Car accidents are an unfortunate reality, often resulting in life-altering consequences. In the United States alone, there are approximately 6 million car accidents each year, and nearly 43,000 people died in automotive accident in 2021. 

The aftermath of such an incident can be overwhelming, leaving you to deal with mounting medical expenses, lost wages, and a complex legal process. This is where the expertise of an auto accident attorney becomes crucial.

At Lawton Cates, our attorneys are backed by over six decades of combined experience and have helped our clients obtain millions of dollars in damages in motor vehicle accident cases. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a negligence-based auto accident, you can trust our firm with your case.  

Call (608) 282-6200  for a free in office or virtual consultation online today!

Common Injuries Sustain in Auto Accidents

Automobile accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering disabilities. 

Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in auto accidents:

• Whiplash. Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is abruptly whipped forward and backward due to sudden acceleration or deceleration. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Treatment often involves physical therapy, pain management, and wearing a cervical collar.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs can result from a direct impact to the head or a violent shaking during an accident. Symptoms may include headaches, confusion, memory loss, and dizziness. Long-term effects can be severe, including cognitive impairments and emotional difficulties. Treatment may involve rehabilitation, medication, and counseling.
• Spinal cord injuries. Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Symptoms may include loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and difficulty controlling bodily functions. Long-term implications can be life-altering, and treatment may involve surgery, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
• Broken bones. Fractures are common in automobile accidents due to the forceful impact. Broken bones can range from simple fractures to compound breaks, where the bone pierces through the skin. Treatment typically involves immobilization of the broken bone, surgery (if necessary), and physical therapy.
• Internal injuries. Damage to internal organs like the lungs, liver, kidneys, or spleen can be caused by blunt force trauma or penetration injuries during an accident. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and dizziness. Immediate medical attention is crucial, as internal injuries can be life-threatening.
• Lacerations and abrasions. Cuts and scrapes can occur from shattered glass, metal debris, or contact with the road surface (in the case of motorcycle accidents). Treatment may involve cleaning and dressing the wound, stitches, or even surgery for severe lacerations.
• Burn injuries. These are more common in motorcycle accidents but can also occur in car and truck collisions if a fire breaks out. Burns can range from mild to severe and may require skin grafts and extensive rehabilitation.
• Psychological injuries. Mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can develop after a traumatic accident. Treatment may involve counseling, medication, and support from loved ones.

What to Do After a Madison Auto Accident  

After a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed. In the aftermath of such a crash, you should:

• Get to safety. If you are able, get yourself and/or your vehicle to safety; it is best to move to the shoulder or out of the path of other oncoming vehicles.  
• Report the accident. You should call the police or emergency services as soon as possible. They can not only offer emergency assistance but can also conduct an investigation concerning the cause of the accident.  
• Take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and property damage. These images can be used as evidence during negotiations or litigation. Keep medical records and receipts for any expenses related to the accident. This documentation will be crucial in building your case.
• Accept medical aid. Always accept medical help at the scene, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying treatment can lead to complications.  
• Get the contact information of the other driver and nearby witnesses. You should ask for the other party’s name, insurance information, vehicle information, and points of contact. You should also get the contact information of witnesses as well as preliminary statements about what they saw.  

What Not to Do After a Madison Auto Accident

After an accident, you should also be careful to avoid certain actions. Such actions include:  

• Do not leave the scene. Leaving the accident scene can lead to hit-and-run charges, even if you're injured. Stay at the scene until authorities arrive or until it's appropriate to leave.
• Avoid moving if severely injured. If you suspect severe injuries like broken bones or spinal injuries, avoid moving as it can cause further damage. Instead, wait for emergency medical professionals to arrive and assess your condition.
• Do not remove your protective gear (if applicable). If you were wearing a helmet or other protective gear, leave it on until medical personnel arrive. Removing it prematurely could worsen injuries.
• Refrain from admitting fault. Even if you think you might be responsible for the accident, do not admit fault at the scene. It may harm your legal case later on, as there could be other factors that contributed to the accident.
• Avoid discussing the accident with others involved. In the aftermath of an accident, emotions can run high, and discussing the details can lead to arguments or misinterpretations. Instead, wait for the authorities to arrive and let them handle the situation.
• Do not provide a recorded statement to insurance companies without legal advice. Insurance companies may try to get you to admit fault or downplay your injuries. Consult with an attorney before providing any statements to ensure your rights are protected.
• Avoid signing any documents without understanding their implications. This includes medical authorizations, release forms, or settlement offers. Always consult with an attorney before signing anything related to the accident.
• Do not delay in contacting an attorney. The sooner you consult with a personal injury attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case and receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Common Car Accident Questions and Answers

If you have been in an accident, you have questions.  As experienced personal injury attorneys, we have the answers.  

