Best Car Accident Lawyers in Waukesha

FAQs

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

  The number for the Waukesha police department's non-emergency line is (262) 524-3838. Call to report crimes that require speaking with a police officer.

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

  The Records Division maintains and stores all records created by the Patrol Division and Detective Bureau. These records contain incident reports, accident reports, citations, and internal documents. You can request in person, by phone, mail, email, or fax. Copying costs $0.25 per page.

• Can a victim of a distracted driving accident in Waukesha obtain compensation?

  Yes. If you or a loved one were harmed in a Waukesha car accident caused by a distracted driver, you are eligible for compensation through a personal injury claim. To successfully seek monetary compensation through a personal injury claim, you must establish the following: -The driver acted "negligently," which means the motorist drove in a manner that put others in danger. -The driver's negligence was responsible for your injuries. -You sustained damages due to your injuries.

• Should you provide your medical records to the other driver's insurance company?

  No. You should consult a personal injury attorney first to learn more about your rights and alternatives regarding disclosing medical information. You may suffer severe bodily and psychological injuries due to an automobile collision, which can be resolved with compensation to cover any necessary costs that an injured driver might otherwise have to bear.

• Can you seek compensation if you were not wearing a seatbelt when you were in a car accident in Waukesha?

  Yes. Whether or not you were wearing a seat belt during the Waukesha car accident, if you suffered injuries, you may be entitled to file a claim against the party or parties at fault. Wearing a seat belt is commonly suggested as a first step toward injury prevention in the event of an automobile accident. But, Wisconsin's seat belt regulation limits how much a person's claim for compensation can be impacted by not wearing a seat belt.

• Where are car accident-prone locations in Waukesha?

  Moreland Boulevard and Kossow Road intersection was identified as the city's most dangerous junction. With 43 car accidents reported at the crossroads, a crash occurs once every 8.48 days. According to numbers provided recently by the Waukesha Police Department, that location had the most car accidents of any intersection in the city for the last three years. Other accident hot spots are St. Paul Avenue and Sunset Drive, Moreland Boulevard and Springdale Road, Sunset Drive and West Avenue, and Moreland Boulevard and Whiterock Avenue.

• What happens if the at-fault driver in a Waukesha auto accident is uninsured?

  According to the Wisconsin Safety Responsibility Law, if you cause an accident in Waukesha while uninsured, the state can revoke your driving privileges and vehicle registration. Nevertheless, you can avoid these penalties if you submit a security deposit to cover claims costs, sign a payment plan to settle the claims, and provide a release of liability demonstrating that you have resolved the claims with the other party.

• 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.