If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Christopher Trainor & Associates for a free case review to learn more about your legal rights and options.
Enduring a car accident can be a deeply distressing and life-altering ordeal, leaving individuals and families grappling with physical injuries, emotional turmoil, and financial hardships. At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, we recognize the immense challenges confronted by car accident victims in Michigan. Our mission is to offer empathetic and efficient legal representation to assist you in obtaining the compensation you are entitled to.
With a wealth of experience in handling car accident cases across Michigan, our team of adept attorneys is dedicated to safeguarding our clients' rights and shepherding them through each stage of the legal journey. Whether you've been involved in a minor collision or a catastrophic crash, we stand prepared to champion your cause and ensure that you receive the fullest compensation for your injuries and losses.
If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of a severe car accident in Sterling Heights, turn to the seasoned Sterling Heights car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates. We are steadfast in our efforts to secure the compensation you merit following a car accident.
Main Types of Car Accidents in Sterling Heights Personal Injury Claims
We handle a wide range of car accident cases at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, including:
- Rear-End Collisions: Accidents where one vehicle strikes the rear of another vehicle, often resulting from tailgating or distracted driving.
- Head-On/Wrong-Way Collisions: Crashes where the front ends of two vehicles collide, typically resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Side-Impact Collisions/T-Bone Accidents): Accidents where the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another vehicle, often at intersections.
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Accidents involving multiple vehicles can occur on highways, freeways, or congested roads.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: Cases where the at-fault driver flees the scene of the accident without stopping to provide assistance or exchange information.
- Distracted Driving Accidents: Crashes caused by drivers who are distracted by activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio while driving.
- Drunk Driving Accidents: Crashes caused by drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, resulting in impaired judgment and reduced reaction times.
- Speeding Accidents: Collisions caused by drivers who exceed the posted speed limit, increasing the severity of the crash and the likelihood of injuries.
- Intersection Accidents: Crashes that occur at intersections due to factors such as failure to yield, running red lights, or improper lane changes.
- Road Rage/Aggressive Driving Accidents: Collisions caused by aggressive or reckless driving behavior, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or intentionally cutting off other drivers.
Regardless of the specific circumstances of your car accident, our experienced team of Sterling Heights car accident lawyers is here to provide dedicated legal representation and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Michigan’s No-Fault Laws and Sterling Heights Car Accidents
Michigan's no-fault insurance laws play a significant role in how car accident claims are handled in Sterling Heights and throughout the state. Here's an overview of how these laws impact car accident cases:
Understanding Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance System
Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning that drivers must carry personal injury protection insurance. This coverage is designed to pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket costs regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
Key Features of Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance
- Personal Injury Protection: Personal Injury Protection benefits cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and up to three years of lost wages. PIP also covers services like attendant care, which is necessary if the injured person requires assistance with daily activities.
- Property Protection Insurance: This component of no-fault insurance covers up to $1 million in damage to property, such as buildings or stationary objects, caused by a vehicle. It does not cover damage to other vehicles.
- Residual Liability Insurance: Although no-fault insurance covers many costs, Michigan drivers are also required to have residual liability insurance to cover claims of bodily injury and property damage in the event they are sued. This includes coverage for:
- Bodily injury per person per accident
- Bodily injury for all persons injured in one accident
- Property damage in another state
Filing a Claim Under Michigan’s No-Fault Law
After a car accident in Sterling Heights, you should file a claim with your own insurance company to receive PIP benefits. This claim will cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
Situations When You Can Sue the At-Fault Driver
While the no-fault system limits the circumstances under which you can sue another driver, there are exceptions where you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party:
- Serious Injury: You can sue for non-economic damages, also known as pain and suffering, if you have sustained a "serious impairment of body function" or "permanent serious disfigurement."
- Excess Economic Loss: If your economic losses exceed the PIP benefit limits, you can pursue the at-fault driver for additional compensation.
- Property Damage: You can sue for damages to your vehicle under certain conditions, typically involving uninsured drivers.
