A car accident can be a traumatic and life-altering event, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, call us for a free consultation to find out how you can get fair compensation.
With years of experience handling car accident cases throughout Michigan, our team of skilled lawyers is committed to advocating for our clients’ rights and guiding them through every step of the legal process. Whether you or a loved one has been injured in a serious accident, we are here to fight for justice and ensure that you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries and damages.
If you are struggling to move forward after a car accident, the experienced Lansing car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates can help. We work hard to fight for the compensation you deserve after a car accident.
How Christopher Trainor & Associates Can Help
After being injured in a car accident, choosing the right Michigan car accident lawyer is crucial. At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, we offer our clients:
Experience: Our team of car accident lawyers has years of experience representing clients in Lansing and throughout Michigan. We have a thorough understanding of state laws and regulations pertaining to car accidents, and we use this knowledge to build strong cases on behalf of our clients.
Dedication: We are dedicated to helping car accident victims seek justice and obtain fair compensation for their injuries. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that car accidents can take, and we are committed to helping our clients rebuild their lives.
Personalized Attention: At our firm, we believe in providing personalized attention to every client. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs and concerns, and develop a legal strategy that is tailored to your unique circumstances.
Aggressive Representation: We are not afraid to take on insurance companies and fight for the maximum compensation available under the law. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators who will aggressively advocate for your rights both inside and outside the courtroom.
Results: Our track record of success speaks for itself. We have helped numerous car accident victims obtain significant settlements and verdicts, allowing them to move forward with their lives after a devastating collision.
The Impact of Michigan's No-Fault Insurance System on Your Claim
Michigan's no-fault auto insurance system is unique compared to other states. In addition to liability coverage, every driver must carry no-fault insurance. This means that in the event of an accident, each party's insurance company pays for their own medical expenses and other economic losses, regardless of who was at fault. This system aims to provide prompt payment for medical expenses and lost wages without the need to determine fault through a lengthy legal process. Some of the ways that no-fault insurance commonly impacts car accident claims are:
Personal Injury Protection: Michigan's no-fault insurance includes a mandatory coverage called Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which pays for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and other necessary expenses resulting from a car accident, regardless of who caused the accident. Michigan's PIP coverage is one of the most comprehensive in the country, providing unlimited medical benefits for injured parties.
Limited Ability to Sue: Because of the no-fault system, an individual's ability to sue for damages resulting from a car accident is limited. In Michigan, a person can only sue for damages (such as pain and suffering) if the accident results in death, serious impairment of bodily function, or permanent serious disfigurement.
Impact on Premiums: Michigan's unique no-fault system can impact insurance premiums. Comprehensive PIP coverage can lead to higher insurance rates than states with traditional fault-based systems. However, the trade-off is that individuals have access to more extensive medical coverage without the need to prove fault in order to receive benefits.
Reform Efforts: Michigan has seen ongoing debates and reform efforts aimed at reducing auto insurance rates while maintaining the benefits of the no-fault system. These efforts have included proposals to reform PIP coverage limits and introduce cost-saving measures.
Leading Causes of Lansing Car Accidents
Car accidents happen for many different reasons. The current leading causes include:
Distracted Driving:Distracted driving is the number one cause of car accidents in the United States. Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can divert a driver's attention from the road, leading to accidents.
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions increases the risk of accidents. Speed reduces a driver's ability to react to hazards and increases the severity of collisions.
Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant factor in many accidents. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, making them more likely to cause accidents.
Weather Conditions: Michigan experiences various weather conditions throughout the year, including snow, ice, rain, and fog. These conditions can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, leading to accidents if drivers do not adjust their driving behavior accordingly.
Running Red Lights/Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic signals and stop signs can lead to intersection collisions. Failing to yield the right of way or misjudging the timing of a light change can result in T-bone or side-impact collisions.
Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely reduces the driver's reaction time and increases the risk of rear-end collisions, especially in heavy traffic or at high speeds.
Driver Fatigue:Fatigued driving can impair a driver's ability to stay alert and focused on the road. Drowsiness can lead to delayed reaction times and even brief periods of unintentional microsleep, increasing the risk of accidents.
