Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.2026-07-15T13:00:07Zhttps://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1504695/2022/03/cropped-favicon-new-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[When does workers’ compensation coverage take effect?]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559502026-07-07T19:44:21Z2026-07-15T13:00:07ZCoverage begins on day one
Professionals can get hurt the very first day they start a new job. A lack of familiarity with company protocols or specialized equipment might actually increase their risk of getting hurt while they are still training.
Thankfully, there is no vesting period for workers’ compensation coverage. Employers generally have an obligation to carry coverage if they have even a single employee, although they can potentially defer acquiring coverage if they have fewer than three workers.
Every worker at a company with current coverage is potentially eligible for benefits for any injuries incurred while performing job tasks or medical conditions they develop due to their employment. Brand-new employees who just started their jobs have the same basic coverage and benefits as workers who have been with the company for years.
New hires recovering from on-the-job incidents may feel anxious about reporting what happened and filing a claim for benefits. Discussing their situation with a workers' compensation attorney can help injured employees follow the right procedures to claim benefits and protect their new jobs regardless.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[Understanding jackknife accidents]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559492026-07-07T19:43:51Z2026-07-07T07:45:19ZLarge commercial trucks play an important role in keeping goods moving across the country every day. While most trips end safely, accidents involving tractor-trailers can have serious consequences when something goes wrong.
Because of their size and weight, trucks respond differently than passenger vehicles in emergency situations. Certain types of crashes are especially dangerous and can affect multiple vehicles at once.
Why jackknife crashes can be so dangerous
A jackknife accident occurs when a truck with an attached trailer swings outward and forms a 90-degree angle or a “V” shape with the cab, resembling a folding pocketknife. Once a truck begins to jackknife, the driver can lose control of the vehicle, creating a hazard that can block several lanes of traffic at once and involve numerous motorists.Several factors can contribute to a jackknife accident. Sudden braking is one of the most common causes, particularly when roads are wet, icy or otherwise slippery. Improperly loaded cargo, excessive speed and driver error can also increase the risk. When the trailer loses traction while the cab continues moving, the trailer may swing sideways and create a dangerous situation in a matter of seconds.These crashes are often severe because of the sheer size and force involved. A jackknifing truck can strike nearby vehicles, force drivers off the road or trigger chain-reaction collisions. Occupants of smaller passenger vehicles are especially vulnerable to serious injuries due to the significant difference in size and weight between a commercial truck and a car. In some cases, a jackknife accident may also lead to cargo spills, roadway closures and extensive property damage.If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it may be helpful to learn more about your legal options. Speaking with a knowledgeable legal professional can provide guidance, answer your questions and help you understand the next steps available to you.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[Attorney Peter J. Carman Selected to the 2026 Super Lawyers List]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559512026-07-06T16:07:42Z2026-07-01T19:04:45Z[nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] is proud to announce that Attorney Peter J. Carman has once again been selected to the 2026 Super Lawyers list. For Peter, this recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the trust and respect of both his clients and fellow members of the legal profession. More importantly, it reinforces the firm's ongoing commitment to providing personalized legal representation for individuals injured in car accidents, workplace accidents, workers' compensation claims, and other personal injury matters throughout Wisconsin.Peter is grateful to his clients, colleagues, and peers for their continued trust and support. Every case represents a person facing one of the most challenging times in their life, and this recognition reinforces his commitment to providing the personalized legal guidance every client deserves.
What Does Being Selected to the Super Lawyers List Mean?
Each year, Super Lawyers recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated a high degree of professional achievement and earned the respect of their peers within the legal community. While no award can fully define an attorney's commitment to clients, being selected is a meaningful acknowledgment of professionalism, legal knowledge, and dedication to serving others.Choosing an attorney after an accident is an important decision. While professional recognitions should never be the only factor, they can provide prospective clients with added confidence that they are working with an attorney who has earned the respect of fellow legal professionals.
