July 17, 2012 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

2 Die in Wisconsin Motorcycle-Vehicle Accident

On behalf of Milwaukee personal injury attorney Ric Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Tuesday, July 17, 2012.

A crash between a motorcycle and another vehicle in Wisconsin this week proved to be deadly. The motorcyclist and a passenger in the other vehicle were killed. The motorcycle accident, which is being investigated by the Wisconsin State Patrol, occurred in Shawano.

According to media reports, an 80-year-old man driving a vehicle apparently turned into the path of the motorcycle. The 56-year-old motorcyclist, who was from out of state, was killed, as was a 79-year-old woman who was riding in the car. The driver of that car was already treated and released at a local hospital.

Another accident occurred this week in Dane County. In that crash, the driver of a pickup truck struck a motorcyclist who was stopped at a stop sign. The motorcyclist suffered serious injuries, but they were apparently not life-threatening. The driver of the truck stated that he did not see the motorcyclist. He was cited for driving without insurance and inattentive driving.

It has been a deadly summer on Wisconsin roads for motorcyclists. So far in all of 2012, 51 motorcyclists have been killed in the state, as well as 8 passengers riding on motorcycles.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, the most common reason drivers give for accidents is that they didn’t see the motorcycles. That’s what the “start seeing motorcyclists” campaign is all about. Motorcycles may be harder to spot than other vehicles, but it’s important for other drivers to lookout for them in order to avoid serious accidents.

Source: NBC 15, “51 motorcycle drivers, 8 passengers killed in Wisconsin so far this year,” July 17, 2012

If you need legal representation after a motorcycle accident, contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney with Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. for a free consultation.

June 14, 2012 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Second Motorcyclist Dies in Wisconsin Crash

On behalf of Milwaukee personal injury attorney Ric Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Thursday, June 14, 2012.

Veering over the center line into oncoming traffic can have dire consequences, as a horrific accident involving at least 10 motorcycles shows.

Recently, a 25-year-old man from Hilbert caused a catastrophic motorcycle accident that resulted in the death of two men and critically injured two others. They were all members of the “Muskegon Motorcycle Gang.”

Late last month, the man was traveling on Highway 151 around 3 p.m. and crossed the center line, crashing into a group of 12 motorcyclists who were taking part in the annual Bridge Run. Motorcyclists ride this same route every year, with the route running over the Mackinac Bridge. At the time of the accident, the bikers were traveling through Taycheedah, Wisconsin, between Gladstone Beach Roach and Willing Beach Road.

When the man crashed into the biker group, only two of the 12 motorcyclists managed to escape from being tangled in the accident. A 59-year-old man from out of state died at the scene. Another who was critically injured died several days later. Two other men, who were also from another state, were listed in critical condition and were being treated at the Neenah medical facility after the tragic accident.

The man who hit the group was charged with second-degree reckless homicide and felony bail jumping. He was also charged with three counts of second-degree reckless injury and second-degree reckless endangerment. Media sources report that because a second man died, another count of reckless homicide will be added to the charges.

Source: The Northwestern, “Second Michigan motorcyclist dies of injures from Fond du Lac County crash,” June 7, 2012

If you need legal representation for a wrongful death lawsuit, contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney with Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. for a free consultation.

May 3, 2012 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

The Dangers of Being a New Motorcycle Driver in Milwaukee

No matter how experienced a motorcyclist is on their bike, no biker is immune to the potential danger of motorcycle accidents. This is especially true for those individuals just learning to ride. According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, new riders are four more times likely to get in an accident in their first 30 days of riding than in their entire second year.

The Institute’s CEO says that for most people, riding a motorcycle is a complex task requiring at least a half-dozen steps including shifting gears, feathering the throttle, releasing the clutch, braking and watching for traffic. The study showed 22 percent of nearly 57,000 collision claims from 2003 to 2007 occurred in the first month after the insurance policy took effect. The numbers began to gradually drop after the second month, according to the Republic.

No amount of training bikers receive while learning to ride may be enough to reduce the risk of accidents. One safety study suggests that licensing courses that fast-track the time it takes to get on the road don’t lower crash risks and but could potentially raise them.

A representative with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety admitted that some training courses actually contradict the idea that they reduce the likelihood of accidents. For example, research has shown that collision claim frequency among graduates of state-required training programs for riders under 21 was actually 10 percent higher than states without those requirements.