Inexperienced Drivers: Drivers with limited experience may be more prone to making errors in judgment or reacting poorly to hazardous situations on the road.
Mechanical Failures: Vehicle defects or mechanical failures, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, can cause accidents, especially if the driver fails to do regular maintenance on their vehicle.
Aggressive Driving: Behaviors like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or engaging in road rage can escalate situations and increase the likelihood of accidents.
Addressing these common causes through education, enforcement of traffic laws, and promoting safe driving behaviors can help reduce the incidence of car accidents throughout the state and improve road safety for all motorists.
Types of Car Accident Cases Our Firm Handles
At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, we handle a wide range of car accident cases, including:
Rear-end Collisions: These accidents occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. They can result in whiplash, spinal cord injuries, and other serious injuries.
Intersection Accidents: Accidents at intersections are often caused by drivers running red lights or failing to yield the right of way. These accidents can result in T-bone collisions and catastrophic injuries.
Head-on Collisions: Head-on collisions are among the most serious types of car accidents and can result in severe injuries or fatalities.
Hit-and-Run Accidents: Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver flees the scene of a collision without stopping to exchange information or render aid. Our attorneys can help you pursue compensation even if the at-fault driver is never found.
Distracted Driving Accidents: Accidents caused by distracted driving, such as texting while driving or using a cell phone behind the wheel, are on the rise. Our attorneys can help you hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
Drunk Driving Accidents: Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable, yet they continue to cause devastating injuries and fatalities. Our lawyers can help you seek justice and compensation if you have been injured by a drunk driver.
Necessary Steps to Protect Your Right to Compensation After a Lansing Car Accident
After a car accident, taking certain steps can help protect your right to compensation and ensure you have the necessary evidence to support your insurance claim or potential legal action. Here's what you should do:
Check for Injuries: First and foremost, check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, call for medical assistance immediately.
Move to Safety: If it's safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents and hazards. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Call the Police: In most cases, it's advisable to call the police to the accident scene, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or disputes about fault. The police will create an accident report, which can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Exchange Information: Exchange contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information with the other parties involved in the accident. Be sure to get the names, phone numbers, addresses, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy numbers of all drivers involved.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, their position, any property damage, skid marks, traffic signs or signals, and any visible injuries. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence later on.
Gather Witness Information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information. Witness statements can help corroborate your account of the accident and support your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all relevant information about the accident and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don't think you're seriously injured, it's important to seek medical attention promptly after a car accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying medical treatment could jeopardize your health and your claim for compensation.
Keep Records: Keep detailed records of all medical treatment related to the accident, including doctor's visits, medications, tests, and rehabilitation services. Also, keep track of any expenses related to property damage or other accident-related costs.
Consult with a Lawyer: If you've been seriously injured or if there are disputes about fault or compensation, you should consult with an experienced Lansing personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates. We help you protect your rights, navigate the claims process, and pursue compensation on your behalf.
By taking these steps after a car accident, you can protect your rights and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Damages You May Be Entitled to After a Lansing Car Accident
In Michigan, after a car accident, the damages you may be entitled to can vary depending on the circumstances of the accident and the specific provisions of your insurance policy. Here are some common types of damages:
Personal Injury Damages: If you are injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy. This compensation typically falls under your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which is mandatory in Michigan.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This can include income you would have earned if you had not been injured in the accident.
Pain and Suffering: In certain cases, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries. Michigan law allows individuals to sue for pain and suffering only if the accident resulted in death, serious impairment of bodily function, or permanent serious disfigurement.
Property Damage: You may be entitled to compensation for the damage to your vehicle and any other property that was damaged in the accident. This compensation typically falls under your property damage liability coverage or collision coverage.
Loss of Consortium: If your injuries affect your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of consortium, which refers to the loss of companionship, affection, and assistance.
Funeral Expenses: In the unfortunate event of a fatal car accident, the family of the deceased may be entitled to compensation for funeral and burial expenses.
