Free Consultation – Call Now 414-387-4285

Stanford Law Offices, S.C.
Email
Call

We Are In It To Win The Compensation You Deserve

Milwaukee Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Since 1989, Stanford Law Offices, S.C., has been representing uninsured and underinsured motorist claims. Many victims of car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents or bicycle accidents may not be aware of uninsured or underinsured benefits which may be available to them under their insurance policies.

We work on a contingency fee. Because we work on a contingency fee, you do not pay any legal fees. Rather, we are only paid once a successful settlement, verdict or judgment is obtained.

We invite everybody visiting this website to review the testimonials and reviews from our clients. There is no better way to learn what we bring to the table than to hear from our clients. Our history, success rate and clients’ testimonials and reviews serve as our advertising.

Wisconsin Uninsured/Underinsured Accidents: Questions And Answers

If you have been involved in a Milwaukee vehicle accident and the other party had no or insufficient insurance coverage, the right information is essential for financial recovery. The answers to the frequently asked questions below can provide clarity on Wisconsin laws and your rights.

What are the auto insurance laws and requirements in Milwaukee?

Throughout Wisconsin, drivers are required to carry liability auto insurance with minimum coverage limits of:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury or the death of one person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury or the death of two or more people
  • $10,000 for property damage caused by an accident

Additionally, Wisconsin mandates uninsured motorist (UM) coverage with minimum limits matching those for liability insurance policies. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is not mandatory but must be offered by insurers. Driving without insurance can result in fines of up to $500, and providing false proof of insurance carries penalties as high as $5,000.

Having the proper coverage is not only a legal requirement but also a critical safeguard in protecting yourself financially in accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers.

What steps should I take immediately after an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver?

Taking wise steps in the aftermath of an uninsured or underinsured motorist accident can protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Here are some guidelines to follow:

  • Ensure safety: Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance for the injured.
  • Document the scene: Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses and the other driver, even if they lack insurance.
  • File a police report: Contact the police. The official report they file can be essential for documenting the accident and proving fault.
  • Notify Your insurance provider: Inform your insurer about the accident and provide relevant details. Avoid making formal statements and admitting fault.
  • Call a Milwaukee underinsured and uninsured accident attorney: Working with an experienced attorney can help you navigate complex insurance claims and avoid costly missteps.

Taking these steps promptly can improve the success of your claim and helps protect your rights, especially with the guidance of a skilled attorney.

How is compensation determined in underinsured or uninsured auto accident claims?

The amount of compensation you receive is based on your losses and depends on several factors, including:

  • Medical expenses: For hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation and future treatments
  • Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other damaged items
  • Lost wages: To address income lost due to injuries, including long-term impacts on earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering: For non-economic damages like emotional distress and diminished quality of life
  • Policy limits: Any caps or limits of your UM/UIM coverage

By understanding how compensation is calculated, you can better evaluate your claim and work with your attorney to pursue the recovery you deserve.

Can I file a claim if the car accident was partially my fault in Wisconsin?

Yes, Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you may recover compensation if your fault is less than 51%. However, the amount you receive will be reduced by your degree of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault, your damages will be reduced by 20%.

Even if you share some responsibility for the accident, understanding the comparative negligence rule allows you to pursue compensation effectively within Wisconsin’s legal framework.

What should I do if my Wisconsin insurance company denies my underinsured or uninsured accident claim?

If your claim is denied, take these steps to rectify the situation:

  • Review the denial letter: Understand the reasons for denial, such as insufficient evidence or missed deadlines
  • Evaluate your policy: Check your coverage details to identify any discrepancies or errors
  • Gather additional evidence: Strengthen your case with accident reports and detailed medical bills and records
  • File an appeal: Submit an appeal letter to your insurer, explaining why the denial is unjustified.
  • Seek legal assistance: Consult an attorney experienced in underinsured/uninsured insurance disputes to challenge the denial and pursue fair compensation

A denial is a setback but it need not be the end. With persistence and legal support, you can dispute the decision and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.

What Are The Common Issues Surrounding Uninsured Auto Accidents?

Being involved in an accident is stressful enough, but the challenges multiply when the at-fault driver does not have insurance. Victims can find themselves dealing with complicated questions about who will pay for damages, how medical costs will be handled and whether legal action is necessary. In such cases, working with an experienced car accident attorney to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation is crucial.

Some common problems that can arise when uninsured motorists are involved in a collision include:

  • Financial liability: Without insurance, the at-fault driver may be unable to cover the costs of repairs, medical expenses or lost wages. This can shift the financial burden to the victim, unless they carry uninsured motorist coverage.
  • Increased insurance premiums and costs: Even if the victim’s insurer steps in, filing a claim under uninsured motorist coverage can sometimes result in higher premiums down the road.
  • Limited compensation for victims: Victims often struggle to recover full damages when an uninsured driver causes the accident. Their options are limited to their policy or pursuing the driver directly, which may be unrealistic if the driver lacks assets.
  • Legal penalties for uninsured drivers: Driving without insurance is against the law in most states. Uninsured drivers can face fines, license suspension and in some cases, criminal charges.
  • Lack of medical coverage: Victims may pay out of pocket for medical care if the uninsured driver cannot contribute.
  • Hit-and-run incidents: Many uninsured drivers flee accident scenes to avoid penalties, which adds another layer of difficulty for victims trying to file claims or identify the responsible party.

Uninsured auto accidents can be very complex. Victims may not only deal with the immediate physical and emotional toll but may also face long-term financial strain. An auto accident lawyer can help ensure that claims are handled correctly, responsible parties are pursued and every available source of compensation is explored.

Contact Us

To learn more about uninsured and underinsured motorist claims and your rights, contact Stanford Law Offices, S.C. We are available 24 hours a day, check voicemail constantly and are conveniently located just off I-43. To contact us, call 414-387-4285.