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.

If you are injured in a rear-end accident, you may wonder who is responsible for paying the medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and other expenses associated with the accident. In Wisconsin, the negligent driver is liable for damages. However, sometimes it is unclear who is at fault for an accident. How is fault determined in a rear-end accident, and what happens if you are the one at fault?

Which driver is responsible in a rear-end collision?

The rear driver is generally always at fault. However, issues often arise as to which rear vehicle is responsible in a multi-vehicle accident. If there were two separate impacts, for example, then there may a dispute as to which rear driver caused the accident. When the rear-most vehicle hits the vehicle in front of it and pushes the middle vehicle into the foremost vehicle, then only the rear-most vehicle is responsible for the accident. In other situations in which three or more cars are involved in a rear end accident, the front vehicle may need to file a claim against all rear vehicles.

What are some common causes of a rear-end collision?

Rear-end collisions occur when drivers are distracted, speeding, or following too closely. Weather or other hazardous road conditions or obstructions such as construction or wildlife can also contribute to accidents, including rear-end collisions. Faulty brake lights or not using a vehicle’s hazard lights when there is a problem can also cause accidents. Other common causes of rear-end collisions include erratic driving or sudden maneuvers like slamming on the breaks, switching the car from drive into reverse, or making an incomplete turn.

Who is responsible for a multi-car, rear-end accident?

Often, multi-car accidents mean multiple drivers are at fault. Any drivers who contributed to the collision by following too closely, speeding, driving distracted or any other negligent behaviors may share responsibility when involved in a multi-car accident.  Multi-vehicle accidents can become complicated as to determining which rear vehicle caused damages.  For example, in a three vehicle rear-end accident, the front-most vehicle may need to file a claim against one or both rear vehicles.

What should you do after a rear-end collision?

After an accident, you should seek immediate medical attention even if you do not have any obvious injuries. Some serious injuries, such as concussions or soft tissue damage, may not have any immediate symptoms but carry long-term consequences. Seek a medical evaluation, contact the police for an accident report, and contact your insurance company.

After you tend to your injuries - which is always most important - there are a few other steps you should take. Make sure to document everything you can about the accident, from the weather and road conditions to witness contact information. While it may seem excessive, taking these steps will ensure you have the evidence you need in the event of a lawsuit.  Fault is typically determined through witness and officer statements, so be sure to speak with everyone who was at or near the scene and may have witnessed how the accident unfolded.

Second, make sure you capture photographic evidence of the accident scene, focusing on items like the position of the vehicles, tire skid marks, your injuries, and any property damage. While you may think that you’ll remember, memories fade. Be sure to capture the evidence while it exists. 

What damages can you recover after a rear-end collision?

Rear-end collisions can result in serious injuries including whiplash, neck injuries, back injuries, and even traumatic head injuries. These injuries often require costly, long-term medical treatment which can also lead to lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress on top of property damage to the involved vehicle. Fortunately, if you are injured in a rear-end collision, you can recover damages for all these things from the negligent driver.


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.