Choosing the Right Insurance Coverage
Michigan drivers can now choose different levels of PIP coverage, which can affect the benefits they receive after an accident. It’s crucial to understand these options and select the coverage that best suits your needs.
Seeking Legal Help
Navigating Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws and understanding your rights after a car accident can be complex. The experienced Sterling Heights car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates can guide you through the process, help you file a claim, and determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
If you have been involved in a car accident in Sterling Heights, contact the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates to schedule a free consultation. Our knowledgeable attorneys will work diligently to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve under Michigan’s no-fault laws.
What to Do After a Sterling Heights Car Accident
If you are involved in a car accident, it is important to take certai steps to protect your health, rights, and ability to recover financial compensation, including:
Immediate Actions at the Scene
- Ensure Safety:
- Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
- Move to a safe location if possible, away from oncoming traffic. If your vehicle is drivable, pull over to the side of the road.
- Call the Police:
- Contact the police to report the accident. An official police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Exchange Information:
- Obtain the names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved.
- Note the make, model, and license plate numbers of the vehicles involved.
- Document the Scene:
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Note the time, date, weather conditions, and any relevant traffic signals or signs.
- Gather Witness Information:
- If there are any witnesses, collect their names and contact information. Their statements can be valuable in establishing what happened.
Post-Accident Steps
- Seek Medical Attention:
- Even if you feel fine, it is essential to see a doctor as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical documentation can also support your injury claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Company:
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate details but avoid admitting fault or giving recorded statements without consulting a lawyer.
- Keep Detailed Records:
- Maintain a file with all documents related to the accident, including medical records, repair estimates, receipts, and correspondence with insurance companies.
- Consult a Sterling Heights Car Accident Lawyer:
Additional Considerations
- Avoid Discussing the Accident:
- Do not discuss the accident with anyone other than the police, your insurance company, and your lawyer. Avoid posting details about the accident on social media.
- Follow Medical Advice:
- Adhere to your doctor’s treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments. This not only aids your recovery but also documents the extent and impact of your injuries.
- Track Expenses:
- Keep a record of all accident-related expenses, including medical bills, transportation costs, lost wages, and any other out-of-pocket costs.
Legal Guidance
An experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities following an accident. They can:
- Advise you on your legal rights and options.
- Handle communications with insurance companies.
- Help you gather and preserve evidence.
- Represent you in negotiations or court to seek fair compensation
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates can provide the support and legal representation you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can assist you in recovering the compensation you deserve.
Strategies Commonly Used by Insurance Companies to Reduce Compensation
Insurance companies often employ various strategies to minimize the amount of compensation they pay out to car accident victims. Common tactics employed by insurance companies include:
Quick Settlement Offers
- Insurance companies may offer a quick, low-ball settlement soon after the accident, hoping victims will accept it without fully understanding the extent of their injuries or damages. Accepting an early settlement can prevent you from seeking additional compensation later.
Disputing Liability
- Insurers might argue that their policyholder was not at fault or was only partially at fault. By doing so, they aim to reduce or eliminate their liability and the amount they need to pay.
Questioning the Severity of Injuries
- Insurance adjusters may downplay the severity of your injuries or suggest that they were pre-existing conditions. They might require extensive medical documentation to prove that the injuries were directly caused by the accident.
Delaying Claims
- Prolonging the claims process can pressure victims to accept lower settlements out of financial desperation. Delays can also make it harder to gather evidence or witness testimony.
Using Statements Against You
- Insurance companies may use anything you say to their adjusters against you. For example, casual statements like “I’m feeling better” can be interpreted as you admitting your injuries aren’t severe.
Monitoring Social Media
- Adjusters might monitor your social media activity for posts that contradict your injury claims. Photos or statements suggesting you’re more active than you’ve reported can be used to dispute your claims.
Disputing Medical Treatment
- Insurers may argue that certain medical treatments are unnecessary or excessive, refusing to cover them fully. They may also insist on an independent medical examination by a doctor of their choice.
