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Why Contact a Lawyer Immediately After an Accident

By Paul Benson • February 1, 2026
Why Is It Crucial To Reach Out To A Lawyer Soon After An Accident? Contacting a lawyer promptly after an accident is vital to preserve crucial evidence from the accident scene. Evidence like skid marks, surveillance videos, and witness statements can disappear quickly. By involving a lawyer early on, you ensure that all necessary evidence is collected and preserved, which can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Why Do Some People Delay Contacting A Lawyer After An Accident? Many individuals delay contacting a lawyer due to the misconception that they are not "lawsuit people." However, when faced with insurance companies refusing to compensate them fairly, they realize the need to protect their rights. By waiting to involve a lawyer, important evidence may be lost, such as video footage or witness accounts, which can weaken their case significantly. What Are The Potential Problems Individuals Face When Insurance Adjusters Reach Out Early? Insurance adjusters often aim to elicit statements that downplay the severity of injuries or shift blame away from their policyholders. By recording conversations and obtaining seemingly innocuous statements, they can later use discrepancies to undermine a claim. Consulting with a lawyer before engaging with insurance adjusters is crucial to avoid inadvertently harming your case. What Key Evidence Can Be Lost If Individuals Wait Too Long After An Accident To Seek Legal Counsel? Delaying legal representation can result in the loss of crucial evidence such as video footage, debris placement at the scene, and witness recollections. Additionally, timely medical documentation is essential for accurately assessing and documenting injuries. Without early involvement, individuals risk missing out on vital evidence that could strengthen their case. How Does The Timing Of Medical Bills And Documentation Impact An Insurance Company's Evaluation Of A Claim? In Wisconsin, the timing of medical bills and documentation is critical due to the collateral source rule. Health insurance coverage may pay medical bills upfront, but individuals can still recover the full amount from the at-fault party's insurance. However, delays or discrepancies in submitting bills can lead to reduced compensation and financial risks for the injured party. What Tactics Do Insurance Companies Employ To Settle Claims Quickly Without Individuals Fully Understanding The Implications? Insurance companies may use tactics like sending blank medical releases or offering immediate settlement checks to expedite claim resolutions. Individuals may unknowingly sign away their rights or settle their claims prematurely, leading to potential long-term repercussions. It is essential to seek legal guidance to navigate these tactics and ensure fair compensation for injuries. What Steps Should Individuals Take After A Minor Accident To Protect Their Legal Rights? After a minor accident, individuals should document the scene thoroughly, report the incident to their insurance company, and consider seeking a legal consultation. It is crucial to accurately relay their version of events to the police, report any injuries promptly, and consult with a lawyer to understand their rights and potential legal options. Is It Advisable For Individuals To Seek Medical Evaluation After A Minor Accident Even If They Feel Only Minor Discomfort? Yes, it is recommended for individuals to undergo a medical evaluation after a minor accident, even if they experience minor discomfort. Prompt medical assessment can uncover hidden injuries that may worsen over time if left untreated. By seeking timely medical attention, individuals protect their health and establish a documented record of injuries for potential legal claims. What Are Some Early Moves Insurance Companies Make That Individuals Should Be Cautious About Following An Accident? Insurance companies may attempt to obtain blanket medical releases or offer immediate settlement checks to expedite claims processing. These tactics can lead to individuals inadvertently signing away their rights or settling for inadequate compensation. It is crucial to seek legal guidance to navigate such tactics and protect one's legal rights effectively.

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A book titled personal injury law is on a table next to a stethoscope and a pen.

How Do You Know When to Contact a Personal Injury Attorney?

Suffering a personal injury can be a serious situation. Depending on the severity, victims may require hospitalization and long-term care. These circumstances can cause loss of wages, disability, and mental anguish, among other things. Getting support from a personal injury attorney can help you not only understand your rights but also get the guidance you need. 

Common Personal Injuries 

When most people think of personal injuries, they think of traffic accidents. However, there are several other types of personal injuries to consider: 


  • Medical malpractice 
  • Slip and fall incidents 
  • Assault 
  • Product liability 
  • Wrongful death 
  • Workplace accidents 
  • Construction injuries 


Suppose you or a loved one has sustained injuries in any of these situations. In that case, you may be entitled to receive compensation through a personal injury claim. 

Knowing When to Contact a Personal Injury Law Attorney 

One of the most common questions I hear from my clients is, “Do I need an attorney for a personal injury claim?” 


The short answer is yes. A personal injury attorney will assist you throughout the entire claim process. Plus, a trusted personal injury attorney is on your side. They will help you get the compensation you deserve. 


I also hear this question from my clients, “When should I contact a personal injury attorney?” The short answer is as soon as possible. You have three years to file a personal injury claim before the statute of limitations kicks in. In other words, your personal injury claim won’t stand a chance after three years of the accident date. 


Here are some other elements to consider when contacting a personal injury attorney in Wisconsin: 


  • Wisconsin is a fault state. This situation means that the liable or responsible party must pay for the other party’s damages and personal injury. 
  • Personal injuries are a serious matter. Treatment for personal injuries often requires extensive medical treatment or long-term care and rehabilitation. 
  • You may know your options. You may be unfamiliar with your rights, especially if you’ve never filed a personal injury claim before. 
  • You may need a personal injury attorney to help you deal with insurance companies. 
  • A personal injury attorney can help you prove the other party’s negligence. Please note that it is not always easy to prove negligence. So, a trusted personal injury attorney can do the heavy lifting for you. 

What Should You Ask a Personal Injury Attorney? 

At this point, you are most likely thinking, “what should I ask a personal injury attorney?” Here are some questions you may want to ask: 


  • What are my options? 
  • What compensation am I entitled to? 
  • How long does a personal injury claim take? 
  • What can I expect from the process? 
  • Will I need to go to court? 
  • What fees do I need to pay? 


These are questions I always discuss with my clients. I would advise you to make a list of the questions you may have for your personal injury attorney. Write them down, so you do not forget any of them. 

The Paul Benson Law Firm Is on Your Side 

I guarantee my clients my best effort. I offer my utmost best to help you get the compensation you deserve. I am here to answer your questions, and I understand how difficult it can be to sustain personal injuries. That pain is the reason I am on your side. I am proud to serve those in Rock County, Wisconsin, Janesville, Beloit, and the surrounding areas. Give me a call if you or a loved one have been through a personal injury situation. I am ready to fight for your rights. My staff and I have the knowledge and resources you want in your corner.