It's important to review your insurance policy and understand the coverage it provides. Also, if you are considering legal action to recover damages beyond what your insurance policy covers, it's in your best interests to consult with a qualified Lansing car accident lawyer who can evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action.
Personal Injury Protection’s Reach
Personal Injury Protection coverage in Michigan is designed to provide benefits for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and other necessary expenses resulting from a car accident, regardless of who was at fault. However, whether PIP coverage will cover all of your losses depends on the specific terms and limits of your insurance policy.
Factors to consider regarding PIP coverage include:
Coverage Limits: Your insurance policy will specify the maximum amount of PIP benefits available to you. In Michigan, the coverage limits for PIP benefits can vary depending on the policy and the options selected by the insured. Some policies may have unlimited PIP coverage, while others may have lower limits.
Types of Expenses Covered: PIP coverage typically covers medical expenses related to injuries sustained in a car accident, including hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy. It may also cover a portion of lost wages if you are unable to work due to your injuries.
Coordination of Benefits: If you have other sources of insurance coverage, such as health insurance or disability insurance, there may be coordination of benefits rules that determine how PIP coverage interacts with these other coverages. Your PIP coverage may be primary or secondary, depending on the circumstances.
Exclusions and Limitations: Some expenses may be excluded from PIP coverage, and there may be limitations on the types of treatments or services it covers. It is important to review your insurance policy carefully to understand what is and isn't covered.
While PIP coverage is intended to provide broad protection for accident-related expenses, it may not cover all of your losses, especially if you have significant medical expenses or if your injuries result in long-term disability or other complications. In such cases, you may need to explore other avenues for compensation, such as filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party or pursuing additional insurance claims.
It is important to review your insurance policy with your insurance provider. If you have any doubts concerning your rights and options for recovering compensation after a car accident, do not hesitate to contact our team of skilled Lansing car accident lawyers.
Eligibility for Filing a Lawsuit
In Michigan, the ability to file a lawsuit after a car accident is restricted by the state's no-fault insurance laws. Under Michigan's no-fault system, you can generally only file a lawsuit for damages resulting from a car accident if your injuries meet certain threshold requirements. These requirements are defined by Michigan's auto insurance laws and are typically based on the severity of your injuries. The basic threshold requirements for filing a lawsuit are:
Death: If the car accident results in death, the surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Serious Impairment of Bodily Function: If the car accident causes a serious impairment of one or more bodily functions, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit for both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical bills and pain and suffering. Michigan law defines a serious impairment as an objectively manifested impairment of an important body function that affects the person's ability to lead a normal life.
Permanent Serious Disfigurement: If the car accident causes permanent serious disfigurement, such as scarring or disfigurement that affects your appearance, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit for non-economic damages.
If your injuries meet one of these threshold requirements, you can pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault party to seek additional compensation beyond what is provided by your Personal Injury Protection coverage. However, if your injuries do not meet the threshold requirements, you are generally limited to seeking compensation through your own insurance company under the no-fault system.
It's important to consult with a qualified lawyer who is experienced in the state’s auto insurance laws to determine whether you meet the threshold requirements for filing a lawsuit and to explore your legal options for recovering compensation after a car accident.
Commonly Sustained Injuries by Lansing Car Accident Victims
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the point of impact, the use of seat belts and other safety measures, and the overall health and age of the individuals involved. Here are some common injuries sustained in car accidents:
Whiplash:Whiplash is a neck injury caused by the sudden forward and backward motion of the head, often occurring in rear-end collisions. It can result in neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and other symptoms.
Broken Bones: Car accidents can cause fractures and broken bones in various parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, and spine.
Head Injuries: Head injuries are common in car accidents and can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and changes in mood or behavior.
Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, sharp metal, and other objects in the car can cause cuts and lacerations, which may require stitches or other medical treatment.
Internal Injuries: The force of a car accident can cause internal injuries, such as internal bleeding, organ damage, and abdominal injuries, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Back Injuries: Car accidents can cause back injuries, including sprains, strains, herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries, which can result in chronic pain, mobility issues, and other complications.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as bruises, contusions, strains, and sprains, are common in car accidents and can cause pain and discomfort.
