Our Green Bay Personal Injury Lawyers Answer Your Legal Questions
After a serious accident, you are likely to have questions. On this page, our team has provided answers to some of the most common questions asked by prospective clients.
How do I know if I have a personal injury case in Green Bay?
You may have a case if you were injured because of someone else’s negligent or intentional actions. Common situations leading to personal injury claims include automobile accidents, slip-and-falls and other injuries on dangerous property, and exposure to dangerous substances such as asbestos.
To have a viable claim, you must demonstrate the following elements. We’ve used a motor vehicle accident as an example:
- The other party owed you a duty of care: Each of us must obey traffic rules and drive in ways that minimize our risks of injuring others.
- The other party breached that duty: They were speeding or driving distracted.
- The other party’s actions caused your injuries: You wouldn’t have been injured if they had acted differently, and your injuries can be tied directly to their negligence.
- You suffered damages due to the accident: You were injured and incurred medical bills, property damage, lost wages and other losses.
Thankfully, with a lawyer on your side, you don’t need to keep track of all those details on your own. The best way to know if you have an actionable legal claim is to speak to one of our experienced attorneys in a free initial consultation.
What should I look for in my personal injury lawyer in Green Bay?
There are plenty of personal injury lawyers in the Green Bay area, so considering the following qualities can help narrow your search. Look for an attorney with a strong track record in handling personal injury cases and an in-depth knowledge of Wisconsin laws and local court procedures.
Effective communication is crucial, so find someone who listens to your concerns and explains legal concepts clearly. Additionally, seek an attorney who is compassionate and committed to advocating for your best interests. Reading client reviews and asking for recommendations can also provide valuable insights.
What damages can I sue for after an accident in Green Bay?
Every case is unique, and your available damages (compensation owed for harm suffered) will depend on the details of your case. Generally speaking, you may be able to seek damages that include:
- Compensation for medical expenses
- Lost wages from time spent unable to work
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Permanent disability and the costs of necessary modifications to your home and vehicle
- Funeral and burial expenses (if you lost a loved one to wrongful death)
Our attorneys can help assess the full extent of your damages and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
How long does a personal injury lawsuit take in Green Bay?
The duration of a personal injury lawsuit in Green Bay can vary depending on case complexity and each party’s willingness to negotiate. Your case could be resolved in just a few months. If trial is necessary, however, the process could take a year or more. Factors such as the gathering of evidence, negotiations and court schedules can all impact the timeline.
In many cases, a negotiated settlement is in the best interests of all parties, as it saves considerable time and legal expenses. When possible, our attorneys will first attempt to settle your case. However, if a settlement cannot be reached or the other party refuses to negotiate in good faith, our team will not hesitate to aggressively represent your interests in court.
Should I talk to my insurance company after an accident in Green Bay?
Chances are good that your auto insurance policy requires you to report any significant accident quickly, and your insurer may also require you to file a police report. For these reasons, you need to at least tell them that the accident occurred.
However, you should be cautious when discussing details of the accident or your injuries, especially before speaking to your own attorney. Insurance companies maximize their profits by minimizing payouts, and many policyholders are surprised to discover that their own comments are later used to deny or minimize a claim.
Remember that you are under no obligation to report the accident to the other driver’s insurer or to answer their questions if they reach out to you. Instead, direct them to the personal injury attorney you have hired. Our lawyers go up against insurance adjusters every day, and they understand how to speak to them in a manner that protects our clients’ rights and legal options.
Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation
The Green Bay office location for Alpert & Fellows, LLC, is conveniently located near the Brown County Courthouse. To speak to one of our attorneys about your legal options for free, call 920-335-1308 or reach out online.