For residents of Wausau and Marathon County, Highway 51 is a vital artery. But this busy highway is also the scene of many serious car accidents. The mix of high-speed traffic, heavy commercial trucks, and frequent congestion creates a dangerous environment where a single mistake can have devastating consequences. If you have been injured in a crash on Highway 51, it is important to understand your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
The Wausau car accident lawyers at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC have a long history of helping accident victims in Marathon County. We understand the unique challenges of a Highway 51 accident case and are here to fight for the compensation you need to recover.
The Dangers of Highway 51
Highway 51 presents a number of hazards to drivers. These include:
- High Speeds: The high speed limit on many parts of the highway means that accidents are often severe.
- Heavy Truck Traffic: As a major north-south route, Highway 51 sees a large number of semi-trucks. An accident involving a large truck is almost always catastrophic for the occupants of a smaller vehicle.
- Construction Zones: Frequent construction projects can create confusing lane shifts and sudden stops, leading to rear-end and side-swipe accidents.
- Inclement Weather: In the winter, snow and ice can make the highway treacherous, but drivers still have a duty to slow down and drive safely for the conditions.
Common Types of Highway 51 Accidents
We see a number of common accident patterns on Highway 51 in the Wausau area:
- Rear-End Collisions: These often happen in congested areas or when a driver is following too closely and is unable to stop in time.
- Truck Accidents: A collision with a semi-truck can be life-altering. These cases are also more complex, as they may involve liability on the part of the driver, the trucking company, and their insurance providers.
- Head-On Collisions: On the two-lane sections of the highway, a distracted or impaired driver can easily drift into oncoming traffic, causing a deadly head-on crash.
- Drunk Driving Accidents: Despite strict laws, drunk driving remains a serious problem on Wisconsin’s highways.
What to Do After a Highway 51 Crash
If you are in an accident on Highway 51, your first priority is your safety. You should:
1.Call 911: Report the accident and request an ambulance if anyone is injured.
2.Move to a Safe Location: If you can, move your vehicle to the shoulder to avoid being hit by other traffic.
3.Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, and insurance information.
4.Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, the highway, and any injuries.
5.Get Medical Care: See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you do not think you are seriously injured.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: The truck driver’s insurance company is offering me a quick settlement. Should I take it?
A: No. The first offer from an insurance company is almost always too low. They are trying to get you to settle your case for less than it is worth before you know the full extent of your injuries. You should never accept a settlement offer without speaking to an experienced Wausau truck accident lawyer.
Q: How is fault determined in a multi-car pile-up on the highway?
A: Determining fault in a multi-car accident can be very complex. It often requires a detailed investigation and the help of accident reconstruction experts. Our attorneys have the resources to handle these complicated cases.
Q: I was a passenger in a car that caused an accident. Can I still get compensation?
A: Yes. As a passenger, you are not at fault for the accident. You can file a claim against the insurance policy of the at-fault driver, even if it was the driver of the car you were in.
How a Wausau Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a serious highway accident, you should not have to deal with the stress of fighting with an insurance company. The dedicated personal injury attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC are here to take that burden off your shoulders. We will handle all the legal details of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating a fair settlement.
We have a deep understanding of the local courts in Marathon County and a proven track record of success for our clients in Wausau. Contact us today for a free consultation. We are ready to listen to your story and fight for the justice you deserve. You will not pay any fees unless we win your case.