Author: Sarah Stempky-Kime

Giving Too Much Information to the Insurance Company

Even if you’ve never been in a car accident, you may already have a sense of what you should do after a crash. Check for injuries and call an ambulance if necessary. Call the police. Collect and exchange names and telephone numbers, license and registration information, and insurance company information….

What Makes Distracted Driving So Dangerous?

You were going along, maybe heading into the office, when out of the blue a distracted driver struck you. How do you know that a person was driving distracted? In some cases, phone records will demonstrate cell phone use while driving. In other cases, the driver may admit that they…

What to Do after a Rideshare Accident

Rideshares are convenient, eco-friendly ways to get around town, and they’re only growing in popularity. As with any mode of transportation, however, they are subject to accidents and even fatal injuries. Perhaps you were a passenger in a rideshare like Uber or Lyft when it was involved in a crash, or maybe…

CHRISTENSEN LAW Honors and Awards

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE AT WORK We’re pleased to share the recent accolades and honors awarded to our talented team of trial attorneys. Our lawyers work extremely hard, dedicated to the long hours and arduous effort of defending our clients’ rights to be heard and to fair compensation. We’re proud of their…

Who is Responsible for Passenger Injuries in a Motorcycle Crash

Several parties can be responsible for passenger injuries in a motorcycle crash. Establishing fault is a critical step as a passenger injured in a motorcycle accident, so you know who you can pursue for compensation. Understanding how the accident occurred and who was involved can help you determine how to…

Do Motorcycles Get Michigan No-Fault Benefits

In most cases, no, motorcycles are not eligible for the kinds of insurance policies that pay No-Fault benefits. Michigan law does not classify motorcycles as a type of motor vehicle, which is why No-Fault benefits are available to cars but not motorcycles. However, you may be able to seek some…

Is It Worth Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer to handle your Michigan motorcycle accident case will help you navigate the process and possibly recover more money than you could on your own. A Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer knows how to navigate these complex claims, including documenting and negotiating for maximum compensation based on your case…

What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do

A motorcycle accident lawyer does everything they can to protect their client’s rights after a collision caused by negligence. What this entails may vary from case to case, but common tasks include: Collecting evidence to put in the client’s casefile Negotiating with the insurance company for fair damages Representing the…

How Do I Collect Lost Wages After a Motorcycle Accident Injury

You can collect lost wages after a motorcycle accident injury through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. The type of claim you can file depends on how your accident occurred and the severity of your injuries. A Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer can help you gather evidence, submit insurance claims, and…

How Motorcycle Accidents Are Different Than Car Accidents

Any motor vehicle accident can be devastating. However, while you can suffer similar losses in a motorcycle crash and a car accident, there are some key differences. Understanding how motorcycle accidents are different than car accidents can help you protect your legal rights and seek a fair settlement from the…

Understanding Comparative Fault in Motorcycle Crashes

Comparative fault, sometimes called comparative negligence, is a method of calculating damages in personal injury cases. Every state has different comparative fault laws, so you benefit from understanding comparative fault in motorcycle crashes, including types of comparative fault, damages you can claim, and how you can prove fault following a…

What to Do After a Car Accident in Sterling Heights

If you or a loved one were in a car accident in Sterling Heights, MI, you may have injuries, medical bills, and other financial damages. In the aftermath of the crash, you likely have a lot of questions about what to do to protect your health and future. A car…

Do You Need a Motorcycle License

You do not need a motorcycle license in Michigan, but you do need a motorcycle endorsement. Drivers as young as 16 can get an endorsement with the proper permitting and testing, although requirements will vary based on a few factors. You can face jail time and financial penalties for riding…

Distracted Driving Scholarship Winner Graphic 2022 - Aaron Chan

7th Annual Distracted Driving Awareness Scholarship Contest As Michigan car accident attorneys, we’ve seen the devastating effects of distracted driving firsthand. Christensen Law’s annual Distracted Driving Scholarship Contest was established as part of our commitment to increasing awareness about the tragic consequences of distracted driving among young people while also helping…

When Does an Ordinary Vehicle Qualify as a Commercial Truck?

