Best Car Accident Lawyers in Appleton

FAQs

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

  The Appleton Police Department's phone line for non-emergency calls is (920) 832-5500.

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

  You can secure a copy of your accident report in person at the Records Unit of the Appleton Police Department located at 222 S. Walnut St, Appleton, WI 54911-5899. You can also request your crash report through U.S. mail. Records will be subject to a fee, which is calculated based on the type of document, mailing expenses, and extra charges permitted by state law. Pre-payment might be necessary for records worth more than $5.

• What are the most common injuries that result from car accidents in Appleton?

  The following are some of the most typical injuries that result from car accidents in Appleton:

  • Fractured bones
  • Cuts and lacerations
  • Internal bleeding
  • Whiplash
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Soft-tissue damage
  • Head injuries, including concussions
  • Back injuries
  • Burn injuries
  • Heavy bruising
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Paralysis resulting from a spinal cord injury

  Even if the crash appears to be minor, some injuries might not show symptoms for several hours or days after the collision. Hence, even if you feel fine, it is imperative to get medical help as soon as possible.

• Should you reveal your medical records to the other driver's insurer following a car accident in Appleton?

  If the at-fault party's insurance company demands your medical information, it is advisable to withhold it for the time being. Powerful privacy laws protect your medical records, therefore they should only be disclosed if absolutely necessary. You should first seek legal advice from an experienced Appleton car accident attorney to understand your rights and alternatives surrounding the release of your medical data.

• Can you pursue compensation if you were not wearing a seat belt during your car accident in Appleton?

  Yes. Whether or not you were wearing a seat belt, you can still seek damages and file a claim against the at-fault party if you sustained injuries in a car accident in Appleton. The failure to wear a seat belt can have an impact on a person's compensation claim, according to Wisconsin's seat belt law. You risk having your compensation lowered if you do not use your seat belt.

• Is it possible to hold another driver accountable for a car accident in Appleton in low visibility conditions?

  Every motorist owes everyone else on the road a duty of care to drive safely. This means taking the necessary steps to prevent a crash. In low visibility situations, drivers should give themselves enough time to spot hazards and figure out how to avoid them. The solution would be to slow down or leave more space between cars. Drivers who fail to take such reasonable precautions may be violating their duty of care. If an accident happens, they may be held responsible.

• How do you find a good car accident attorney in Appleton?

  When selecting a reputable car accident attorney in Appleton, there are a number of things to take into account. They comprise the following:

  • The number of resources the firm has available, its size, and its expertise with cases like yours involving car accidents
  • Honors and awards that the law firm has received
  • Case results
  • Type of payment arrangement being offered
  • Testimonials from previous clients
  • Whether the lawyer will take your case to court if necessary

• 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.