Best Car Accident Lawyers in Milwaukee

FAQs

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

  414-933-4444 is the non-emergency number of the Milwaukee Police Department.

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

  Traffic-related accident reports are available in the Open Records Office Counter located at 2333 N. 49th Street (2nd Floor) Milwaukee, WI 53210. Involved parties can also request a copy by emailing mpdopenrecords@milwaukee.gov.

• Who is liable in a rideshare accident in Milwaukee?

  Rideshare companies, including Lyft and Uber, are liable for Milwaukee car victims' damages if their drivers were on duty, like dropping off or picking up a passenger, during the accident. However, the driver is solely accountable if they were not on duty when the accident happened. The personal insurance policy of rideshare drivers may be used to cover any damages.

• What are the most car accident-prone roads in Milwaukee?

  According to a Wisconsin Traffic Safety Commission report, 76th Street is the most dangerous road in Milwaukee. In 2021, it had 13 accidents, six of which resulted in fatalities and seven of which caused other injuries. WI-57, including Dr. M. L. King Drive, N. 20th Street, came in second with 12 car accidents, of which five caused fatalities and the remaining seven caused other injuries. Burleigh Street, Hampton Avenue, and Fond du Lac Avenue were also mentioned.

• How is fault determined in Milwaukee car accidents?

  In Milwaukee, the fault is determined by police officers who respond to the accident scene. However, Wisconsin has a "shared fault" statute under which both the plaintiff and the defendant can be held accountable for the incident. Damages are also paid out differently depending on the degree of fault; if a victim is found to be 10% responsible and has $30,000 in damages, they would only be entitled to $28,000 in compensation.

• What kinds of photos is a Milwaukee car accident victim required to take?

  Milwaukee car wreck victims should take pictures of the accident scene because it will help juries, accident reconstructionists, and investigators determine the state of the cars and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Plaintiffs must document their injuries, such as cuts or bruises, in order to pursue compensation for their medical care. The weather and road conditions at the time of the accident, such as any standing ice or snow, sun, and clouds, should also be recorded.

• Is the compensation for Milwaukee auto accident victims capped at a certain amount?

  Wisconsin law does not provide a limitation on the amount of money a Milwaukee car wreck victim can recover. However, if a plaintiff is entitled to punitive damages, they can only receive $200,000 in compensation. Additionally, because the state adheres to a shared fault law, the compensation award could be diminished if a plaintiff contributed to the accident. Under this rule, compensation is available to victims if their share of fault is not greater than the negligent party's.

• 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.