Michigan
Personal Injury Law Firm
FREE CASE REVIEW FREE CASE REVIEW ⟶ What are common causes of Michigan car accidents?
Michigan roads can be dangerous, and car accidents happen for a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Using a phone, eating or adjusting the radio while driving diverts attention from the road and increases the risk of accidents.
- Speeding: Driving too fast for road conditions or above the speed limit reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to avoid a collision.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Michigan.
- Weather conditions: Snow, ice and rain are common in Michigan, and poor weather can lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
If you were in a motor vehicle accident for any reason, a personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and whether you can pursue compensation for medical expenses or other losses.
What are common car accident injuries?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some more severe than others. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
If you are hurt in an accident, seeking medical attention right away helps protect both your health and any injury claim you file. Even if you feel fine or believe your injuries are not severe, it is important to get a professional evaluation.
Healthcare providers document your injuries in medical records, which can serve as key evidence in negotiations with insurance companies. If you delay or skip treatment, insurance adjusters may doubt the seriousness of your injuries or claim they resulted from something unrelated to the accident.
How do you prove liability following a car accident?
Proving who is at fault in a car accident is key to getting compensation. You can do this by looking at several types of evidence, starting with the police report that details what happened.
Witness statements add support to your version of events, while traffic camera footage can offer a clear look at the crash itself. If you have any injuries, medical records show how they relate to the accident. In some situations, accident reconstruction experts piece together what happened to pinpoint who caused the collision.
If you feel uncertain about proving liability on your own, a personal injury lawyer can help you gather the right proof and figure out the best way forward.
How long does a car accident settlement take?
The time it takes to settle a car accident claim can vary. On average, settlements may take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on how complex the case is. Factors that can impact the timeline include:
- How serious the injuries are and how long treatment will take
- Whether there’s a disagreement about who’s at fault
- How willing the insurance company is to negotiate or settle
- If the case ends up going to court
Sometimes, insurance companies may act in bad faith by delaying your claim, offering a lowball settlement or refusing to negotiate fairly. If this happens, it can extend the settlement process, making it even more important to have legal support to hold the insurer accountable.
What is the statute of limitations for a car accident in Michigan?
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation.
Do you have to report an accident in Michigan?
If you’re in a car accident in Michigan that causes injuries or at least $1,000 in property damage, state law generally requires you to report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency. If officers don’t show up at the scene, you may have to file an official report on your own.
Skipping this step can lead to fines and potential license problems. It can also hurt your personal injury claim later. Insurance companies often look for a police report to confirm what happened, so not having one may give them an excuse to doubt your side of the story.
What are common types of motor vehicle accidents?
Different types of motor vehicle accidents happen for different reasons. Here are some of the most common.
Motorcycle accidents are often more severe than car accidents because motorcyclists are less protected. Common causes include lane splitting, speeding or poor visibility, especially in high-traffic areas. Even experienced riders can be at risk due to reckless drivers or hazardous road conditions.
Accidents involving large trucks, like semi-trucks or delivery trucks, often result in serious injuries or fatalities. These accidents can be caused by factors like driver fatigue, poorly loaded cargo or mechanical failure. The size and weight of the truck make these collisions particularly dangerous.
With the rise of Uber and Lyft, rideshare accidents are becoming more common. Sometimes, drivers rush to fit in as many rides as they can to earn more money. That rush can result in speeding or other risky behavior. Distractions from passengers or problems with the vehicle can also lead to accidents. In some situations, rideshare companies may share the blame for the accident, and passengers often have legal rights to pursue compensation.
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing their information. This can make it difficult to determine who is responsible, but your own insurance may help cover the costs if the driver can’t be found. If you were in a hit-and-run accident, report the accident to the police right away, then contact a personal injury attorney for help.
Drunk driving is a leading cause of serious accidents. Alcohol impairs a driver’s reaction time, decision-making and ability to judge distances, making it far more likely they’ll cause a crash. If you’re involved in an accident with a drunk driver, they can be held fully liable for the damages, and you may also be entitled to additional compensation for the harm caused.
Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents due to their inexperience behind the wheel. Speeding, distractions or poor decision-making, especially in high-risk situations, are common factors in teen car accidents. These accidents can be devastating, but teens and their parents may be held responsible depending on the circumstances.
Driving in foggy or low-light conditions, especially at night, significantly increases the risk of accidents. Reduced visibility is a major factor, as drivers have less time to react to obstacles, other vehicles or sudden changes in traffic patterns. Fog can obscure important signals, signs and even the road itself, while night driving presents challenges such as glare from headlights and difficulty seeing pedestrians or animals.
In Michigan, a personal injury law firm can review your case and determine if you have a viable claim based on the cause of your accident.
A car accident is a catastrophic event that can have life-changing consequences for victims and their families. Victims suffer physical and emotional trauma in addition to accumulating significant financial burdens from medical treatment, lost wages and vehicle repairs. A car accident lawyer can help victims regain control of their lives after an auto collision.
A common cause of car accidents in Michigan and nationwide is driver negligence. This can include texting while driving, being distracted by other passengers in the vehicle, being tired from behind the wheel or other factors. Drivers who engage in these behaviors can have a very negative impact on the safety of others.
The state of Michigan’s road infrastructure is deteriorating at a rapid rate. It is critical for Michigan to invest in new, improved roadways to protect the safety of its motorists and freight trucks. However, the current level of road funding is far below what it needs to be.
This is due to a lack of federal and state funds, as well as the fact that road maintenance is based solely on the monies collected from gas taxes, registration fees and federal funding. While there are debates about whether or not these sources of revenue are fair, they do show that the state spends less than other states on road improvements.
Another problem that exists is the state’s no-fault insurance system. This means that accident victims do not have to prove fault in order to receive reimbursement for their lost wages and medical expenses. However, the insurance company for the at-fault driver will do everything in their power to deny or reduce settlement offers made to unrepresented victims. An experienced lawyer could help accident victims understand their legal rights and fight for maximum compensation.
In addition to pursuing a no-fault claim, an injured accident victim can pursue a mini-tort claim against the at-fault driver for additional damages. These claims can cover things like vehicle repair costs, property damage, pain and suffering and other non-economic damages. An attorney can also assist an accident victim in filing a dramshop claim against the business that illegally sold alcohol to the person who caused the crash.
A seasoned car accident lawyer would be able to conduct a thorough investigation of the crash site, hire expert re-constructionists and other experts as needed and create a clear picture of how the accident occurred. This can be a critical factor in a case as it improves a victim’s chances of recovering the full amount of their damages. In addition, the attorney could help them meet deadlines for filing a no-fault application or a lawsuit in court. Call a car accident attorney today for a free consultation. They do not charge a fee unless they win a settlement for you. This includes cases where a loved one was killed in a serious car crash. We serve clients throughout the entire state of Michigan. Contact us now to get started on your case.
How much does it cost to hire an auto accident attorney in Michigan?
If you have been involved in an auto accident in Michigan, you may be wondering how much it will cost to hire an auto accident attorney to represent you. The cost of hiring an attorney can vary based on a variety of factors, such as the attorney’s experience, the complexity of your case, and the location of the attorney’s office.
In Michigan, auto accident attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if they win your case. The contingency fee is usually a percentage of the total amount of compensation that you receive from the other party or their insurance company. The percentage can vary from attorney to attorney, but it is typically around 33% to 40% of the total amount awarded.
For example, if you were awarded $100,000 in compensation for your auto accident case, and your attorney charges a 33% contingency fee, your attorney’s fee would be $33,000. Keep in mind that you would still be responsible for any other expenses related to your case, such as court fees, expert witness fees, and other legal costs.
It’s important to note that while hiring an auto accident attorney can be expensive, it can also be well worth the cost. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve for your injuries and other damages.
If you are considering hiring an auto accident attorney in Michigan, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with several attorneys to discuss your case and get an idea of their fees. Many attorneys offer free consultations, so you can get an idea of your options without any upfront costs. Ultimately, the cost of hiring an attorney will depend on your specific case and the attorney that you choose, but it’s important to keep in mind that the benefits of having legal representation can outweigh the costs in the long run.
What should I do if I have a car accident in Michigan?
