July 2: The Real Independence Day AND the Timeless Freedom of the Open Road
Most folks in America will tell you Independence Day is July 4. Fireworks crackle, flags wave, and grills blaze in backyards across the country. But if you dig into history, you’ll discover a fascinating fact: it was actually July 2, 1776when the Continental Congress voted to declare independence from Great Britain.
That’s right…the true moment America decided to stand on its own two feet wasn’t the Fourth, but the Second of July. John Adams himself believed July 2 would be the day future generations would celebrate with “pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations.”
He was close…but a couple of days off. The final wording of the Declaration of Independence took until July 4, and that’s the date on the document. The Fourth got all the glory.
But for anyone who loves motorcycles, there’s something fitting about July 2 being the real day of independence. Because riding a motorcycle has always been about that same spirit…claiming your freedom, charting your own path, and refusing to live life penned in by someone else’s rules.
As we roll into this Independence Day week, let’s talk about why July 2 deserves a toast—and why motorcycle riding might just be the ultimate modern expression of American independence.
July 2, 1776: A Bold Move Toward Freedom
Let’s start with a quick spin through the history books. On July 2, 1776, after weeks of heated debate, the Second Continental Congress voted in Philadelphia to separate the American colonies from Great Britain. Twelve colonies voted yes (New York abstained initially).
Adams was thrilled. He wrote to his wife Abigail:
“The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America… It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade… from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
Yet the Declaration itself wasn’t officially adopted and finalized until July 4. The date at the top of the page, and the printed copies that spread around the colonies, said July 4, 1776. So that’s what went into the public consciousness.
But in spirit, July 2 was the day we chose to become independent. It was the day we decided to go it alone, no matter the risk.
And if that’s not the same spirit that lives inside every motorcycle rider, I don’t know what is.
The Spirit of Choosing Your Own Road
When the Founding Fathers voted for independence, they knew the odds were against them. The British Empire was the world’s superpower. Their armies were professional and well-supplied. The colonies were a ragtag bunch with fewer weapons and even fewer resources.
But freedom mattered more. The right to live by their own laws, chart their own futures, and speak their minds without fear—it was worth fighting for.
That same spark fuels the soul of motorcycle riders.
Every time you swing a leg over your bike and fire it up, you’re choosing freedom. You’re choosing to live a little closer to the edge, to trust your own skill and instincts, and to taste life unfiltered by four steel doors and a windshield.
It’s why bikers talk about “wind therapy.” It’s why we’ll spend hours in the garage wrenching on machines we love. It’s why we daydream about the next long ride.
Motorcycling is personal independence in motion.
Why Motorcycles Have Always Been Synonymous With Freedom
From the early days of Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles to the café racers of the 1960s, motorcycles have been icons of rebellion and independence.
During the post-war years, returning veterans found solace and camaraderie in riding. The open road was an escape from civilian life’s routines and a way to stay connected to the adrenaline they’d experienced overseas.
In movies like The Wild One or Easy Rider, motorcycles came to symbolize breaking away from conformity. Riders weren’t content to follow society’s rules. They wanted to carve their own trails, whether on Route 66 or back-country roads.
Even today, while the motorcycle scene is far more diverse and inclusive than ever, the core remains unchanged. It’s about freedom. Individualism. The thrill of being out there on your own, with nothing between you and the world but two wheels and your own grit.
And there’s no better time to celebrate that spirit than during the week we commemorate our nation’s own declaration of freedom.
Independence and the Roads Less Traveled
One of the best things about riding motorcycles is that it makes even familiar places feel new. You notice the smell of fresh-cut hay rolling through farmland. You see how the late afternoon sun hits the hills just so.
You hear the world in a way you never can inside a car.
Even better, you can choose where you’re going…and how you’ll get there. No detours forced on you by a GPS. No obligation to stick to the highways. If you want to veer off onto a winding country road, you just do it.
There’s something fiercely American about that. We’re a nation built on exploration, on heading west, on looking at a map and thinking: Let’s see what’s over there.
That’s what independence is all about, having the freedom to make your own choices, even if they’re not the easiest ones.
July 2 and the Courage to Go It Alone
Declaring independence wasn’t a safe move in 1776. It was downright dangerous.
But the Founding Fathers believed liberty was worth the risk. And in a small way, every time we ride, we honor that same courage.
No, riding a motorcycle isn’t the same as signing your name to a revolution. But it does mean you’re willing to take a risk for the things that make you feel alive.
