a day’s ride into disaster and how isolated it can feel to pick up the pieces following an accident. That’s why our lawyers help motorcyclists across the Midwest.
Our team combines the resources and convenience of a large regional firm with the personal connection that you expect from a local resource. You’ll never need to worry about reaching a member of our team when you need help, have questions, or just want an update on your case.
We know how to handle complicated motorcycle injury cases. We understand that each client is different and deserves a custom case plan. We know that you’re probably hurt and likely facing financial difficulty. This is why we take the burden off your shoulders, handling every aspect of your case so you can focus on what really matters: your health, your happiness, and your loved ones.
The La Crosse motorcycle accident lawyers at Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers have helped countless neighbors, both statewide and in La Crosse, achieve justice and fair compensation, and we are proud of our long track record of achieving success for our Wisconsin clients. Contact us today to discuss your case during a free case consultation.
Hazards Motorcyclists Face in La Crosse and Statewide
A recent analysis of National Highway Transportation Safety Administration data found Wisconsin was the sixth most hazardous state in the nation for motorcyclists.
According to the latest data from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, 1,921 motorcycle crashes occurred in the state in one recent year, resulting in 80 fatalities and 1,606 injuries, of which 602 were serious. Two of those deaths occurred in La Crosse County, according to the most recent data from the La Crosse Medical Examiner’s Office.
There are unique hazards for motorcyclists in La Crosse. According to the La Crosse Tribune, over a third of all intersections throughout the city are uncontrolled: that means no stop signs, yield marks, or traffic signals.
Careless drivers pose a huge risk to motorcyclists, particularly in areas like these without the aid of signs or stoplights. Always be cautious when navigating uncontrolled intersections: you never know when a careless driver is just around the corner.
On the other hand, even traffic signs and signals are no guarantee you won’t end up on the wrong side of an encounter with a reckless, careless, or otherwise irresponsible motorist.
Quite a few of the county’s most dangerous intersections have traffic signals. Intersections with some of the highest crash totals include La Crosse Street and West Avenue, and several streets that run into Highway 16 (like Gillette Street and Pralle Center Drive).
You’ll find similar conditions in and around Highway 157 and I-90. Unfortunately, as long as careless drivers use the roads, La Crosse motorcyclists are always at risk.
Do I Qualify for Compensation for My Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
Most motorcycle accident claims are based on the legal concept of negligence. Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm or injury to another person. In motorcycle accidents, this often involves a driver's careless or reckless behavior on the road.
To have a successful motorcycle accident case and recover compensation, you must establish four key elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care: The other party (usually the driver of a car or truck) had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty: The other party failed to uphold this duty by acting carelessly or recklessly. This could include speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield the right of way.
- Causation: The breach of duty directly caused the accident and your injuries. There must be a clear link between the other party's negligent actions and your harm.
- Damages: You experienced actual losses as a result of the accident. These include physical injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
If you can demonstrate these four elements, you likely have a strong basis for a motorcycle accident case. However, every situation is unique, and various factors can impact the strength of your claim. An experienced La Crosse motorcycle accident lawyer can evaluate the specifics of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
Should I Accept the First Offer from the Insurance Company?
When you're involved in a motorcycle accident, the insurance company may quickly present you with a settlement offer. While it might be tempting to accept the first offer, especially if you're facing mounting medical bills and lost wages, doing so could be a costly mistake.
Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. The initial offer you receive may not fully cover your medical expenses, future treatment, lost wages, or other damages like pain and suffering. Accepting an offer too soon might also prevent you from seeking additional compensation if your injuries are more severe than initially thought.
Before accepting any offer, it's crucial to consult an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney can evaluate your case, determine the true value of your claim, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. This ensures that you receive fair compensation for all your injuries and losses.
Remember, once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to pursue further compensation, so getting it right the first time is vital.
What Damages Are Available in a La Crosse Motorcycle Accident?
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident in La Crosse, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, known as damages. These damages are designed to cover your losses and help you recover financially from the accident.
The types of damages available in a La Crosse motorcycle accident case typically include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers all accident-related medical costs, including emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages or Income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income, including future earning capacity, if you cannot return to your previous job.
- Property Damage: This includes repair or replacement costs for your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: These non-economic damages compensate you for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident and your injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
- Disability or Disfigurement: Permanent injuries that result in disability or visible scarring may warrant additional compensation.
- Loss of Consortium: Your spouse may be able to claim damages for loss of companionship and support if your injuries have significantly impacted your relationship.
- Wrongful Death: If the motorcycle accident resulted in a fatality, the deceased's family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and the deceased's pain and suffering before death.
The specific damages available in your case will depend on the circumstances of the accident and the severity of your injuries. A skilled La Crosse motorcycle accident lawyer can help you identify all potential damages and work to maximize your compensation.
How Can a Lawyer Help With My La Crosse Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and the complexities of insurance claims. A lawyer from Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers can provide the experience and support you need to pursue your claim successfully.
Thorough Investigation
Our attorneys will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident. This includes gathering crucial evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available video footage. We'll also work with accident reconstruction experts, if necessary, to build a strong case on your behalf.
Accurate Assessment of Damages
Understanding the full extent of your damages is essential for obtaining fair compensation. We will assess not only your immediate medical expenses and lost wages but also future costs like ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and loss of earning capacity.
Additionally, we consider non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, to ensure you are compensated for the full impact of the accident on your life.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Our experienced lawyers are skilled negotiators who know how to handle insurance adjusters. We will advocate fiercely on your behalf to secure a settlement that truly reflects the value of your claim.
Legal Representation in Court
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, our attorneys prepare to take your case to court. We have a proven track record of success in litigating motorcycle accident lawsuits, and we will present a compelling case to ensure your rights are protected.
Peace of Mind
Dealing with a motorcycle accident claim can be stressful, especially when you're trying to recover from injuries. By entrusting your case to Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. We will keep you informed throughout the process and ensure you have the best possible chance of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping motorcycle accident victims in La Crosse get back on their feet. Our dedicated team will fight tirelessly to secure the justice and compensation you need to move forward with your life.
La Crosse Motorcycle Accident FAQs
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents, is generally three years from the accident date. However, certain circumstances can affect this timeframe, so it’s important to consult with a lawyer to ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.
What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Motorcycle Accident?
Wisconsin follows a "comparative negligence" rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, as long as your fault is less than 51%. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. An attorney can help assess your level of fault and ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
How much does it cost to hire a La Crosse motorcycle accident lawyer?
At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs; we only get paid if we recover compensation in your case. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we secure for you, so there's no financial risk to you in seeking legal representation.
Contact Our La Crosse Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences, leaving victims facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges. At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we understand the unique complexities of motorcycle accident cases in La Crosse and are committed to helping you navigate this difficult time.
Our experienced team, including a dedicated La Crosse personal injury lawyer, has a proven track record of successfully representing motorcycle accident victims, securing the compensation they need to recover and move forward. We combine our legal experience with a deep understanding of local La Crosse roads, traffic patterns, and court systems to build the strongest possible case for you.
Don't let insurance companies shortchange you—reach out to us today at (608) 315-5639 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide clear guidance on your best course of action. Contact us, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.