Getting hit by a car is one of the most traumatic experiences a person can go through. In an instant, you may be facing serious injuries, medical bills, lost income, and a long recovery. Many people search things like “I got hit by a car and need a lawyer” or “what should I do after a pedestrian accident in Wisconsin?” and the truth is, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At Jacobs Injury Law, we help injured pedestrians and their families understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. We represent clients throughout the entire state, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin Dells, Stevens Point, Wisconsin Rapids, and surrounding communities. If you were hit by a vehicle, a Wisconsin pedestrian accident attorney can guide you through your options and deal with the insurance companies while you focus on healing.
No Fee Unless We Win or Settle Your Case! (414) 306-8999
What Is a Pedestrian Accident Case?
A pedestrian accident case arises when a person on foot is injured after being struck by a vehicle. These cases fall under Wisconsin personal injury law and are typically based on negligence, meaning the driver failed to act with reasonable care.
In Wisconsin, drivers have a legal duty to watch for pedestrians and operate their vehicles safely. When they fail to do so and someone is injured, they can be held financially responsible for the harm they caused.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Wisconsin
Pedestrian accidents happen for many reasons, but most involve preventable driver behavior. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving such as texting or using GPS
- Failure to yield at crosswalks
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Poor visibility or failure to adjust for weather conditions
- Backing up accidents in parking lots or driveways
In busy areas across Wisconsin, including Milwaukee and growing communities like Wisconsin Dells and Stevens Point, pedestrian accidents often happen at intersections, near schools, and in high-traffic areas.
Wisconsin Pedestrian Laws You Should Know
Wisconsin law provides clear protections for pedestrians. Under Wis. Stat. § 346.24, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks when there are no traffic signals.
Pedestrians also have responsibilities. Under Wis. Stat. § 346.25, pedestrians must yield to vehicles when crossing outside of a crosswalk.
These laws are important because they help determine who is at fault after an accident. Even if you were not in a crosswalk, you may still have a valid claim depending on the circumstances.
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
Many people worry they cannot bring a claim if they think they made a mistake. In Wisconsin, that’s not necessarily true.
Wisconsin follows a comparative negligence rule. This means:
- You can still recover compensation if you were less than 51 percent at fault
- Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
Insurance companies often try to shift blame to pedestrians. A Wisconsin pedestrian accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure fault is fairly evaluated.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians have no protection against vehicles, which means injuries are often severe. These may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
Many victims require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were hit by a car, your claim is not just about immediate medical bills. It is about the full impact the accident has had on your life. Many people ask questions like “how much is my pedestrian accident case worth?” or “what can I sue for after being hit by a car?”
A Wisconsin pedestrian accident attorney can help you pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future treatment
This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and follow-up care. In more serious cases, it may also include long-term care, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and future medical needs. - Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
You may recover income you have already lost as well as compensation for your reduced ability to work in the future if your injuries are long-lasting. - Pain and suffering
This includes the physical pain and limitations caused by your injuries, including chronic pain and reduced quality of life. - Emotional distress and trauma
Many victims experience anxiety, depression, or fear after being hit by a vehicle. These psychological effects are real and compensable. - Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation are often necessary and should be included in your claim.
Every case is different. A Wisconsin pedestrian accident lawyer can evaluate your situation and make sure nothing is overlooked.
What Should I Do After Being Hit by a Car?
If you are wondering what to do next, here are important steps to take:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Call the police and ensure a report is filed
- Take photos of the scene and your injuries
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Avoid speaking with insurance companies before getting legal advice
Taking these steps can help protect both your health and your claim.
How Jacobs Injury Law Helps Pedestrian Accident Victims
After a pedestrian accident, you may be dealing with pain, stress, and uncertainty. Our job is to take that burden off your shoulders.
At Jacobs Injury Law, we:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Work with medical providers to understand your injuries
- Handle insurance companies and negotiations
- Build a strong case for full compensation
Attorney Ann Jacobs is a highly experienced and trusted Wisconsin pedestrian accident attorney with over 20 years of experience helping injury victims across the state. She is known for her thorough approach, strong advocacy, and commitment to her clients.
We proudly represent clients throughout Wisconsin, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin Dells, Stevens Point, Wisconsin Rapids, and beyond. No matter where your accident happened, we are here to help.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Wisconsin?
In most pedestrian accident cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit under Wis. Stat. § 893.54.
If a government entity is involved, shorter notice deadlines may apply.
It is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.
Speak With a Wisconsin Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
At Jacobs Injury Law, S.C., we are committed to helping injured pedestrians and their families seek justice and financial recovery after serious accidents.
If you were hit by a car or your loved one was injured, don’t wait to get help. Call (414) 306-8999 today or contact us online. We offer free consultations and there’s no fee unless we win or settle your case.
Pedestrian Accident Frequently Asked Questions
I got hit by a car. Do I need a lawyer?
If you were hit by a car, especially if you were injured, it is a good idea to speak with a lawyer. A Wisconsin pedestrian accident lawyer can handle the legal process and deal with insurance companies while you focus on recovery.
What should I do immediately after being hit by a car?
Seek medical attention, report the accident, document the scene (take photos), and avoid speaking with insurance companies before getting legal advice.
Can I still recover compensation if I was not in a crosswalk?
Yes. Wisconsin law allows you to recover compensation as long as you were less than 51 percent at fault.
How much is my pedestrian accident case worth?
The value depends on your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and how your life has been affected. A lawyer can help estimate your claim.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You generally have three years, but shorter deadlines may apply in some cases. So it’s important to speak with an attorney to make sure you know the correct deadline.
What if the driver says it was my fault?
This is common. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation under Wisconsin law.
Will my case go to court?
Many cases settle, but some require a lawsuit to reach a fair outcome.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
Jacobs Injury Law offers free consultations and there’s no fee unless we win or settle your case.
What if the driver does not have insurance?
You may still have options through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
