What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Wisconsin

Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents

A hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a car accident leaves the scene of the accident without stopping to provide their information or help anyone who may be injured. In Wisconsin, leaving the scene of an accident in Wisconsin is a serious offense that can result in criminal charges, especially if the accident caused great bodily harm or death.

If you have been a victim of a hit and run in Wisconsin, knowing what steps to take can help protect your rights, increase the chances of finding the hit and run driver, and ensure you receive proper compensation for your vehicle damage, medical bills, and lost wages.

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Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Wisconsin

1. Stay at the accident scene and call the police

It is crucial to stay at the accident scene and call the police immediately. Police officers can investigate the hit and run crash, document details, and gather any available evidence. A police report will be essential when filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.

2. Gather information about the fleeing vehicle

If possible, try to remember and document key details about the fleeing vehicle, including:

• License plate number (even a partial number can help)
• Make, model, and color of the car
• Any unique features, such as bumper stickers or damage
• The direction the driver fled
• Description of the hit and run driver (if visible)

Surveillance cameras from nearby businesses, traffic lights, or homes may have captured footage of the run accident. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information to assist the police in tracking down the responsible driver.

3. Seek medical attention immediately

Even if you feel fine, you should see a doctor after an accident in Wisconsin. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. Seeking medical care will ensure your well-being and provide medical records that can support your personal injury claim.

4. Report the accident to your insurance company

After notifying the police, you should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Your auto insurance policy may include uninsured motorist coverage, which can help cover damages if the other driver is not found. When filing an insurance claim, provide as much evidence as possible, including photos of the crash scene, witness information, and your medical expenses.

5. Understand your legal options

If the hit and run driver is identified, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them to recover damages for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other costs. If the driver fails to stop and is not found, your uninsured motorist coverage can help with financial recovery. An attorney can help you navigate Wisconsin law, including Wisconsin’s statute of limitations for filing claims.

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What Are Wisconsin’s Laws on Hit-and-Run Accidents?

Wisconsin law on leaving the scene of an accident

Under Wisconsin law, a driver involved in a car accident must stop and provide reasonable assistance to anyone injured. If a driver flees without offering help or exchanging information, they may face criminal charges.

Penalties for a Wisconsin hit and run vary depending on the severity of the accident:

• If the accident causes property damage, the at fault driver may face fines and license suspension.
• If the accident results in injuries, the driver could face felony charges.
• If the crash leads to great bodily harm or death, the responsible driver could face significant prison time.

How uninsured motorist coverage helps in hit and run cases

Wisconsin requires auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist coverage, which helps protect accident victims when the other driver cannot be identified. This coverage can help with medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.

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How an Attorney Can Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you have been involved in a hit and run accident in Wisconsin, an experienced attorney can help you:

• Investigate the accident, including reviewing surveillance cameras and witness information
• Work with the police and insurance company to track down the hit and run driver
• File an accident claim and ensure you receive the maximum compensation
• Pursue a personal injury lawsuit if necessary

At the Law Offices of Gary S. Greenberg, we understand the frustration and challenges accident victims face after a hit and run. Our team is dedicated to helping you recover damages and obtain the justice you deserve.

Learn more about what to do after a hit and run accident in Wisconsin. Call the Law Offices of Gary S. Greenberg at (414) 271-7007 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.

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FAQs

What should I do if I am a victim of a hit and run accident in Wisconsin?

Stay at the accident scene, call the police, document any details about the fleeing vehicle, seek medical attention, and report the accident to your insurance company.

Will my insurance cover a hit and run accident?

If you have uninsured motorist coverage, your policy may help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs if the hit and run driver is not found.

Can I file a personal injury lawsuit after a hit and run crash?

Yes, if the hit and run driver is identified, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and other costs.

How long do I have to file a claim for a hit and run accident in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim varies, so it’s important to consult a lawyer as soon as possible to understand your legal options.

What if I didn’t get the license plate number of the other vehicle?

Even if you don’t have the full license plate number, witness statements, surveillance cameras, and police investigations may still help identify the driver. An attorney can assist with gathering evidence to support your case.