Best Car Accident Lawyers in Kalamazoo

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Department of Public Safety in Kalamazoo is (269) 488-8911.

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

  You can get a copy of accident reports online through the Department of Public Safety's website, or you can get police reports in person at 150 E Crosstown Pkwy (Suite A).

• Where are you most likely to get involved in a car accident in Kalamazoo?

  According to 2021 Michigan State Police car accident reports, roughly 31% of accidents occur in intersections, such as 69 crashes recorded at Drake Road and W Main Street and 56 crashes logged at Park Street and W Kalamazoo Avenue. Other notable areas include the intersections at Gull Road and S Riverview Drive, Cork Street and Sprinkle Road, and Michikal Street and N Westnedge Avenue.

• How likely are car crashes to cause property damage in and around the Kalamazoo area?

  The Michigan State Police recorded 8,236 crashes in Kalamazoo County in 2021, 6,708 of which are recorded as property damage crashes, or around 81% of total crashes that year. Property damage crashes are defined as motor vehicle accidents that cause at least $1,000 or more in property damage, or at least $100 in damage caused by a snowmobile.

• In Kalamazoo, can you recover compensation from your insurance company after being injured in a hit-and-run or by an uninsured motorist?

  Generally, you can file a claim with your insurance company to recover compensation after a car accident, except when your insurance policy requires you to give notice to your provider. Some policies include contract language that requires holders to provide a 30-day notice in order to cover damages caused by uninsured motorists or hit-and-run accidents.

• Are there circumstances that prevent car accident victims in Kalamazoo from recovering no-fault personal insurance protection benefits?

  Some circumstances automatically disqualify Kalamazoo car accident victims from recovering no-fault insurance benefits, such as the victim operating an unlawfully taken vehicle, operating an uninsured vehicle, and operating a vehicle where the victim was named an excluded operator. Additionally, if the victim was not a Michigan resident operating a vehicle not registered and insured in Michigan by a Michigan-authorized insurer, then they cannot recover personal insurance protection benefits.

• Can passengers file a claim against negligent drivers in car accident cases throughout Kalamazoo?

  Yes, passengers can file claims against all negligent drivers involved in car accidents throughout the Kalamazoo area. This includes the driver of the vehicle they were in, such as operators of rideshare vehicles or long-distance transit vehicles like buses. This occasionally includes family members and friends operating the vehicle at the time 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.