A Commitment to Personalized Representation
At [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], every client receives direct, personal attention from Attorney Carman himself. When clients hire the firm, they don't get passed from attorney to attorney or handed off to a case manager. Instead, they work directly with Peter from the initial consultation through the resolution of their case, ensuring consistent communication, personalized guidance, and an attorney who understands every detail of their situation.Unlike larger firms that may manage hundreds of active files, Peter intentionally maintains a limited caseload. This allows him to dedicate the time and attention necessary to understand each client's circumstances, answer questions promptly, and develop a legal strategy tailored to their unique needs.Peter also brings valuable insight from his previous experience representing insurance companies earlier in his legal career. That perspective helps him anticipate insurance company tactics and advocate effectively for clients seeking the compensation they deserve.Whether representing individuals injured in car accidents, workplace accidents, or other negligence-related incidents, Peter is committed to providing knowledgeable, compassionate representation to clients throughout Wisconsin.
Thank You for Your Trust
Peter extends his sincere thanks to his clients, colleagues, and referral partners for their continued trust and support. It is a privilege to advocate for injured individuals and families throughout Wisconsin, and he remains committed to providing the personal attention, honest communication, and dedicated representation that have always been the foundation of his practice.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you have been injured in a car accident, suffered a workplace injury, or believe someone else's negligence caused your injuries, [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] is here to help.Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] today to schedule a free consultation and learn about your legal options. From your first conversation through the resolution of your case, you can expect personalized guidance, direct communication, and an attorney who is committed to helping you move forward with confidence.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[4 ways you can reduce the risk of truck accidents in Wisconsin]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559212026-04-24T13:33:24Z2026-04-29T13:00:26ZGive trucks plenty of space
One way to reduce your risk around commercial trucks is to maintain a safe distance. Trucks typically require more time and space to stop compared to passenger vehicles. Wisconsin law requires drivers to avoid following vehicles more closely than is reasonable and prudent, maintaining a distance based on speed, traffic and road conditions.
Avoid blind spots
Another way to stay safe is to avoid lingering in a truck’s blind spots, especially along both sides and directly behind the trailer. Some trucks also have blind spots close to the cab, so try to avoid cutting in closely after passing.
Stay alert and minimize distractions
Wisconsin law generally prohibits writing and sending texts while driving, as well as using hand-held phones in road work zones and for all commercial drivers. Keeping your eyes on the road might help you anticipate a truck's movements and react appropriately.
Consider putting your phone out of reach. It may also help to avoid eating or adjusting controls for long periods when you are on the road. Try to save non-driving tasks for stops. Being alert can help you notice when a truck is preparing to change lanes or make a wide turn.
Understand how trucks operate
Large trucks often have unique operational characteristics that differ from those of passenger vehicles. Trucks typically make very wide right turns. Try to avoid squeezing between a truck and the curb when it is turning because the driver may not see you.
Your actions can help make Wisconsin roads safer
Understanding the limitations of trucks may make it easier to share the road with them. By following these steps, you can make smarter decisions on the road, potentially reducing the risk of a crash. Keep in mind that you have legal options after an accident that can help you pursue financial compensation.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[What injuries qualify for workers’ compensation benefits?]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559202026-04-14T11:13:35Z2026-04-14T11:13:35ZWhen is an injury eligible for coverage?
Wisconsin workers’ compensation can theoretically cover costs related to many different types of injuries. Injuries caused by slip-and-falls, machinery malfunctions, chemical exposure, interpersonal violence and even car crashes while on the clock could be eligible for coverage. Any injury caused by a specific incident while working could be eligible for benefits.
Injuries related to cumulative trauma may also be eligible for benefits. Employees may develop repetitive strain injuries due to performing the same job tasks repeatedly while working in a manufacturing role or a commercial kitchen, for example.
A specific incident on the job is not necessary for an injury to be eligible for workers’ compensation coverage. Instead, what matters is that the worker acquired the medical condition through the course of their employment. Any injury that arises out of and occurs during the course of employment could be eligible.
Workers’ compensation can even cover the costs of pre-existing injuries that worsen due to job responsibilities. A retail store worker who had previously managed their back pain with rest and over-the-counter medication might find that their symptoms worsen substantially after weeks of stocking shelves. Their new symptoms may interfere with both job functions and daily life.
