Winona County Personal Injury
Attorney

We Fight for the Rights of the Injured and Disabled in Winona County, MN

At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Winona attorneys are compassionate, experienced, and effective advocates for people who need legal support. We go above and beyond in our mission advocating for the rights of injured victims and individuals with disabilities. Have questions about a personal injury case or a Social Security disability claim? You need a Minnesota attorney that you can trust. To set up a free, strictly confidential initial appointment with a top Winona lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact us today. 

Our Firm Provides Justice-Driven Legal Representation in Winona, Minnesota

Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC is a law firm devoted to fighting for justice and the maximum financial support for the injured and disabled in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. We are proud to serve clients in Winona and throughout all of Winona County, including in Goodview, St. Charles, and Lewiston. No matter the precise legal situation that you and your family are navigating, we are prepared to take the time to sit down, review the matter, answer questions, and help take the next steps in the process. Along with other types of cases in Winona, our attorneys have experience with:

• Personal Injury Cases: As a victim of a serious accident in Winona, it is essential to have a reputable attorney by your side. We represent victims in all types of personal injury claims in Minnesota. Regardless of the situation, we are prepared to relentlessly pursue the maximum financial compensation for you and your family. Reach out to our Winona, MN personal injury lawyer today for a fully complimentary case evaluation.
• Auto Accidents: Hurt in a motor vehicle collision, you need a strong and experienced legal advocate on your side. With deep expertise in Minnesota car accident claims, our Winona attorneys are ready to help you take on the insurance companies. Remember, an insurer is not on your side—even if it is your own policy provider. We are ready to go as far as needed to help you and your family secure the maximum financial compensation. 
• Bicycle Accidents: Minnesota can be a great place to ride a bike. Yet, cyclists face some real safety risks from motorists. Injured in a bicycle accident in Winona County? The right legal advice can make a world of difference. We strive to offer superior personal injury representation to injured cyclists in Minnesota. We are resolute in our mission to protect your rights and interests. Get in touch with us for a free initial legal consultation today.
• Pedestrian Collisions: When pedestrian collisions happen, the consequences can be devastating. Pedestrians are at risk. We are committed to ensuring that injured pedestrians in Minnesota have the proper legal representation. Contact our Winona, MN pedestrian accident attorney today for your free, no obligation case evaluation.  
• Slip and Fall Accident Claims: Businesses and property owners in Minnesota are legally obligated to ensure the safety of customers and other permitted guests. Among other things, this obligation includes a duty to detect and address slip and fall hazards. If you have suffered an injury from a slip and fall, our Winona premises liability lawyers are here to help. 
• Animal Bites & Attacks (Dog Bites): Have you been bitten by a dog or injured by another animal? You may have a legal claim against the animal owner or other negligence party under Minnesota law. Our Winona, MN animal attack lawyers are here to protect and defend your rights. 
• Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Claims: Nursing homes in Minnesota are regulated by both federal law and state law. A nursing home or other similar facility that fails to provide a proper environment for vulnerable residents may be legally liable for injuries, illnesses, and other complications. We fight hard for the rights of the victims of nursing home abuse and neglect in Minnesota. 
• Wrongful Death Lawsuits: Under Minnesota law, surviving family members may have a civil wrongful death if their loved one was killed due to negligence. These are complicated, emotionally-challenging cases. Our Winona, MN wrongful death lawyers are compassionate, knowledgeable, and experienced advocates for grieving families. 

Understanding Personal Injury Law in Minnesota

Personal injury law protects people who have been harmed by someone else’s careless or reckless actions. This area of law covers many types of accidents and injuries that occur in everyday life. When you suffer harm because of another person’s negligence, you deserve compensation for your losses.

Minnesota follows specific rules that affect how personal injury cases proceed. The state uses a comparative fault system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you share any blame for the accident. Understanding these legal principles helps you know what to expect when pursuing a claim.

Personal injury clients often have questions about their rights after an accident. Our attorneys take time to explain how Minnesota law applies to your specific situation and what steps you should take to protect your interests.

Why Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?

Many people wonder if they truly need to hire a lawyer after an accident. Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and legal teams working to minimize what they pay. Without legal representation, you face these professionals alone while dealing with your injuries and recovery.

Personal injury lawyers understand the true value of your case. We know how to calculate current and future medical expenses, lost income, and the impact injuries have on your quality of life. This knowledge protects you from accepting settlements that seem fair but fall short of what you deserve.

Taking action sooner rather than later gives your attorney more time to build a strong case. Evidence disappears, witnesses move away, and memories fade. The earlier you bring a lawyer onto your case, the better positioned you are to achieve a positive result.

Our Legal Services Across Southeastern Minnesota

Our offices serve clients throughout Southeastern Minnesota and the surrounding area. We proudly represent injured people in Winona County, Rochester, and communities between the Twin Cities and the Wisconsin border. No matter where you live in the region, our legal services are available to help you.

Each office maintains the same commitment to excellence in serving personal injury clients. Our attorneys have attended top law schools and bring years of experience to every case. We understand the importance of local knowledge when handling cases in state courts across Minnesota.

Whether your accident happened in a small town or larger city, our firm has the resources and experience to represent you effectively. We meet clients where they are, literally and figuratively, to provide the legal support they need.

What Compensation Can I Recover?

Personal injury cases allow victims to seek compensation for multiple types of losses. Economic damages include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity. These are the measurable financial losses you have suffered or will suffer because of your injuries.