You accept the weather might turn. You know the pavement is less forgiving. But you ride anyway, because for you, life in a cage just isn’t enough.
And on July 2, that’s the exact kind of spirit we should remember and celebrate.
The Enduring Gift of Motorcycle Freedom
Motorcycles remind us that independence isn’t just an idea from the history books. It’s a daily practice. It’s found in small decisions:
Taking the long way home.
Exploring roads you’ve never ridden.
Stopping whenever you feel like it.
Riding solo when you need quiet, or riding with friends when you crave connection.
Riding doesn’t care how old you are, what job you work, or what your politics might be. When you’re on the bike, you’re simply you: free and alive.
That’s why so many of us keep riding for decades. The independence never loses its shine.
A New Tradition: Toasting July 2
Maybe this year, we can start a new tradition. On July 2, pour a cold one (or an iced tea, if you’re riding) and raise a toast: to the day we truly became our own nation. And to the machines that help us keep that spirit alive.
Because whether it’s 1776 or 2025, independence means the same thing: living life on your terms.
And there’s no better way to do that than behind the bars of a motorcycle.
Ride Safe—and Ride Free
So this Independence Day week, remember that freedom isn’t just a fireworks show on the Fourth. It’s a choice, made on the Second…and every day since.
It’s the choice to stand up for yourself. To chase your own horizons. To feel the wind in your face and know that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Here’s to July 2. The real Independence Day.
And here’s to motorcycles…the timeless machines that keep independence roaring down the road, year after year.
Ride safe. Ride free. And never stop celebrating your own independence.
Happy Independence Day All!
Riding Smart in the Sizzle: How to Stay Safe on Your Bike in Wisconsin’s Summer Heat
When the Roads Sizzle, Don’t Fry: A Rider’s Guide to Hot Weather Safety
There’s nothing quite like Wisconsin in the summer. The long days. The sun glinting off chrome. That sweet moment when you finally peel out of your driveway and hit open roads that seemed frozen and salt-streaked only months ago.
But lately…Mother Nature’s been cranking the heat up toward 100 degrees—and staying there. And while sunny skies might look perfect for a ride, scorching temps can quickly turn a fun day in the saddle into a sweaty, exhausting, or downright dangerous affair.
And yes—we’ve all seen that guy in a t-shirt and shorts cruising by, helmet bungeed to the sissy bar, thinking he’s cheating the heat. Maybe you’ve been tempted yourself. Who wouldn’t be when the sweat’s rolling off you at a stoplight?
But as riders, we know one harsh truth: The pavement’s not any softer because it’s hot.
So let’s talk about staying safe in the heat—without sacrificing your skin, your health, or your ride.
Why Riding in Extreme Heat is Different
It’s easy to underestimate just how hard riding is on your body in extreme heat. You’re exposed directly to the sun, wind, and radiating pavement temperatures. Even at highway speeds, it can feel like someone’s pointing a blow dryer at your face.
Here’s what makes riding in the heat risky:
Dehydration sneaks up fast. You’re losing fluids constantly through sweat, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are real dangers. Once your core temp goes too high, it can quickly become a medical emergency.
Your brain and reflexes slow down. The hotter you get, the more fatigue and fuzzy thinking creep in—which can lead to poor decisions or delayed reactions on the road.
The road surface gets slicker. Oil bleeds out of hot asphalt, making roads more slippery than usual.
Your bike runs hotter too. Air-cooled engines especially can struggle in high temps, increasing the chance of overheating or breakdowns.
Bottom line: Hot weather riding is not just uncomfortable—it’s a genuine safety issue.
Hot-Weather Riding Myth: Less Gear Means Cooler Riding
Let’s bust the biggest myth first.
“I’ll be cooler if I ditch my jacket and ride in a t-shirt.”
It’s absolutely normal to think this way. The fewer clothes you wear, the less hot you’ll feel, right?
Wrong.
When you ride bare-armed in hot weather:
✅ You’re fully exposed to direct sun, which can literally cook your skin. Think sunburn, heat rash, and risk of skin cancer.
✅ Your sweat evaporates instantly in the wind—so you lose your body’s natural cooling mechanism and dehydrate faster.
✅ If you crash, you’re leaving your skin behind on the asphalt. It doesn’t take much speed to cause serious road rash.
✅ You’re vulnerable to flying debris, bugs, and burns from hot engine parts.
The truth? A well-designed summer riding jacket and pants can actually help keep you cooler than bare skin.
