Milwaukee sees more car accidents than any other part of Wisconsin. According to recent data, over 24,500 collisions occurred on Milwaukee County roads in a single year, resulting in 82 fatalities and approximately 2,500 injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, you’re more than just a number — and you may be entitled to financial compensation. An experienced car collision attorney from LawtonCates can help you file a claim and seek the money you deserve.

Our Milwaukee car accident lawyers have successfully represented injured individuals across Southeastern and South-Central Wisconsin for nearly 70 years. Over that time, we have achieved numerous six- and seven-figure verdicts and settlements for clients injured in motor vehicle accidents throughout the state. Every case is unique, and results vary based on individual circumstances. Come share your story and learn your legal options.

Call or contact us today for a free consultation.

Can I File a Legal Claim for My Car Accident Case?

Wisconsin operates under a fault-based insurance system, meaning that the person or party responsible for the crash is financially responsible (“liable”) for any resulting costs. If their negligence caused you injuries, forced you to miss work and lose income, or caused you significant pain, you may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit against them.

Wisconsin law gives you three years from the date of your accident to file a car accident claim. If your case is against a government entity, you must file a notice of claim within 120 days of the collision. Missing these deadlines could result in losing your right to recover compensation through the legal system. An experienced attorney can help you understand the timeline that applies to your specific situation.

How Our Milwaukee Car Collision Lawyers Can Help

The Milwaukee car accident attorneys at LawtonCates provide comprehensive legal support to guide you through the entire aftermath of your collision. Unlike high-volume legal mills that prioritize quick settlements, our attorneys approach each case with meticulous attention to detail and a long-term strategy.

When taking on a new car accident case, we aim to conduct a thorough investigation of the crash, gather and preserve critical evidence, interview witnesses, consult with accident reconstruction experts when needed, manage communications with insurance companies, and assess the potential value of any injuries.

Our Wisconsin car accident lawyers approach every case as though it will go to trial from the start — a strategy that signals to insurance companies we won’t entertain lowball settlement offers. While our goal is to reach a fair car collision settlement without going to court, we’re prepared to take the case to trial if the insurer refuses to offer reasonable compensation.

Leading Causes of Car Collisions

Auto accidents in Milwaukee happen for many reasons, often tied to driver negligence and local conditions. Common causes of car accidents include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Fatigued driving
  • Speeding
  • Failure to yield
  • Tailgating
  • Reckless driving
  • Road rage
  • Running red lights and stop signs
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Improper turns
  • Driver inexperience

Some crashes stem from non-driver-related factors, such as:

  • Vehicle defects
  • Poorly maintained roads
  • Inadequate signage
  • Poor road design

Factors like these can make car accident claims more complex by shifting liability from individual drivers to manufacturers or public entities.

Milwaukee’s geography and climate also contribute to a higher risk of accidents, especially during snow, ice, rain, or fog. Slick roads and limited visibility can create dangerous conditions on Wisconsin roadways, especially when drivers fail to exercise caution.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car collisions can result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term care, such as:

The financial impact of car accident injuries often extends well beyond the initial emergency room visit and immediate medical treatment. Accident victims with serious injuries may need ongoing physical therapy, specialized equipment, prescription medications, and regular follow-up appointments with various specialists. In cases involving catastrophic injuries, individuals may face permanent disabilities that require home modifications, assistive devices, or long-term care arrangements.

Steps to Take After a Car Crash in Milwaukee

In the immediate aftermath of a crash, you should:

  • Check for injuries.
  • Call 911 to report the accident.
  • Exchange information with all drivers involved.
  • Ask eyewitnesses for their contact details.
  • Take photos and video of the accident scene, including your injuries and the position of the vehicles involved.

Then, shift your attention to what happens next. Taking the following steps can protect your health, safeguard your rights, and strengthen your potential personal injury claim:

  • Seek medical attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to follow up with a doctor after a traffic accident. Symptoms from concussions, whiplash, or internal injuries can take time to appear. Your medical records will help establish a clear link between the crash and your injuries.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions – Attend all follow-up appointments and stick to your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan. Insurers may point to any gaps in care to argue that your injuries aren’t serious.
  • Document everything – Keep your medical records, receipts, correspondence with insurance adjusters, and notes about how the crash affected your life. This documentation plays a critical role in supporting your car accident claim.
  • Report the crash to your insurance company – Many insurance policies require you to report accidents by a certain deadline. Notify your insurer as soon as possible, but avoid guessing about who is at fault or the extent of your injuries.
  • Speak with a car accident lawyer – Insurance companies often make low settlement offers at first. A personal injury lawyer can help assess the potential value of your claim and guide you in evaluating settlement offers as you decide whether an offer fairly reflects your losses.

Get Professional Legal Support with a Car Accident Attorney at LawtonCates

LawtonCates is a top-rated personal injury law firm serving clients in Milwaukee, Madison, Jefferson, and the surrounding regions. If you’re struggling in the aftermath of a collision in Milwaukee, an experienced car accident lawyer can evaluate your case for free and discuss potential next steps. Contact us now to get started.