Best Car Accident Lawyers in Waterford, MI

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Waterford Police Department is 860-442-9451.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your police report online or in person from the Waterford Police Department Records Bureau. Complete the Police FOIA Request Form (​​https://waterfordmi.gov/DocumentCenter/View/55/Police-FOIA-Request-PDF?bidId=) and email it to PDFOIARequest@waterfordmi.gov or submit the request in person. Police reports have a fee of $0.50 per page. Crash reports are also available at payments.clemis.org for $11 per report.

• What are the most dangerous intersections for car owners in Waterford?

  According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHA), some of the most dangerous intersections for car owners in Waterford include:

  • Bentley Road and Tim Bell Road
  • Bonnie Brae Avenue and C Street
  • Cinnabar Way and Bonnie Brae Avenue
  • Dorsey Street and G Street
  • E Street and SR-132
  • Highway 132 and Reinway Avenue

• What happens if you are injured in a car accident involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist in Waterford?

  If you have been injured in a car accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Waterford, you may use your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to recover damages and losses, depending on the limits of your insurance policy. Additionally, the uninsured or underinsured driver will be penalized, as State law requires all drivers to carry car insurance.

• What types of damages can you recover after a car accident in Waterford?

  If you have been injured in a car accident caused by another driver in Waterford, you can recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical costs, lost wages, property damage expenses, rehabilitation costs, and other medical-related expenses, such as transportation costs to and from doctor's appointments. Meanwhile, non-economic damages include emotional pain or suffering, mental anguish, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

• Are you legally required to retain a lawyer to pursue a car accident claim in Waterford?

  You are not legally required to obtain a lawyer to settle a car accident claim in Waterford. However, if you do not have a car accident lawyer to protect your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve, insurance adjusters could take advantage of your verbal and written statements to undervalue your claim or deny you an unfavorable settlement for your injuries and losses.

• How long do you have to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Waterford?

  Under State law, you have three years from the date of the incident to file a car accident claim in Waterford. Failure to meet this deadline could dismiss your claim. Additionally, claims for first-party no-fault insurance must be filed within one year of the date of the crash. Meanwhile, if you are demanding compensation for unpaid medical bills, lost wages, and other benefits, you must file a claim within one year of the date that each bill was incurred.

• 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.