The aftermath of a serious car accident can feel extremely overwhelming. From seeking the medical treatment you need to tracking down witnesses and attempting to get back on your feet financially, you have so much to do - and filing an insurance claim may be the last thing on your mind.
Fortunately, you don’t have to do this alone. An experienced Milwaukee auto accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you need from the insurance companies to move forward. Your attorney can also explain the different types of claims available that you are able to file and can build a strong case to maximize your potential settlement.
Here, we will share a brief overview of the types of auto insurance claims you can file and how a skilled personal injury attorney can help you prepare one.
When you are involved in a car accident with a driver who carries liability insurance, you can file a claim against that driver’s policy. This is often called a “third-party” insurance claim, since you do not have a contract with the other driver’s insurer.
When you file a third-party claim, your auto accident lawyer will contact the other driver’s insurance company to initiate the claims process. This can be done through a written letter or a more formal package that presents the damages you sustained. This may include the following types of information and evidence:
Once you’ve filed your car accident claim, the insurer will investigate the claim and determine whether you are entitled to the compensation amount you have requested. Often, this involves a series of negotiations with your attorney. A skilled personal injury attorney will work hard to ensure you are not pressured into settling for less than you deserve.
Wisconsin law requires all motorists to purchase liability insurance. Nonetheless, there are many drivers out there who can’t afford - or don’t bother to apply for - auto insurance. If you are hit by an uninsured driver, you will likely have to turn to your own insurance to pay for your damages.
The State requires all drivers to carry a minimum uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for personal injuries. This coverage will pay for damages that you sustained when hit by an uninsured motorist.
However, this type of coverage does not pay for property damage to your vehicle. This will be handled through the collision coverage portion of your policy.
Although Wisconsin law imposes minimum requirements for uninsured motorist coverage, it is not mandatory to purchase underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage in our State.
UIM coverage provides an increased amount of coverage if you are injured in an accident caused by a motorist who was underinsured. If you elect to purchase this type of coverage, your limits must be $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident.
When you are injured in a car accident, you need diligent, high-quality representation - regardless if you file a third party insurance claim or a claim against your own insurance company.
Milwaukee car accident law firm Natasha Misra Law can help. With a history of helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve, we stand ready to discuss your case with you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Driving in Wisconsin during the wintry weather can be stressful. The roads are slick, visibility is poor, and morning and evening commutes are dark. As a Milwaukee car accident lawyer, I want to share with you a few simple safe driving guidelines that I commonly share with family, friends and clients.
Bad weather comes and goes. Even the most severe winter storms eventually let up. If you see that bad winter weather is on the radar, consider postponing your trip until the road conditions improve. Allow time for snow plows, law enforcement and other emergency responders to clear the roadways.
If you must get on the road during wintry weather, tell someone else about your planned route, and your expected arrival time. Have a fully charged cell phone and avoid backroads. Should something happen, you and your vehicle will be easier to find.
Before you turn on your car, clear snow and ice away from your car’s windows, headlights, tail lights, roof and hood. Not only will this improve visibility, but it will prevent ice from sliding off your car and causing a road hazard.
When the roads are icy and wet, be sure to allow extra time for travel. The majority of winter car accidents in Wisconsin are caused by drivers going too fast. Even the posted speed limit, which applies to ideal travel conditions, may be too fast for current conditions. In addition to slowing down, try to keep a safe following distance from the car in front of you.
All drivers should turn on their car’s low-beam headlights when weather conditions make it difficult to see objects ahead. Even during the daylight, it may be difficult to see other cars on the road. Turn on your headlights to improve your visibility and help people see you coming.
Sudden braking can cause you to lose control of your car. When you are driving in wintry conditions in Wisconsin, use your brakes carefully. Begin braking early, and avoid slamming the brakes. Take turns slowly, and avoid sharp maneuvers. Lastly, never use cruise control. Even four-wheel drive vehicles require additional time to stop in snowy and icy conditions.
You should always keep a safe distance behind a snow plow. If you decide to pass, be extra cautious. Plows often create a cloud of snow that can obscure visibility. Plus, road conditions ahead of the plow are typically worse.
In addition to snow plows, keep a safe distance from trucks. Pieces of snow or ice have been known to slide off the top of commercial trucks, creating hazardous conditions for cars following close behind. In addition, the large tires kick up snow and ice and can affect visibility.
Take note of winter storm advisories and warnings posted along major highways and drive accordingly. Winter storms often have significant impact on the conditions of the road. Avoid driving in winter conditions if possible.
Keep an eye on your location using crossroads and key landmarks. If you are in a car accident or become stranded, you’ll be be able to describe your location to law enforcement.
Winter car accidents in Wisconsin are common, but practicing safe winter driving will help you avoid an accident and possible injury. Unfortunately, some drivers may not be as careful as you.
If you are injured by another driver’s negligence, contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney to learn more about how you can make a full financial recovery.
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.
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