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After a car accident, victims often find themselves inundated with questions and misinformation about their rights to compensation. It’s easy to fall prey to misconceptions, such as believing you have endless time to file a lawsuit or that settling a claim is straightforward. Seek clarity and accurate guidance from our law firm Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC. Our La Crosse car accident lawyers provide free consultations to explain your rights thoroughly and offer tailored advice to help you navigate the legal process effectively.
Call 608-784-4370 now to schedule a free consultation with our La Crosse car accident lawyers
Understanding Personal Injury Law
What is Personal Injury?
Personal injury refers to any physical or psychological harm caused by another person or entity’s negligence. Personal injury laws are designed to protect victims from bearing the financial burden and consequences of their injury or loss. These injuries can range from minor bruises and contusions to severe physical or mental trauma that can result in permanent disability or even death. The medical costs associated with personal injuries are often substantial, covering expenses such as hospitalization, doctor visits, rehabilitation services, lost wages, and property damage. Understanding personal injury law is crucial for ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve to cover these extensive costs. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can significantly improve the chances of securing a favorable settlement, as they possess the specialized skills needed to navigate negotiations with insurers and ensure that clients receive the compensation they deserve, especially in complex cases involving multiple liable parties.
Everyday Car Crash Types in La Crosse, WI
Auto accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence in La Crosse and can happen virtually anywhere. Some of the most frequent types of crashes include rear-end collisions, where a vehicle strikes the one in front of it, often occurring at intersections or when one driver is tailgating another. Head-on collisions, involving two cars colliding frontally, often result in tragic consequences, typically due to illegal passing or a driver drifting over the center line. Side-impact crashes, also known as T-bones, commonly occur at intersections when one vehicle crashes into the side of another. Sideswipe accidents happen when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other collide, often seen when one is merging onto the highway with limited space. Rollovers can occur when a vehicle flips onto its side or hood, usually triggered by gravel or potholes. Single-vehicle accidents involve one car flipping or being forced off the road without being struck by another vehicle, with many caused by another driver fleeing the scene.
The Injuries Many Car Accident Victims Suffer
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide array of injuries, from minor to severe. Some of the most common car accident injuries include whiplash, concussions, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries. In many cases, car accidents can also lead to long-term health problems, such as chronic pain, anxiety, and depression. If you have been injured in a car accident, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Consulting with a car accident attorney can help you understand your options for seeking compensation for your injuries. A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the process of documenting your injuries and losses, ensuring that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Navigating Compensation After a Car Accident
Car accidents frequently entail significant financial burdens that can affect both you and your family in various ways. Personal injury lawyers play a crucial role in securing compensation for victims, ensuring that all aspects of their claims are thoroughly addressed. Obtaining comprehensive medical records related to your injuries is crucial to support personal injury claims. Our legal team is committed to securing comprehensive compensation for your economic losses, which may encompass expenses such as ambulance transportation, diagnostic tests, prescription medications, medical appointments, specialist consultations, surgical procedures, hospital stays, rehabilitation sessions, and anticipated future medical costs. Additionally, we can pursue reimbursement for both past and future lost income, recognizing that many car accident injuries can impede your ability to work during recovery. Our firm also handles claims for vehicle damages, ensuring that your car is repaired or replaced if it is deemed totaled. Furthermore, we advocate for compensation for non-economic damages, including emotional distress, depression, physical pain, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and the loss of enjoyment of life. Car accidents have the potential to disrupt your life significantly, and at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our La Crosse car accident lawyers possess extensive experience negotiating with all major insurance companies in Wisconsin. You can trust us to stand up for your rights and tirelessly pursue the compensation you deserve.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Why You Should File a Claim
Filing a personal injury claim is an essential step in seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a car accident or other motor vehicle accident. If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury claim can provide you with the financial support you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.
By filing a personal injury claim, you can hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and ensure that they take responsibility for the harm they have caused. Additionally, a personal injury claim can help to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future by highlighting the need for increased safety measures and precautions.
