The first day matters because memories fade and insurers move quickly.
- Get medical care promptly (urgent care or the ER if warranted). Even if you feel “mostly okay,” some injuries—like concussions, soft-tissue damage, and certain fractures—can show up later.
- Document the scene while it’s still there: photos of the roadway, traffic controls, debris, curb cuts, potholes, and the position of your bike and the other vehicle.
- Write down details immediately: time of day, weather, lighting conditions, what the driver was doing right before impact, and whether you had to brake or swerve.
- Be careful with statements to insurance. In Wisconsin, what you say can be used to dispute fault and minimize damages.
If you’re already past the first day, don’t worry—there are still steps you can take now to strengthen your claim.