Arguing Policy Exclusions
- Insurance companies might claim that certain damages or injuries are not covered under the policy due to specific exclusions or limitations.
Using Comparative Negligence
- If you live in a state with comparative negligence laws, insurers may argue that you were partially at fault for the accident. This strategy can reduce the compensation based on your percentage of fault.
Misinterpreting Policy Language
- Insurance adjusters might intentionally misinterpret or misrepresent the terms and conditions of your policy to minimize payouts.
Protecting Yourself Against These Tactics
To protect yourself from these common strategies, consider the following steps:
- Consult a Lawyer:
- Document Everything:
- Keep detailed records of the accident, your injuries, medical treatments, and any communications with the insurance company.
- Be Cautious with Statements:
- Avoid making definitive statements about your health or the accident until you’ve consulted with your lawyer. Do not provide recorded statements without legal advice.
- Follow Medical Advice:
- Adhere to your doctor’s treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments to demonstrate the seriousness of your injuries.
- Limit Social Media Activity:
- Avoid posting details about your accident, injuries, or activities on social media until your claim is resolved.
Most Dangerous Intersections in the Sterling Heights Area
The Sterling Heights area has several intersections known for high accident rates due to heavy traffic, complex layouts, or frequent violations of traffic laws. While exact rankings can change yearly based on new data, the following intersections are often cited as particularly hazardous:
Mound Road and 16 Mile Road (Metro Parkway)
- This busy intersection sees a high volume of traffic from both local commuters and commercial vehicles. The combination of high speeds and heavy traffic flow contributes to frequent accidents.
Van Dyke Avenue and 18 Mile Road
- Located near many businesses and shopping areas, this intersection experiences heavy traffic and congestion, leading to a higher incidence of rear-end collisions and side-impact crashes.
Schoenherr Road and 15 Mile Road
- This intersection is notorious for its complex traffic patterns and high volume, making it a hotspot for accidents, particularly during rush hour.
Ryan Road and 14 Mile Road
- Close to residential areas and local businesses, this intersection sees significant pedestrian and vehicle traffic, increasing the risk of accidents.
Dequindre Road and 18 Mile Road
- This intersection is frequently cited for its high number of crashes due to the busy nature of Dequindre Road and the complexity of the traffic signals and lanes.
Hall Road (M-59) and Schoenherr Road
- Hall Road is a major thoroughfare in the Sterling Heights area, and its intersection with Schoenherr Road is particularly busy, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents.
Utica Road and Van Dyke Avenue
- This intersection is a common site for accidents due to the high traffic volume and the presence of nearby shopping centers and residential areas.
15 Mile Road and Dodge Park Road
- The mix of commercial and residential traffic at this intersection, along with its proximity to parks and schools, makes it a frequent location for accidents.
Preventing Accidents at Dangerous Intersections
To reduce the risk of accidents at these intersections, consider the following tips:
- Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as using your phone while driving.
- Follow Traffic Signals: Always obey traffic lights and signs and be cautious of changes in traffic patterns.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe following distance to allow adequate time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
- Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Be particularly vigilant in areas with high pedestrian or cyclist traffic.
- Plan Your Route: If possible, avoid these intersections during peak traffic times or plan alternate routes.
If you have been involved in an accident at one of these dangerous intersections, it’s important to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options.
Why You Need Skilled Legal Representation After a Sterling Heights Car Accident
Skilled legal representation is important after a Sterling Heights car accident for multiple reasons. Navigating the fallout from a car accident can be complex and overwhelming. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can significantly impact the outcome of your case, as well as reduce your stress levels. Some reasons why skilled legal representation is important are:
Understanding of Complex Laws and Regulations
- Michigan’s car accident laws, including the no-fault insurance system, can be complex and confusing. A skilled lawyer understands these laws and can navigate the legal intricacies to ensure you receive the benefits and compensation you are entitled to.
Accurate Assessment of Your Claim
- An experienced attorney can accurately assess the value of your claim by considering all aspects of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. This ensures that you do not settle for less than you deserve.
