Best Car Accident Lawyers in Macomb

FAQs

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

  The Macomb County Sheriff's Office can be reached at (586) 469-5151.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Macomb County Sheriff's Office, call (586) 307-9393 to check for availability. You can visit the Records Office in the main lobby at 43565 Elizabeth Rd, Mount Clemens, Michigan 48043, from Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM.

• When can an injured person sue an at-fault driver for injuries because of a car accident in Macomb?

  Macomb, along with the rest of Michigan, has an auto insurance claim that automatically triggers after a car accident if the policyholder gets injured and seeks medical help. An exception to this is if the injured suffered something more serious such as a traumatic brain injury or a permanent disfigurement. In this case, the injured is now welcome to file a lawsuit against the negligent person.

• Do drunk drivers go to jail after getting involved in a car accident in Macomb?

  Macomb follows Michigan's strict laws on impaired driving. A first-time offender may spend anywhere from 93 to 180 days in jail, depending on how high their blood alcohol level was at the time of the arrest. Other penalties include up to 360 hours of community service, 180 days to a year of license suspension, a $500 to $700 fine, and mandatory completion of an alcohol treatment program.

• Who can be held liable for a defective airbag that caused serious injuries in a car accident in Macomb?

  If the car is brand new, then it's the manufacturer that should be held liable. If an airbag fails to deploy or functions in a way that was not intended, it will cause life-threatening injuries. Filing for a product liability lawsuit will require the aid of an attorney in Macomb who will work to prove that the manufacturer committed a breach of warranty.

• How does the lost wages provision help somebody who was injured in a car accident in Macomb?

  A lot of the injured have to miss work because recovery requires them to take a rest. The lost wages provision in Macomb can help by reimbursing about 85% of the lost wages up to a statutory monthly maximum that is adjusted every year. Claimants are entitled or eligible to file for this benefit for up to three years after the date of the accident.

• How can people prove their pain and suffering because of a car accident in Macomb?

  Admittedly, non-economic damages are challenging to quantify and calculate, but not impossible. The injured can describe their personal experience, their injuries, the pain they feel daily, and how much the car accident has impacted their life. Testimonies to support this can be gathered from friends, family, and work colleagues. Medical opinions from doctors in Macomb and medical records can also be used to support the case.

• 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.