When we picture a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), most of us probably think of semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, or box trucks. But a truck’s design, size, and weight aren’t the only criteria used to classify them as commercial vehicles. If you’re seriously injured in a Michigan truck accident, these classifications could be…

Kay-Lynn Chartier, Christensen Law Social Media Manager

1ST ANNIVERSARY OF JOINING THE CLAW FAMILY Aunt, cat-mom, and pop-punk princess are self-identifiers for Kay-Lynn (affectionately known as “KL”), our Social Media Manager. Peel back the onion, and you’ll find incredible depth to the multi-faceted millennial. After receiving her Advertising & Public Relations degree from Grand Valley State University…

Christensen Law's Brand Ambassador and Receptionist Ericka Matthews Celebrates 5 Years with Firm

ERICKA CELEBRATES 5 YEARS WITH CLAW Our front-of-house Brand Ambassador and Receptionist Ericka Matthews joined the Christensen Law family 5 years ago this weekend! Above all else, Ericka is truly representative of what CLAW stands for – her own values align closely with ours, which she lives with joy and…

Christensen Law Paralegal Stephanie McPherson celebrates 9 year anniversary

CELEBRATING STEPHANIE’S 9-YEAR ANNIVERSARY Ask any member of the firm and they’ll tell you Stephanie McPherson knows her stuff. As the Senior Litigation Paralegal, she is responsible not only for managing Dave Christensen and Sarah Stempky-Kime’s caseload, but also for training and systems. “Stephanie handles the heavy lifting on over…

Deb Tonelli celebrates 5 year anniversary with Christensen Law

DEB TONELLI, ATTORNEY & COUNSELOR Deb, who has 30+ years of experience as an attorney, plays a key role at Christensen Law, heading up our presuit department. All incoming cases start with pre-litigation and involve several steps prior to settlement or litigation, starting with a thorough investigation of all aspects…

Dustin Hoff Anniversary

DUSTIN HOFF CELEBRATES 6-YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH CHRISTENSEN LAW This month marks the sixth year since Trial Attorney Dustin Hoff joined CLAW.  Admitted to the bar in 2014, he joined the firm after spending his first year as an associate at a small firm in Sandusky – his hometown – where…

What to Expect at a Personal Injury Mediation

claim means going to trial. That’s a myth. The truth is that the majority of personal injury cases are resolved through a settlement with an insurance company or through a process known as mediation. Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that occurs before a case reaches the…

What is Subrogation in a No-fault Claim

Michigan is a no-fault state for auto insurance. That means you’ll need to carry some level of personal injury protection (PIP) coverage on your auto insurance policy. In the case of a car accident, you’ll first file a claim through your own insurer. PIP coverage will cover at least a…

How Long Should I Be Dizzy After a Car Accident - Christensen Law

Dizziness after a car accident should not be taken lightly. It’s wise to seek medical attention immediately after the crash and get continuing care if the dizziness lasts beyond the doctor’s expectations. Dizziness can be a symptom of a traumatic brain injury (TBI), neck injury, or other trauma. These are…

Car Accident in Detroit: Three Reasons to Call an Attorney

Car accidents have the potential to cost you thousands in damages. From dealing with property damage to paying your medical bills, car accidents are extremely stressful situations. You’re never truly ready for all of the hurdles associated with an auto accident. To make matters worse, you have to deal with confusing legal terminology…

What to Do if You Are in an Uber Accident in Detroit

Uber is a very convenient service that allows you to get a ride nearly anywhere. Over the last few years, the service has become extremely popular and has become a necessity for some people. However, the service can also be dangerous due to the nature of how it operates. You’re…

Tips for Maximizing the Value of Your No-fault Claim

Michigan uses a no-fault system when it comes to auto injury claims. If you’ve been injured in a vehicle crash, you will likely be required to first utilize your own insurance coverage, regardless of who caused the accident. Filing a claim is simple in theory, but it can be difficult to deal with…