Federal data shows more than 5,000 bikers died in motorcycle accidents in 2008, which is twice the amount compared to the previous decade.

Source: The Republic, “Motorcycle crash risk drops sharply after the first month on the road,” Michael Virtanen, April 15, 2012

If you need legal representation following an accident with a motorcycle driver in Milwaukee, contact a Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorney with Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. for a free consultation.

April 23, 2012 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Janesville Man Seriously Hurt in WI Motorcycle Collision with Deer

On behalf of Ric Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Monday, April 23, 2012.

Earlier this month, a man was severely injured after his motorcycle collided with a deer in Rock County. According to law enforcement, the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the Wisconsin motorcycle accident. The man sustained severe head trauma and had to be transported by helicopter to the hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.

Motorcycles are popular in Wisconsin, but they are also dangerous. Riding while intoxicated only makes it worse. While driving any vehicle under the influence is dangerous, there is more inherent risk when driving drunk on a motorcycle. A rider has little protection from impact during an accident, which results in more serious injuries than would be sustained in a car collision.

Always play it safe when riding a motorcycle; either sober up before going to the next destination or find another way to get where you need to go.

Drunk driving delays reaction time and makes it harder to avoid obstacles. This is a particularly acute problem in Wisconsin, where deer in the road are an everyday fact of life. Hitting a deer, even at lower speeds, has the potential to cause debilitating injuries.

If you are going to be riding in an area with lots of deer, travel at safe speeds and employ defensive driving techniques. Installing extra headlights or putting a high-wattage bulb into the main light can make it easier to see deer from a distance. If you see deer in the road, flashing your lights can get them to move.

Of course, wearing a helmet and proper protective gear can go a long way to keep you safe in the event of a collision.

Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “Janesville Man Severely Injured in Suspected OWI Crash,” April 7, 2012.

If you need legal representation, contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney with Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. for a free consultation.

April 10, 2012 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Couple Dies in WI Motorcycle Accident

On behalf of Milwaukee truck accident attorney Ric Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Tuesday, April 10, 2012.

Motorcyclists are at a bit of a disadvantage when it comes to protection on the roads. While they may wear protective gear like helmets and jackets, it can’t always bear the brunt of impact if there is a collision with a large vehicle.

Case in point: A Wisconsin couple was killed in a motorcycle accident over the weekend when their motorcycle collided with a truck.

According to the Pioneer Press, the 65-year-old man and 59-year-old woman were riding their motorcycle north on U.S. 53 near Haugen on Friday evening when the accident occurred. They apparently collided with a truck that was crossing the road from County Highway V. They were both pronounced dead at the scene.

The 59-year-old truck driver and his passenger, both from neighboring Minnesota, were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

A LifeLink helicopter responded to the scene, as did Barron County sheriff’s deputies and various local police and fire departments. The northbound lanes of Highway 53 were closed for several hours after the accident, which was being investigated by the Barron County Sheriff’s Department and the Wisconsin State Patrol, according to the Northland News Center.

It’s apparently not the first fatal accident at the intersection. The fatal crash rate there is apparently much higher than the state average. The DOT is already working on plans to build an overpass there in the hopes of making the area safer for motorists. The project should be completed by November 2013.

Source: Pioneer Press, “2 killed in motorcycle, car crash near Rice Lake,” Rachel Wedlund, April 7, 2012

If you need legal representation following a bike, contact a truck accident lawyer in Milwaukee like Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. for a free consultation.

October 21, 2011 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Man Suffers Serious Injuries in Milwaukee Hit-and-Run Accident

On behalf of Milwaukee personal injury attorney Ric Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Friday, October 21, 2011.

A very serious hit-and-run accident occurred last week in Wisconsin. A single father was riding his motorcycle in Milwaukee at 51st Street and Capitol Drive. He was just heading out to visit his brother when a blue van struck him down. The driver of the van sped away and left the victim for dead.

The father is now struggling for his life at Froedtert Hospital. He remains in intensive care after suffering severe injuries to his legs, ribs, lungs and chest. After two major surgeries, it does appear that he has a good chance of surviving this tragic hit-and-run accident. However, he has a long road ahead of him and it is possible that he will suffer from the effects from the crash for a long time to come, physically, mentally, emotionally and financially.

