Buffalo County is a beautiful and largely rural area of western Wisconsin. While the quiet country roads and scenic views are part of the county’s charm, they also present unique dangers for drivers. When an accident happens on a rural road in Buffalo County, help may be miles away, and the consequences can be devastating. Understanding your legal rights after a rural road accident is the first step in getting the compensation you deserve.
The Buffalo County personal injury lawyers at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC are here to help accident victims throughout the county. We understand the unique challenges of rural road accidents and are ready to fight for you.
The Unique Dangers of Rural Road Accidents
Rural roads in Buffalo County present a number of hazards that are not as common on urban or suburban roads:
•Narrow Roads: Many rural roads are narrow, with no shoulder and limited room for error.
•Sharp Curves and Hills: The hilly terrain in Buffalo County means that many rural roads have sharp curves and steep hills that can be dangerous, especially at higher speeds.
•Wildlife: Deer and other wildlife are a serious hazard on rural roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
•Farm Equipment: Slow-moving farm equipment can create dangerous situations when faster-moving vehicles try to pass.
•Poor Road Maintenance: Rural roads may not be maintained as well as urban roads, and potholes, gravel, and other hazards can cause accidents.
•Delayed Emergency Response: When an accident happens on a rural road, it may take longer for emergency responders to arrive, which can make injuries more severe.
Common Causes of Buffalo County Rural Road Accidents
Rural road accidents in Buffalo County are often caused by:
•Speeding: Drivers who are going too fast for the conditions may not be able to navigate a sharp curve or stop in time to avoid hitting wildlife.
•Distracted Driving: A driver who is texting, eating, or otherwise not paying attention is a serious danger on any road, but especially on narrow rural roads.
•Drunk Driving: Impaired driving is a problem in rural areas, and the consequences can be deadly.
•Failure to Yield: Accidents at rural intersections often happen when a driver fails to yield the right-of-way.
•Unsafe Passing: Attempting to pass slow-moving farm equipment on a narrow road can be extremely dangerous.
The Importance of Immediate Medical Attention
One of the biggest challenges of a rural road accident is the delay in getting medical attention. If you are in an accident on a rural road in Buffalo County, you should:
- Call 911 Immediately: Even if you do not think you are seriously injured, you should call for help right away. The sooner emergency responders are on their way, the better.
- Stay Calm: If you are injured, try to stay calm and still. Moving around can make your injuries worse.
- Ask for Help: If there are other people at the scene, ask them to call 911 and to stay with you until help arrives.
What to Do After a Buffalo County Rural Road Accident
If you are in an accident on a rural road in Buffalo County, you should take the following steps:
1.Call 911: Report the accident and request an ambulance if anyone is injured.
2.Stay at the Scene: Do not leave the scene of the accident.
3.Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license plate number.
4.Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the vehicles, the road, and any injuries. Pay special attention to any road hazards that may have contributed to the accident.
5.Get Witness Information: If anyone saw the accident, get their name and phone number.
6.Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you do not think you are seriously injured. The delay in getting medical attention at the scene makes it even more important to get checked out by a doctor later.
7.Contact a Lawyer: Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company before you have consulted with an attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: I hit a deer on a rural road in Buffalo County. Can I file a claim?
A: If you hit a deer, you would typically file a claim with your own insurance company under your comprehensive coverage. However, if another driver’s negligence caused you to swerve and hit the deer, you may be able to file a claim against that driver.
Q: The accident happened on a poorly maintained county road. Can I sue the county?
A: Possibly. If the county was negligent in maintaining the road and that negligence caused your accident, you may be able to file a claim against the county. These cases can be complex, so it is important to speak with an experienced attorney.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim after a rural road accident in Wisconsin?
A: The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Wisconsin is generally three years. However, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss any important deadlines.
How a Buffalo County Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a serious rural road accident, you should be focused on your recovery. Let the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC handle the legal battle. We will investigate your accident, identify all liable parties, and fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Our motor vehicle accident lawyers are proud to serve the Buffalo County community and have a long history of getting results for our clients in rural Wisconsin. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. You will not pay any fees unless we win your case.