Modern mesh gear is a game-changer for hot weather riding. It flows air through the fabric while protecting you from UV rays and abrasion. Sure, it’s not as cool as riding naked—but it’s a heck of a lot safer and more comfortable in the long run.
Gear Up Wisely for Wisconsin Heat
Here’s how to stay protected without baking alive:
1. Choose Mesh or Ventilated Gear
Mesh riding jackets and pants are designed to move air through the garment while offering abrasion resistance.
Look for CE-rated armor in shoulders, elbows, knees, and back for crash protection.
Light colors reflect sunlight better than black gear.
Brands like REV’IT!, Alpinestars, Klim, and Joe Rocket make excellent summer-specific gear.
2. Don’t Skip Gloves
Your hands are usually the first to hit the pavement in a fall—and the last thing you want is shredded palms.
Wear summer gloves with mesh panels or perforations for airflow.
Leather palms still offer the best slide protection.
3. Keep Your Helmet On
A helmet doesn’t just protect your brain—it shields your face from searing wind and sun.
Choose a helmet with plenty of vents.
Consider a lighter color shell to reflect heat.
Pinlock inserts or an anti-fog visor help in humid conditions.
4. Wear Moisture-Wicking Layers
Ditch the cotton undershirts. They get soaked and hold sweat against your skin.
Opt for synthetic base layers or merino wool designed for moisture control.
These help keep you cooler and prevent chafing.
5. Protect Your Eyes
Hot weather means harsh sunlight. Squinting all day is exhausting and dangerous.
Wear UV-rated sunglasses or a tinted helmet visor.
Carry a clear visor for riding after dark.
Hydration: Your #1 Survival Tool
Hydration is the single most important factor in safe hot-weather riding.
If you wait until you’re thirsty, you’re already behind.
Signs of Dehydration:
Dry mouth
Fatigue or weakness
Headache
Dizziness
Muscle cramps
Confusion
Any of these on the bike is dangerous. Don’t risk it.
Hot-Weather Hydration Tips:
✅ Pre-hydrate. Drink water before your ride even starts.
✅ Use a hydration pack. A CamelBak or similar pack lets you sip constantly while riding.
✅ Avoid sugary or high-caffeine drinks. They can actually dehydrate you.
✅ Take frequent stops. Every hour or so, pull over and drink at least 8 oz of water.
✅ Watch your pee. TMI? Maybe. But pale yellow is good. Dark yellow or amber means you need fluids fast.
Plan Smarter Routes and Rides
In triple-digit heat, sometimes the safest move is to not ride at all.
But if you’re determined to get those miles in, here’s how to plan smarter:
Ride early or late. Avoid midday when the sun’s highest and temperatures peak.
Stick to scenic routes with shade. Wisconsin’s wooded backroads often run cooler than open highways.
Shorten your ride. Save the marathon miles for cooler days.
Know where to stop. Map out gas stations, convenience stores, and shady rest areas.
Check the forecast. Heat indexes can make it feel far hotter than the thermometer reads.
Listen to Your Body
This might be the most important safety tip of all:
If you feel off—stop riding.
Heat exhaustion can sneak up fast. Know these warning signs:
Heavy sweating, then suddenly dry skin
Chills
Weakness or dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion
These are not just annoyances—they’re serious medical emergencies.
If you experience these symptoms:
✅ Pull over in the shade.
✅ Remove your helmet and open your jacket.
✅ Sip cool (not ice-cold) water.
✅ Call for help if you don’t feel better quickly.
Your Bike Needs Heat Protection Too
It’s not just your body that suffers in the heat. Your motorcycle feels it, too:
Check your coolant levels before rides if you have a liquid-cooled bike.
Air-cooled bikes can overheat in stop-and-go traffic—try to keep moving if possible.
Check tire pressure. Hot pavement heats your tires, affecting grip and wear.
Keep an eye on your oil. Hot oil breaks down faster, so stay on top of oil changes.
Avoid idling for long periods. Especially in parades, rallies, or traffic jams.
Remember: Style Isn’t Worth Your Skin
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the cool image of summer riding. Wind in your hair, sun on your arms. But here’s the harsh truth:
Road rash doesn’t care how hot it is.
I’ve talked to countless riders who swore they’d never ride gearless again after one low-speed crash in shorts and a t-shirt. Don’t learn the hard way.
Gear up. Hydrate. Ride smart. And remember—there’s nothing badass about ending your ride in the ER.
