Why Finding the Right Attorney After a Crash Matters More Than You Think

Criminal Law Attorney Christopher T. Van Wagner named to Wisconsin Super Lawyers, an honor reserved for the top 5%.

Attorney Tracey A. Wood is the only female lawyer in Wisconsin to have been named Top 5% DUI Attorneys, Top 25 Women In Law & appointed to National College for DUI Defense Board of Regents.

NOT GUILTY of sexual assault: First Degree Sexual Assault - Repeated Acts of Sexual Assault. A Prairie du Chien - Crawford County Wisconsin - jury found Attorney Van Wagner's client not guilty of multiple counts of sexual assault.

Refusal conviction reversed on appeal by drunk driving defense Attorney Tracey Wood. Wisconsin Court of Appeals says gradual coloring outside the lines is not sufficient probable cause for a stop and the subsequent arrest evidence is "fruits of the illegal stop."

DISMISSED 9 Felony Counts Sexual Assault of Child Attorney Chris Van Wagner said, "She was a victim of sexual assault, not an offender! Justice was served. If new charges are filed, we will defend her."

Wisconsin's first ever attorney appointed to Board of Regents for National College for DUI Defense, Attorney Tracey is a successful drunk driving defense lawyer with Van Wagner & Wood of Madison, Wisconsin.

NOT GUILTY of murder: Defendant confesses to murder & mayhem; jury acquits." Not since the OJ Simpson trial has a jury been more believing," Chris Van Wagner said, "The jury believed Meng."

Attorney Tracey Wood authors "Challenging Prior Operating While Intoxicated Convictions", published in Wisconsin Defender, a special trade journal for criminal defense law.

Court TV Commentator, Attorney Christopher Van Wagner explains Vang's Wisconsin hunting and murder case. See WI Felon Hunting

NOT GUILTY: Federal theft conversion & conspiracy charges in largest military base theft of 153 vehicles, Tracey Wood's client was facing felony charges of 15 years in prison & $500k in fines; 3 others were convicted.

Why Finding the Right Attorney After a Crash Matters More Than You Think

After a car crash, most people focus on the immediate, getting medical help, notifying insurance, and assessing vehicle damage. But there's one step many overlook or delay: hiring the right attorney. It may seem secondary in the chaos that follows an accident, but your choice of legal support can shape the entire outcome of your recovery, financially, physically, and emotionally.

Not All Attorneys Are the Same

Every lawyer has a different focus. Some handle divorces, others work on contracts. If you’ve been injured in a crash, you need someone who specializes in personal injury or auto accident cases. That’s why it’s important to find a local attorney who understands the specific laws and procedures in your area. These attorneys know how insurance companies operate and how to build a strong case for the compensation you deserve.

They Handle More Than Just Paperwork

Yes, attorneys file claims, but their real value goes beyond that. The right attorney will investigate the accident, gather police reports, request medical records, speak to witnesses, and, if necessary, hire accident reconstruction experts. This thorough approach is what gives your case strength, especially if the other party disputes fault or if your injuries turn out to be more serious than they first appeared.

Protecting You from Insurance Tactics

Insurance companies are businesses, they’re looking to minimize payouts. It’s common for adjusters to offer fast, low settlements, hoping you’ll accept before realizing the full extent of your injuries or damages. A qualified attorney will know what your case is worth and will push back on unfair offers. They’ll also know how to deal with delays, denials, or tactics that aim to shift blame onto you.

Maximizing Your Compensation

An experienced attorney knows how to calculate more than just your current medical bills. They’ll factor in lost wages, future treatment, pain and suffering, and even emotional trauma. If you try to handle things alone, it’s easy to overlook these aspects, especially when you’re focused on healing or just trying to move on.

Peace of Mind During a Stressful Time

The days and weeks after a crash can feel overwhelming. Dealing with forms, calls, appointments, and insurance claims is exhausting. Having someone you trust to handle the legal side gives you space to focus on your recovery. A good attorney will keep you informed, explain your rights, and help you make smart decisions without the pressure of going it alone.

Crashes are sudden and disruptive, but your recovery doesn’t have to be uncertain. Finding the right attorney early on can mean the difference between a drawn-out process with added stress and a clear path toward resolution and support. If you're unsure where to begin, start by searching online or asking for recommendations. Many firms offer free consultations, which can help you decide if they're the right fit for your needs.

When it comes to protecting your future, don’t wait. Finding a local attorney after a crash isn’t just a legal step — it’s a smart one.

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		Criminal Law Attorney Christopher T. Van Wagner named to Wisconsin Super Lawyers, an honor reserved for the top 5%. Attorney Tracey A. Wood is the only female lawyer in Wisconsin to have been named Top 5% DUI Attorneys, Top 25 Women In Law & appointed to National College for DUI Defense Board of Regents. NOT GUILTY of sexual assault: First Degree Sexual Assault - Repeated Acts of Sexual Assault. A Prairie du Chien - Crawford County Wisconsin - jury found Attorney Van Wagner's client not guilty of multiple counts of sexual assault. Refusal conviction reversed on appeal by drunk driving defense Attorney Tracey Wood. Wisconsin Court of Appeals says gradual coloring outside the lines is not sufficient probable cause for a stop and the subsequent arrest evidence is "fruits of the illegal stop." DISMISSED 9 Felony Counts Sexual Assault of Child Attorney Chris Van Wagner said, "She was a victim of sexual assault, not an offender! Justice was served. If new charges are filed, we will defend her." Wisconsin's first ever attorney appointed to Board of Regents for National College for DUI Defense, Attorney Tracey is a successful drunk driving defense lawyer with Van Wagner & Wood of Madison, Wisconsin. NOT GUILTY of murder: Defendant confesses to murder & mayhem; jury acquits." Not since the OJ Simpson trial has a jury been more believing," Chris Van Wagner said, "The jury believed Meng." Attorney Tracey Wood authors "Challenging Prior Operating While Intoxicated Convictions", published in Wisconsin Defender, a special trade journal for criminal defense law. Court TV Commentator, Attorney Christopher Van Wagner explains Vang's Wisconsin hunting and murder case. See WI Felon Hunting NOT GUILTY: Federal theft conversion & conspiracy charges in largest military base theft of 153 vehicles, Tracey Wood's client was facing felony charges of 15 years in prison & $500k in fines; 3 others were convicted.