Best Car Accident Lawyers in Detroit

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Detroit, Michigan?

  313-267-4600 is the non-emergency contact number of the Detroit police station.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Detroit, Michigan?

  To get a copy of your police report in Detroit, send your mail request to Detroit Police, ATTN: Records Section, 2875 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit MI 48202. The report number must be included. If the report number is not readily available, the month, year, and report type—accident or incident report—should be provided. A copy of the valid ID photo of the requestor is also needed, as well as a $10 money order made out to the USPS for the copy of the report fee. In addition, a self-addressed, stamped return envelope is required.

• Why do you need a lawyer for a Detroit car accident?

  A car accident attorney can assist you if you are hurt in an accident in Detroit. In accordance with the state's auto no-fault insurance statute, an attorney can defend your entitlement to receive no-fault wage loss and PIP benefits, as well as payment for your medical expenses.

• What factors affect settlements for Detroit car accidents?

  It is impossible to predict how much you will receive in a settlement using a conventional formula because each vehicle accident settlement is evaluated based on a number of different factors. In situations involving car accidents in Detroit, compensation amounts may be decided based on many factors, including temporary or permanent disability, temporary or permanent disfigurement, loss of wages or income, pain and suffering, and death.

• What compensation am you entitled to following a car accident in Detroit?

  If you were involved in a Detroit car accident, you might seek the following damages:

  • Medical costs
  • Physical therapy, which frequently takes years
  • Vehicle replacement or repair
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of income and employment capacity
  • Loss of companionship
  • Decreased potential for income
  • Wrongful death

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Detroit?

  The decisions that motorists make while driving are a major factor in many traffic accidents in Detroit. In fact, roughly 94% of all traffic accidents are the result of human mistake, according to data gathered by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA). These include reckless and aggressive driving, distracted driving, speeding, running red lights, drunk driving, and drowsiness and fatigue.

• Is there a liable party in a Detroit car accident?

  Michigan has no-fault auto insurance. Even if you weren't at fault, you must make a claim with your own insurance provider if you were in a car accident in Detroit. Typically, a personal injury protection (PIP) insurance claim is made after a car collision. PIP pays for economic losses caused by a car accident injury, such as missed earnings and medical expenses. However, if the following criteria are met, you might be entitled to file a third-party claim against the at-fault motorist for non-economic losses:

  • The car collision resulted in serious injuries, lasting disfigurement, incapacity, or wrongful death.
  • 51 percent or more of the cost is the fault of the other driver.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.