Car accidents are stressful, and the simplest and fastest resolutions often feel attractive on the surface. If the other driver admits fault at the scene. You might think, “If they already admitted it, why would I need a lawyer?” Unfortunately, personal injury claims are rarely that simple. Even when fault seems clear, insurance companies and legal rules in Wisconsin can make the process more complicated than you expect.
An Admission of Fault Doesn’t Always Mean Liability Is Settled
In Wisconsin, fault in a car accident isn’t exclusively determined by what someone says at the scene. An offhand comment like “I’m sorry, this was my fault” may not hold up later. The other driver could change their story, or their insurance company might argue that you share some of the blame.
That matters because Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence law. This means if you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover compensation. Even if you’re less than 51% at fault, your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of blame assigned to you. Insurance companies often use this rule to reduce payouts—even when fault initially seems clear.
Insurance Companies Aren’t on Your Side
Even if liability isn’t disputed, the insurance company has one primary goal: to save money. That means they may:
- Downplay the seriousness of your injuries
- Question whether your medical treatment was necessary
- Offer a settlement that doesn’t cover future medical needs, lost wages, or pain and suffering
Without legal representation, many accident victims accept these low settlements without realizing the long-term costs they may face.
Proving Damages Is Just as Important as Proving Fault
In personal injury claims, establishing who caused the accident is only half the battle. You also need to prove the extent of your damages. That includes:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress (past and future, if injuries are permanent)
- Property damage
An experienced Wisconsin personal injury lawyer can gather medical records, consult with experts, and make sure every category of loss is properly documented and valued.
When a Lawyer Makes the Difference
Even if the other driver admitted fault, you may want a lawyer if:
- Your injuries required significant medical treatment
- You may need ongoing care or have lasting effects
- You have prior related physical injuries (i.e., an alternative cause of your injuries not related to the accident)
- The insurance company is delaying or denying your claim
- You’re being blamed for part of the accident
A lawyer can protect your rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and take your case to court if necessary.
The Bottom Line
Just because the other driver admitted fault doesn’t mean the process will be simple. Wisconsin’s comparative negligence laws and the tactics used by insurance companies can quickly complicate what looks like a “clear liability” case. A skilled personal injury attorney can make sure you’re not taken advantage of and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.