Psychological Injuries: Car accidents can also cause psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, especially for those who experience severe or traumatic accidents.
Burns: In car accidents involving fires or explosions, individuals may suffer burn injuries, which can range from minor burns to severe third-degree burns requiring extensive medical treatment.
Fatal Injuries: Tragically, car accidents can also result in fatalities, causing profound loss and grief for the families and loved ones of those who are killed.
Seeking prompt medical attention after a car accident is crucial, even if injuries seem minor, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, consulting with a qualified healthcare professional and a proficient lawyer can help ensure proper treatment and protect your rights if you've been injured in a car accident.
Losing a Loved One in a Lansing Car Accident
The loss of a loved one in a car accident is a devastating experience, and it can lead to emotional trauma and financial hardship for the surviving family members. Michigan law allows certain family members of a deceased individual to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the party responsible for the accident. Wrongful death claims seek to compensate family members for the losses they have suffered as a result of their loved one's death, including financial losses and the emotional pain and suffering caused by the loss.
Who Can File: In Michigan, the personal representative of the deceased person's estate typically files a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members. The personal representative is often a close family member appointed by the probate court.
Damages: Damages in a wrongful death lawsuit may include compensation for funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses related to the deceased person's final injury or illness, loss of the deceased person's income and support, loss of companionship and consortium, and the emotional pain and suffering experienced by specific surviving family members appointed by Michigan law.
Statute of Limitations: Every state has a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing wrongful death claims is three years from the date of the victim’s death. It's important to consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected and that you meet all deadlines for filing a claim.
Legal Representation: Wrongful death claims can be complex, and navigating the legal process while grieving can be overwhelming. It's important to seek the guidance of a compassionate and experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Losing a loved one in a car accident is a tragic event, and no amount of compensation can fully compensate for the loss. However, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help provide financial support for the surviving family members and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
How a Skilled Lawyer Can Help You Maximize Your Compensation
A skilled Lansing personal injury lawyer can play a crucial role in helping you maximize your compensation after a car accident. Here are some ways they can assist you:
Legal Knowledge: At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, our skilled Lansing car accident lawyers have a comprehensive understanding of personal injury law and the legal processes involved in car accident claims. They can provide you with quality advice on your rights and options for pursuing compensation.
Investigation: We can conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction analyses, and medical records. This evidence can strengthen your case and support your claim for compensation.
Determining Liability: In many car accident cases, determining liability can be complex. We can also assess the facts of your case and determine who was at fault for the accident. Our lawyers can also identify all potentially liable parties, such as negligent drivers, employers of negligent drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or government entities responsible for road maintenance.
Calculating Damages: We can help you accurately calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and future medical costs or loss of earning capacity. They can ensure that you pursue maximum compensation for all of your losses.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to accident victims to protect their bottom line. Our experienced legal team can handle negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, advocating for your rights and fighting for fair compensation.
Litigation Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, we can represent you in court and litigate your case. We will prepare and present your case in front of a judge and jury, advocating for your interests and seeking the compensation you deserve.
Protecting Your Rights: Our firm will ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. We can advise you on what to say and do to avoid inadvertently harming your case, and we can handle all communication with the opposing parties and their insurers.
Providing Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you are coping with injuries and financial concerns. Our experienced lawyers can provide you with peace of mind by handling all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being.
Working with our seasoned Lansing car accident lawyer can significantly increase your chances of maximizing your compensation and achieving a favorable outcome in your case. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to effectively navigate the complexities of car accident claims and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
The Civil Statute of Limitations in Michigan
As mentioned earlier, the statute of limitations is the deadline by which you must file a lawsuit in court. For Michigan car accident victims, the statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of the accident. Simply put, you have three years from the day the accident occurred to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries and damages.
It's important to be aware of the statute of limitations and to take prompt action if you believe you have a valid claim. If you fail to file your lawsuit before the statute expires, your case will almost certainly be dismissed by the court. If that happens, you will lose your right to compensation for good.
