The Waunakee personal injury attorneys at LawtonCates know that the time after an accident can be fraught with stress. Getting back to daily life can feel impossible as you try to manage medical expenses and recover from your injuries. At LawtonCates, our experienced legal team can handle all aspects of your case and help you seek compensation for your losses. Understanding the state’s personal injury laws, the legal process, and the role of a Waunakee injury attorney can help you make the most of your claim.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in Waunakee, WI
Some of the most common types of Waunakee, WI personal injury cases include:
- Motor vehicle accidents – Auto accidents are among the leading types of personal injury cases in Wisconsin. Multiple parties could be liable for your injuries and related losses if you suffered an injury in a collision.
- Slip-and-fall accidents – If you slip and fall on someone else’s property, you may be able to recover compensation through a premises liability claim.
- Defective products – Products can be faulty in three main ways: design defects, manufacturing defects, and/or inadequate consumer warnings.
- Dog bites – Animal attacks can cause catastrophic injuries, especially to children.
- Workers’ compensation – People who suffer workplace injuries can pursue state workers’ compensation benefits to support them while they heal.
What Are Wisconsin’s Personal Injury Laws?
Wisconsin has several important personal injury laws that you should know. The first is the statute of limitations. In most cases, accident victims have three years to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this timeframe, the courts will likely dismiss your claim, and you will lose your right to compensation.
Another important law is Wisconsin’s statute on comparative negligence. This law allows you to collect compensation even if you are partly at fault for an accident. However, you must be less than 51 percent to blame to recover compensation, and the amount will be reduced by your assigned percentage of fault.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help Me?
A personal injury attorney can provide comprehensive support throughout the legal process. At LawtonCates, we will:
- Investigate the incident to identify liable parties and collect evidence
- Calculate your damages
- File your personal injury lawsuit within the allotted period
- Negotiate for a fair settlement with the insurance company
- Represent you at trial if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement
Steps in a Personal Injury Case in Wisconsin
The personal injury process involves:
- Collecting evidence to establish the other party’s liability for your injuries
- Sending demand letters to the insurance company(s) to begin the settlement process
- Negotiating for a settlement that covers the full extent of your expenses
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit if settlement negotiations break down
- Taking the case to trial
The majority of personal injury cases settle. At LawtonCates, we prepare every case as if it is going to trial. That way, we can pivot quickly if the insurance company declines to make a full and fair settlement offer.
When Should I Consult a Personal Injury Attorney?
The best time to consult a personal injury attorney is now. The sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner they can begin working on your case and protecting your rights.
LawtonCates has provided comprehensive legal support to Madison, Jefferson, Milwaukee, and the residents of South Central Wisconsin since 1958. If you suffered an injury in Waunakee, contact our law firm today for a free consultation.