If you are involved in a car accident in Michigan, it is important to remain calm and take immediate action to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.
First and foremost, check yourself and any passengers in your vehicle for injuries. If there are serious injuries, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If you are able to move, try to get to a safe location away from traffic.
Once you have ensured your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved. This includes their name, address, phone number, insurance company, and policy number. You should also get the make, model, and license plate number of their vehicle.
If there are witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information as well. This can be important later on if there are disputes about who was at fault for the accident.
Next, report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Michigan is a no-fault insurance state, which means that your own insurance company will pay for your medical expenses and other damages, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, there are certain circumstances under which you may be able to pursue a claim against the other driver’s insurance company or file a lawsuit.
It is important to seek medical attention even if you do not think you are seriously injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms until hours or even days after the accident.
Finally, it may be in your best interest to consult with an experienced car accident attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
In conclusion, if you are involved in a car accident in Michigan, it is important to prioritize your safety, exchange information with the other driver(s), report the accident to your insurance company, seek medical attention, and consider consulting with an attorney to protect your legal rights.
What’s the first step to take with my insurance company?
When it comes to dealing with your auto insurance company, the first step is crucial. It sets the tone for the entire claims process and can ultimately determine the outcome of your claim. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure that your claim is handled efficiently and effectively.
The first step is to report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurance companies require that you report any accident within a certain timeframe, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Failing to report the incident in a timely manner could result in a denial of your claim.
When reporting the incident, make sure to provide as much information as possible about what happened. This includes the date and time of the accident, the location, the names and contact information of any witnesses, and the extent of the damage to your vehicle. Be honest and accurate when providing this information to avoid any potential issues down the road.
After reporting the incident, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your claim. The adjuster will investigate the accident and assess the damage to your vehicle. They will also review your policy to determine what is covered and what is not.
Throughout the claims process, it is important to keep detailed records of all communication with your insurance company. This includes phone calls, emails, and any written correspondence. It is also important to document any expenses related to the accident, such as rental car costs or medical bills.
How do I get my Michigan No-Fault insurance benefits?
If you are a Michigan resident and have been involved in a car accident, you may be entitled to No-Fault insurance benefits. These benefits can help cover the cost of medical expenses, lost wages, and other related expenses resulting from the accident.
To begin the process of obtaining your No-Fault insurance benefits, it is important to first notify your insurance company of the accident. You should do this as soon as possible after the accident occurs, and provide them with any necessary information, such as the date and location of the accident, and the names of any witnesses.
Once your insurance company has been notified, they will likely request additional information from you, such as medical records and documentation of lost wages. It is important to provide this information as quickly and accurately as possible to ensure that your benefits are processed in a timely manner.
Your insurance company will then review your claim and determine the amount of benefits that you are entitled to receive. This may include coverage for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. This may involve submitting additional information or evidence to support your claim.
It is important to remember that No-Fault insurance benefits are not automatic, and you may need to actively pursue them in order to receive the compensation that you are entitled to. By working closely with your insurance company and providing all necessary information and documentation, you can help ensure that your claim is processed efficiently and that you receive the benefits that you deserve.
Do I have to give first aid to a passenger after a car crash in Michigan?
Yes, as a responsible driver and citizen of Michigan, you have a legal obligation to provide first aid to any injured passengers after a car crash.
Michigan law requires all drivers involved in a car crash to stop and provide reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured or in need of medical attention. This includes providing first aid to injured passengers until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive on the scene.
It is important to note that providing first aid does not require extensive medical training or knowledge. Basic first aid techniques, such as controlling bleeding, providing CPR if needed, and stabilizing the neck and spine of injured passengers, can go a long way in preventing further harm and potentially saving lives.
If you are unsure about what to do or are unable to provide first aid, you should immediately call 911 to request emergency medical services. It is also important to remain calm and focused during this stressful situation and provide as much information to the emergency responders as possible, such as the location of the crash, the number of injured passengers, and the nature of their injuries.
In summary, as a responsible driver in Michigan, it is your legal and ethical responsibility to provide first aid to any injured passengers after a car crash until EMS arrive on the scene.
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