Aren’t sure if you need to hire an auto accident attorney? We can understand your hesitation if you want to leave your car accident in the past. However, even minor accidents can leave you with injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. Under these circumstances, we recommend that you hire one of our car accident attorneys in Grand Rapids and Ionia, MI.
During your consultation, one of our personal injury lawyers will review the details of your case to determine if you’re eligible to receive compensation.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know.
You may not know if you have right away. This is because when you experience a traumatic event, the body produces adrenaline and endorphins. These give you that “fight or flight” response, which can temporarily block pain after an auto accident. For this reason, you may feel fine at first and then experience pain later that day.
If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort, it’s important that you seek medical care as soon as possible. Getting medical care immediately will also make it easier for our auto accident attorneys to show a clear link between the accident and your injuries.
Was your child or spouse as a passenger? If so, you may be eligible to sue for compensation if your economic damages exceed the limits of your PIP coverage. You may also be able to step outside the no-fault system if the accident caused wrongful death due to the other driver’s negligence.
Related: How to Prove Wrongful Death After an Auto Accident →
Since minors aren’t able to file third-party claims, their parents or guardians must do so on their behalf. Our car accident attorneys can help you through this process if it applies to your circumstances.
Michigan is a no-fault state that allows you to select your level of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. In the event of an auto accident, your insurance company will pay your medical bills and other economic damages up to the limit of your PIP coverage regardless of who’s at fault. This applies even if you’re 100% at fault for the auto accident.
If you have economic damages that exceed your PIP coverage, you’ll be able to sue the at-fault driver for compensation. You may also sue the at-fault party for non-economic damages, such as those for pain and suffering.
Keep in mind that Michigan is a “modified comparative negligence state.” This means that the compensation you’re eligible to receive will be reduced by the percentage the court finds you to be at fault for the accident. For example, a claim worth $100,000 would be reduced to $75,000 if you’re found to be 25% at fault.
Since auto insurance law can be complex, it’s best to hire an auto accident attorney from one of our offices. Our legal team has the knowledge and experience to help you achieve the best outcome for your case.
Our auto accident attorneys in Grand Rapids and Ionia, MI, are ready to help you win the compensation you deserve. To schedule a legal consultation, please call Peterson Paletta Balice. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.