Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents in Wisconsin: Finding Justice When Drivers Flee
Car Accident

Learn how victims of hit-and-run pedestrian accidents in Wisconsin can seek justice. Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin helps injured pedestrians identify fleeing drivers and recover compensation.

There’s nothing more shocking than being struck by a vehicle — except when the driver responsible speeds away, leaving you injured and alone. Unfortunately, hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are becoming alarmingly common in Wisconsin. Victims often face serious physical harm, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills, all while wondering who will pay for their losses.

At Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin, we believe that no victim should be left without answers or justice. For more than three decades, our attorneys have helped injured pedestrians and grieving families hold negligent and reckless drivers accountable — even when those drivers tried to disappear.

Here’s what you need to know about your legal rights and recovery options after a hit-and-run pedestrian accident in Wisconsin.

The Growing Problem of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Wisconsin

Hit-and-run crashes have risen sharply in Wisconsin over the past decade. According to state data, hundreds of pedestrians are injured or killed each year by drivers who flee the scene instead of stopping to help.

Why do drivers run?

  • Fear of arrest (often for driving under the influence or without a license)
  • Lack of insurance
  • Panic or shock immediately after the crash
  • Outstanding warrants or prior offenses

Whatever the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is a criminal act under Wisconsin law. Drivers who leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash face felony charges — but for victims, justice also means financial recovery, not just punishment for the offender.

Wisconsin Law: Duties After a Pedestrian Accident

Under Wisconsin Statutes §346.67, any driver involved in a crash that results in injury, death, or property damage must:

  1. Stop immediately at the scene.
  2. Provide identifying information (name, address, registration, and insurance).
  3. Render reasonable assistance, including calling for medical help if needed.

Failure to do so constitutes a hit-and-run offense, punishable by fines, license revocation, and imprisonment.

For victims, this law helps establish clear liability once the driver is found. But when the driver flees, the challenge becomes identifying who they are — and ensuring that victims aren’t left with the financial burden of someone else’s crime.

What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you’re struck by a vehicle and the driver flees, take these steps right away (or have someone help you if you’re unable):

  1. Call 911 immediately. Report the crash and provide any details about the fleeing vehicle (color, make, model, license plate, direction of travel).
  2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor — adrenaline can mask serious trauma.
  3. Look for witnesses who may have seen the car or driver.
  4. Check for nearby cameras, including traffic lights, security systems, or doorbell cameras.
  5. Take photos of the scene, debris, skid marks, and your injuries.
  6. Contact Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin as soon as possible. We’ll begin investigating and coordinating with police to locate the driver and secure compensation.

Prompt action increases the chances of identifying the responsible party and protecting your legal rights.

How Hit-and-Run Drivers Are Tracked Down

Even when a driver flees, they often leave behind crucial evidence. Our attorneys and investigators work with law enforcement and private experts to track down fleeing drivers using:

  • Traffic and surveillance footage from nearby businesses and intersections
  • Eyewitness statements
  • Vehicle debris or paint transfer from the crash site
  • License plate reader systems
  • Social media or tip-line reports
  • Police databases of similar vehicles

In many cases, careful investigation leads to identifying and prosecuting the driver, ensuring that victims can pursue a civil claim for damages.

When the Driver Can’t Be Found: Using Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Sometimes, despite every effort, the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified. In these cases, victims can still recover compensation through their own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage.

Under Wisconsin law, every auto insurance policy must include UM coverage unless explicitly waived. This coverage applies even if you were a pedestrian, as long as you or a family member own a vehicle covered by the policy.

UM coverage can pay for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent disability
  • Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Our attorneys at Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin are experienced in dealing with insurance companies that often try to limit or deny UM claims. We handle the negotiations and documentation to ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.

Proving Negligence in a Hit-and-Run Case

Even if the driver is located, proving liability is essential for full recovery. Evidence that supports your claim may include:

  • Police reports documenting the crash and investigation findings.
  • Eyewitness statements verifying the driver’s behavior or flight.
  • Medical records linking your injuries to the accident.
  • Expert reconstruction of the scene to show how the crash occurred.

Because hit-and-run cases involve criminal and civil components, coordination between your lawyer and law enforcement is crucial. At Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin, we handle both aspects — working alongside investigators to ensure no stone is left unturned.

Common Injuries in Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Crashes

Pedestrians hit by fleeing drivers often suffer catastrophic injuries because they receive no immediate aid. Common injuries include:

  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Head and brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord damage and paralysis
  • Internal organ injuries and bleeding
  • Severe lacerations or amputations
  • Emotional trauma and PTSD

Without help at the scene, victims may face delayed treatment, worsening their condition. These factors can increase both the physical toll and the damages owed by the responsible party.

Compensation Available to Hit-and-Run Victims

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may be entitled to significant compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

  • Medical bills (emergency care, hospitalization, rehabilitation)
  • Lost income and reduced earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress and psychological trauma
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

In fatal cases, families can pursue wrongful death damages, covering funeral expenses, lost companionship, and financial support.

Our attorneys fight to ensure victims and families receive every dollar they deserve — whether through identifying the driver or pursuing insurance coverage.

Why Hit-and-Run Cases Require Skilled Legal Representation

Hit-and-run claims are among the most challenging personal injury cases. They demand:

  • Thorough investigation and evidence gathering
  • Strong coordination with law enforcement
  • Detailed insurance claim handling
  • Trial readiness if the driver is located and refuses to accept responsibility

At Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin, we prepare each case as if it’s going to court. That commitment often leads to faster settlements and higher recoveries for our clients.

Why Choose Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin

For over 30 years, Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin has fought for injury victims across the state. We’ve recovered over $100 million for clients through hard work, preparation, and compassion.

When you choose us, you get:

  • Experienced trial lawyers who handle complex accident investigations
  • Personalized support throughout the entire process
  • No upfront fees — we only get paid when we win
  • A proven record of success against insurers and negligent drivers

We don’t settle for excuses — we demand accountability.

Conclusion

A hit-and-run accident leaves more than physical injuries; it leaves victims feeling powerless and forgotten. But with the right legal support, you can take back control and pursue justice.

At Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin, we don’t rest until we’ve uncovered the truth, identified every possible source of compensation, and fought for the recovery you deserve.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident in Wisconsin, contact Trial Lawyers of Wisconsin today for a free consultation. We’ll stand by you, protect your rights, and fight for justice — even when the driver flees.

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