Final Word: Keep Riding, Keep Living
Riding in the heat takes more planning, more gear, and more discipline than those perfect 70-degree days. But it’s worth it to keep your rides safe—and your skin on your body.
So next time you roll out on a scorching Wisconsin day, don’t just think about looking cool. Think about staying cool—and staying alive.
Enjoy the ride. And stay safe out there.
June Is National PTSD Awareness Month
What Injured Riders Need to Know About PTSD After a Crash
For many riders, the physical wounds from a motorcycle crash are only part of the story. Beneath the broken bones, road rash, or surgery scars, there’s often something deeper—and less visible—going on: emotional trauma. As we recognize National PTSD Awareness Month this June, it’s time to talk openly about a topic that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves in the motorcycle community: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after a crash.
At McCarthy Motorcycle Law, Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Law Firm, we’ve helped riders across the state recover not just for the physical harm they’ve suffered, but also for the emotional and psychological injuries they carry with them after an accident. If you or someone you care about has been in a serious motorcycle crash, here’s what you need to know about PTSD, how to recognize it, and how it plays a role in a personal injury case.
What Is PTSD—and Why Does It Affect Motorcycle Riders?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While PTSD is often associated with combat veterans or survivors of violent crimes, it can just as easily affect someone who’s lived through a severe motorcycle accident.
Motorcycle crashes are uniquely terrifying. Riders are vulnerable and exposed, often tossed from their bikes, pinned, or thrown into traffic. Even when a crash isn’t fatal, the experience can be intensely traumatic—especially if a loved one was seriously hurt or killed. Many riders replay the crash over and over in their minds, feel hyper-alert on the road, or struggle to even get back on a motorcycle.
Common PTSD Symptoms Riders Experience After a Crash
PTSD shows up differently for different people, but some of the most common symptoms among riders include:
Re-experiencing the Trauma
Flashbacks of the crash
Nightmares or disturbing dreams
Intrusive thoughts or sudden memories while riding or driving
Avoidance
Avoiding the crash site, riding altogether, or even talking about the accident
Skipping social events or rides with friends
Not wanting to see photos of motorcycles or crash scenes
Hyperarousal
Feeling constantly “on edge” or easily startled
Trouble sleeping or concentrating
Irritability or angry outbursts
Mood and Thought Changes
Feeling numb or detached
Difficulty finding joy in things that once mattered (like riding)
Guilt, shame, or hopelessness—especially if someone else was injured or killed
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, know this: you’re not weak, and you’re not alone. PTSD is a real, diagnosable condition—and it’s treatable.
Why Riders Often Don’t Talk About PTSD
The motorcycle community is tough. Riders pride themselves on grit, independence, and resilience. But that strength can sometimes make it harder to admit when something’s wrong. Riders may downplay what they’re feeling or dismiss it as “just part of the ride.” That attitude is understandable—but it can also prevent healing.
At Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Law Firm, we’ve talked to countless clients who said things like:
“I can handle a broken leg—but this mental stuff? That’s been the hardest part.”
PTSD doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you went through something awful, and your brain is doing its best to make sense of it. Just like you’d get help for a crushed collarbone or a herniated disc, you deserve support for the mental impact too.
How PTSD Is Diagnosed After a Motorcycle Accident
If you think you might have PTSD after a crash, it’s important to talk to a medical professional—ideally a psychologist, psychiatrist, or trauma-informed therapist. Diagnosis typically involves:
A clinical interview
Discussion of symptoms and how long they’ve been present
Ruling out other possible causes (like brain injury or medication side effects)
The key is that PTSD symptoms usually persist for more than a month after the crash and interfere with your daily life, job, relationships, or ability to ride.
How PTSD Can Affect a Rider’s Life
For many riders, PTSD means:
Giving up the thing they love most: riding
Struggling at work due to loss of focus or panic
Becoming withdrawn from friends, family, or fellow riders
Battling depression, anxiety, or substance use as a way to cope
In some cases, riders may feel like they’re “not themselves” anymore—or that they lost a part of their identity the day they crashed. That emotional fallout is real, and it matters.
Can You Be Compensated for PTSD in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
Yes—and this is something every injured rider should know.
In Wisconsin, personal injury law allows you to seek damages for both physical and emotional harm caused by someone else’s negligence. That includes:
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Mental anguish
Loss of enjoyment of life
Costs of therapy, medication, and psychiatric care
To prove PTSD in a legal case, we typically work with:
Medical records from licensed therapists or doctors
Testimony from mental health professionals
Statements from family, friends, or coworkers who can describe changes in behavior
Your own honest account of what you’ve been through
You don’t need to suffer in silence. If PTSD has altered your life after a crash, that deserves to be part of your case—and we know how to build that into your claim.
