Wisconsin is ranked among the middle states when it comes to motorist safety. In 2021, Wisconsin was 25th among all states when it came to the number of fatalities caused by car crashes. The state has an extensive road infrastructure, with about 112,362 miles of roads. With five interstate roads and three auxiliary interstate highways, high traffic capacity has become a major issue influencing the number of car crashes in the state. Driver negligence is the most significant contributor to vehicle crashes in Wisconsin. In 2021, the highest number of traffic collisions was caused by impaired driving and speeding, followed by distracted driving.
Furthermore, poor road conditions also contribute to fatal crashes in Wisconsin. Snow storms, fog, and rain cause poor visibility, affecting drivers' reaction time, especially if drivers are negligent on the road.
Furthermore, poor road conditions also contribute to fatal crashes in Wisconsin. Snow storms, fog, and rain cause poor visibility, affecting drivers' reaction time, especially if drivers are negligent on the road.
Certain roads and highways in Wisconsin are significantly more prone to vehicle collisions and fatalities, giving rise to substantial safety concerns. The following routes are among the most dangerous for drivers in the state:
When a driver is involved in a car crash in the state of Wisconsin, there are appropriate actions that can be taken to safeguard lives and rights. Following an accident, a driver should:
The driver needs to figure out a safe way to get the car out of traffic and into a safe spot. Drivers should move their cars off the highway to the closest safe place, reducing the risk of other accidents. However, if it is not possible, drivers are encouraged to take other measures to direct traffic.
Drivers should stay at the location of the accident until a law enforcement officer tells them to leave. According to Wisconsin law, a car's driver must stay at the crash scene or be charged.
Drivers should turn on their warning lights. Flares, reflectors, and traffic cones should also be used to let other cars know about an accident up ahead. These devices should be put far away from the accident so that other cars have enough time to react.
Drivers should ensure no one was hurt in the crash. People who are seriously hurt should not be moved; instead, the medical emergency team should be called immediately. Individuals are encouraged to request medical emergency services after a collision regardless of visible injuries.
Drivers are not required to report all accidents. However, Wisconsin law states that drivers should report any traffic collisions if they cause harm, death, or property damage worth $1,000 or more or damage worth $200 or more to the state or government-owned vehicles.
During an accident, drivers must give the other driver their name, location, car registration number, and insurance information. Also, drivers should show their license if a police officer or someone else asks for it. If the driver does not own the car, they need to give the name and address of the owner. All vehicle owners in the state must have motor vehicle liability insurance. If not, they face a fine and even license suspension after an accident involving their vehicle even if they aren’t driving.
Drivers should take photos of the crash scene if possible. The images should show road conditions, license plates of all cars involved, and the scene of the accident. The photos could be useful proof in legal cases and insurance claims. Photos can also help investigate and determine the cause and extent of damage and provide evidence of pre-existing damage to vehicles before the accident. In addition, drivers are encouraged to take witness accounts or their contact information if they cannot wait for law enforcement to arrive. These accounts are important in court cases.
Drivers should call their insurance company and file a claim. Drivers should also contact their attorneys to ensure their rights are protected if any legal issues develop.
Drivers should always keep records obtained after the crash. These records can come in handy in case any legal proceedings are taken. Essential records to keep, including police reports and insurance claims, are very important.
Wisconsin has a robust framework of laws and guidelines for operating motor vehicles. These laws and facts include:
Seat Belt LawsAll drivers and passengers are required to wear seat belts in a car.
Children above the age of four must wear a seat belt when they are in a car.
Drivers must secure children aged four or lower in a child safety seat or a compliant booster seat while driving.
Teen Driving LawsThe legal age to drive in the state is 15 years. Students must enroll in driving courses and pass both vision and written tests. They must practice driving on the road for at least 50 hours, including 10 hours of night driving, under the supervision of an adult with a valid driving license.
Teenage drivers can drive from 5 am to midnight.
Teenage drivers are prohibited from using devices. This includes hands-free devices, except in the case of an emergency.
Hand Off LawDrivers are prohibited from using or holding handheld devices unless the car is parked or has stopped moving.
Drivers are additionally prohibited from using hands-free devices while they are driving.
Driving Under InfluenceThe state prohibits drivers under the age of 21 under the influence of any drugs.
Motorists with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) higher than .08% will have a DUI charge.
The state prohibits driving under the influence of any controlled substances or drugs.
Move Over LawsIn Wisconsin, drivers must slow down or pave the way for any police car or emergency vehicle with flashing warning signs.
Drivers should slow down or stop when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle or police car with active warning lights.
Car InsuranceThe state requires all cars to have valid insurance.
All drivers should provide proof of insurance when asked by police, in case of a traffic collision, during a car inspection, or at a traffic court appearance.
Riding Outside the VehicleIt is unlawful for individuals to ride or hang outside a moving vehicle if it is traveling more than 35 mph.
Repair of VehiclesThe state does not allow unauthorized repairs to motor vehicles. Drivers should always drop off their cars at a legitimate repair shop. However, the repair shop can charge as much as they want for the repairs.
While some traffic laws are common among all states, some are unique to Wisconsin. These are some of the weird laws present in Wisconsin.