Ride Smart This Fall
Motorcycle Safety Tips for Wisconsin Riders
As the leaves start turning gold and the air takes on that crisp edge, Wisconsin becomes one of the best places in the country to ride. The winding backroads of the Driftless Area, the coastal beauty of Door County, the Kettle Moraine’s rolling hills—fall is prime time for unforgettable motorcycle journeys.
But with autumn’s beauty comes risk. Morning frost, slick leaves, foggy valleys, and darting deer make fall riding tricky even for seasoned bikers. The truth is, motorcycle crashes spike in the fall months, and too many Wisconsin families end up dealing with devastating injuries or loss.
At McCarthy Motorcycle Law, we care about keeping riders safe as much as we care about protecting their rights after a crash. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of fall riding season—while staying safe.
Why Fall Riding in Wisconsin Is Special—And Risky
Fall in Wisconsin is a season of contrasts. You might start a ride in the sun at 70°F, only to finish shivering in the 40s as the wind kicks up and daylight disappears. Mornings can bring frost, fog clings to river valleys, and deer are on the move during rut season.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, there were 1,949 motorcycle crashes in 2023—100 riders lost their lives, and more than 1,600 were injured. Not all of these accidents happened in the fall, but autumn hazards play a big role in making Wisconsin one of the tougher states to ride when the seasons change.
Top Fall Motorcycle Safety Tips for Wisconsin Riders
1. Watch for Wet Leaves and Road Debris
Fallen leaves are beautiful, but they’re also a hidden danger. When wet, they can be as slick as ice—and they often cover up potholes or cracked pavement.
Tip: Stick to the center of the lane, reduce speed in leaf-covered sections, and avoid hard braking when traction might be compromised.
2. Gear Up for Temperature Swings
Wisconsin weather changes fast. The key is layers:
Base: moisture-wicking thermals
Mid: fleece or wool for warmth
Outer: waterproof, windproof jacket and pants
Tip: Always pack rain gear and spare gloves. Cold hands mean slower reactions.
3. Check Tire Pressure and Tread
Cooler temps drop tire pressure and reduce grip. Tires also take longer to warm up on cold pavement.
Tip: Use the penny test—if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low.
4. Stay Alert for Wildlife
Fall is peak deer season. In 2023, Wisconsin saw over 16,000 deer-related crashes, leading to hundreds of injuries.
Tip: Be extra vigilant at dawn and dusk, and ride slower in wooded or rural areas.
5. Watch for Frosty Roads
That thin layer of frost on bridges or shaded roads can take you down in a heartbeat.
Tip: Delay early morning rides until the sun warms the pavement, and stick to vehicle tracks where frost melts first.
6. Make Yourself Visible
Shorter days and foggy mornings mean you’ll ride in low light more often.
Tip: Keep your headlight on, clean your visor often, and wear hi-vis or reflective gear to stand out.
7. Prep Your Bike for Fall Conditions
Give your motorcycle a once-over before fall rides: lights, brakes, fluids, and especially the battery (cold weather is tough on weak ones).
Tip: Schedule a fall tune-up with a local shop to be sure you’re good for the season.
8. Know Wisconsin’s Motorcycle Laws
Motorcycle license required
Eye protection unless you have a windscreen
Helmets mandatory for riders under 18 and permit holders
Daytime headlights required
Tip: Even if the law doesn’t require it, a DOT-approved helmet and protective gear are the smart call.
9. Ride Defensively
Fall means more distracted drivers, school buses, and sudden weather shifts. Defensive riding saves lives.
Tip: Keep space between you and traffic, avoid blind spots, and always assume drivers don’t see you.
10. Choose Scenic Routes Wisely
Wisconsin’s fall rides are incredible—but some are more technical than others. Popular favorites:
Door County Coastal Byway
Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive
Lake Michigan Circle Tour
Tip: Check road conditions and weather before heading out. Avoid new, twisty roads in the dark.
Legal Considerations for Fall Motorcycle Accidents
Even the safest riders can’t control deer, frost, or distracted drivers. When accidents happen, it’s important to know what steps to take:
Get medical care immediately, even if you feel okay.
Document the scene—photos, witness contacts, skid marks, and road conditions.
File a police report.
Talk to a motorcycle accident attorney before dealing with insurance.
At McCarthy Motorcycle Law, we’ve stood with riders and families across Wisconsin. We know the seasonal hazards riders face, and we fight to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and the pain of being sidelined from the road.
Advocating for Riders Beyond the Courtroom
We’re not just lawyers—we’re part of Wisconsin’s riding community. That means supporting rider safety programs, pushing for fair insurance practices, and backing road maintenance efforts that matter to bikers.
When riders stick together, we’re stronger—on the road and in the courtroom.
Final Thoughts: Ride Safe, Ride Smart
There’s nothing like fall riding in Wisconsin. The colors, the cool air, the winding roads—it’s what motorcycling is all about. But the season demands respect.
Prep your bike, gear up for the weather, and ride defensively. That way, you can enjoy every mile without ending your season too soon.
And if the worst happens—if you or someone you love is injured in a motorcycle crash—know that you don’t have to face it alone. McCarthy Motorcycle Law is here to help you navigate the road ahead.
👉 Need help after a motorcycle accident? Contact McCarthy Motorcycle Law today for a free, confidential case evaluation.