Best Car Accident Lawyers in Saginaw, MI

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Saginaw is 989-797-4580.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for the accident in Saginaw online at the LexisNexis Police Reports website at https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/ui/home.

• Can you recover compensation from a car accident in Saginaw if you were at fault?

  Yes, you can still recover if you were involved in a car accident in Saginaw, even if you were at fault. When it comes to auto insurance, Michigan follows a no-fault insurance system that allows motorists to claim from their own personal injury protection (PIP) policy even if they were the at-fault party in the crash. However, the PIP only covers economic losses, such as lost income and medical fees.

• What factors can affect the timeline of a settlement arising out of a car accident in Saginaw?

  The factors that affect how long a settlement arising out of a car accident in Saginaw can take include the injuries suffered, the medical prognosis, whether the injuries would require excess coverage for medical bills and lead to full or partial disability, and whether the victim is unable to work. In addition, the applicable liability limits should also be considered.

• What are the factors to consider in evaluating who can be held at fault in a Saginaw car accident?

  Some of the factors that can be considered in evaluating who can be held at fault in car accidents in Saginaw include state traffic laws and police reports. The witness statements of persons who have seen the vehicular crash could also be considered in figuring out which motorist was the at-fault party.

• Where do car accidents in Saginaw typically take place?

  Some of the areas where car accidents commonly take place in Saginaw are the intersections of Michigan Avenue and State Street, Michigan Avenue and W. Genesee Avenue, Hill Street and State Street, Davenport Avenue and N. Mason Street, and Bay Street and State Street. Other accident-prone places include the intersections of Bay Road and Weiss Street, Rust Avenue and S. Washington Avenue, Remington Street and S. Washington Avenue, and Hess Avenue and S. Washington Avenue.

• What are the typical kinds of damages awarded in car accidents in Saginaw?

  The typical damages awarded to victims of car accidents in Saginaw include reimbursement for medical fees, occupational or physical therapy expenses, assistance or accommodation costs, lost wages, and loss of future earnings. Persons involved in auto mishaps may also be entitled to damages for the pain and suffering they may have suffered because of the incident.

• 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.