Best Car Accident Lawyers in Novi

FAQs

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

  248-348-7100 is the non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Novi.

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

  Access the CLEMIS website at https://payments.clemis.org/extservices/ in order to acquire accident reports.

• Can a car accident victim sue the at-fault driver in Novi?

  Michigan's no-fault policy limits the frequency of lawsuits filed against the at-fault party. In most cases, insurance companies compensate their own policyholders adequately for property damage, medical bills, and lost wages, provided that the policyholders are represented by a Novi auto accident attorney. However, if the damages exceed the policy coverage, insurance companies may not cover the excess economic and non-economic damages, including loss of income and pain and suffering. In such cases, it may be possible to sue the party responsible for the Novi car accident to recover these damages.

• How long do you have to file a car accident claim in Novi?

  If you're involved in a car accident in Novi, you must file a claim with your insurance company within one year of the incident. However, for personal injury lawsuits arising from the accident, you may have up to three years to file a claim. It's crucial to take immediate action and speak with an experienced auto accident attorney to ensure you don't miss any crucial deadlines and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Novi?

  Some accident-prone intersections in Novi include:

  • Beck RD at I 96
  • M 5 at W 13 Mile Rd
  • Grand River Ave at S Wixom Rd
  • Grand River Ave at Novi Rd
  • I 96 at Novi Rd
  • Haggerty HWY at W 14 Mile Rd

  Motorists who regularly use these intersections in Novi should exercise extreme caution and follow all traffic laws and regulations to avoid accidents.

• How much does a Novi car accident lawyer charge?

  Many car accident attorneys in Novi work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they do not charge any upfront fees. Instead, they only receive payment when they win the case and recover financial compensation for their clients. This payment structure ensures that injured victims do not need to pay anything out of pocket.

• How long does a car accident settlement take in Novi?

  The length of time it takes to receive compensation after a Novi car accident varies greatly depending on several variables, including the victim's injuries, their level of disability, and its impact; the requirement for additional insurance to cover medical costs and lost wages; the at-fault driver's insurance company; and the applicable liability limits. Larger settlements can be reached faster by attorneys who have a history of taking matters to trial. The time it takes to receive a payment depends on the specifics of each 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.