You were driving to Appleton and they came out of nowhere. Now your car is ruined, the bills are piling up because you can’t get back to work, and you can barely get out of your chair. 

Someone else’s reckless behavior has deeply affected your life. But how can this person be held responsible for what they’ve caused? 

If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Wisconsin, Natasha Misra Law is here to let you know more about how the driver could be held responsible in different court systems. 

The Civil System for Wisconsin Drunk Driving Injuries

The civil system focuses on holding the drunk driver accountable by seeking financial compensation for the damages and injuries you've suffered, while the criminal system deals with punishing the drunk driver for breaking the law.

In the civil system, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver to seek compensation for: 

Medical Expenses: You can recover costs related to medical care, including emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments needed due to the injuries caused by the accident.

Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for the income you’ve lost during your recovery. This may also include compensation for any reduction in your earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected.

Pain and Suffering: This compensation covers the physical pain and emotional distress you have endured because of the accident and its aftermath, including ongoing discomfort, anxiety, and other forms of mental anguish.

Other Damages: Depending on the details of your case, you may also be able to claim additional damages, such as property damage, loss of enjoyment of life, or punitive damages aimed at punishing the drunk driver for their reckless actions.

A skilled Milwaukee car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

The Criminal System

On the other hand, the criminal system is responsible for holding the drunk driver accountable for their actions. If the driver is charged with operating under the influence (OWI) which is commonly referred to as driving under the influence (DUI), they may face criminal penalties such as fines, license suspension, or even jail time. While the criminal system aims to punish the wrongdoer, the civil system focuses on providing you with the financial relief you need to move forward.

Get Skilled Legal Representation in Milwaukee Today

Being hit by a drunk driver can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. By getting legal guidance from Natasha Misra Law, you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, don't hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Let us help you through the legal process and secure the compensation you need to recover and continue. Reach out now and get a lawyer who’s not just another suit on your side.

Wisconsin offers a wide range of water recreation options, including boating adventures. Unfortunately, most boating wrecks are caused by excessive speed, operator inexperience, improper lookout, and intoxication. Additionally, boating accidents can lead to injuries, both minor and severe. 

Knowing what to do in case of a boating accident can save you a lot of trouble and ensure the situation is under control. Here are important steps to take immediately after a boating accident in Wisconsin.

Ensure Safety

Ensuring everyone is safe after a boating crash should be your priority. If the boat is still afloat after an accident, do a headcount to see whether everyone is still onboard. If not, find the missing occupants and bring them back into the boat. Administer first aid to the injured occupants, if any. You should also consider calling emergency medical services if there are injuries or signs of an injury.

Call Law Enforcement

If your boat collided with another boat or other water vessel causing property damage or injury, there should be a record of the incident. The job of law enforcement is to assess the situation and file a report. This report will be mainly beneficial if you file a lawsuit against the negligent party.

Document the Event

Once you ensure everyone is safe, the next step is to document the events of the accident. Documentation should start as early as the day the wreck happened. The process of gathering information should include the following details:

  • Take pictures of the accident scene and the boat’s current condition.
  • Gather contact information of all those involved in the accident.
  • Document the boat’s registration details and information details.
  • Request a copy of the police statement.
  • Collect witness statements and other important details of the incident.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Another essential step is to let your insurer know about the accident. Your insurance company is responsible for reimbursing you for any damages caused on your vessel based on the terms and conditions of your boat insurance policy.

Seek Medical Attention

After being involved in a boating accident, it’s important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. While you might not think you’re hurt, you could have sustained injuries that won’t be noticeable until later, or when they’ve gotten considerably worse. More serious injuries that might not be noticeable right away can include: 

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries 
  • Broken bones 
  • Burns 
  • Accidental amputations 
  • Soft tissue damage 

Of course, not all boating accidents have to result in serious injury, but seeking medical treatment for things like minor cuts and scrapes can also prevent infection later, even if they seem minor at the moment. 

Get a Wisconsin Boating Accident Attorney

If you decide to file a lawsuit, an attorney can help investigate your accident and gather the necessary evidence to build a robust case against the at-fault party. A skilled attorney can make your legal recourse easier and more efficient.

Boating accident attorneys understand Wisconsin court systems and are aware of the rules that will apply to your case and will do everything possible to make your claim successful.

Contact Natasha Misra Law

If you or a loved one has been involved in a Wisconsin boating accident that resulted in serious injuries or damages, we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve at Natasha Misra Law. We serve clients across Wisconsin, including Madison, Milwaukee, Appleton, Hales Corners, and Green Bay.

Contact us online or call us at (414) 210-3834 to schedule a free consultation with Natasha Misra, our lead Wisconsin boating accident attorney.

Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.