Best Car Accident Lawyers in Royal Oak

FAQs

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

  The Royal Oak Police Department’s non-emergency line is 248-246-3500.

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

  You can purchase accident reports through CLEMIS: https://payments.clemis.org/extservices/Crash/CrashIntro.aspx

• What is the most accident-prone intersection in Royal Oak?

  Royal Oak drivers should be extra careful when passing through 13 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue intersection. It was named by the Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Reporting Unit among the ten most dangerous intersections in the state. A total of 60 accidents, resulting in 10 injuries, have occurred in this intersection in 2021. Other accident-prone intersections include Coolidge Rd at W 14 Mile Rd, I-696 at I-75, 11 Mile Rd at Woodward Ave, and I-75 at E Lincoln.

• How can a lawyer help you with a Royal Oak car accident claim?

  On your behalf, a lawyer handles various aspects of your case so you can recover damages for your injuries in Royal Oak. These include helping you understand crash reports, tracking down eyewitnesses, and preserving evidence, often with the help of accident reconstruction professionals. Attorneys use their knowledge of state accident law to educate you on your rights, obtain favorable results during negotiation and mediation, and represent your interests if the case reaches trial.

• Can someone partly responsible for a car crash in Royal Oak receive compensation?

  Yes, but with conditions. Royal Oak car accident cases follow Michigan’s modified comparative negligence rules, which allow the court to award reduced compensation to injured people who are partly to blame for a collision. However, this only applies to those whose share of fault is less than 50%. No damages will be awarded to someone who is found responsible for at least 50% of a crash.

• Who can be sued for property damage caused by a Royal Oak car crash?

  Under Michigan’s no-fault law, which covers Royal Oak accidents, the party who is deemed responsible for 50% or more of a collision resulting in property damage can be sued for $1,000 maximum. This is known as the mini-tort provision. Car crash victims may retain a lawyer to evaluate the extent of their property damage and bring their case to a municipal or small claims court.

• What kind of damages is someone entitled to after a Royal Oak auto accident?

  Injured plaintiffs in a Royal Oak car crash case can pursue compensation for various financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost income, and damage to their earning potential. They are also allowed to include non-economic damages in their claims, including pain and suffering, inconvenience, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of companionship and love.

• 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.