A car accident can happen quickly and leave you blindsided and injured, especially if reckless driving is a contributing factor. What comes next can feel like you are navigating a minefield of decisions, claims, bills, and stress.
Having a Troy personal injury lawyer negotiate for you and seek justice and compensation for your injuries can make the aftermath more manageable.
If you or your family have been the victim of a car accident, a Troy car accident lawyer from White Law PLLC will compassionately guide you through the legal process. Our nationally recognized team provides you with excellent service that exceeds expectations. You can pursue your claim without any stress, knowing that you are in good hands and will be updated every step of the way.
Car Accidents Affects Thousands Annually
Every year, thousands of car accidents happen on our roads and highways. According to the most recent report by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute, 42,514 deaths occurred in traffic accidents, of which 25,726 deaths were caused by passenger vehicles. Many of these deaths were attributed to a lack of seatbelts, distractions, and speeding.
In Michigan alone, there were a total of 293,341 crashes reported in the most recent Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, and an estimated 63 people were injured for every death. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, a car accident lawyer in Troy will evaluate the cause of your accident. Some of the most common causes of accidents in Michigan include:
- Alcohol and drug use
- Cell phone use
- Deer
- Speeding
- Running red lights
- Winter weather conditions
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Commonly Occurring Injuries in a Car Accident
Injuries from car accidents can range from mild to severe, depending on the level of trauma and direction of impact. It is important to receive a medical examination after an accident to assess your condition and rule out any serious repercussions. Some common injuries caused by accidents include:
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Abdominal injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Lacerations
- Broken or fractured bones
- Sprained or strained muscles
- Whiplash
- Bruising
Depending on the injuries you suffered during the accident, the medical bills for recovery can be quite costly. If you intend to file a claim for compensation to offset these costs, it is important to keep thorough documentation and records of your injuries and medical expenses to use in your case. Your car accident attorney in Troy will be able to provide further guidance regarding your situation.
We’re not just lawyers. We’re passionate advocates who will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Insurance Requirements for Licensed Drivers in Michigan
All residents who are licensed drivers in the state of Michigan are required to carry additional coverages as part of their auto policies. There are three components each driver must have to legally drive within the state, according to the Department of Insurance and Financial Services. These policies include:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Pays for medical expenses and loss of income.
- Property Protection (PPI): Pay for property damage done by your car.
- Residual Liability Insurance – Bodily Injury and Property Damage: Protection from being sued, except in certain instances.
With the required coverages above, Michigan drivers and their entire families are covered under their no-fault insurance. They can also choose to increase coverage limits within their no-fault policy. Additional coverages beyond the minimum requirements can be added as well. .
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
Legal Implications of Car Accidents in Michigan
As a driver within the state, it is important to understand what to do after a car accident since Michigan is a no-fault state. Under the no-fault laws, each driver must file a claim with their respective insurance companies following an accident.
Because no fault has to be proven, the insurance company will provide compensation for injured parties to cover medical expenses and any income that is lost.
Under the no-fault laws, insurance companies provide compensation no matter who was at fault in the accident. This can occur because of the state’s insurance laws requiring drivers to carry Property Damage Liability Coverage and Personal Injury Protection Coverage. Because of these policies, injured drivers can receive compensation quickly after an accident.
However, Michigan is also a modified comparative fault state for personal injury claims and evaluates who was responsible for an accident, and to what extent, then assigns a percentage out of 100% to each party and reduces damages by that amount.
According to Michigan Law §500.3135, a person who is 50% or more at fault is not entitled to have any damages awarded to them, even if they sustained injuries. If more than one party is involved, it can be harder to determine liability, but fault is determined in multi-car accidents in Michigan using the same methods as a two-person crash.
Types of Damages that May Be Recovered
After a car accident in Michigan, you have the option to seek compensation beyond what your insurance company pays out. While insurance covers some expenses through no-fault laws, you may need to work with a car accident lawyer in Troy, MI, to pursue additional compensation to cover your costs, like emotional distress and pain and suffering.
The damages you could be entitled to receive from filing this kind of claim include:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Loss of income
- Inability to work or perform normal activities
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Troy, MI to Represent You
A car accident can easily wreak havoc on your life and your family. Dealing with medical bills, insurance, property damage, and injuries can be a massive burden to contend with while you are recovering. At White Law PLLC, we protect your rights by advocating and negotiating for you on your behalf.
An experienced Troy car accident attorney will ensure you are in good hands and get the maximum amount of compensation needed to cover your expenses. Our team will answer all your questions and develop a strong case for you. Reach out today for a free consultation, and let us represent you.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
