Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Detailed Answer
When you’re a passenger injured in a Wisconsin vehicle accident, maintaining continuity of care is crucial to documenting your injuries and protecting your right to compensation. Below are key steps you should take.
1. Seek Prompt Medical Evaluation
Obtain a medical examination immediately—ideally within 24–48 hours. Even if you feel fine, some injuries (e.g., soft tissue damage or concussion) may not present symptoms right away. A timely visit to an emergency department, urgent care clinic, or your primary care provider establishes an official record of your injuries.
2. Follow the Prescribed Treatment Plan
Adhere strictly to your doctor’s recommendations. Attend all follow-up appointments, physical therapy sessions, chiropractic visits, or specialist consultations. Discontinuing treatment or skipping appointments can create gaps in your medical record and allow insurers to argue that your injuries are not serious or are unrelated to the crash.
3. Keep Comprehensive Medical Records
Request copies of every medical report, imaging result (X-rays, MRI), therapy notes, prescription summaries, and billing statements. Organize these documents chronologically. If you switch providers, ask your former provider to transfer your records to the new one. Complete records help your attorney and the insurer link your ongoing treatment directly to the accident.
4. Document Your Symptoms and Progress
Maintain a daily journal of pain levels, mobility issues, medication side effects, and how your injuries affect everyday activities. Photographs of visible injuries, like bruising or swelling, can also be powerful evidence of your condition over time.
5. Notify Insurers and Preserve Evidence
Report the accident to your health insurer and the at-fault driver’s liability insurer promptly. Provide necessary authorizations so insurers can obtain your medical records directly. Preserve all accident-related evidence—photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, any witness contact information, and police or crash reports.
6. Know Critical Deadlines
Under Wisconsin law, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the date of the accident. See Wis. Stat. § 893.54. If you miss this deadline, you generally lose the right to sue for compensation.
Helpful Hints
- Obtain a second medical opinion if you feel your pain isn’t fully addressed.
- Use a single primary provider when possible to centralize your care.
- Keep all receipts for medications, medical devices, and mileage to appointments.
- Photograph vehicle damage and crash locations immediately after the accident.
- Consult a personal injury attorney early to review your medical documentation and guide your claim.