If you’re struggling to make ends meet after a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you need a head-on collision lawyer in Ann Arbor to help. We’re prepared to represent you with insurers and protect your right to take negligent drivers and other responsible parties to civil court.
At Christensen Law, we Listen, Protect, and Win™ for our clients. Our car accident lawyers in Ann Arbor have put hundreds of millions of dollars back into the hands of victims struggling with the consequences of others’ negligence. We will provide personalized care after a serious accident.
Timing is critical after a crash. Deadlines apply, and we need to preserve evidence to build your case. Call us right away for a free case assessment to determine your next steps.
Negligence Can Cause Devastating Head-On Collisions
Drivers should prevent avoidable accidents. Those who don’t pay attention to the road, speed, or deliberately put others in harm’s way violate the duty of care that all drivers owe.
While Michigan is a No-Fault state, you can sue the driver responsible for your head-on collision in certain situations, especially if you have serious injuries as a result of that driver’s negligence.
Working with a personal injury lawyer in Ann Arbor allows you to work with your insurance company and maximize your PIP coverage before pursuing head-on collision compensation through the civil system from third parties.
How Does Michigan’s No-Fault Policy Affect Your Head-On Collision Accident?
If you get into a head-on collision with someone else in Michigan, your No-Fault insurance will be the first source of compensation.
Michigan residents typically purchase a car insurance policy that includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP), Property Protection (PP), and Residual Liability Insurance (Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability), which is the first policy that will help cover your expenses after a crash.
Modified Comparative Negligence and No-Fault in Michigan
Michigan follows a modified comparative fault system, where fault can be split between multiple parties. Your ability to recover compensation depends on your share of responsibility. If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, you may still recover damages. However, your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
You can sue someone else for head-on collision damages if you meet certain qualifying criteria. For example, if you suffer severe injuries as a result of your accident, an at-fault driver may be responsible for your medical bills (beyond what PIP covers), lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Because head-on collisions frequently cause severe injuries that meet Michigan’s serious injury threshold, victims in Ann Arbor are often able to step outside the No–Fault system and pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. At Christensen Law, our lawyers are here to help you pursue maximum recovery.
How to Document an Accident Scene After a Head-On Collision
For our Ann Arbor head-on collision attorneys to prove negligence after a crash, you should fully document the scene of your accident.
However, do not attempt this if it’s actively dangerous for you to do so. Move out of harm’s way if you can. If you’re unable to move, stay put and await medical care.
Gather Evidence (If Possible)
If it’s safe for you to remain at the accident scene, take photos and videos of the area, including the street, the debris field, the weather conditions, and the positions of all vehicles involved.
Also, photograph the damage done to your car and others, as well as the license plates of all involved. We recommend talking with witnesses to obtain their contact information, ensuring you can reach them later. They may have a dash cam video that will be helpful in your case.
You should also speak with the other driver(s) involved in the crash and exchange insurance information. However, if a liable (responsible) party flees the scene, do not chase them. Provide their license plate number to the police.
Maximizing PIP Damages
To maximize your PIP damages following a head-on collision, document the accident scene carefully. This evidence will be necessary to recover compensation from your insurer and to challenge attempts to minimize the extent of your losses.
When’s the Best Time to Call an Ann Arbor Head-On Collision Lawyer?
Once you’re safe, you should consider contacting an attorney before calling your insurance company. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the easier it’s going to be to balance your physical and financial recovery.
Our team gives you the time you need to prioritize medical visits, physical therapy, and all necessary treatment while we investigate and gather the evidence needed to build a claim against any liable parties.
Book a free case consultation with our team immediately after your crash. There is no obligation.
How Much Does It Cost to Work With a Head-On Collision Lawyer in Ann Arbor?
You don’t have to worry about legal fees when you hire our head-on collision attorneys in Ann Arbor, MI. Christensen Law works on a contingency basis. We will not ask you for a deposit or retainer before taking your case, meaning you can contact us without worrying about the cost of legal advice.
We don’t send bills to clients with active cases, either. We do not get paid for our services until you have a settlement in hand, at which point our fee is deducted directly from that money. If you do not win, you do not pay us anything.
You can discuss the standard contingency fee agreement and how we will address your financial concerns during a free case assessment with our intake team.
What’s Michigan’s Personal Injury Statute of Limitations?
Filing a personal injury lawsuit after a head-on collision does not require you to go to trial. However, we always prepare for that possibility as it strengthens your case development. You can work with our Ann Arbor head-on collision attorneys to negotiate with insurers for a settlement. If necessary, we’ll take your fight to court for a decision by a judge or jury.
To preserve your right to action, you must file your claim before the statute of limitations expires. Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5805 allows you to take three years to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for the collision.
Don’t let the statute of limitations expire if you want to pursue compensation through Michigan’s civil system. The state’s courts do not have to consider cases submitted outside of their filing deadlines. If you’re running short on time, our attorneys will determine whether you qualify for a deadline extension.
Speak With an Ann Arbor Head-On Collision Attorney Today
Head-on collisions can leave you and your loved ones with serious physical injuries in addition to significant property damage. If a crash totals your car, you may not have the resources you need to get to work, which may put your income at risk if you can still work while treating and recovering from the injuries you sustained.
Our team of head-on collision lawyers in Ann Arbor is ready to investigate your losses and build claims for damages on your behalf. Trust us to represent your best interests in conversations with insurance adjusters and with liable parties.
Reach out to Christensen Law to book your free case consultation today. Visit our FAQ page to learn more.