Car Accident Lawyers Serving Madison & Beyond

Navigating the aftermath of a serious car accident can be overwhelming. Victims often underestimate how profoundly their injuries might affect their long-term health and well-being.

Our dedicated Madison car accident attorneys ensure that the client’s awards include all injury-related losses. That includes both financial losses and non-economic damages, which many don’t realize qualify for compensation.

We know the legal system well, especially personal injury law and insurance policies. Our understanding of Madison’s laws helps us get you the best compensation for your injuries quickly and effectively. We build strong cases that demonstrate who is responsible and how injuries affect our clients’ lives.

Recent wins for clients include:

• $1.2 million awarded to a woman who experienced significant blood loss and fractured bones in a car crash
• $555,000 for a car accident victim who initially received a $30,000 offer from the insurance company
• $1 million settlement with all liens waived for a resident involved in a vehicle collision

Car Accidents in Madison: A Problem for Residents

Car accidents are an ongoing issue for drivers in Madison. The city and its surrounding regions accumulate thousands of car crash related injuries, often due to careless driving.

For example, recent data shows that distracted driving contributes to 40% of injury-related crashes in Dane County. This is higher than the statewide average of 36%, according to WisDOT data.

While car accident injuries range in severity, the challenges are often the same. Accident victims find themselves:

• Confused by legal jargon
• Unsure about matters of fault
• In physical and emotional pain
• Stressed by the personal injury claims process

Our Madison car accident attorneys at Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm understand that car accidents can be complex. We strive to take on the heavy lifting so our clients don’t have to.

Cited car accident statistics are from WisDOT and Wisc.edu partners. 

How Long Do Car Accident Settlements Take? 

Car accident settlements can take anywhere from several months to a few years. Cases with straightforward liability and minor injuries often resolve quickly. However, those involving severe injuries, disputes, or litigation may take much longer. The car accident settlement timeline depends on factors like medical treatment, negotiations, and court schedules.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Car Accident Attorney

• Not Researching the Attorney’s Experience: Ensure the attorney specializes in personal injury law and has a track record of handling accident cases successfully.

• Choosing Based on Price Alone: A lower fee doesn’t guarantee quality representation. Focus on experience and reputation instead.

• Failing to Check Client Reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials to gauge client satisfaction and case results.

• Ignoring Communication Issues: An attorney should be responsive, keeping you informed throughout your case.

• Not Asking About Fees Upfront: Understand the attorney’s fee structure, including contingency fees and additional costs, before signing a contract.

What to Do After a Car Accident

Right after an accident, prioritize moving to safety and checking for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident. Let emergency service workers know if there are injuries.

Even minor accidents should be reported to the police. A police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal matters.

If law enforcement is present, they might complete a crash report for you. Remember, any crash causing injury or $1,000+ in property damage must be reported as outlined in Wisconsin Statute s. 346.70(1).

THE IMPORTANCE OF DOCUMENTATION

You should collect your own evidence by documenting the accident. That includes taking photos of the scene, the vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. It is also crucial to exchange information with other drivers involved, including:

• Names
• Phone numbers
• Driver’s license numbers
• License plate numbers
• Insurance details

Promptly seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries might not appear right away. Emergency rooms have the tools to give accurate diagnoses and needed care. This also ensures you get the right medical attention and creates a record of any injuries from the accident.

Protect Your Right to Full Compensation 

Madison car accident victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries. This includes both economic damages like medical expenses and lost wages. It also includes non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

To secure compensation, it’s crucial to prove the extent of these damages and the fault of the other party. In Madison, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. However, your actions immediately following the accident can significantly impact the success of your claim.

Wisconsin Is a Fault State

Madison uses Wisconsin’s fault-based system for car accidents. This liability falls to the driver who caused the accident, and that person may be financially responsible. Under Wisconsin’s comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages if you were partly at fault, as long as your responsibility is “50% or less.”

When it comes to insurance companies, choose your words carefully. Also, be wary of quick settlement offers and requests for recorded statements.

Understanding Injury Compensation & Insurance

Here’s what you need to know about liability insurance and the possibility of punitive damages in Madison.

LIABILITY INSURANCE AND UNINSURED MOTORISTS

Liability insurance is the most common type of insurance involved in car accident injury claims. Depending on the at-fault party’s insurance, you might need to get compensation from different insurance companies.

In Wisconsin, you must have liability insurance. Driving without it can lead to serious fines. If the person at fault does not have insurance, you may need to fill out forms with the DMV. You might also have to seek compensation through your insurance or other options.

PUNITIVE DAMAGES IN WISCONSIN

Reckless or malicious driving can result in punitive damages awarded to the plaintiff. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Drunk driving cases sometimes include punitive damages, for example. In Wisconsin, punitive damages are capped at twice the amount of compensatory damages or $200,000, whichever is greater. 

Common Car Accident Injuries

Victims of car accidents can experience a wide range of injuries, each carrying its own set of challenges.

• WRONGFUL DEATH: Car accidents can sometimes lead to the tragic loss of life. Victims’ loved ones are grieving and facing money problems. This is all because of another driver’s carelessness or mistakes. 
• TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI): The force from a car crash can lead to concussions or even more serious brain injuries. This can affect a person’s memory, cognitive abilities, or even their personality.
• SPINAL CORD DAMAGE: Spinal cord damage is another serious consequence of car accidents. Herniated discs and injuries that cause paralysis can greatly affect a person’s movement and quality of life.
• BONE FRACTURES AND BREAKS: Broken bones, while common, are far from minor. Injuries can vary from simple fractures to complex breaks. These injuries may lead to long recovery times, surgeries, and lasting disabilities.
• INTERNAL INJURIES: Car crashes can also lead to internal injuries, which, if not promptly treated, can become life-threatening. These injuries may not show noticeable symptoms right away, but they can have severe outcomes if neglected.

Car Accident Lawyers in Madison 

At Pemberton, we focus on building a strong case to prove liability and collect damages after a car accident. Our committed team is ready to assist you at every stage to ensure you receive the highest possible compensation. Reach out to us for a complimentary consultation.

PEMBERTON PERSONAL INJURY LAW FIRM

5609 Medical Cir #4
Madison, WI 53719
(608) 448-6242