The injuries and losses caused by an auto accident can threaten your finances and future wellbeing. Get the compensation you deserve by working with a top-rated Detroit car accident trial attorney.
The losses, damages, and injuries that follow a serious car accident can create endless problems for your life. And Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws don’t always help matters. It’s not easy to know what to do after an accident in Detroit – or anywhere in Michigan – but it’s important to get fully compensated for what you’ve been through. Recovery requires money, but seeking compensation presents its own set of challenges.
Getting compensated is likely going to mean dealing with an insurance company or an opposing attorney. And neither of these parties is going to have your best interests in mind. Even your own no-fault insurer is going to prioritize your wellbeing after their profit margins.
You can take these challenges on and come out on top, however. By working with a Detroit car accident attorney from Christensen Law, you can get the sound legal advice you need to make informed choices and recover the full cost of your damages and losses.
Changes To The No-Fault Law
On July 2, 2020 there were some major changes to the no-fault law that may impact your case. Read more here 2020 No-Fault Law Changes.
Dealing With No-Fault Insurance
Because Michigan is a no-fault state for auto insurance, you have to file a claim against your own insurance policy before seeking compensation from an at-fault party. Even then, your injuries have to meet certain thresholds before you can file a personal injury claim.
The good thing about no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) plans is that they allow you to start collecting without having to worry about who was at fault for the crash. But this doesn’t mean you’ll receive the full car accident compensation you’re entitled to.
Whether you have a fairly comprehensive PIP plan or only have the minimum personal liability/personal damages (PLPD) plan, the insurer will likely pay you the bare minimum they believe they can get away with. Your Detroit auto accident attorney will handle these negotiations so you aren’t treated this way.
In other car crash cases, you’re allowed to seek compensation beyond what your PIP offers. You can seek compensation from the at-fault party in these scenarios in Detroit:
- You’re seeking damages on behalf of a family member who died in the crash.
- Your injuries have impaired bodily function.
- Your injuries have resulted in permanent disfigurement.
- The other driver is from out of state and not insured in Michigan.
Who Caused the Car Accident?
If you qualify to file a wrongful death or personal injury claim, your Detroit accident attorney will need to identify everyone who was at fault. Michigan observes comparative fault, so each party is liable for just their share of the damages. This means that you’ll need to name everyone at fault in your claim if you want to collect full compensation.
Your car accident attorney in Detroit will identify the cause of the crash, who was responsible, and what evidence will support your claim. Listed below are some of the factors that will require attention:
- Distracted driving, such as cell phone use and eating while behind the wheel
- Intoxication, whether from drinking alcohol or using drugs
- Reckless driving, such as speeding and not staying in the lane
- Road defects, such as potholes and steep shoulder drop-offs
- Defective car parts and tires
Your Injuries Will Affect Your Car Accident Claim
Once your car wreck lawyer has found who was at fault, it’s time to assess the value of your claim. You need to know how much compensation will cover your losses before ever accepting a settlement offer.
The types and extent of your car accident injuries will be a key factor in this process. And your doctor’s input will help determine what medical care your recovery will require and how long it will take.
For instance, a brain or spine injury can have a profound impact on your life and finances. These wounds can easily result in disabilities that leave you unable to work, interact with your loved ones, or take part in activities you once enjoyed. A broken bone, by contrast, will result in a number of damages and immense pain. But it will likely heal in time, allowing you to get back to living your life in Detroit.
Identify All of Your Car Accident Damages
Insurers have a habit of “overlooking” certain damages when making settlement offers for car accidents. You can count on the first offer to only cover your most glaring and current losses. Future needs and lost quality of life are often not accounted for.
By working with an auto accident lawyer from our Detroit law firm, you can ensure that all of your expenses and non-economic damages are assessed and included in your final offer. We’ll also make certain that you receive funds to cover any future needs, as well. You shouldn’t have to pay out of pocket for future losses caused by the car accident.
These are just a few examples of damages that might apply to your case:
- Current and future health expenses
- Lost wages, income, and earning potential
- Travel costs and caretaker wages
- Pain and suffering
- Lost enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement and emotional distress
Car Accident FAQ
At Christensen Law, we ensure that every victim we work with is informed of their options. We want to make certain that you get answers to all of your questions. That’s why we’ve addressed a few common concerns below. If you don’t see your question, please contact us to speak with a Detroit car accident lawyer.
Car Accidents
Am I automatically at fault if my car was the only one involved in the accident?
No. External parties can easily be negligent and cause a wreck. For instance, a pedestrian could be at fault for walking in front of you outside of a crosswalk. Also, a government agency can be responsible when lack of proper upkeep led to bad road conditions.
Can my PIP policy cover anyone else involved in the car accident?
Yes. While most people think of their PIP policy in terms of how it applies to them, it can compensate others, as well. Your PIP benefits will also extend to your family members, pedestrians, passengers, and motorcycle riders.
Will I have to go to court for a car accident in Detroit?
Maybe not. The insurer or at-fault party may make a settlement offer that accounts for all of your losses and injuries. Court is only necessary when the other side will not make a fair offer.
Contact a Detroit Auto Accident Attorney
You don’t have to deal with a car crash alone. Christensen Law is here to make certain that you don’t become an insurer’s next victim. We can help you determine who was at fault, prove your claim, and obtain the full compensation you deserve.
To meet with our experienced car accident lawyers, just call (313) 217-3000 or complete the contact form below.