Non-economic damages compensate for pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. While harder to calculate, these damages recognize that injuries affect more than just your bank account. They impact your ability to work, play with your children, pursue hobbies, and live life as you did before the accident.

The amount you can recover depends on the severity of your injuries, how they affect your life, and the strength of evidence showing the other party’s fault. Our attorneys work to document every way the accident has impacted you to maximize the compensation you receive.

The Legal Process for Personal Injury Claims

Most personal injury cases begin with an investigation into what happened and who was at fault. Your attorney gathers medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other evidence. This investigation forms the foundation of your claim.

We then prepare a demand package that presents your case to the insurance company. Many cases settle through negotiation at this stage. If the insurer refuses to pay fair compensation, we can file a lawsuit and take your case to trial if needed.

Throughout this process, we handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel on your behalf. You can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal challenges. Some cases may also involve mediation, where a neutral third party helps both sides reach an agreement.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?

Minnesota law sets strict time limits for filing personal injury lawsuits. Generally, you have six years from the date of injury to bring a civil action in court. However, some situations have shorter deadlines, and waiting too long can hurt your case even if you file within the legal time frame.

Evidence becomes harder to find as time passes. Witnesses forget details or become unavailable. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better we can preserve evidence and build your case. Don’t wait until the last minute to seek legal help.

Do I Have to Pay Upfront to Hire a Lawyer?

Our law firm handles personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs to hire us. We only collect attorney fees if we successfully recover compensation for you through settlement or trial.

This arrangement ensures everyone can access quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation. You don’t have to worry about how to pay for a lawyer while dealing with medical bills and lost income from your injuries.

Serving Clients in Multiple States

While our primary focus is Minnesota, we also serve clients in Wisconsin and understand the legal landscape in both states. If your accident involved parties or occurred in either state, we have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively.

Cross-border cases can be complex, but our firm’s experience in both jurisdictions puts us in a strong position to advise you. We know which state laws apply and how to proceed for the best result.

Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler is a Leading Law Firm for the Injured and Disabled in Winona County, MN

Whether you are bringing a personal injury lawsuit, workers’ comp claim, or navigating a Social Security disability case, it is normal to have a lot of questions about your rights and options. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we use our deep knowledge of Minnesota law and federal Social Security law to protect the rights and interests of our clients. We are on the side of people who need help the most. With a proven track record of verdicts and settlements and testimonials from former clients, our team knows how to get results. Among other things our Winona lawyers are ready to: 

• Listen to what you have to say and answer legal questions; 
• Investigate and assess the case, gathering all of the evidence and information;  
• Take care of the legal or insurance paperwork and represent you in settlement talks; and
• Develop a personalized strategy that is designed to get real results. 

What Makes Our Firm Different?

Our attorneys bring true dedication to every client we serve. We don’t just see you as another case file. You are a person who has suffered injuries through no fault of your own and deserves justice. This personal attention to each client sets us apart from larger firms where you might feel like a number.

We are proud to be part of the communities we serve. Our attorneys live and work in the area, and we understand the challenges local residents face. This connection to the region helps us better represent your interests and speak effectively on your behalf in local courts.

Experience matters in personal injury law. Our firm has handled thousands of cases over the years, giving us a deep understanding of what works and what doesn’t. We bring this knowledge to your case and use proven strategies to achieve the best possible result.

Common Questions About Personal Injury Cases

Q. What should I do immediately after an accident?

A. Get medical attention right away, even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt. Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Call the police if appropriate and document the scene with photos if you can safely do so. Exchange information with others involved, but avoid discussing who was at fault. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Q. How much is my personal injury case worth?

A. Every case is unique and depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, how they affect your daily life and job, the amount of your medical expenses, and the strength of evidence showing negligence. Our attorneys provide honest assessments during free consultations. We never promise specific amounts but work to maximize what you recover based on the facts of your situation.

Q. What if I was partially at fault for my accident?

A. Minnesota uses comparative negligence rules. You can still recover compensation even if you share some blame, as long as you were less than 51% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% responsible and your damages total $100,000, you could recover $80,000.

Q. How long does a personal injury case take to resolve?

A. Some cases settle in a few months, while others take a year or more. The timeline depends on the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the insurance company makes a reasonable offer. We work efficiently but never rush you into accepting less than you deserve. Your recovery and future matter more than a quick settlement.

Q. Will my case go to trial?

A. Most personal injury cases settle before trial. Insurance companies often prefer to negotiate rather than face the uncertainty and expense of court. However, if they refuse to pay fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have trial experience and aren’t afraid to fight for you in court when necessary.

Q. What if the person who hurt me doesn’t have insurance?

A. You may still have options. Your own insurance policy might include uninsured motorist coverage that applies to your situation. In some cases, other parties share responsibility and have insurance or assets. Our attorneys examine every potential source of compensation and advise you on the best path forward based on your specific circumstances.

Q. Can I handle my personal injury claim without a lawyer?

A. While you have the right to represent yourself, doing so puts you at a significant disadvantage. Insurance companies know you lack legal training and may offer far less than your case is worth. Personal injury law involves complex rules and procedures. Having an attorney levels the playing field and significantly improves your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top Winona, MN Attorney Today

At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Winona attorneys are skilled, experienced, and justice-driven advocates for people and families. We know how to get results. Contact our law firm today to set up your free, no obligation initial appointment. We fight for the rights of the injured and disabled in Winona, Winona County, and throughout the wider region in Minnesota. 

Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Call us to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you. The sooner you bring us into your case, the better we can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Speak with an experienced attorney who will listen to your story and provide honest advice about your options.