The Claims Process
Overview of the Claims Process
The claims process typically begins with a consultation with a personal injury attorney. During this consultation, the attorney will review the details of your case and help you understand your rights and options. If you decide to proceed with filing a claim, the attorney will guide you through the process and ensure that all necessary documentation and evidence are gathered.
The next step in the claims process is to file a claim with the insurance company. This involves submitting a formal request for compensation, along with supporting documentation and evidence. The insurance company will then review your claim and determine whether to accept or deny it.
If your claim is accepted, the insurance company will offer a settlement amount. Your personal injury attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive a fair and reasonable settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend taking your case to trial.
Determining Case Value
How Much Is My Case Worth?
Determining the value of a personal injury case can be a complex process, as it depends on various factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney can help you evaluate your case and determine a fair and reasonable value.
To determine the value of your case, your attorney will consider the following factors:
- Medical expenses: The cost of medical treatment, including hospitalization, doctor visits, rehabilitation services, and medication.
- Lost wages: The amount of income you have lost due to your inability to work as a result of your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional pain you have experienced as a result of your injuries.
- Property damage: The cost of repairing or replacing damaged property, such as your vehicle.
Your attorney will also consider the insurance company’s policy limits and the defendant’s assets to determine the maximum amount of compensation you may be entitled to receive.
By working with a personal injury attorney, you can ensure that your case is valued accurately and that you receive the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.
The Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help
Hiring a car accident attorney can provide numerous benefits, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve. A car accident attorney can guide you through the legal process, helping you gather evidence and build a strong case. They can represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached and communicate with the other driver’s insurance company to negotiate a settlement on your behalf. Additionally, a car accident attorney can help you document your injuries and losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By hiring a car accident attorney, you can focus on your recovery while your attorney handles the complexities of your personal injury claim. Personal injury lawyers play a crucial role in guiding clients through the legal process, advocating for their rights, and ensuring successful outcomes in personal injury cases.
FAQs by La Crosse Clients
Q. Can I still file a car accident claim in Wisconsin if I was partially at fault?
A. Yes, Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule, allowing recovery even if you’re partially at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Q. What role does comparative negligence play in car accident cases in Wisconsin?
A. Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident.
Q. What should I do if I suspect my car accident injuries are more severe than initially diagnosed in Wisconsin?
A. If you suspect your car accident injuries are more severe than initially diagnosed in Wisconsin, seek a second medical opinion from another healthcare provider and inform your attorney to ensure your legal rights are protected.
Contact a La Crosse Car Accident Attorney Today
Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, boasts a team of skilled, compassionate, and experienced personal injury attorneys in La Crosse who are committed to advocating for victims and families. Our injury lawyers have extensive expertise and a strong commitment to handling various types of cases, particularly car accidents. If you or a loved one has sustained a severe injury in a car crash, we are here to provide unwavering support and legal representation. Contact us online for a complimentary, no-obligation review of your case. With offices conveniently situated in Onalaska, La Crosse, and Eau Claire, our firm is dedicated to serving clients throughout Wisconsin, including La Crosse and its neighboring areas.
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Client Reviews
Attorney William Skemp
Melissa, Source: Avvo"Mr. Skemp was so thorough in handling my case.
He was literally the junk yard dog I was hoping to hire and fought for me the whole way. Even when I felt like giving in. His staff is so helpful and kind as well. "
Attorney David Fitzpatrick
George, Source: Google"If you been denied SSI, call them they will fight for you and pay nothing unless they win."
view all testimonialsAttorney SCOTT BUTLER
Abby, Source: Google"We hired Attorney Scott Butler after a motor vehicle accident. Immediately a weight was lifted off our shoulders, as he handled everything with the insurance companies, medical paperwork, etc so that we could focus on healing and getting on with life. He is highly attentive, kind and genuine. His communication is fabulous-frequently reaching out just to check on us, prompt in returning calls/emails. Couldn't have had a better experience with our case. My family would highly recommend Scott Butler to anyone."