Unfortunately, the driver of the hit-and-run vehicle, and the vehicle itself, has yet to be located. Family members are hoping that their plea for any information will procure some clues as to what happened and who was responsible for this terrible accident. Hopefully, nearby video surveillance will shed some light on the hit-and-run vehicle and driver.

This story is just another reminder of how serious motorcycle accidents can be. When other motorists on the road are negligent and crash into a motorcycle, the injuries can be very severe and many times result in a wrongful death.

Thankfully, it looks like this father will survive the crash. However, it will be very important to locate the responsible driver to hold him or her accountable for this man’s serious injuries. In the meantime, this single father of two will need the help of an experienced attorney who can gather all of the facts that are available and make sure that this accident in thoroughly and carefully investigated.

Source: Fox6now.com, “Single father in intensive care after almost-deadly hit and run,” Henry Rosoff, Oct. 18, 2011

If you need legal representation following an accident, contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney with Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. for a free consultation.

August 23, 2011 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Accident Takes Life of Wisconsin Motorcyclist

On behalf of Milwaukee truck accident attorney Ric Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Tuesday, August 23, 2011.

A construction zone has proved to be deadly and accident prone on a Wisconsin road.

A motorcycle accident proved fatal for a 52-year-old motorcyclist from Greenleaf. The man reportedly rear-ended a semi truck that had slowed to avoid a construction barrel on the highway near Scheuring Road.

The incident occurred one morning last week on U.S. 41. According to a police trooper, the motorcyclist was unable to stop for the trailer, lost control of his Harley Davidson bike, and struck the semi. The accident was between Brown County G/Main Avenue and County F/Scheuring Road, according to the Northwestern.

Police did not release the motorcyclist’s identify immediately, awaiting for the deceased man’s family to be informed of the accident. The 33-year-old semi driver from Kimberly was not hurt, and southbound traffic was jammed for miles afterwards as reconstruction crews investigated the scene. The lanes were reopened by mid-afternoon.

Construction has been under way on the exit near where the accident took place through the entire summer as part of the U.S. 41 project. Two other accidents had occurred along Interstate 43 the day before, which closed the road for nearly two hours.

In one of those accidents, a 41-year-old man hit a guardrail on a ramp curve while traveling north on a motorcycle. He was transferred to St. Vincent Hospital and was listed in critical condition.

After that accident, traffic began to back up along the highway, and according to police, a 68-year-old woman driving a van rear-ended an SUV. The driver of the van sustained serious injuries and was taken to Aurora BayCare Medical Center. Officials did not give information about her condition.

The accidents illustrate the need to slow down and drive carefully while in construction zones.

Source: The Northwestern, “Motorcyclist dies in U.S. 41 crash with truck,” Charles Davis and Doug Schneider, Aug. 17, 2011 [NOTE: source no longer exists]

If you have suffered an injury through no fault of your own, contact a truck accident lawyer in Milwaukee such as Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

June 23, 2011 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Update on Wisconsin Teen Motorcycle Accident

Two lawsuits filed for 2010 crash that killed motorcyclist

On behalf of Milwaukee personal injury attorney Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Insurance Claims on Thursday, June 23, 2011.

A motorcycle/car collision last year left one young man dead and a driver injured. Now, representatives for both have filed lawsuits relating to the crash. The disputes include the motorists’ insurance companies.

The 17-year-old motorcyclist reportedly collided with a car driven by an 18-year-old man on U.S. Highway 45 near Jacob Avenue in Oshkosh in June 2010. The motorcyclist died several days later after apparently amassing significant medical expenses.

After the car and motorcycle collided, the car apparently was sent into a tree, causing injuries to the driver, including a broken jaw, facial lacerations and broken teeth.

The families of both men have filed lawsuits. The motorcyclist’s father has sued the driver of the car and his insurance company, Auto-Owners Insurance Company. In the wrongful death lawsuit, he is reportedly seeking medical and funeral expenses, plus the loss of companionship of his son. According to the the Northwestern, the motorcyclist’s medical expenses totaled over $146,000.

The driver of the car filed his own lawsuit against the motorcyclist’s insurer, American Family Mutual Insurance Company. His personal injury lawsuit asks for damages relating to expenses and pain and suffering, according to reports.

