Understanding Wisconsin’s Hot Car Laws

In light of the high heat levels expected in Wisconsin this weekend, it is important to know what to do if a situation arises in which a small child or a pet has been left in a hot car and cannot escape. Our founding partner, Jeff Pitman has provided a brief video about Wisconsin laws pertaining to rescuing people or pets in these situations.

In November 2015, Wisconsin passed a law that provides immunity to good Samaritans who forcibly enter a vehicle in order to save a person or a pet. However, there are certain qualifications for receiving immunity, including:

• You must have a good faith belief that the person is in danger of suffering great bodily harm
• You must make sure that the vehicle is locked and forcible entry is necessary
• You must call 911 or law enforcement to advise them of the situation
• You can only use the amount of force necessary to get the person out of the car, nothing more

After rescuing someone you must stay in the area until law enforcement arrives, or you must leave a note for law enforcement on the windshield with all of your contact information. This is so law enforcement knows who was involved in the forcible entry.

If you comply with the law and follow all of these steps, a Milwaukee personal injury lawsuit cannot be brought against you for property damage or personal injury.

The Milwaukee auto accident lawyer team at PKSD wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable weekend.