Hit-and-Run Accidents in Wisconsin: Protecting Your Rights
![Hit and run coverage Wisconsin car](/sites/default/files/2024-05/hit-and-run-wisconsin.jpg)
Being involved in a car accident is a scary experience, but it's even more so when the other driver disappears into the night. If you've been injured in a hit-and-run accident in southeastern Wisconsin, you might be wondering how it affects your ability to recover compensation for your damages. Here at Action Law Offices, we understand the unique challenges of these situations, and we're here to help, regardless of where you are in Southeast Wisconsin, be it the bustling city of Milwaukee, the beautiful lakefront of Racine and Kenosha, the charming suburbs of Waukesha and West Bend, or anywhere else in the region.
What Happens in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
In Wisconsin, drivers are legally required to stop and exchange information after any accident involving injury or property damage. Failing to do so constitutes a hit-and-run, which is a crime. This can leave victims feeling frustrated and helpless, unsure of how to proceed.
Challenges of Hit-and-Run Claims in Southeast Wisconsin
The biggest challenge with hit-and-run claims is identifying the at-fault driver. Without their insurance information, pursuing compensation through their insurance company becomes impossible. This can be especially frustrating in busy areas like Milwaukee or Waukesha, where traffic accidents are more frequent.
Fortunately, Wisconsin has options to help:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): This is mandatory car insurance in Wisconsin. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and car repairs if you're injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, which includes hit-and-run drivers. This can be a lifeline for accident victims across Southeast Wisconsin, from Racine to West Bend.
- Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): This optional coverage kicks in if the at-fault driver's insurance policy limits are insufficient to cover your damages. This can be crucial in situations where the hit-and-run driver may have minimal insurance, leaving you with significant medical bills.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Southeast Wisconsin
- Call the Police: Report the accident immediately to the local police department, regardless of the city or town you're in, be it Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee, West Bend, Waukesha, or elsewhere. Cooperate with the investigation and provide any details you can about the hit-and-run driver or vehicle.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the most important thing. Even if you don't feel immediate pain, getting checked by a doctor in your area is crucial to document any injuries and begin treatment. This can be done at a local hospital or urgent care clinic.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: File a claim under your UM/UIM coverage if applicable. Be prepared to provide details about the accident and any evidence you have, such as witness statements or dashcam footage.
- Consider Legal Representation: An experienced personal injury attorney at Action Law Offices can navigate the complexities of hit-and-run claims, maximize your compensation, and deal with the insurance company on your behalf. We're familiar with the legal landscape across Southeast Wisconsin and can ensure you receive the representation you deserve.
Action Law Offices Can Help Throughout Southeast Wisconsin
At Action Law Offices, we have a proven track record of success in handling hit-and-run accident claims throughout Southeast Wisconsin. We understand the emotional and financial toll these accidents can take, and we're dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve, regardless of where you are in the region.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your specific case. Don't let a hit-and-run driver leave you without the resources you need to recover. With the right legal guidance from Action Law Offices, you can protect your rights and get back on your feet, in Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee, West Bend, Waukesha, or anywhere else in Southeast Wisconsin.