Motorcycles offer a sense of freedom and exhilaration that few other vehicles can match. But when accidents happen, the consequences can be devastating. Riders are far more exposed than drivers of passenger vehicles, which often means more severe injuries and longer recoveries. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common causes of motorcycle accidents, the different types of crashes, and your legal options.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can happen for many reasons. Riders are more exposed than drivers in cars or trucks, so even a minor collision can lead to serious injuries. Understanding the most common causes of motorcycle crashes can help both riders and drivers stay alert and reduce the risk of harm.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are often the most deadly type of motorcycle crash. These accidents typically happen when a vehicle crosses the centerline or turns into the path of an oncoming motorcycle.
Left-Turn Accidents
A large percentage of motorcycle accidents happen when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. These collisions often occur at intersections when a driver fails to see a motorcyclist or misjudges their speed. According to NHTSA data, nearly 40 percent of fatal crashes between motorcycles and other vehicles involve a car turning left while the motorcycle is going straight.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is not legal in Wisconsin. It puts motorcyclists at risk due to reduced space for maneuvering and drivers not expecting a bike between lanes. Even when traffic is slow or stopped, the risk of being sideswiped or clipped by a sudden lane change is high.
Alcohol-Impaired Driving
Alcohol plays a significant role in many fatal motorcycle crashes. NHTSA data shows motorcyclists have a higher rate of alcohol involvement than drivers of any other vehicle type. Alcohol impairs balance, coordination, and reaction time, making it especially dangerous for riders. Even one drink can make it harder to stay in control of a motorcycle.
Speeding
Speed is a leading factor in motorcycle crashes, particularly among young or inexperienced riders. High speeds reduce reaction time and make it harder to manage turns or sudden obstacles. The faster someone is going, the more severe the injuries tend to be. NHTSA data shows that around one-third of motorcyclists in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the incident.
Road Hazards and Weather Conditions
Motorcycles are more sensitive to road conditions than larger vehicles. Potholes, uneven pavement, gravel, debris, and wet leaves can all cause a rider to lose control. In Wisconsin, seasonal changes add to the risk. Spring may bring loose gravel from winter, while fall leaves and early frost can make roads slick. Riders need to adjust their speed and watch the road surface carefully during these times.
Distracted Driving (by Other Drivers)
Many motorcycle accidents happen because drivers are distracted and fail to see a bike until it is too late. Phones, GPS systems, and other distractions make it harder for drivers to stay aware of smaller vehicles. Motorcycles are less visible than cars or trucks, and inattention is a major factor in crashes involving them.
Inexperienced Riders
Lack of experience can increase the risk of a crash, especially for riders on powerful bikes or those without proper training. New riders may struggle with quick decisions, emergency maneuvers, road hazards, and more.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents and Potential Injuries
Because motorcycles offer little physical protection, riders often suffer serious or life-altering injuries in crashes that might be minor for someone in a car. Below are common types of motorcycle accidents and the injuries that frequently result.
T-Bone Motorcycle Crashes
T-bone, or side-impact, crashes typically happen at intersections when a vehicle runs a red light or fails to yield while turning. These collisions strike the motorcycle from the side, often throwing the rider from the bike. The impact can lead to broken bones, internal injuries, and in some cases, permanent disability. These crashes are especially dangerous when they involve high speeds or large vehicles.
Motorcycle Accidents in Construction Zones
Another common type of motorcycle accident involves those that occur in construction zones.
Harley-Davidson, based in Milwaukee, holds an annual anniversary rally that draws thousands (and sometimes hundreds of thousands) of Harley riders from around the world to the Milwaukee area. I often enjoy talking with out-of-town riders, learning about their backgrounds and hearing their stories.
One frequent observation they share is the sheer amount of road construction they see in Wisconsin compared to other places. This is understandable. Wisconsin experiences extreme seasonal weather, and the freeze-thaw cycles that occur each spring often cause cracks, potholes, and general damage to the roadways.
There’s a limited window—roughly five months—in which road repairs and resurfacing can be completed. As a result, summertime in Wisconsin is always filled with construction, often on multiple roadways at once.
This leads to increased risk for all motorists, but particularly motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable to hazards such as:
- Poorly marked lane shifts
- Confusing or missing signage
- Uneven road surfaces
- Construction debris
- Warning signs that have blown over or been displaced
Construction zone accidents involving motorcycles are not rare, and they present unique liability and visibility challenges that must be carefully evaluated.
