Best Car Accident Lawyers in Janesville, WI

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Janesville, Wisconsin?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Janesville Police Department is (608) 757-2244.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Janesville, Wisconsin?

  You can get a copy of the police report for the accident in Janesville at the police department at 100 N Jackson St. You need to provide details such as the date, time, and location of the accident. Incident reports are available for a fee of $0.25 per page. The preparation time varies per police report, so it is better to call (608) 755-3100 first to check if the report is available.

• Can you sue a drunk driver in Janesville responsible for a car accident?

  A drunk driver is criminally and civilly liable for a car wreck. If you were hurt in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Janesville, you can file a lawsuit to recover compensation. However, you must prove the other driver's negligence, as their insurance company will most likely deny your claim or give you a lower settlement amount.

• Does the law allow punitive damages in Janesville car accident cases?

  If the at-fault driver is proven to have acted with malice or intentionally disregarded your rights, which led to a car accident in Janesville, then you may pursue punitive damages. This type of damages is according to the court’s desire to punish the negligent party for his/her behavior. This is similar to fines ordered as part of a criminal sentence, except that they are paid to the victim. Punitive damages are typically not covered by insurance policies and are paid personally by the at-fault driver.

• What happens if you and another party are responsible for a car accident in Janesville?

  Wisconsin follows a system known as modified comparative negligence or the 51% bar rule. If you are found to be no more than 50% at fault for a car accident in Janesville, you may recover damages. The total compensation you will get will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if the total damages are $100,000 and you are 25% at fault for the accident, you can recover $75,000 worth of compensation. If you are found to be 51% or more responsible for the car accident, you are not eligible to recover any damages.

• What are your options if you were involved in a car accident in Janesville caused by an uninsured driver?

  If the driver at fault for a car accident in Janesville does not have liability insurance, you can turn to your own insurer to file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage. Another option you have is to sue the at-fault driver personally. If the at-fault driver does not have enough assets to compensate you, he/she must pay a deposit under the Safety Responsibility Law.

• How is fault determined in a car accident in Janesville?

  There are different ways to determine fault for a car accident in Janesville. First, if a driver admits he/she is at fault for the accident, his/her words can be used to build a case, even if it's just saying, "I'm sorry." Second, the police are also responsible for examining the scene and talking to people involved and eyewitnesses to determine who is at fault. Lastly, insurers conduct their own review of the accident.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.