Your Trusted Car Accident Lawyers in Michigan

What are your Car Accident Lawyer Fees?

In Michigan, as in many other states, lawyers handling car accident cases typically charge on a contingency fee basis. This means that their fees are contingent upon winning the case or securing a settlement for their client.

Our commitment to you is simple: you will not pay any fees unless we successfully settle your case. We believe in delivering results, and our payment structure is designed to align our interests with yours, ensuring that we are motivated to secure the best possible outcome for you. With our no-win, no-fee promise, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have expert legal representation without any upfront costs. Our priority is your satisfaction and justice for your case.

What to Do After a Car Accident That Wasn’t Your Fault?

Getting into a car accident is something nobody wants to experience, however, they do happen every single day. If you do experience a car crash we want you to be prepared to know the right actions to help you succeed after the accident.

1. Ensure Safety
The most important thing to consider right after an accident happens is your immediate safety and the safety of the passengers of your vehicle. Assess the situation and ensure that the vehicle is in a safe area if you are able. Turn on hazard lights and check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Do not try to move an injured person.

2. Call 911
Regardless if the accident is a small fender bender, or it is a catastrophic injury you should report the crash to your local police. Stay calm and if you are injured or the other party involved is injured be sure to tell the 911 operator so they can send the appropriate emergency services.
The police officer will take your statement for the police report. He or she will gather information on all drivers involved – even if the accident wasn’t your fault. This will be an important document so be sure to give as many accurate details you can remember.

3. Exchange Information
Get the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers from all drivers involved.
If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well. Do not admit fault or discuss any accident details with anyone other than the police and your insurance provider.

4. Document the Scene
If you are able, use your phone camera to document any injuries, damage to your vehicle, damage to the other vehicle, the scene of the accident, and anything you feel will be useful in an investigation. Make note of the accident time, location, and weather conditions.

5. Allow Medical Treatment
You may feel disoriented after an accident and not feel any injuries due to adrenaline. This is why it is important to allow the emergency responders to give you a thorough checkup to make sure that your injuries do not require additional follow-up. Not only does the documentation of your injuries help you get treatment, but it is also helpful for any insurance claims to document that the injury was a result of the accident.

6. Notify your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, provide them with the information you gathered and cooperate with their investigation.

7. Keep Records:

Keep all documentation related to the accident, including the police report, medical records, and any communication with insurance companies.
Track any medical treatments and expenses related to the accident.

8. Reach out to an Expert Personal Injury Lawyer

If there are significant damages or injuries, or if you’re facing potential legal action, consult an attorney to understand your rights and options. Our expert car accident attorneys in Traverse City are well-versed in Michigan’s no-fault auto insurance law and can help you navigate insurance claims and no-fault benefits, as well as help if you should need to file a car accident lawsuit.

Our Areas of Expertise

• Legal Representation: From negotiation to litigation, we offer robust legal representation to secure the best outcome for your case.
• Insurance Claims: We handle all aspects of insurance claims, ensuring you get the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
• Medical Bill Assistance: Our team can help manage your medical bills and ensure you receive necessary ongoing treatment.
• Vehicle Repair and Replacement: We assist in resolving issues related to vehicle repair or replacement.
• Compensation for Lost Wages: If your accident impacts your ability to work, we’ll fight to recover lost wages and future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Our attorneys are skilled in seeking compensation for your physical and emotional distress.

Navigating Michigan No-Fault Auto Laws

Navigating car and vehicle accident laws in Michigan can be overwhelming due to the no-fault policies in place. Michigan’s no-fault auto insurance laws are designed to provide prompt payment of compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other benefits to victims of auto accidents without determining fault. However, navigating these laws can be tricky because each case can vary drastically from one another.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Under Michigan’s no-fault laws, Personal Injury Protection covers medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services regardless of who caused the accident.

Property Protection Insurance (PPI): This coverage pays up to $1 million for damage your car does in Michigan to other people’s property, such as buildings and fences.

Residual Liability Insurance: This protects you if you are sued for causing an accident that results in serious injury, death, or property damage.

Medical Coverage Choices: Michigan law allows drivers to choose different levels of medical coverage when purchasing auto insurance. This choice can impact the cost of the policy and the level of benefits in the event of an accident.

Limited Property Damage Liability: Known as the “mini-tort” provision, this allows for a small claim (up to $3,000 after July 1, 2020) to cover certain accident-related expenses in situations where the other driver is at fault.

Order of Priority for Claims: The law sets an order of priority that determines which insurer is responsible for paying no-fault benefits. This depends on various factors like whether the injured person is an occupant of a vehicle, a pedestrian, etc.

No-Fault Reform: Michigan underwent significant no-fault auto insurance reform in 2020. Changes included new options for PIP coverage, adjustments in how medical providers are paid for treating auto accident victims, and new consumer protections.

Fee Schedule: The reform introduced a fee schedule for medical providers treating auto accident victims, which has impacted the rates charged for these services.

Non-Residents: Non-residents injured in a Michigan auto accident may also be eligible for certain benefits under Michigan’s no-fault laws.

Lawsuits Under No-Fault: While the no-fault system limits the ability to sue, lawsuits are still possible in cases involving severe injury, death, or disfigurement.

It’s important to note that while these points provide an overview, the specifics of each case can vary, and the laws are subject to change. Consulting with a legal professional for detailed advice and current information is recommended.