Any type of injury caused by employment could make a worker eligible for workers’ compensation benefits that replace their income and pay for their treatment. Employees can protect their right to benefits by reporting incidents or recent medical diagnoses to their employers. Complying with medical instructions and consulting with an attorney can also both be beneficial for those who may need to file a workers' compensation claim.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[Who pays for my medical bills in a Wisconsin ridesharing accident?]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559162026-04-07T15:29:12Z2026-04-10T13:00:37ZOne moment you're in the back seat of a rideshare, heading to your destination. Next, you're caught in the middle of a collision you never saw coming. The accident itself is jarring enough, but as the shock settles in, a pressing question follows: Who is going to pay for your medical bills?
If you've recently been in a rideshare accident in Wisconsin, that question is probably weighing heavily on you right now. The answer isn't always simple. Multiple parties could be responsible for your medical costs and knowing who they are is the first step toward getting the coverage you need.
Four parties who can pay your medical bills
Knowing who is responsible for your medical bills is the first step toward getting the coverage you need. Depending on how the accident happened, one or more of the following parties may be liable.
Your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy: Your own PIP covers your medical bills regardless of who caused the accident, making it often your first available source of coverage.
The rideshare company: Companies like Uber and Lyft carry insurance policies that can cover your medical expenses if the accident occurred during an active ride.
The at-fault driver: Whether it is your rideshare driver or another driver involved in the crash, their liability insurance can be used to pay for your medical costs.
Your Uninsured Motorist (UIM) coverage: If the at-fault driver's insurance falls short, your UIM coverage can make up the difference and protect you from out of pocket expenses.
Understanding each of these options puts you in a stronger position when filing your claim. However, navigating all of them at once can feel overwhelming, especially while you're still recovering.
Protect yourself and your rights on the road
Dealing with medical bills after a rideshare accident is rarely straightforward. Between identifying the at-fault party, filing claims and negotiating with insurance companies, the process takes time and energy you may not have while healing. Fortunately, you don't have to sort through all of it on your own. Having the right guidance by your side can make a real difference in how smoothly your claim moves forward and in the outcome you receive in the end.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[4 questions to ask before you accept light duty]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559072026-03-24T13:07:57Z2026-03-27T13:00:03ZDoes the work match your medical restrictions?
Under Wisconsin law, your treating doctor's restrictions are the legal standard for suitable work. If an employer offers a task that exceeds these limits, they have failed to provide suitable employment.
In these cases, the insurance company generally must continue paying your disability benefits. You are not required to perform work that goes beyond what your doctor says is safe.
How light-duty pay affects your benefits
If your light-duty pay is less than your usual wage, you are entitled to temporary partial disability benefits. These payments help bridge the gap while you are still in your healing period.
The insurance company calculates these benefits by taking two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury average weekly wage and your new light-duty earnings. This ensures you do not suffer a massive financial loss while trying to get back on your feet.
The importance of written offers
Verbal promises from a supervisor can lead to confusion or disputes later. A written description ensures everyone understands the physical requirements of the job. It also prevents an employer from claiming you refused suitable work if the tasks are actually unsafe for your condition.
If a supervisor ignores your medical limits, it may lead to a claim for unreasonable refusal to rehire. This protection exists to stop employers from forcing injured workers into roles that cause more harm.
Why legal guidance matters for your recovery
Accepting a role too soon can cause permanent damage to your body. While insurance companies monitor your return to work, they cannot simply stop payments if your doctor certifies you have not reached maximum medical improvement.
An experienced attorney can review your specific situation to ensure your employer follows state rules. Seeking professional help allows you to focus on healing without fearing for your financial security or your future at the company.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[Mistakes that can sink your worker’s compensation claim]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559022026-03-17T13:11:25Z2026-03-17T13:10:02ZMissing the reporting window
Although Wisconsin has notice requirements for worker’s compensation, you must notify your employer about the workplace injury within 30 days. Waiting can pose a huge risk that could give the insurance company a reason to dispute your claim.
Failing to choose a personal doctor
In worker’s compensation claims, your employer will typically recommend that you seek medical attention from the company doctor. While this option is available, consider seeking a neutral medical practitioner to provide objective findings on your injury. Under Wisconsin law, you have the right to see a doctor you trust.
Sharing your claim details on social media
Be careful with what you post on your social media accounts. Insurance adjusters will find any kind of evidence to undermine your claim. If you say that you have a severe shoulder injury but post a photo of yourself carrying heavy groceries, they will use it to challenge your filing.
