Houston County, Minnesota sits just across the border from La Crosse, Wisconsin, and many residents of communities like La Crescent and Caledonia have close ties to Wisconsin. If you have been injured in a car accident in Houston County, you may be wondering if a Wisconsin law firm can represent you. The answer is yes. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC are licensed to practice in both Wisconsin and Minnesota, and we are here to help accident victims on both sides of the border.
Why Choose a Wisconsin Law Firm for Your Minnesota Accident Case?
There are several reasons why Houston County residents choose to work with our firm:
•Convenient Location: Our La Crosse office is just a short drive from La Crescent and other Houston County communities.
•Licensed in Both States: Our attorneys are licensed to practice in both Wisconsin and Minnesota, so we have a deep understanding of the laws in both states.
•Local Knowledge: We are familiar with the local courts, judges, and insurance companies in both Wisconsin and Minnesota.
•Proven Track Record: We have a long history of getting results for our clients in personal injury cases.
Common Types of Accidents in Houston County
Houston County sees a variety of serious accidents, including:
•Car Accidents: Highway 61 and Highway 16 are major routes through the county, and they see a high volume of traffic and a significant number of accidents.
•Truck Accidents: As a major transportation corridor, Houston County sees a large number of semi-trucks, and a collision with a large truck can be catastrophic.
•Motorcycle Accidents: The scenic roads along the Mississippi River are popular with motorcyclists, but they can also be dangerous.
•Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: In communities like La Crescent, pedestrian and bicycle accidents are a serious concern.
Minnesota’s No-Fault Insurance System
One important difference between Wisconsin and Minnesota is that Minnesota has a “no-fault” insurance system. Under this system, your own insurance company will pay for your medical bills and lost wages, up to your policy limits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This is called Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
However, if your injuries are serious, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options.
What to Do After a Houston County Accident
If you are in an accident in Houston 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.
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.
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 live in Minnesota, but the accident happened in Wisconsin. Can you still help me?
A: Yes. Our attorneys are licensed to practice in both states, so we can represent you no matter where the accident occurred or where you live.
Q: How does Minnesota’s no-fault insurance system work?
A: Under Minnesota’s no-fault system, your own insurance company will pay for your medical bills and lost wages, up to your policy limits. However, if your injuries are serious, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options.
Q: Do I have to go to court for my accident case?
A: Most personal injury cases are settled out of court. However, if the insurance company is not willing to offer a fair settlement, we are always prepared to take your case to trial to get you the compensation you deserve.
How a Houston County Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a serious accident in Houston County, 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, build a powerful case, and fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
We are proud to serve the Houston County community and have a long history of getting results for our clients in Minnesota. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. You will not pay any fees unless we win your case.