After a car accident, you might be too distressed at first to worry about the state requirements for reporting it. However, in Wisconsin, if you don't report a crash properly, you risk suspension of your driver's license and driving privileges. The following are requirements to file an accident report and when to bring in a car accident lawyer
1. Know When To Report a Car Accident
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, you must report any car crash within Wisconsin when it results in:
- Injury of a person or death
- $1,000 or more damage to any person's vehicle or property
- Damage of $200 or more to state or other government-owned property other than a vehicle
FindLaw states that if police are already at the scene, drivers don't have to report additional information unless authorities ask for a supplemental report. If police don't respond, Wisconsin state rules say that you must file a Driver Report of Accident within ten days of an accident. Even if another driver offers to pay the damages and asks you not to file the report, you must file it anyway. If not, authorities may suspend your driving privileges.
2. Compile Requisite Documentation
Before you file a crash report, make sure you have handy your:
- Driver's license number
- Vehicle Identification Number
- Social Security Number
- Your vehicle's insurance information
This way, you won't have to scramble for it later and can give authorities and a car accident lawyer complete information.
3. What to Say in Your Car accident Report
You'll need the name, address, license number, and phone number of all drivers. You'll also need the name, address, and phone number of any passengers and witnesses. Additionally, include the vehicle's make, model, and license.
For descriptions, explain how the accident happened and any damage done to the vehicles. Include pictures from the accident scenes and a diagram of the accident scene.
Include pictures from the accident scene.
- Name, address, license number, and phone number of all drivers
- Name, address, and phone number of passengers and witnesses
- Make, model, and license of vehicles
You also must include information about your insurance coverage. If you did not have liability insurance when the accident occurred, you risk suspension of your driving privileges.
4. Seek Legal Assistance
While the law doesn't require you to have a car accident lawyer, hiring one can be a tremendous asset in navigating even minor car accidents. A personal injury attorney can help with a car accident claim to get compensation when possible. For example, they can work with you to file an insurance claim or lawsuit if the insurance company won't compensate you appropriately for your accident.
We're Here to Help, Contact a Car Accident lawyer
Don't endure the car accident reporting process alone. At Bykhovsky Law, we offer personal injury services to help protect your legal rights. Get in touch for a free consultation if you have questions or are interested in hiring a car accident lawyer.