Handling Insurance Companies
- Insurance companies often use tactics to minimize payouts. A skilled lawyer can handle all communications with the insurance company, protecting your rights and negotiating on your behalf to ensure a fair settlement.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence
- An attorney will gather and preserve crucial evidence to support your claim, such as accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimonies. Proper evidence collection is vital for building a strong case.
Proving Liability and Fault
- Determining and proving liability can be challenging, especially if multiple parties are involved. A lawyer has the expertise to investigate the accident, establish fault, and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Maximizing Compensation
- A skilled lawyer will work diligently to maximize your compensation by thoroughly documenting your losses and negotiating aggressively on your behalf. This includes pursuing all available avenues for compensation, such as personal injury protection benefits and third-party claims.
Legal Representation in Court
- If your case goes to trial, having an experienced lawyer is essential. They will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to the judge and jury and advocating for your best interests.
Reducing Stress and Burden
- Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, especially if you are injured. A lawyer can handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being.
Expert Negotiation Skills
- Lawyers have expert negotiation skills that are critical when dealing with insurance adjusters and opposing counsel. Our Sterling Heights car accident lawyers know how to effectively counter lowball offers and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Protecting Your Legal Rights
- An attorney ensures that your legal rights are protected throughout the entire process. We will prevent you from making mistakes that could harm your case, such as giving statements that could be used against you.
No-Fault Benefits in Sterling Heights
After a car accident in Sterling Heights, you are entitled to several first-party no-fault benefits under Michigan’s no-fault insurance law. These benefits are designed to provide immediate financial support regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Some of the first-party no-fault benefits you may be entitled to are:
Medical Expenses
Your no-fault insurance will cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses resulting from the car accident. This includes costs for:
- Hospital stays
- Doctor visits
- Surgery
- Prescription medications
- Rehabilitation services
- Medical equipment and supplies
Lost Wages
- If you are unable to work due to injuries sustained in the car accident, you can receive wage loss benefits. These benefits compensate you for up to 85% of your lost income for up to three years. There is a monthly maximum limit that adjusts annually.
Replacement Services
- You are entitled to compensation for household services that you can no longer perform due to your injuries, such as cleaning, yard work, and childcare. This benefit provides up to $20 per day for a maximum of three years.
Attendant Care
- If you require assistance with personal care due to your injuries, your no-fault insurance may cover the cost of attendant care. This can include help with activities such as bathing, dressing, and administering medications. The care can be provided by a professional service or a family member, though the compensation rate will vary.
Mileage Reimbursement
- You can be reimbursed for travel expenses related to medical treatment. This includes mileage for trips to and from doctor appointments, physical therapy, and other necessary medical services.
Survivor’s Benefits
- If a car accident results in a fatality, the no-fault insurance provides survivor’s benefits to the deceased's dependents. These benefits include:
- Compensation for lost wages the deceased would have earned
- Up to $20 per day for replacement services the deceased would have provided
- Funeral and burial expenses up to a specified limit
Medical Mileage
- Reimbursement for travel expenses related to receiving medical care, such as mileage for trips to medical appointments, physical therapy sessions, and other necessary treatments.
Filing a No-Fault Claim
To access these benefits, you need to file a no-fault insurance claim with your insurance company promptly. Here are the steps to take:
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible.
- Complete the Application for Benefits: Fill out the necessary forms provided by your insurance company to apply for no-fault benefits.
- Submit Supporting Documentation: Provide all required documentation, such as medical records, wage statements, and receipts for replacement services.
Seek Legal Assistance
Navigating the no-fault insurance system can be complex, and insurance companies may sometimes dispute or delay claims. An experienced car accident attorney can help ensure you receive all the benefits you are entitled to and assist with any disputes that arise.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Sterling Heights and need help accessing your no-fault benefits, the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates can provide the support and representation you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can assist you in obtaining the full benefits you deserve.