Why PTSD Claims Require the Right Kind of Lawyer
Not every personal injury lawyer understands what it takes to prove emotional trauma in a motorcycle case. PTSD isn’t visible like a broken arm. It doesn’t show up on an X-ray. And it can be easy for insurance companies to downplay—unless your lawyer knows how to fight back.
At Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Law Firm, we don’t treat PTSD as a “side issue.” We treat it as a major part of the story when it is one. We've worked with riders who:
Needed ongoing therapy just to sleep again
Couldn’t ride after the crash—even when their physical injuries healed
Were forced to quit jobs because of anxiety or panic
We take time to listen, understand, and present your full experience—so the court or insurance adjuster doesn’t just see broken bones, but the emotional scars too.
If you want to learn more about how PTSD affects motorcycle crash victims and what your legal options are, check out our full page on the topic here:
👉 PTSD After a Motorcycle Crash
What to Do If You Think You Have PTSD from a Motorcycle Crash
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Talk to a Mental Health Professional
You don’t have to tough it out alone. A licensed therapist can help you process what happened and begin to heal.
2. Keep Track of Your Symptoms
Journaling your sleep, mood, triggers, and emotional shifts can help your provider—and your attorney—understand what you’re going through.
3. Talk to an Attorney Who Gets It
You need someone who respects motorcyclists, understands PTSD, and knows how to tell your full story to an insurance company or jury. That’s what we do.
4. Don’t Let Insurance Brush It Off
Many insurers try to treat PTSD like an “inconvenience,” not an injury. That’s where we come in. We’ll push back—and fight for full compensation.
You’re Not Alone — And You Deserve Help
This June, as the nation talks more openly about PTSD, we want Wisconsin riders to know one thing: you are not alone. If you’re struggling after a crash, we see you. We respect what you’ve been through. And we’re here to help.
Whether you’ve been battling flashbacks, riding anxiety, sleepless nights, or guilt that won’t go away—your mental health matters just as much as your physical recovery.
Get a Free, Confidential Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one is dealing with PTSD after a motorcycle crash, reach out today. Our case evaluations are free, confidential, and go straight to our inbox. If we can help, we’ll schedule a consultation. If not, we’ll point you in the right direction.
📋 Free Case Evaluation Form
Final Thought
As riders, we’re trained to watch the road ahead, prepare for danger, and stay in control. But when life throws you off the bike—literally—it’s okay to ask for help getting back up.
PTSD doesn’t make you less of a rider. If anything, facing it makes you braver than most.
DAWGS & HAWGS: Riding for Veterans, One Service Dog at a Time
When: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Where: Starts in Iron Ridge, WI | Ends at Wisconsin Harley-Davidson, Oconomowoc
Why: To raise funds for service dogs that change veterans’ lives
Every so often, an event comes along that brings together everything great about the motorcycle community—open roads, good people, and a powerful cause. DAWGS & HAWGS is one of those events.
On Saturday, June 14, riders from across Wisconsin will gather for a veterans-themed poker run and community celebration, all in support of something deeply meaningful: funding service dogs for veterans.
More Than Just a Ride
Hosted by the Wisconsin Guardian Foundation in partnership with Wisconsin Harley-Davidson, DAWGS & HAWGS isn’t your average summer charity ride.
This one’s got a twist.
Instead of just riding from stop to stop, you’ll be making your way to veterans memorials and answering trivia questions at each one. It’s a poker run meets tribute ride, where the goal isn’t just to win the best hand—but to remember why we ride at all.
You’ll start in Iron Ridge and wind your way through scenic country roads, stopping at five memorials along the way. Each one will test your knowledge, honor our nation’s heroes, and get you one card closer to a winning hand.
And yes—there are prizes.
Best Hand
Second Best Hand
Worst Hand (because hey, even the underdog deserves a shot)
But the real reward? Supporting the training and placement of a Guardian Service Dog for a veteran in need.
Ride for Those Who Served—and for Those Who Serve Them
The funds raised during this event help cover the cost of training and placing service dogs for veterans struggling with PTSD, MST (Military Sexual Trauma), mobility issues, and more.
For many of these vets, a service dog isn’t just a companion. It’s life-changing. It’s peace of mind. It’s a reason to keep going.
By riding in DAWGS & HAWGS, you’re not just putting in miles. You’re giving back in a way that will be felt long after the engines cool.