Court dates for the lawsuits have not been set yet.

There were no criminal charges or any citations filed after the accident. The Northwestern indicates both motorists were going over the speed limit of 45 m.p.h. The State Patrol reportedly reconstructed the accident before deciding not to file any charges. Authorities reported that alcohol was not a factor in the accident.

Source: The Northwestern, “No criminal charges in June 2010 motorcycle crash killing Oshkosh teen, but two civil lawsuits filed,” Jennifer K. Woldt, 22 June 2011

If you or your family needs legal representation following an accident, contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney with Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

October 21, 2010 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Local News from Wisconsin Government Vehicle Accident Attorneys

Motorcycle Accident Injures Deputy in First Lady’s Motorcade

On behalf of Milwaukee personal injury attorney Ric Domnitz of Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Thursday, October 21, 2010.

We comment on many personal injury cases that occur around the Milwaukee metro area and throughout Wisconsin, but rarely do the incidents involve high-profile individuals. However, according to a news report by TMJ4 Milwaukee, a Milwaukee County Sheriff’s deputy was injured in a motorcycle accident while riding in first lady Michelle Obama’s motorcade. Milwaukee County Sheriff’s officials reported that a 35-year-old deputy, who has over 9 years of service under his belt, suffered non-life threatening minor injuries in motorcycle accident involving a Milwaukee Police motorcycle officer while escorting the first lady in her motorcade. Reports expressed that the motorcycle accident occurred just after 1:00 p.m. last Wednesday.

The accident occurred at 17th Street and Clybourn after the first lady spoke in downtown Milwaukee at a fundraiser for U.S. Senate Democrat Russ Feingold at Milwaukee’s U.S. Cellular Center. According to reports, the sheriff’s deputy was treated at a local hospital for his injuries. The other Milwaukee Police officer was unharmed in the motorcycle accident. At the time of the accident, the first lady was stopping at Miss Katie’s Diner at 19th and Clybourn for a surprise visit when the motorcycle crash occurred.

New reports did not detail the current condition of the injured sheriff’s deputies’ condition but doctors reported that his injuries were minor and non-life threatening. Interestingly, no news reports provided exact details of the motorcycle accident, for instance, how the crash occurred.

Source: TMJ4 Milwaukee, “Sheriff’s Deputy Injured in First Lady’s Motorcade,” 10/14/2010

Need legal advice from a Milwaukee personal injury attorney? Contact Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. today.

July 28, 2010 by Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C.

Milwaukee County district attorney’s office decided this week not to file criminal charges against a Wauwatosa woman for her involvement in a 2009 car accident that killed a Milwaukee motorcyclist.

The car accident occurred on the morning of July 2, 2009 when Jane Carter, 66, of Milwaukee, struck the motorcycle of Wauwatosa motorcyclist, 52-year-old Jim Barbarini. According to police and news reports, Carter was driving her Toyota Matrix when she turned the corner and struck the motorcycle of Barbarini. As a result, Barbarini broadsided the vehicle and was violently thrown from his bike. Barbarini was wearing a novelty helmet with spikes at the time of the crash, but it offered little to no protection during the impact. The crash occurred near N. Mayfair Road and W. Center Street.

According to police, Carter was on her way home from a tennis game with her friends just before the fatal car accident occurred. Officers on the scene saw no sign that Carter was impaired and did not administer a field sobriety test. After the crash, Carter told police that she had taken a prescription painkiller 12 hours prior to the crash and police initiated a blood test. The blood test revealed that Carter had taken Ambien, a prescription sleep aid, not 12 hours prior but 60 to 90 minutes prior to the crash.

Makers of the drug suggest that people who have taken the drug to stay in bed for seven to eight hours after taking the pill. One reported side effect is so-called sleep-driving in some people. For this reason, the Milwaukee County district attorney’s office spent the last 11 months investigating this case to determine if there was any additional evidence to support that she was impaired while driving. They determined she was not.

Despite not being charged with any crime, Carter still faces a fine of $1,311 for failing to yield to a stop sign causing death.

Related Resource: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “DA decides not to file criminal charges in motorcycle crash: After taking Ambien Jane Carter crashed into Jim Barbarini’s bike causing his death,” [original article no longer available online]

If you need legal aid from a Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorney, contact Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. today.

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