With summer in full swing (and after months spent in quarantine), Wisconsin motorcyclists are taking advantage of every good riding opportunity they can get. It’s common to see significantly more motorcyclists on state roads during the summer months, but for many, the need for a feeling of freedom is especially strong right now.
Unfortunately, the dangers that bikers face have not gone away. Statistics reveal that being a motorcyclist in Wisconsin is hazardous, largely due to the actions of other drivers.
How Common are Crashes?
There are thousands of motorcycle crashes each year in Wisconsin. According to a recent news report, a crash occurs approximately every four hours. These accidents result thousands of injuries and an average of about 75 deaths per year.
Locally, motorcycle crashes are both frequent and consistent over time. Between 2013 and 2017, there were 645 motorcycle accidents in Waukesha County alone. Statewide, there were just over 11,000 motorcycle crashes resulting in 394 deaths during that same four-year period.
Where Fatalities are Most Likely
Where you crash can make a difference in terms of accident survivability. According to state statistics:
- Accidents that occurred on interstates had a 1.9 percent fatality rate
- Accidents that occurred on local roads had a 2.6 percent fatality rate
- Accidents that occurred on county highways had a 5 percent fatality rate
What Can Motorcyclists Do to Stay Safe?
As mentioned above, motorcycle accidents are often caused by negligent drivers who fail to keep a lookout for motorcyclists or do not give them the space and courtesy they deserve. That being said, motorcyclists must take extra steps to protect themselves due to the risks that they face. One of the best things you can do as a rider is to wear a helmet each and every time you get on your bike. Among all motorcyclist deaths between 2013 and 2017, only 96 of the riders killed were wearing helmets.
If you’ve been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident caused by the negligence of someone else, please take the time to understand your rights and legal options by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney today.
