Not every motorcycle accident means a direct collision between a motorcycle and a car. In some cases, a motorcycle may be the only vehicle involved in a crash, leading to personal injuries and bike damage for the motorcyclist. But even when there is no contact between a motorcycle and a vehicle, a driver can still be held liable for damages; these situations are called no-contact motorcycle accidents. Below, learn more about no-contact accident laws in Wisconsin.

Causes

A no-contact motorcycle accident is one in which a vehicle driver's negligence or recklessness caused a motorcyclist to crash their bike. The motorcyclist does this to avoid a collision with a car. For instance, if a car suddenly switches lanes without using a turn signal, preventing a motorcyclist in the neighboring lane from receiving proper warning, the car could conceivably collide with the bike.

So, the motorcyclist swerves out of the way to avoid the crash and ends up laying their bike down. As a result, they suffer personal injuries and damage to their motorcycle. Because there was no direct contact between the bike and the car, this would qualify as a no-contact motorcycle accident in Wisconsin. Other situations that can cause a no-contact crash include speeding, tailgating, distracted driving, and failing to check blind spots.

Liability

The key to a successful no-contact accident claim is proving that the vehicle driver is responsible for the cyclist's crash. Courts look for evidence that shows the driver was not behaving in a reasonable way, which is another way of saying that the driver was not behaving as most other reasonable people would in the same situation.

The police report from the accident scene can provide this information, as can eyewitnesses to the crash. To underscore the severity of the accident and the impact it has had on the motorcyclist, most no-contact claims also include medical records that document the personal injuries sustained; photos of the accident scene and damage to the bike; paycheck records to show lost wages; and estimates to have the bike repaired or replaced.

An attorney will protect your rights in a no-contact motorcycle accident and work to get you the needed damages. Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt is here to help. Serving the Coulee Region, Driftless Area, and all of Western Wisconsin, they offer comprehensive representation in personal injuries and accidents, as well as in family and criminal law cases, OWIs, and other legal issues. Call (608) 269-2400 or visit them online to schedule a free consultation.