Pain and Suffering Compensation After a Sterling Heights Car Accident
After a car accident in Sterling Heights, Michigan, you may be entitled to third-party pain and suffering benefits in addition to the no-fault benefits provided by your insurance. These benefits, also known as non-economic damages, are designed to compensate you for the physical pain, emotional distress, and other intangible losses you suffer due to the accident. If you intend on pursuing these benefits, there are several factors of which you need to be aware, such as:
Eligibility for Pain and Suffering Benefits
To be eligible for pain and suffering benefits in Michigan, you must meet certain criteria:
- Threshold Injury Requirement: You must have suffered a “serious impairment of body function,” which means an objectively manifested injury that affects your ability to lead your normal life.
- Permanent Serious Disfigurement: Injuries that result in significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement also qualify.
- Death: The family members of a deceased accident victim can seek pain and suffering damages in a wrongful death lawsuit.
Proving Pain and Suffering
Unlike economic damages (such as medical bills and lost wages), pain and suffering damages are more subjective and harder to quantify. To successfully claim these benefits, you need to provide substantial evidence of the impact of your injuries on your daily life. This can include:
- Medical Records: Detailed documentation of your injuries and treatments.
- Personal Testimony: Your own account of how the injuries have affected your physical and emotional well-being.
- Witness Testimony: Statements from family members, friends, or colleagues who can attest to changes in your behavior or lifestyle.
- Expert Testimony: Input from medical professionals or psychologists regarding the extent and impact of your injuries.
Filing a Third-Party Claim
To pursue pain and suffering benefits, you need to file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This process involves:
- Proving Fault: Demonstrating that the other driver was at fault for the accident. This may require police reports, eyewitness statements, and accident reconstruction evidence.
- Negotiating with Insurers: Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your claim. Having an experienced attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement.
- Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, you may need to file a lawsuit and go to court to seek the compensation you deserve.
Statute of Limitations
- In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a third-party personal injury lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to act within this timeframe to preserve your right to seek compensation.
Potential Compensation
Pain and suffering damages can vary widely depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Potential compensation may include:
- Physical Pain: Compensation for ongoing pain and discomfort.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to enjoy hobbies, sports, and other activities.
- Loss of Consortium: Damages awarded to your spouse for the loss of companionship and intimacy.
Seek Legal Assistance
Pursuing third-party pain and suffering benefits can be complex, and insurance companies often resist paying substantial amounts for these claims. An experienced Sterling Heights car accident lawyer can help you navigate the process, gather necessary evidence, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Sterling Heights and are considering a third-party claim for pain and suffering, the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates can provide the expertise and support you need.
When Your Family Member Gets Killed in a Sterling Heights Car Accident
If your loved one was killed in a car accident in Sterling Heights, Michigan, you may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for the losses and damages resulting from their untimely death.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought by the surviving family members of a person who died as a result of another party’s negligence or wrongful act. This type of claim seeks to compensate the family for both economic and non-economic losses.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Michigan, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate typically files the wrongful death claim. The personal representative is usually named in the deceased’s will or appointed by the court if there is no will. The compensation from the claim is then distributed to the deceased’s beneficiaries, which may include:
- The surviving spouse
- Children
- Parents
- Siblings
- Grandparents
- Other relatives who were financially dependent on the deceased
Types of Compensation Available
The compensation in a wrongful death claim can cover various losses, including:
- Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses: Costs for medical care prior to death.
- Funeral and Burial Costs: Expenses related to the funeral and burial.
- Lost Wages and Benefits: Income and benefits the deceased would have earned if they had lived.
- Loss of Financial Support: The financial contributions the deceased would have provided to family members.
- Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: The deceased’s physical pain and suffering prior to death.
- Loss of Companionship: The emotional loss experienced by surviving family members.
- Loss of Care and Guidance: The loss of the deceased’s care, guidance, and nurturing.
Proving a Wrongful Death Claim
To successfully pursue a wrongful death claim, you must prove that the death was caused by another party’s negligence or wrongful act. This involves demonstrating:
- Duty of Care: The responsible party owed a duty of care to the deceased.
- Breach of Duty: The responsible party breached this duty through negligence or a wrongful act.
