Best Car Accident Lawyers in Kenosha

FAQs

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

  Contact 262-656-1234 to report non-emergency car accidents in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

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

  Get a copy of the police report of the car accident in Kenosha at the Records Bureau located at 1000 55th Street. Requests may also be faxed at (262)653–6909. Contact (262)605–5015 for assistance.

• What is the deadline for filing a car accident claim in Kenosha?

  Under Wisconsin laws, the deadline for filing a car accident claim in Kenosha is three years. This means that a victim must be able to take legal action within the given window. However, this time frame may vary if the victim is a minor, has disabilities, and has injuries that occurred later after the collision.

• Do people who didn't incur injuries after a car accident in Kenosha still need to seek medical treatment?

  Yes, it is advisable to seek medical treatment even if a person does not immediately feel injured after a car accident in Kenosha. This is because some injuries may not be apparent until hours or even days after the incident. If a medical assessment later reveals injuries, the individual can still file for a car accident claim.

• Can someone who was not wearing a seatbelt and was injured in a car accident in Kenosha still be eligible for compensation?

  If someone in Kenosha gets injured in a car accident and wasn't wearing a seatbelt, they may still be eligible to claim compensation. However, they will need to demonstrate that they took other reasonable measures to prevent injuries, and the amount of compensation they receive may be affected by Wisconsin's seatbelt law. In addition, a victim may still file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Kenosha?

  Car accidents in Kenosha are frequently caused by speeding, DUI, tailgating, distracted driving, and vehicle defects. Adverse weather conditions in the area also contribute to auto collisions. In 2022, five crashes occurred over two days due to slippery roads caused by snow, resulting in minor injuries. Additionally, the Department of Transportation has reported 13 fatalities resulting from auto collisions in Kenosha from 2022 to 2023, making it the third city in the state with the highest number of car crash-related deaths.

• Who should a person sue for a car accident in Kenosha?

  In a Kenosha car accident, it is possible for a person to sue various entities, such as the driver and the government agency responsible for maintaining safe roads. For drivers injured in a construction area, they may file a lawsuit against the company responsible for inadequate signage and barricades. Moreover, hit-and-run victims may concentrate on seeking compensation from insurance companies instead of identifying the responsible driver.

• 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.