Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Crash on US-45 in Waupaca County, Wisconsin, Leaves Rider Critically Injured

Modified Date: 
Fri, 06/13/2025 - 8:31am
Accident Date: 
Thursday, June 12, 2025

Driver flees scene of crash with motorcycle in Waupaca County, motorcyclist seriously hurt

Deputies with the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office say they were called to a crash on US-45 and County Highway D in Lebanon just after midnight on Friday, June 13.

 

In a critical incident that unfolded late Thursday night, a motorcycle accident on US-45 near County Highway D in Lebanon, Wisconsin, has left a motorcyclist with life-threatening injuries and prompted an extensive multi-agency investigation. The crash occurred just after midnight on Friday, June 13, when a northbound motorcycle collided with a passenger vehicle attempting to turn southbound from County Highway D. Witnesses report that the motorcycle struck the front end of the vehicle, causing the rider to be violently thrown from the bike. In a troubling turn of events, the driver of the passenger vehicle reportedly fled the scene on foot before first responders could arrive, leaving the critically injured motorcyclist alone at the accident site. Emergency services quickly mobilized, with the motorcyclist transported to a local hospital via ambulance, highlighting the severity of the injuries sustained in this potentially fatal collision.

The location of this tragic accident—the intersection of US-45 and County Highway D in the Lebanon area of Waupaca County—is known for its complex traffic patterns and potential visibility challenges. This rural intersection connects major transportation routes, with US-45 serving as a significant north-south corridor through the region. The area is characterized by rural landscape and agricultural surroundings, which can create unique driving conditions, especially during nighttime hours. Local traffic studies have previously noted the importance of heightened awareness at such intersections, where rural roads meet state highways and where visibility can be compromised by terrain, vegetation, and limited lighting.

From a legal perspective, the hit-and-run nature of this incident triggers several important legal considerations under Wisconsin state law. Leaving the scene of an accident involving serious injury is a criminal offense that can result in significant legal consequences, including potential felony charges. Victims and their families may be entitled to pursue multiple avenues of compensation, potentially including personal injury claims, medical expense recovery, and damages for pain and suffering. Wisconsin's statute of limitations for personal injury claims typically allows three years from the date of the accident for filing a lawsuit, though specific circumstances can modify this timeframe. Insurance considerations will likely involve comprehensive investigations by both local law enforcement and insurance providers to determine fault and potential coverage.

Related Resources

Emergency Services

  • Waupaca County Sheriff's Office: (Contact Number to be verified)
  • New London Police Department: (Contact Number to be verified)
  • Wisconsin State Patrol: (Local District Contact Number)

Victim Support

  • Waupaca County Victim Witness Services
  • Wisconsin Crime Victims Rights Board
  • Local Personal Injury Legal Consultations

Traffic Safety

  • Wisconsin Department of Transportation - Traffic Safety
  • Motorcycle Safety Foundation - Accident Support Resources
  • Waupaca County Emergency Management

Legal and Insurance Guidance

  • Wisconsin State Bar Referral Service
  • Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance
  • Local Personal Injury Attorney Directories

 

Topics: 
Hit and Run
Roadway: 
US-45