After the Ride: Music, Dogs, and Community
Once the ride wraps up at Wisconsin Harley-Davidson in Oconomowoc, the celebration kicks into gear:
K-9 Demonstration – Watch these incredible service dogs show off their training.
Live Music – Local bands will keep the good vibes rolling.
Food Trucks & Vendors – Bring your appetite and your wallet. It’s for a great cause.
Silent Auction – Get your hands on some cool gear while supporting an even cooler mission.
T-Shirts – The first 100 participants get a limited-edition K9/Harley shirt.
It’s family-friendly. It’s dog-friendly. And it’s the kind of event that reminds you why we call this a community, not just a crowd.
The Details
Registration:
Starts at 8:00 AM in Iron Ridge
Ride begins at 9:00 AM
Ends at 2:00 PM in Oconomowoc
Cost:
$30 per rider
$15 per passenger
$10 for entry to the after-party (non-riders welcome!)
All proceeds go to fund the next Guardian Service Dog placement.
Rain or shine, the ride is on.
Register Here: https://wisconsinguardianfoundation.formstack.com/forms/dawgs_and_hawgs
Pro Tips for Riders
Show up early if you want that shirt—first 100 only!
Don’t stress the trivia. It’s for fun—and honoring our vets.
Bring some extra cash for the silent auction and vendors.
Ride respectfully. This one’s about more than speed.
Stick around for the after-party. The K-9 demo alone is worth it.
Why We Ride
At its heart, DAWGS & HAWGS is about more than motorcycles. It’s about the lives we touch when we show up, ride out, and give back. Veterans put everything on the line for us. Helping them get a service dog trained and placed is the least we can do—and the best reason to ride this summer.
If you’ve been looking for a ride that actually means something… this is it.
So gear up, get out, and come ride for those who’ve served.
Charity Ride Season is Under Way
Why We Sponsor Local Charity Rides: Giving Back to the Wisconsin Biker Community
For many Wisconsin riders, Memorial Day weekend is more than just the unofficial start of summer — it’s the launch of charity ride season. Across the state, bikers come together to honor veterans, support families in need, raise money for medical causes, or simply rally behind members of their own community.
At Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Law Firm, we’re proud to stand behind these rides, not just as a law firm, but as part of the riding community. We sponsor local charity rides because we believe in giving back, lifting up the communities we serve, and showing that motorcyclists are some of the most generous, compassionate people you’ll ever meet.
Why Charity Rides Matter to Us
You can judge a lot about a community by how it rallies when someone needs help. And Wisconsin’s motorcycle community? It’s one of the strongest, tightest, and most generous groups around.
We sponsor charity rides because:
Riders lift each other up. When a fellow rider goes down, when a family is hit by tragedy, or when a cause needs support, bikers don’t sit back…they show up. We’ve seen it again and again: the motorcycle community is a family, and families take care of each other.
It reflects who we are as a firm. We don’t just represent motorcyclists in court…we believe in standing beside them in the real world. Supporting charity rides lets us be part of the community we fight for every day.
We believe in causes that matter. Whether it’s supporting veteran services, raising money for cancer research, helping kids’ charities, or backing local first responders, we want to use our platform to amplify good work happening in Wisconsin.
It builds trust and connection. We’re not interested in flashy marketing or just slapping our logo on a banner. We want to show up…shake hands, listen to stories, and maybe even ride. That’s how real relationships are built.
Memorial Day: The Start of Wisconsin’s Charity Ride Season
Memorial Day is one of the most important weekends of the year for Wisconsin riders. Across the state, riders gather to honor those who served, pay respects at veterans’ cemeteries, and support organizations that help military families and veterans.
But Memorial Day is just the beginning. Summer in Wisconsin is packed with charity rides, including:
Firefighter and first responder fundraisers
Rides for local families facing medical crises
Cancer awareness and research rides
Animal rescue and humane society rides
Community scholarship fundraisers
Memorial rides honoring fallen riders
Every one of these events is a chance for riders to come together, raise money, and make a difference. And we want to help.
How We Help as a Sponsor
When we sponsor a charity ride, we don’t just write a check and disappear. We look for ways to actively support the event and help it succeed. Here’s what that looks like:
✅ Financial Support — We can help cover event costs like permits, insurance, food, entertainment, or rider swag. We know many grassroots events run on tight budgets, and we want to make sure money goes toward the cause, not just expenses.