Rear-End Motorcycle Collisions
Rear-end collisions often occur at stop signs, red lights, or during sudden slowdowns in traffic. When a motorcyclist is hit from behind, the force of impact can eject them from the bike. Riders in these crashes may suffer spinal injuries, whiplash, or traumatic brain injuries.
Sideswipe Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are harder to see than larger vehicles, especially when they’re in a driver’s blind spot. Sideswipe accidents usually happen when a car or truck changes lanes without noticing a motorcyclist already there. These crashes can force a rider off the road or into another vehicle, leading to broken bones, road rash, or worse.
Single-Bike Motorcycle Accidents
Not all motorcycle crashes involve other vehicles. Many accidents are single-bike incidents caused by road hazards, slick surfaces, or sudden obstacles. In some cases, the rider may overcorrect or lose control when navigating curves or debris. These crashes often result in high-speed slides, rollovers, or impacts with stationary objects like guardrails or utility poles.
Dooring Motorcycle Accidents
In urban settings, parked cars present a unique danger when a door is suddenly opened into traffic. If a motorcyclist is riding near parked vehicles, a quick door swing can cause a direct collision or force the rider into oncoming traffic. These accidents are common in cities and can result in serious leg, arm, or head injuries.
Motorcycle Accidents in Construction Zones
Construction zones are a frequent source of motorcycle accidents in Wisconsin, especially during the summer months when road repairs are underway. Riders often encounter hazards like uneven pavement, loose gravel, confusing lane shifts, or poorly marked signage. These conditions can quickly cause a motorcyclist to lose control, creating a much higher risk of serious injury than for drivers in larger vehicles. Because liability in construction zone crashes may involve contractors, municipalities, or other parties, these cases require careful investigation to determine responsibility.
Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries
When a rider slides along pavement, the skin can be scraped away in layers. This type of injury is known as road rash and is extremely painful. It can cause serious infections, nerve damage, and permanent scarring. Protective gear like armored jackets and pants can help reduce the severity, but even with gear, friction burns are still possible.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Broken arms, wrists, collarbones, ribs, and legs are common in motorcycle crashes. These injuries often occur when a rider tries to brace for impact or is thrown from the bike. Depending on the location and severity, healing can take weeks to months and may require surgery, physical therapy, or long-term mobility aids.
Internal Injuries and Organ Damage
Blunt force trauma from a motorcycle accident can cause internal bleeding, collapsed lungs, or damage to vital organs like the liver or spleen. These injuries are not always immediately obvious but can become life-threatening without quick medical attention.
Amputations or Limb Damage
Severe crashes can result in crushed limbs, especially if a motorcycle is pinned under a larger vehicle. In some cases, this leads to partial or full amputation. These injuries have lifelong impacts, often requiring prosthetics, ongoing rehabilitation, and significant changes to daily life.
Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injuries
Even with a helmet, riders may suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in high-impact crashes. TBIs can range from concussions to permanent cognitive or physical impairment. Spinal cord injuries may lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and extent of the damage. These injuries require long-term medical and legal support.
Wrongful Death
Some motorcycle accidents result in fatalities, leaving families devastated and unsure of what to do next. Wrongful death claims may arise when another driver’s negligence or recklessness leads to a rider’s death. These cases can involve complex investigations, insurance disputes, and legal action to recover damages for medical costs, lost income, funeral expenses, and emotional loss.
Statistics and Data on Motorcycle Accidents
National and state-level statistics help paint a clearer picture of how, when, and where motorcycle crashes happen, as well as who is most at risk.
National and State Statistics
In 2022, 6,218 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes in the United States, accounting for 15% of all motor vehicle fatalities that year, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Although motorcycles make up only about 3% of registered vehicles, the fatality rate per mile traveled is significantly higher than for passenger vehicles.
Urban roads are particularly hazardous. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that 64% of motorcycle deaths occur on urban roads, with intersections being frequent crash points. Wisconsin follows similar patterns, with dense traffic areas in cities like Milwaukee and Madison presenting increased risks for riders.
