After you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, a Detroit rear-end crash lawyer can help you understand your options for recovering full compensation for your injuries and damages.
After most vehicle collisions in Michigan, you can file an insurance claim to use your no-fault auto insurance and personal injury protection (PIP) benefits to recover the losses you’ve sustained due to your accident.
However, when you’ve sustained a serious injury, such as those that often occur in rear-end crashes, you may be able to seek full compensation from the at-fault driver. A Detroit rear-end collision lawyer can help you determine whether your injuries will qualify.
No-Fault Claims vs. Personal Injury Claims
There’s nothing wrong with no-fault claims, and your attorney can assist you with maximizing your PIP benefits if that’s the right step for your circumstances. Negotiating with your insurance company and proving your injuries is the biggest challenge when utilizing your own insurance.
In some cases, filing for compensation can also be a good option. When you’ve suffered extensive losses, such as medical expenses and missed time at work, and your injuries have changed your life, you deserve more than just reimbursement—you deserve justice.
In addition to financial losses, filing a claim against an at-fault driver can allow you to seek non-economic losses, such as compensation for your pain and suffering.
Did You Cross the Serious Injury Threshold?
How do you know if you qualify to file a personal injury claim for your rear-end collision? To file a claim for an auto wreck, you must meet the serious injury threshold. Essentially, your injury must have been permanent or resulted in damages that far exceeded the limits of your no-fault insurance policy.
Here are a few examples of serious injuries common to rear-end collisions:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Organ damage
- Loss of a limb
- Broken bones
- Whiplash injuries
- Spine and back injuries
- Severe burns
- Disfigurement or permanent scarring
Why Shouldn’t I File a Claim on My Own?
Filing a PIP or personal injury claim is hard work. It requires investigating your accident, negotiating with insurance companies, gathering evidence, collecting documentation, and, in some instances, arguing your case in court.
When you’ve been seriously injured, this work is more than you can likely do on your own. You don’t have to. An attorney can assist you.
Meet with an Attorney
If your injuries are serious after your accident, you can file a personal injury claim. You need to be reimbursed for your losses, and if your injuries are life-changing, you can be compensated for the impact your crash has had. Contact a lawyer at our firm as soon as possible.
At Christensen Law, our attorneys know whether your injuries will qualify you to file for compensation. We will discuss your case during a free consultation so you can find out whether you’re eligible. Call us today or fill out the form below to speak with a lawyer.
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Our Detroit Attorneys Can Answer Your Rear-End Collision FAQs
Can I sue the driver who rear-ended me in Detroit?
Yes. If you were injured in a rear-end collision, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. While Michigan’s No-Fault insurance covers your immediate medical expenses and lost wages, you can pursue additional compensation—such as pain and suffering—if your injuries meet the state’s “serious impairment” threshold. Our car accident attorneys at Christensen Law can assess your case and help you seek full compensation for your losses.
How does Michigan’s No-Fault insurance affect my rear-end collision claim?
Michigan’s No-Fault insurance provides Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, covering medical bills and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. However, if your injuries are serious, you can file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver for additional damages. Our car accident lawyers can guide you through this process to ensure all avenues for compensation are explored.
What if I was partially at fault for the rear-end collision?
Michigan follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our legal team will analyze the details of your case to minimize your liability and maximize your recovery.
How long do I have to file a claim after a rear-end accident in Detroit, Michigan?
You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, claims for No-Fault benefits must be filed within one year. It’s crucial to act promptly to preserve your rights. Christensen Law can help you meet all necessary deadlines.