✅ Rider Safety Materials — As a motorcycle law firm, we care deeply about rider safety. We often provide safety tips, reflective gear, or educational materials that help keep riders informed and protected. We can even bring out our experts to provide quick safety tips specific to your ride.
✅ Promotion and Visibility — We can help get the word out through our website, social media channels, and local connections. When we sponsor an event, we want people to know about it so attendance and support grow.
✅ Event Day Presence — We love to show up in person when possible — not as suits handing out business cards, but as part of the community. We’ll set up a booth, hand out helpful materials, safety swag (tire gauges, kickstand pucks, credit card multitools, reflective vests) chat with riders, and maybe even join the ride ourselves.
✅ Long-Term Partnership — We’re not just in this for one weekend. We’re looking to build ongoing relationships with rides and organizations we believe in, offering support year after year.
Why We Care About Giving Back
At the end of the day, we’re more than just a law firm — we’re people who care deeply about Wisconsin’s riding community. All the lawyers ride, or used to ride. We know the risks you face, the strength of the bonds you build, and the challenges you experience when something goes wrong.
Sponsoring charity rides is one way we can give back to the people who inspire us:
The riders who show up every weekend to raise money for others
The families who work tirelessly to organize events for causes close to their hearts
The volunteers, local businesses, and community members who make these rides happen
We believe that when you care about a community, you show up. And we want to keep showing up, year after year.
How to Reach Out for Sponsorship
If you’re planning a charity ride in Wisconsin and you think we might be a good fit as a sponsor, we want to hear from you!
Here’s how you can connect with us:
👉 Email John@LawyerMC.com
👉 Call John @ (608) 608-2880
When you reach out, let us know:
✅ What’s the cause or organization the ride supports?
✅ What date(s) and location are you planning?
✅ What kind of support are you looking for (financial, materials, promotion, etc.)?
✅ How can we help make your ride a success?
We review sponsorship requests carefully and aim to support as many events that align with our values, focus on rider safety, and genuinely make a difference as possible.
Let’s Ride for a Cause — Together
Motorcyclists are often unfairly stereotyped — but anyone who’s been part of Wisconsin’s charity ride scene knows the truth: riders have some of the biggest hearts around.
At Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Law Firm, we’re proud to stand beside you, not just in the legal fight, but on the roads, at the rallies, and at the rides that make our communities stronger.
Here’s to a summer of meaningful miles, safe roads, and making a difference together.
Ride safe. Ride with heart. And let’s make this charity ride season one to remember.
Spring’s Here, So Are the Hazards: 7 Early Season Motorcycle Dangers Wisconsin Riders Should Watch For
Spring is finally rolling into Wisconsin, and if you're anything like us, that means one thing: time to ride. But after a long winter, the roads — and the drivers on them — aren’t always ready for us.
At McCarthy Motorcycle Law, we ride too, and we’ve seen how springtime crashes can happen when people least expect it. Whether you're in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or cruising through the Driftless, here are seven hazards Wisconsin riders need to keep in mind as the riding season kicks off — and what you can do if one of them puts you in the ER.
1. Sand, Salt, and Gravel on the Roads
Hazardous road conditions are a recurring theme here. The snowplows might be gone, but their leftovers aren’t. Salt and gravel tend to collect in curves, intersections, and along shoulders — right where your tires need traction. Until the street sweepers make their rounds, take it slow in these zones.
Tip: Treat every sharp turn like it could be coated in sand until you've ridden it a few times this season.
2. Potholes Big Enough to Swallow a Sportster
Wisconsin winters are brutal on asphalt. And while a pothole might jostle a car, it can throw a rider over the bars. Don’t assume that road you’ve ridden for years is still in the same shape it was last fall.
3. Drivers Who Forgot We Exist
People haven’t seen motorcycles on the road for months. Many are still in “winter driver brain.” They suddenly turn left, don’t look twice at intersections, they change lanes without checking blind spots, and they assume no one's coming unless they hear a truck.
If you’ve been hit because someone “didn’t see you,” call us. That’s not an excuse. That’s negligence.
4. Your Own Rustiness
We get it — you’re itching to ride. But if your last real seat time was last September, shake off the cobwebs with a short, controlled ride before hitting the twisties or group runs.
Check your braking reflexes.
Warm up your counter-steering.
Remind your brain how to scan for threats.
5. Mechanical Issues After Winter Storage
Bikes don’t like sitting still. If your tires are under-inflated, your battery’s weak, or your chain’s loose, a mechanical failure could land you in a crash. Always do a full safety inspection before your first ride — or have your mechanic give it a once-over.