Providing incomplete documentation
The fine print matters in your worker’s compensation claim. It is advisable to provide doctor’s notes, imaging scans, laboratory results and incident reports upon filing. Without these, you are at risk of a denial.
Facing the legal landscape with help
While you can navigate the claims process yourself, the legal landscape for worker’s compensation cases in Wisconsin can be complex. Seeking legal guidance can offer valuable insights that can prevent these mistakes.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[Are work injuries caused by horseplay compensable in Wisconsin?]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2559032026-03-10T10:10:20Z2026-03-13T13:00:49ZWorkplace horseplay might seem harmless until someone gets hurt. When roughhousing leads to serious injuries, you face a confusing question: Can you receive worker's compensation? The answer depends entirely on your role in the incident. Thus, understanding Wisconsin's worker's compensation laws helps you know if you have a valid claim.
How the innocent bystander rule can protect you
To understand if you can get benefits, you should first know about Wisconsin's innocent bystander rule for workplace injuries. This rule protects workers who suffer injuries during horseplay they did not start or join. If a coworker's roughhousing injures you, you can usually file for worker's compensation. You were simply doing your job when someone else's actions hurt you. However, the outcome changes if you joined in or started the horseplay.
When horseplay cannot be compensated
Meanwhile, you usually cannot receive worker's compensation if you started the horseplay. When you start roughhousing, you step outside your employee role. The law states you must perform services incidental to your employment. Therefore, starting a workplace prank or fight does not meet this requirement. For example, a manufacturing worker who rides a conveyor belt as a joke and falls off will likely face a denied claim. Thus, you accepted the risk when you chose to engage in dangerous behavior.
A gray area you need to understand
Despite these strict rules, a narrow exception applies in specific situations. If roughhousing happens regularly and management knows but does nothing to stop it, courts might rule differently. When your employer allows this behavior to continue, this pattern could make horseplay part of the work environment. However, this exception requires strong evidence to prove. Even participants might qualify for benefits under these circumstances, though winning these cases remains difficult.
Know your rights after a horseplay injury
Each horseplay injury case has unique details that affect your eligibility for benefits. Hence, you need to carefully look at your situation to understand whether you qualify for worker's compensation benefits. The facts surrounding your injury matter greatly in determining your claim's success. This is where someone familiar with Wisconsin worker's compensation law can help you evaluate these details and understand your options moving forward.]]>On Behalf of Law Office of Peter J. Carman, S.C.<![CDATA[How do trucking company safety records affect a claim?]]>https://www.peterjcarman.lawyer/?p=2558952026-02-12T09:10:07Z2026-02-17T09:08:56ZTruck crashes often involve more than driver behavior. Company policies, training habits, and safety records can shape what happens after a collision. If a trucking company shows patterns of unsafe conduct, that history can influence how a claim develops and what compensation may apply.
Why safety records matter
A trucking company’s safety record shows how it manages drivers, vehicles, and compliance duties. Records may include inspection reports, violation histories, and crash data. When these documents reveal repeated problems, they can support claims that unsafe practices contributed to the crash.
What safety records often include
Safety records often track driver qualifications, hours-of-service logs, and vehicle inspections. They may also list prior violations for speeding, equipment failures, or logbook issues. This information helps show whether the company followed required standards before the crash occurred.
How patterns can strengthen a claim
A single mistake looks different from repeated safety issues. If records show frequent violations or ignored warnings, they can point to broader company responsibility. These patterns may explain why a crash happened and help connect company choices to your injuries.
How records affect compensation discussions
Safety records can influence how insurers and courts view fault and damages. Poor records may increase pressure to resolve a claim due to higher exposure. Clear documentation can also support claims for medical costs, lost income, and other losses tied to the crash.
What you can do after a truck crash
You can protect your position by documenting the crash scene, injuries, and vehicle damage. Keep medical records and note any company names or markings on the truck. These details can help connect the collision to company safety practices reflected in official records.Understanding trucking company safety records helps explain why truck accident claims differ from car crashes. These records can reveal whether a company followed the rules or allowed risky behavior to continue. When safety histories show problems, they can play a meaningful role in how a claim moves forward.]]>
