Best Car Accident Lawyers in Farmington Hills, MI

FAQs

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

  The local police station of Farmington Hills' non-emergency contact number is 248-871-2600. The administration’s telephone number is 248-871-2700. The patrol command can be reached at 248-871-2628.

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

  A person can request a copy of a police report in the Records Department. It may be made by phone call or in person by submitting a report clearance request obtainable in the local police station website’s forms section at https://www.ci.farmington.mi.us/City-Services/Forms-and-Permits.aspx#Public%20Safety. Vehicular accident reports are acquired online from the Oakland County Clemis at https://payments.clemis.org/extservices/. The contact number of the Records Department is 248-871-2743.

• How often do car accidents happen in Farmington Hills?

  In the top ten Michigan road segments with the most car accidents, five roads in Farmington Hills were listed to have over 600 combined car crash incidents, with 33% of those involving injuries. These roads are Westbound between Hasted Rd and Drake Rd, Westbound between Drake Rd and Farmington Rd, Westbound between Orchard Lake and Orchard Lake Rd, Westbound between Orchard Lake and Farmington Rd, and Eastbound between Drake Rd and Farmington Rd.

• Should the driver be the one to report a car accident in Farmington Hills?

  Under Michigan law, the driver must report a car accident in Farmington Hills. In general, they are not required to draft a report but should promptly alert the police when an accident occurs. Failure to report can result in a suspended license, penalty, and misdemeanor conviction. In a hit-and-run where injured parties are involved, the liable party can receive a felony conviction punishable by 15 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

• What happens to a person involved in a no-fault accident in Farmington Hills?

  Farmington Hills is subject to Michigan’s no-fault state. Regardless of who caused the crash, a person’s auto insurance company will automatically pay the medical bills and lost wages. If the expenses exceed the PIP coverage level of the insurance policy, another option is to sue the liable party for excess economic losses. This procedure may require evidence and records relating to the injuries obtained in the accident to establish the claim.

• Does a person's car insurance increase after an accident in Farmington Hills?

  There is a possibility that the insurance company will charge higher after a car accident if he's at fault. Insurance premiums analyze the risk assessment and acknowledge the risk factors from the recent car incident. Insurance coverages can increase depending on the insurers because nothing in the Michigan Insurance Code prohibits companies in Farmington Hills.

• Will the liable driver in a Farmington Hills car accident still get money?

  Even if a person is liable in a car accident in Farmington Hills, they are still entitled to receive benefits from their auto insurance to cover the damages. Personal injury protection (PIP) will pay for all the necessary medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services for up to the maximum coverage amount up to three years after the date of the accident.

• 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.