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.

Halloween is a holiday that both children and adults look forward to each year.  Unfortunately, Halloween can also be dangerous for pedestrian trick-or-treaters.  Below are some Halloween safety tips for a safe and sweet trick-or-treat experience for both pedestrians and drivers.

Safety Tips for Pedestrian Trick-or-Treaters

Stay On Sidewalks and Pedestrian Paths - Pedestrian trick-or-treaters should try to stay on sidewalks and pedestrian paths.  If there are no sidewalks, pedestrians should walk facing oncoming traffic.  Pedestrians should also try to walk as far to the side of the road as possible.  Pedestrians should walk under the assumption that the drivers coming toward them are not able to see them.

Follow the Rules of the Road – Pedestrians should try to cross the road at crosswalks.  They should not run or dart across the road.  Trick-or-treaters may need to remove their masks so visibility is not obstructed.

Wear Reflective Tape – Children and adults should use or wear reflective tape for costumes and trick-or-treat bags.  Parents may even consider wearing a reflective jacket.

Carry Cell Phone – Pedestrians should carry a cell phone for quick communication in the event of an emergency.

Avoid Loose Dogs – Be cautious of dogs on the loose as they may become frightened or scared causing an unexpected dog bite or injury to a trick-or-treater.

Stay on Well Lit Streets – Pedestrians should assume that drivers are unable to see them.

Use Flashlights – Obtain flashlights for both kids and their escorts to improve the visibility of trick-or-treaters.  

Safety Tips for Drivers

Slow Down - Drivers should slow down on Halloween and during designated trick-or-treat hours.  Because of the excitement of trick-or-treating, kids run from house to house and often dart out into the road.  By reducing speed, a driver will be able to stop before hitting a child that runs out in front of the vehicle.  
Watch Driveways – Drivers should carefully enter and exit driveways to avoid kids who may be running or darting out into the driveway.

Do Not Use Cell Phone -  Because a child may run out into the road, even a quick glance at the cell phone could cause a devastating accident.  Avoid all distractions so you are able to focus on the road and surroundings.

Turn On Headlights – Turn on headlights earlier in the day so you are able to spot the pedestrian trick-or-treaters from farther distances.  
Report Drunk Driving – During Halloween, drunk drivers are common and dangerous on the road.  If you suspect a driver of drunk driving, you should contact local law enforcement.

Designate a Sober Driver  – Halloween is also a night of adult parties involving drinking.  Designate a sober driver or use other means of transportation such as Uber and Lyft.  

With the above safety tips, Natasha Misra Law would like to wish you a sweet, spooky and safe Halloween!  If you have any questions about an accident involving a pedestrian trick-or-treater, please contact our office at 414-210-3834 for a free consultation with a Milwaukee personal injury attorney.

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.