Getting into a car accident can bring about physical injuries, emotional stress, and financial strains, too, like hefty medical bills and soaring insurance premiums. If you find yourself in this situation, it might be a good idea to consider contacting a car accident attorney. They can guide you through your legal options and help you understand how the incident might impact your insurance rates.

How Does Fault Affect Car Insurance Rates?

Insurance companies consider several factors when determining liability, and one of the most important factors is the fault of the accident. Who's at fault in a car accident can significantly impact the rate of insurance premiums.

The duration for which your insurance premiums rates will be higher after an accident varies depending on several factors, including:

  • Milwaukee laws
  • Insurance company policies
  • Your driving history
  • The severity of the accident

When determining premium rates, insurance companies consider the level of risk associated with each driver. If you are liable for a motor vehicle accident or have a history of accidents, it indicates a higher level of risk, increasing the likelihood of future accidents. 

At Natasha Misra Law, we encourage you to report your accident immediately to your insurance company. If you believe that your insurance company does not have your best interest at heart or that your rates increase, though you were not at fault for the accident, we can help. 

How Fault Impacts Insurance Claims

Insurance companies consider several factors when determining liability after an accident, with the fault being one of the most critical. Filing a claim should not lead to rate increases if you are not at fault for the collision. However, if you are liable or have a history of accidents, your premiums may rise due to the increased risk.

It's still vital to file a claim regardless of fault determination. This ensures you receive compensation for injuries, vehicle damage, and other expenses from the at-fault driver's insurance. Your own policy may also provide coverage like medical payments or uninsured motorist coverage to help pay bills.

Steps for Filing an Effective Insurance Claim

Here are some tips for filing a thorough insurance claim after a car accident:

  • Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible after it occurs. Provide key details like date, time, location, and parties involved. This starts the claims process.
  • Cooperate with the Insurer: Work closely with your insurance company during the investigation. Provide a recorded statement, access to your vehicle for inspection, and any supporting documents they request. This shows you are acting in good faith.
  • Track Expenses: Keep detailed records of all accident-related expenses, including medical bills, auto repair estimates, missed wages due to injuries, and communication with insurers. This evidence helps support your claim.
  • Request a Police Report: Obtain a copy of the official accident report filed by the responding law enforcement officer. Review it for accuracy regarding the determination of fault and details provided.
  • Don't Delay Care: Seek medical treatment immediately after the accident and follow all doctor's orders. Gaps in care can lead insurers to dispute injury claims.
  • Rental Car Coverage: If your vehicle is not drivable, make sure to specifically request rental car reimbursement from the at-fault driver's insurer. Most policies include this coverage.

Filing an insurance claim is the essential first step after any accident, regardless of who is deemed at fault. It starts the process of getting your bills paid and vehicle repaired.

Injured in a Milwaukee Car Accident? Contact Natasha Misra Law For Help

It's important to report your accident to your insurance company. If your premiums rise even if you were not at fault or believe the fault was wrongfully assigned to you after the accident, contact Natasha Misra Law for help. Call (414) 210-3834 for a consultation.

Anyone can be a victim of a dog bite or attack. Even though dog owners are expected to take care of their dogs, accidents are sometimes inevitable. Nearly 4.5 million Americans suffer dog bite attacks each year. With over half a million dogs kept as pets in Wisconsin, you or someone you know could potentially fall victim to a dog bite injury in the future. 

If an attack results in bodily injury, it is important to know what your legal rights are, who is responsible for your injuries, and how to take legal action. It is, therefore, in your best interest to find an experienced dog bite attorney who understands Wisconsin dog bite law.

At Natasha Misra Law, we represent clients in the larger Wisconsin area, including Milwaukee, Green Bay, Madison, Appleton, and Hales Corners. Our attorneys will confidently handle your case to help you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Wisconsin Dog Bite Law

Wisconsin has strict dog bite laws that hold dog owners responsible for all incidents and damages caused by the dog.  Under Wisconsin Statutes section 174.02(1), the dog owner is responsible for any harm and damages caused by the dog to a person, property, or domesticated animal. The same law allows for the compensation amount to be doubled if the dog owner knew or was aware that the dog had a prior incident causing injury.    

Who is Responsible for Dog Bite Injuries?

While dog owners are automatically liable for harm done by their dogs, other parties could also be held partially or fully accountable for the injuries. 

You can file a compensation claim against the dog owner’s renters or homeowners insurance company.  

Available Damages Under Wisconsin Dog Bite Law

The Wisconsin law gives you the right to seek the full amount of damages from the owner of the dog that caused harm. These damages will cover medical bills, including hospitalization, pain and suffering, emergency surgery, medications, physical therapy, lost income, and disfigurement.

Contact a Milwaukee Dog Bite Attorney for Help

Dog bite cases can be complicated and often result in serious and permanent injuries. That’s why you need an experienced lawyer to help navigate your case.

If you suffer a dog bite injury in Milwaukee, we are ready to assist you at Natasha Misra Law. Contact us online or call us at (414) 210-3834 to schedule an appointment with our legal team.

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.