- Causation: The breach of duty directly caused the death of your loved one.
- Damages: The death resulted in specific economic and non-economic damages.
Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Michigan
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally three years from the date of the death. It is crucial to act within this timeframe to preserve your right to seek compensation.
Pursuing a wrongful death claim can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. An experienced Sterling Heights wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, gather necessary evidence, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Injuries Occuring Most Often in Sterling Heights Car Accidents
Car accidents in Sterling Heights can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries that occur in these accidents include:
Whiplash
- Whiplash is a common injury in rear-end collisions and occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward. This rapid movement can cause damage to the neck muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries result from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. In car accidents, TBIs can occur when the head strikes an object inside the vehicle or from whiplash-like forces. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, with symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and behavioral changes.
Spinal Cord Injuries
- Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often result from severe impacts in car accidents. Symptoms can include loss of movement, sensation, and function below the site of the injury.
Fractures and Broken Bones
- The force of a car collision can cause bones to break or fracture. Commonly fractured bones include the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries often require immobilization, surgery, and lengthy recovery periods.
Internal Injuries
- Internal injuries can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after an accident. Common internal injuries include internal bleeding, damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, swelling, and internal bleeding.
Soft Tissue Injuries
- Soft tissue injuries affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Common soft tissue injuries in car accidents include sprains, strains, and bruises.
Cuts and Lacerations
- Sharp objects or broken glass can cause cuts and lacerations during an accident. While some cuts may be minor, others can be deep and require stitches or surgery to repair.
Chest Injuries
- Chest injuries can occur from the impact of the seatbelt, airbag deployment, or collision with the steering wheel or dashboard. Common chest injuries include rib fractures, bruising, and internal organ damage.
Burns
- Burns can result from contact with hot surfaces, flames, or chemicals released during an accident. Burns can vary in severity and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Psychological Injuries
- Car accidents can also lead to psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. These emotional and mental health issues can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life and require professional treatment.
Seeking Medical Attention
It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident, even if you do not feel injured. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, and prompt medical evaluation can ensure that all injuries are identified and treated appropriately.
If you have been injured in a Sterling Heights car accident, it is important to consult with an experienced Sterling Heights car accident lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process, ensure that your rights are protected, and pursue the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries and related damages.
What Are My Rights If I Was Injured as a Passenger in a Sterling Heights Car Accident?
If you were injured as a passenger in a car accident in Sterling Heights, Michigan, you have certain rights under the law to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Your rights as a passenger injured in a Sterling Heights car accident include:
Right to Seek Compensation
- As an injured passenger, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages resulting from the accident. This compensation typically comes from the insurance policies of the at-fault drivers involved in the collision.
No-Fault Benefits
- Michigan is a no-fault insurance state, which means that regardless of who was at fault for the accident, you are entitled to certain benefits under your own auto insurance policy or the policy of a relative you live with. These benefits, known as personal injury protection benefits, can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other economic losses resulting from the accident.
Third-Party Claim
- If your injuries meet certain thresholds, such as a serious impairment of body function or permanent disfigurement, you may have the right to file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company. This claim allows you to seek compensation for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Medical Treatment
- You have the right to receive necessary medical treatment for your injuries, including emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care. It is important to seek medical attention promptly after the accident to document your injuries and begin treatment.
Legal Representation
- You have the right to retain legal representation to protect your interests and advocate on your behalf. An experienced car accident attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue the maximum compensation available for your injuries and losses.
Statute of Limitations
- It is essential to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Michigan. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injuries. Failing to file within this timeframe could result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.
Full and Fair Compensation
- You have the right to pursue full and fair compensation for all of your injuries, damages, and losses resulting from the accident. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other losses you have incurred as a result of the accident.
Helping Sterling Heights Car Accident Victims Since 1997
Get the maximum compensation you deserve for your car accident damages with the expertise of the Sterling Heights car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates. Don't wait, reach out to us today at (248) 886-8650 or through our website's contact form to schedule your free case evaluation.
