Best Car Accident Lawyers in Rochester Hills, MI

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Rochester Hills Police Station is (248) 537-3530.

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

  A copy of the police report may be obtained from the substation at 750 Barclay Circle.

• Which hospitals and medical providers in Rochester Hills can car accident victims go to for emergency treatment?

  For emergency treatment, car accident victims in Rochester Hills can go to hospitals and medical providers such as the Michigan Kidney Consultants, P.C., the Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, and the Beaumont Hospitals. They are near major roads and intersections, including Hamlin, Avon, Livernois, and Auburn roads, as well as M-59.

• Are victims of car accidents that took place in Rochester Hills bound by the state's No-fault Insurance Law?

  Victims of car accidents that took place in Rochester Hills are bound by the state's No-fault Insurance Law. Under said law, persons who had been injured in a car crash are entitled to monetary compensation regardless of fault. Benefits which may be received include medical expenses for prescriptions, physical therapy, and home care. Income loss amounting to 85 percent of the victim’s supposed wages may also be covered, provided it does not exceed $4,000.

• What should you do if a person got involved in a collision in Rochester Hills while driving your car?

  If a person got involved in a collision in Rochester Hills while driving your car, he must immediately file a report at the local police station. You will, then, need to coordinate with your insurance provider to file a claim. The driver’s insurance is not an option because, under the law, the insurance follows the car involved and not the driver.

• How long does it take to settle a car accident in Rochester Hills?

  How long a car accident settlement takes in Rochester Hills depends on several factors, including the type of injuries suffered by the victim, his prognosis, the estimate amount for his future medical needs, and the probability that he would return to work. Ultimately, the duration would depend on a lawyer’s competence to prove liability—which must preferably be 100-percent fault. Anything less than that would only delay the process and may even require the filing of a lawsuit.

• If a car accident victim in Rochester Hills died because of the crash, can his family go after the at-fault party?

  The family of a car accident victim in Rochester Hills may go after the at-fault party in cases which resulted in a fatality. They may opt to file a wrongful death claim that must be grounded on proofs of negligence on the part of the at-fault driver which may have been through acts of irresponsible driving, such as driving while texting, intoxicated, or doing drugs.

• 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.