Car accidents happen fast and leave you shaken. One moment you're driving, the next, everything changes. If you're hurt because another driver was careless, you deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain. Bakke Norman has guided Wisconsin residents through these tough times since 1985. Our team in Eau Claire knows how to help. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it's crucial to contact trusted lawyers in Eau Claire, WI.
A Complete Post-Crash Guide
Stay Safe and Get Help Right Away
Your health comes first. Pull over, turn on hazard lights, and check everyone for injuries. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can hide issues.
Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt or the cars can't be moved safely. Wisconsin law requires the reporting of accidents involving injuries, deaths, or major damage. The police report becomes key evidence later.
Move to a safe spot away from traffic. In bad weather, such as snow or ice, which is common in our state, roads become slippery quickly. Stay in your vehicle if it's safer for you.
Gather Important Details at the Scene
While waiting for help, collect information calmly and accurately. Exchange names, phone numbers, driver's license details, and insurance info with the other driver. Note their vehicle make, model, and plate number.
- Take photos of damage, skid marks, road conditions, and signs. Pictures of ice or poor visibility help your case.
- Get contact information from witnesses. Their accounts can help your case.
- Never admit fault, even if you feel sorry. Saying so can hurt your claim.
Seek Medical Care Without Delay
Go to the doctor or emergency room, even for minor aches and pains. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, show up days later. Prompt care links your problems directly to the crash.
Follow all treatment advice. Keep records of visits, bills, and prescriptions. Documentation proves your costs and suffering.
Winter crashes often result in neck strains, back issues, or fractures due to sudden stops on slick roads. Our attorneys have observed how these issues accumulate over time.
Understand Wisconsin's At-Fault Rules
Wisconsin has an at-fault system. The liable driver pays for harm through insurance. Wisconsin uses modified comparative negligence. If you're partly at fault, your payout drops by your share. Over 50% at fault means no recovery. For example, if the damages total $100,000 and you're 20% responsible, you receive $ 20,000. This rule makes fair investigations crucial. You have three years from the accident to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long loses your compensation rights.
Deal Smartly With Insurance Companies
Report the crash to your insurer as soon as possible, but stick to the basic facts. Don't give recorded statements without advice.
The other insurer may contact you quickly with a low offer that overlooks future needs. Insurers prioritize profits. They may downplay the weather or twist details. Bakke Norman's lawyers handle negotiations on your behalf. With over 65 years of combined experience and board-certified trial specialists, we fight for full compensation.
Winter Weather Crashes: What Makes Them Unique
Slippery roads from snow or ice cause many accidents. Drivers must slow down, increase their following distance, and clear the way for other vehicles. Even if the weather played a role, the at-fault driver can still be liable for speeding, distracted driving, or poor maintenance. Common claims involve rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic or spins from sudden freezes. Proving negligence requires strong evidence, which our team gathers expertly.
Contact Bakke Norman for Help After Your Accident
If you've been in a car accident, reach out right away. The experienced lawyers in Eau Claire, WI, at Bakke Norman are here to listen, explain your options, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our office nearest you for a complimentary consultation – we're here to support you.