I don’t know if I have a case, do I have to pay you to find out?  

One of the first questions I often hear from potential clients is do I have to pay you just to talk to you about my accident case?  The answer at Lawton Cates is an emphatic, “No!”  We don’t charge for initial consultations and if you hire us to handle your claim there is no fee unless you win.  

What should I do about my vehicle damage claim from the accident?  

Typically, most people are able to handle their property damage claim without our involvement.  However, as part of our services we can advise you on your property damage claim and help make sure you get the most possible from the insurance company.  We typically do not charge an attorney fee on the vehicle damage portion of any verdict or settlement. Learn more by visiting our page that discusses our personal injury lawyers in Madison.

Who is going to pay for my medical bills while I heal?  

One of the important services we perform in your injury case is helping you determine how your medical bills can and should be paid.  If you have health insurance, medical payments coverage (“Med-Pay”), Medicare, Medicaid, BadgerCare or are uninsured, we can help you determine what is the best way to proceed.  

We also make sure that in cases involving subrogation liens or hospital liens, that they are valid or can be reduced or eliminated according to the applicable law.  If you are uninsured, we can help you keep the creditors at bay while we prosecute your injury claim.  

Should I talk to the bodily injury insurance adjuster for the driver who hit me?  

We advise people not to talk to the insurance adjuster for the driver who hit you.  The insurance adjuster’s goal is to resolve claims as favorably as possible for the insurance company, not for you.  Whenever you talk to them, the adjuster is taking notes and sometimes recording the conversation.  Anything you say can come back to haunt you later if your case goes to trial.  And you can bet the adjuster will put the most favorable spin on the insurance company on whatever you say.  

They will also try to get medical authorization from you allowing them to get all of your medical records since birth.  They do this so they can begin constructing pre-existing condition defenses and prior injury defenses.  Don’t fall for it.  If they want your pre-existing medical records, it means they are building a defense, not trying to settle your case in good faith.  

How Can a Madison Car Accident Attorney Help?

A Madison car accident attorney offers expert guidance and advocacy to individuals who have suffered injuries in car crashes. Their deep knowledge of legal procedures and negotiation skills can be critical in ensuring fair compensation for accident victims. These attorneys navigate the complex landscape of insurance claims, medical expenses, and potential litigation to protect the rights of their clients, allowing them to focus on their recovery rather than the stress of legal hurdles.

Services Madison car accident attorneys provide include:

• Case Evaluation: Offer a detailed assessment of your case to determine its validity and potential outcomes.
• Legal Guidance: Provide expert legal advice throughout the process, ensuring that you understand your rights and options.
• Investigation: Conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies: Communicate and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to prevent any undermining of your claim.
• Medical Expenses Management: Help in finding ways to manage your medical expenses while the claim is pending, including dealing with liens from medical providers or insurers.
• Representation in Court: Should negotiations fail, they are prepared to represent you in court, offering a strong legal argument for your compensation.
• Legal Documentation: Handle all the necessary legal paperwork and filings related to your accident claim.
• Settlement Negotiation: Utilize their negotiation skills to secure a settlement that covers your damages and injuries adequately.
• Advocacy: Act as your staunch advocate in all proceedings, putting your best interests at the forefront.
• No Upfront Cost Representation: Most attorneys offer contingency fee arrangements, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

Schedule a Consultation with Our Madison Car Accident Attorneys

It's essential to seek legal representation after an accident to ensure your rights are protected. A auto accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim and seeking compensation for your injuries.  

At Lawton Cates, our experienced auto attorneys possess the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the intricate legal landscape. We understand the nuances of state laws and are adept at negotiating with insurance companies to help you receive the compensation you deserve.

By entrusting your case to our skilled Madison attorneys, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects on your behalf. Some may perceive hiring an attorney as an unnecessary expenditure, but the benefits of professional legal representation cannot be overstated. 

Do not leave your future to chance by attempting to navigate the complexities of an auto accident case alone. Our team of seasoned attorneys stands ready to guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights.

Get started on your claim today by calling (608) 282-6200.