If you’ve been in a car accident in Milwaukee, Appleton, Waukesha, or Oshkosh, you might be wondering: Should I contact an attorney now or wait until the accident report is ready? It’s tempting to hold off, especially when reports often take 7-14 days—or even longer—to finalize. 

But here’s the truth: waiting can hurt your case. The car accident attorneys at Natasha Misra Law are here to let you know more about what you should do while the report is being created, and how legal support can make all the difference. 

How the Accident Report Fits Into Your Case

The accident report is a key document, and it’s important to know what it includes—and doesn’t include:

  • The Basics: Details about the location, time, and parties involved in the crash.
  • The Officer’s Observations: The responding officer may note the conditions at the scene, statements from drivers and witnesses, and potential causes of the accident.
  • Liability Notes: The report may include the officer’s opinion on who was at fault—but it’s not the final say.

However, accident reports aren’t always perfect. Errors or missing details can occur, and if you don’t have an experienced attorney reviewing the report, these inaccuracies can hurt your claim. At Natasha Misra Law, we review accident reports carefully, flag any errors, and work to correct them quickly. 

The Accident Report Is Just One Piece of the Puzzle

While the accident report is an important investigative tool, it’s far from the only evidence your case relies on. Waiting for it means losing valuable time to collect:

  • Witness Statements: People’s memories fade fast, and key details could be lost.
  • Scene Evidence: Skid marks, debris, or vehicle damage may disappear within days.
  • Footage or Photos: Surveillance videos or dashcam recordings can be overwritten or erased.

We’ll handle the accident report for you, and we’ll get to work preserving evidence and building the strongest possible case.

What to Do If the Insurance Company Contacts You Before You Have the Report

Insurance companies don’t wait for accident reports—they move fast to protect their interests. If an adjuster calls you soon after the accident, they may:

  • Pressure you into giving a recorded statement that could be used against you.
  • Offer a lowball settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries.
  • Ask you to sign paperwork that could waive your right to future compensation.

Here’s what you should do:

  • Avoid Making Statements: Keep your conversation brief and do not provide a recorded statement until consulting an attorney.
  • Don’t Sign Anything: Wait until you’ve spoken with an attorney who understands your rights.
  • Call Us Right Away: Natasha Misra Law will handle all communications with the insurance company so you don’t have to.

Act Now With Natasha Misra Law to Protect Your Rights and Your Claim

Accident reports are important, but they take time—and time isn’t on your side when it comes to building a strong case. By reaching out to us right away, you’re giving yourself the best chance to secure the compensation you deserve.

We focus on getting you back on your feet—physically, emotionally, and financially. From the moment you call, we’ll take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing while we handle the rest. Don’t let delays cost you your claim. Contact Natasha Misra Law today and let us fight for you—because you deserve more than just another suit.

Cycling is an excellent option for exercising, enjoying the fresh air, and commuting. However, bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries to cyclists hit by negligent drivers. 

What are Wisconsin's Bicycle Safety Rules?

As you ride your bike in Appleton, Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or any other area in Wisconsin, follow the following bicycle safety rules:

  • Wear your helmet: 70 to 80 percent of bicycle accidents involve head injuries. Wearing helmets minimizes the possibility of sustaining head injuries. Always check for a Consumer Product Safety Committee sticker before purchasing a helmet.
  • Go with the Flow: Cyclists should ride in the same direction as traffic, and by doing so, you'll be more visible, allowing other road users to respond appropriately and quickly. When cycling against traffic, you may miss the red and green lights or enter an intersection at an unsafe or improper time.
  • Be Spatially Aware: Ride in a straight line without going off course and maintain at least 3 feet from parked vehicles to avoid "dooring accidents."
  • Obey Traffic Laws: Even though you’re on a bike, you still have to obey the rules of the road. Don’t forget to stop at stop signs, signal when you’re turning, and always make sure you’re alert and aware of your surroundings. 
  • Stay Visible: When riding a bike a night you’re even less likely to be seen by motorists. To make sure you’re as noticeable as possible, use a reflector when riding at night. 

Why is Bicycle Safety Important?

Although riding a bike may be fun, you can pick up serious injuries from a bike accident. Bike safety helps to make cycling enjoyable. Simple bicycle safety measures like wearing a helmet can reduce a significant proportion of bicycle accident fatalities.

Common Causes of Bike Accidents

Several factors contribute to bicycle accidents in Wisconsin. Bicycles are not easy to see, and most riders are unfamiliar with road laws. However, even if road users are unfamiliar with road laws, it should not be used as an excuse. Here are some of the causes of bike accidents:

  • Dangerous Roads: Unkempt roads cause 3% of bicycle accidents in the United States.
  • Low Visibility: Bikes are small, and most drivers may be unable to see them, particularly at night. 
  • Distracted Driving: When drivers and riders use their phones or get distracted by other passengers, music, or thoughts, they may end up causing accidents.
  • Failure to Yield: Right of way in crossing paths or where traffic merges can help prevent accidents. A bike accident is more likely to occur when a motorist fails to yield to a rider in a crosswalk or bike lane.

Bike Safety Tips

  • Plan your route
  • Pay attention
  • Obey traffic signs
  • Tie your shoelaces
  • Avoid using your phone or listening to music while cycling
  • Anticipate what other motorists may do and act appropriately
  • Use the right-hand signals
  • Ensure all parts of the bike are working
  • Have rear and front lights during the day or at night

Contact a Wisconsin Bike Accident Attorney

At Natasha Misra Law, we want you and your loved ones to remain safe on the roads. However, we're ready to offer legal support if you get involved in an unexpected bicycle accident

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get treated fairly.

Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.