Did you know that you must report an accident immediately in Wisconsin due to statute 346.70? If you’ve recently been in an accident, you might wonder what to do next and what to expect.
Being in a car accident can be stressful; you certainly don’t want the accident claims process to be the same. But what can you expect during the process in Watertown, WI?
While the entire process might seem stressful, working with the right lawyer could help ease this burden. Read this guide on better understanding accident claims and being prepared for what to expect.
How Long Do You Have to Call Insurance?
Policies vary depending on your insurance if you live in Juneau or Hartford, WI. Many will say it needs to be within a reasonable amount of time.
You’ll want to report an accident to the insurance company after finding attorneys near me. Remember that an insurance policy is legally binding, and not reporting it could put you at risk. This is important even if you think there are no injuries.
Wisconsin Auto-Insurance Claim Laws
Wisconsin’s laws impact how much compensation you’ll receive and how the claim is handled. A person who suffers a loss or injury has a few options.
These options include:
- File a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver
- File a third-party claim against the at-fault driver’s auto insurance
- File a claim through your auto insurance
You’ll only have one chance to claim the compensation you deserve. For that, a personal injury accident attorney can help.
Wisconsin Compensation Laws
You could be entitled to claim compensation. This compensation is known as compensatory damages. Compensatory damages fall under both specific and general damages.
General damages could include:
- Physical impairment
- Loss of consortium
- Decreased quality of life
- Loss of companionship
There isn’t a cap on compensatory damages in Wisconsin. There’s only a cap if it’s a claim against a government entity.
Specific damages could include:
- Loss of earnings
- Medical expenses
- Loss of use damages
- Property damage
Loved ones could sue for emotional distress. This will depend on the severity and the circumstances themselves.
Punitive damages punish reckless drivers. They’re rare in Wisconsin, though.
Wisconsin’s At Fault and 51% Bar
You’ll have to prove that you aren’t at fault to receive compensation. The other driver needs to be at fault.
51% Bar Rule is if you’ve had $10,000 in damages and the jury or judge decides you’re at 50% for the car accident. Even if this occurs, the judge could still award you damages. It requires the court to reduce your damage award to match your percentage of fault.
Damage Limits
Wisconsin has set time limits, similar to other states. You might need to use the six-month deadline if a government agent injures you.
Lawsuits need to be filed within three years of the accident. No matter if you or the car is hurt.
For deaths during the car accident, wrongful death claims need to be filed within two years. For punitive damages, Wisconsin might limit that. This might not apply if the driver was intoxicated.
Statute of Limitation
You have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Time begins from the date of the accident or finding of an injury.
Understanding these limitations is vital to your lawsuit. If you miss the deadline, you’ll probably have your case dismissed.
Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to increase your odds of winning. They’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the highest insurance settlement possible.
Uninsured Motorist Penalties
Drivers must show proof of car insurance when pulled over or in an accident. Without insurance, you could receive a fine of $500.
For uninsured drivers, registration and driving will be suspended until they do. They’ll also need to pay reinstatement fees.
Insured motorist insurance kicks in if an uninsured driver has injured you. You’ll be able to collect damages for injuries up to your policy’s limit.
It’s difficult to receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Insurance companies don’t want you to receive the full amount. A Lake Mills accident claim can help.
What You Need to File a Claim
Ensure that you have pictures of the accident and a copy of the police report. You should also have the name of the police department.
Detail how the accident occurred and the policy number of your insurance card. Write down the location, time, and date of the accident. Grab the contact and insurance information of the other person in the accident.
You might need to take your car to a shop approved by your insurance for repairs. Before taking your vehicle to a body shop, check with your agent to find out if they’ll reimburse you.
Keep all medical receipts and hospital stays for potential reimbursement. Deliver them to your lawyer or insurance agent. Once you file a claim through insurance, a representative will contact you.
Accident Claims and What to Expect
This guide provides a breakdown of what to expect regarding accident claims. It’s best to work with a personal injury attorney to help you win your case.
Our legal team has years of experience and specializes in personal injury. We’ll assess medical records to assist you in receiving the maximum reimbursement possible.
If you can’t leave the house, we’ll come to you. You don’t pay unless we recover!
Contact us today to get started with attorneys who’ve been helping clients win for 41 years. If you have any questions along the way, we’re happy to help with our decades of experience.
