Check for injuries and call 911. Wisconsin law requires you to stop and exchange information, and to report crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage.
At the Scene
Photograph everything — vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, road conditions, and your own visible injuries. Get names and numbers of witnesses before they leave.
Get Medical Attention
See a doctor even if you feel fine. Adrenaline masks injuries, and conditions like whiplash or concussion often surface days later. A prompt medical record also links your injuries to the crash.
Gaps in treatment are the first thing insurers exploit to argue you weren't really hurt.
Protect Your Claim
Report the crash to your insurer, but be careful giving recorded statements to the other driver's insurance company. Adjusters are trained to elicit admissions that reduce what you're owed.
Remember Wisconsin follows modified comparative negligence under Wis. Stat. § 895.045 — you can recover as long as you are not more than 51% at fault, but your award is reduced by your share of responsibility. Anything you say that shifts blame onto yourself can cost you.
Know Your Deadlines
Wisconsin's personal injury statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of injury (Wis. Stat. § 893.54). If a government vehicle was involved, the 120-day notice rule may apply. Talking to a lawyer early keeps every option open.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Injury Claim Team is a free attorney-matching service, not a law firm. For advice about your specific situation, talk to a licensed Wisconsin attorney — we'll connect you at no cost.