Demographic Insights
Younger motorcyclists are more likely to be involved in fatal crashes, particularly when speeding is involved. According to IIHS, 33% of fatally injured motorcyclists in 2023 were younger than 30. The risk remains elevated through the mid-30s age group but gradually declines with age. The same report shows that 92% of these fatal accidents involved male motorcyclists. These numbers highlight the importance of rider education and experience, especially among new or younger motorcyclists.
Helmet Use and Injury Outcomes
Wearing a helmet can be the single most effective way to reduce head injuries in a crash. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injury by 69%.
Alcohol and Drug Involvement
Alcohol is a leading factor in motorcycle fatalities. The NHTSA reports that 28% of motorcyclists killed in crashes had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. The percentage increases to over 40% in single-vehicle nighttime crashes. Riders between the ages of 35 and 39 had the highest proportion of alcohol-impaired deaths. Drug impairment is also a growing concern, although data is limited.
Time of Day and Seasonality Trends
Most motorcycle fatalities happen during warmer months and later in the day. According to IIHS, fatal crashes peak in the months between June and September, with the highest volume occurring in July. According to the same report, 41% of motorcyclist deaths in 2021 occurred between 6 p.m. and midnight.
Urban vs. Rural Accidents
Contrary to common belief, most fatal motorcycle accidents happen in urban settings. In 2023, 64% of motorcycle rider deaths occurred on urban roads, compared to 35% in rural areas. However, rural crashes—especially on minor roads—tend to be more severe due to higher speeds and longer emergency response times.
Legal Aspects of Motorcycle Accidents in Wisconsin
After a motorcycle crash, the legal process can feel overwhelming. Wisconsin law has its own rules for determining fault, handling insurance claims, and meeting deadlines. Understanding how these laws work is an important step toward protecting your rights and making informed decisions about your next move.
Role of a Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents often involve serious injuries, complex liability questions, and insurance companies eager to shift blame. A skilled Wisconsin motorcycle accident lawyer can help level the playing field. From gathering evidence and working with accident reconstruction experts to negotiating with insurers and litigating in court, legal guidance can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Murphy & Prachthauser, we understand the unique challenges riders face and fight to recover full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and long-term care.
Wisconsin’s At-Fault System and Comparative Negligence
Wisconsin uses an “at-fault” system, which means the person or party responsible for causing the accident is financially liable for the resulting damages. The state also follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault
Wisconsin Statutes of Limitations and Filing Deadlines
In most cases, Wisconsin law requires that personal injury claims be filed within three years from the date of the accident. If a motorcycle accident results in death, the time limit may begin from the date of death.
Claims involving government entities, such as a city or county, have additional restrictions. In these cases, a written notice of claim must typically be filed within 120 days of the incident.
For injured minors, Wisconsin law allows the statute of limitations to be tolled (paused) until they turn 18, after which they have a limited period—generally two years—to file suit. Failing to meet these deadlines can permanently bar your ability to recover compensation.
Promoting Motorcycle Safety and Awareness
Improving motorcycle safety isn’t just about better gear or smarter riding; it’s also about building awareness among all road users and creating a culture of mutual respect. From national campaigns to local training programs, there are many efforts underway to keep riders safe and informed.
Motorcycle Awareness Month
Every May, Motorcycle Awareness Month serves as a nationwide reminder for drivers to share the road and watch for motorcycles. This campaign encourages all motorists to stay alert, check blind spots, and give riders the space they need to operate safely. For motorcyclists, it’s also a time to brush up on safety practices and perform seasonal maintenance.
Resources and Training
Education is one of the most effective tools for preventing motorcycle accidents. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers a range of resources, from beginner rider courses to advanced skills training. These programs help riders build confidence, improve reaction times, and better understand how to handle changing road conditions. In Wisconsin, the Department of Transportation also offers state-approved training courses that meet licensing requirements and help reduce insurance costs.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents: Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents can change lives in an instant. Whether the cause is a careless driver, unsafe road conditions, or a moment of distraction, the consequences are often serious and long-lasting. Understanding the risks, knowing your rights, and taking steps to protect yourself on the road are all part of staying safe.
At Murphy & Prachthauser, we’re committed to helping injured riders get the support and compensation they deserve. We bring decades of experience, deep knowledge of Wisconsin law, and a genuine commitment to doing what’s right for our clients. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, contact us for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, help you understand your options, and fight for your recovery.