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New Wisconsin Law Limits Time Auto Accident Victims Have To File Claims

Posted by: at 7:58 AM on May 17th, 2016

On February 6, 2016, Governor Scott Walker signed legislation into law that made substantial changes to the statutes of limitations of auto accident related claims. This bill reduces the statute of limitations for under insured, uninsured and property damage claims as well as shortening the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims arising from an accident involving a motor vehicle.

This means that if you are a loved one are involved in an auto accident, the time you have to make a claim may be drastically reduced.  Based on these new laws, it is more important than ever that you secure an experienced accident attorney to protect your rights and make sure that your case is handled in a timely manner.   Below, we have listed a brief overview of these changes. 

Auto Property Damage

  • Current Law (Accidents occurring before 2/6/16)
  • 6 years from date of accident
  • New Law (Accidents occurring after 2/6/16)
  • 3 years from date of accident

Bodily Injury Claim (non-death) NO CHANGE

  • Current Law (Accidents occurring before 2/6/16)
  • 3 years from date of accident
  • New Law (Accidents occurring after 2/6/16)
  • 3 years from date of accident

Death Involving Motor Vehicle

  • Current Law (Accidents occurring before 2/6/16)
  • 3 years from date of accrual - Defined by case law as date of death
  • New Law (Accidents occurring after 2/6/16)
  • 2 years from date of accrual

Under insured Motorist

  • Current Law (Accidents occurring before 2/6/16)
  • 6 years from date of accident
  • New Law (Accidents occurring after 2/6/16)
  • 3 years from date of accrual 

Uninsured Motorist

  • Current Law (Accidents occurring before 2/6/16)
  • 6 years from date of accrual
  • New Law (Accidents occurring after 2/6/16)
  • 3 years from date of accrual

For over 40 years, the attorneys at LDM&M have been helping individuals across Wisconsin receive the legal satisfaction that they deserve.  When it comes to auto accidents, we are devoted to ensuring that our clients are always supported.  We set regular meetings with clients, make sure that they fully understand everything about their cases and provide our personal cell phone so they can contact us when they need