If you're considering filing a car accident lawsuit, you should consult with a qualified Lansing personal injury lawyer as soon as possible so they can evaluate your case, help you understand your rights and options, and ensure that you meet all deadlines for filing your lawsuit.
There are many reasons for the statute of limitations. One main reason is to ensure fairness for defendants, so that a case will not come up many years after the incident took place. Another big reason is because evidence is more valuable and accurate when it is fresh, before video footage gets deleted and memories of witnesses fade.
Exceptions to the Michigan Statute of Limitations
You should know there are certain exceptions or circumstances that may pause or extend the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit in Michigan. While the general rule is that you have three years from the date of the accident to file your lawsuit, there are situations where the deadline may be extended or paused. Some common exceptions include:
Discovery Rule: In cases where the injury resulting from the car accident is not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may begin to run from the date the injury is discovered or should have been discovered through reasonable diligence.
Minority: If the injured party was under the age of 18 at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be extended until the minor reaches the age of 18. In such cases, the three-year time limit would begin to run on the minor's 18th birthday.
Mental Incapacity: If the injured party is mentally incapacitated at the time of the accident or as a result of the accident, the statute of limitations may be tolled until the individual regains capacity.
Defendant's Absence: If the defendant leaves the state or is otherwise absent from Michigan for an extended period of time, the statute of limitations may be tolled during their absence.
Fraudulent Concealment: If the defendant fraudulently conceals facts that would have led the injured party to discover their cause of action, the statute of limitations may be tolled until the injured party discovers or should have discovered the fraud.
Government Entity as Defendant: If the defendant is a government entity or employee, there are special notice requirements and a shorter statute of limitations, so it is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible.
These are just a few examples of exceptions that may apply in certain circumstances. Our qualified Lansing car accident lawyers can evaluate your case and determine whether any exceptions to the statute of limitations may apply. Waiting too long to take legal action can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation for your injuries and damages, so it's best to act promptly if you believe you have a valid claim.
Will I Have to Go To Court to Receive Compensation?
Whether you have to go to court to be compensated for a car accident depends on various factors, including the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the outcome of negotiations with the insurance company. Here are some possible scenarios:
Insurance Settlement: In many cases, car accident claims are resolved through settlements with the insurance company. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to reach a fair settlement that compensates you for your injuries and damages. If a settlement can be reached that you find acceptable, you may not need to go to court.
Out-of-Court Settlement: Even if negotiations with the insurance company are initially unsuccessful, the parties may still agree to settle the case out of court before trial. Settlement negotiations can continue throughout the legal process, and many cases are resolved without ever going to trial.
Litigation and Trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, you may need to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation through litigation. However, even if a lawsuit is filed, the majority of cases are still settled out of court before trial. Going to trial is typically a last resort when settlement negotiations fail to produce a satisfactory outcome.
Mediation or Arbitration: In some cases, the parties may agree to participate in alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. These processes involve a neutral third party who helps facilitate negotiations and may help the parties reach a settlement without going to court.
Ultimately, whether you have to go to court to be compensated for a car accident will depend on the specific circumstances of your case and the actions taken by you and your lawyer. Your attorney will work to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that involves negotiating a settlement, pursuing litigation, or exploring other options for resolution.
The Cost of Hiring a Lawyer
It costs nothing upfront to work with our dedicated car accident lawyers. We operate on a contingency fee arrangement, which means that we never charge you any fees to begin work on your case and we only collect payment if and when you receive a settlement or favorable verdict. If, for any reason, your case is not successful, you will not owe us any money.
Speak With a Lansing Car Accident Lawyer Today
The Lansing car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates have the experience, skill, and resources you need to obtain the maximum settlement amount for your damages. Contact us as soon as possible by calling (248) 886-8650 or filling out the contact form on our website to schedule a free case review.
Remember, there is no obligation or fee to discuss your case with one of our qualified and experienced attorneys, and if we take your case, you will not owe any upfront fees. There is no reason not to call us today to get the help you need for fair compensation.
