You generally need another party's negligence. 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. so partial fault doesn't necessarily end your claim.
Was Someone Else at Fault?
Were You Injured?
There must be real harm — injuries, medical bills, lost time, or lasting effects — to support a claim.
Is It Within the Deadline?
Wisconsin's personal injury statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of injury (Wis. Stat. § 893.54). Claims against a Wisconsin governmental body require written notice of injury within 120 days (Wis. Stat. § 893.80), with damages against most municipalities capped at $50,000.
Is There a Source of Recovery?
Insurance or a solvent defendant must exist. An attorney can identify every available source.
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.