6. Wildlife (Especially in the Northwoods)
Springtime means deer, turkeys, and even bears are moving again. Wisconsin riders are especially at risk on rural highways at dawn and dusk — exactly when it’s easiest to miss an animal darting across the road.
7. Group Ride Chaos
Group rides are awesome — but early season rides are when a lot of inexperienced riders, mechanical issues, and mismatched skill levels collide. If you’re leading or tailing, ride predictably. If you're new to the group, don't feel pressured to ride beyond your limits.
Crashes in group rides can get complicated when it comes to liability. If you’ve been injured in one, give us a shout and we’ll help you sort out who’s responsible.
What to Do If You’re Injured in a Spring Motorcycle Accident
If someone else’s mistake causes your crash — whether it’s a careless driver, a dangerous road condition, or a mechanical failure from a shop’s bad repair — you have rights.
Here’s what to do:
Get medical attention (even if you feel “okay”)
Document the scene if you’re able — photos, names, witness info
Avoid giving statements to insurance companies right away
Call a motorcycle attorney who actually knows motorcycles
Don’t settle without talking to a lawyer — early offers are almost always lowballs
Why Riders Across Wisconsin Trust McCarthy Motorcycle Law
We’re considered Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Law Firm for a reason. We don’t just say we ride. We live it. We’ve recovered millions for injured riders and grieving families in Wisconsin. And we treat every case like it matters — because it does.
✅ Free consultations
✅ No fees unless we win
✅ 30% if we settle pre-filing, 33% post-filing, 40% at trial
✅ You talk to an actual lawyer, not a call center
Final Thoughts: Ride Safe. Ride Smart. And If Someone Hits You, Reach Out.
We hope your spring rides are smooth, sunny, and trouble-free. But if something goes wrong, you deserve someone who gets what it means to be a rider — and who knows how to fight for one.
McCarthy Motorcycle Law
Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Law Firm
Get Your Free Case Evaluation
Welcome!
Hey there, fellow riders!
If you’re reading this, you probably have two things in common with us—you love motorcycles, and you want to know your rights on the road. Welcome to the Wisconsin Motorcycle Injury Law Blog, a place where we’ll talk about everything that matters to bikers, from safety tips and legal rights to real stories from the road.
Why We Started This Blog
Wisconsin has some of the best riding in the country—open highways, scenic routes, and a community of riders who look out for each other. But let’s be real: motorcyclists get the short end of the stick when it comes to safety and legal protection. We’ve seen too many riders hurt because of careless drivers, bad road conditions, or insurance companies that refuse to play fair.
That’s why we’re here. This blog is about protecting riders, sharing knowledge, and making sure you’re prepared—whether it’s your first ride or your thousandth. We’ll break down the law in plain English, so you don’t have to wade through legal jargon when you just want answers.
What You’ll Find Here
We’re not here to bore you with legal theory. This blog is built for riders, by people who actually care about riders.Here’s what you can expect:
Motorcycle Laws in Wisconsin – Helmet laws, lane-splitting (yeah, we know it’s illegal here), what to do after a crash, and everything in between.
Real Biker Stories – Lessons learned from riders who’ve been through it all—accidents, legal battles, and close calls.
Insurance & Your Rights – Ever had an insurance company try to lowball you after a wreck? We’ll show you how to fight back.
Safety & Road Awareness – Tips to stay ahead of distracted drivers, deal with bad weather, and avoid the most common crash scenarios.
Legal Insights – What happens if you’re hit by a driver who didn’t see you? How does Wisconsin’s comparative negligence law impact your case? We’ll cover the stuff you need to know, minus the lawyer-speak.
We’re On Your Side
Motorcyclists are some of the toughest people out there. We take risks, we embrace the freedom of the road, and we understand that not everyone “gets it.” But one thing we should never have to accept is being treated unfairly after an accident. Whether it’s a driver who didn’t check their blind spot, a city that fails to fix dangerous roads, or an insurance company trying to deny your claim, you deserve someone in your corner.
This blog is our way of making sure every Wisconsin rider knows their rights. We hope you never need a lawyer—but if you do, we want you to be informed, prepared, and ready to fight for what’s fair.
Let’s Ride (and Talk)
We want this to be a conversation, not just a one-way blog. Got a question? A story to share? Something you want us to cover? Drop us a message.
Until then, keep the rubber side down and the shiny side up. Ride safe, Wisconsin!