Aggressive Battle Creek Car Accident Lawyers

Safety is never a guarantee when getting behind the wheel, as even minor collisions can significantly alter your life and future. Additionally, navigating this time of turmoil can be challenging, as you must now begin the process of obtaining compensation while focusing on making a full and complete recovery in the meantime.

At Mabbitt Bhimani Law, we understand the challenges that can arise following a motor vehicle crash, and we are ready to guide you with empathy and care while prioritizing your well-being. We are known for compassionately serving clients throughout Kent County and the Battle Creek area, and for having a deep understanding of how to successfully navigate severe traffic accidents while possessing the extensive experience required to help injured Michigan motorists receive compensation for their hospital bills, lost wages, auto repairs, and pain and suffering.

What Questions Do Injured Drivers Commonly Ask?

Confusion is common in the immediate moments following an auto accident. If injured drivers are not careful, this confusion could cause them to act out of character or make avoidable mistakes. By knowing the answers to the most common questions injured drivers have, it is possible to obtain justice and favorable injury settlements.

Do I need a lawyer for a car accident?

While the law does not require motorists to hire a car accident lawyer, deciding to delve into the process without knowledgeable support may prove unwise. Injured drivers who have the assistance of an attorney can feel confident negotiating with insurance adjusters, knowing that their legal counsel will have their back at every turn.

What should I do after a traffic accident?

In 2021, six traffic fatalities occurred in Battle Creek, involving motorists and pedestrians alike. This number may not seem significant, but with only a population of slightly over 52,000, Battle Creek residents should focus on driving defensively and understanding what to do if they are ever involved in a car wreck. As soon as they are physically able to, drivers should take these steps following a wreck:

  • Call 911
  • Document the crash site
  • Obtain the at-fault driver’s information
  • Call the insurance provider
  • Receive medical treatment

By making sure to perform each of these tasks, drivers can protect themselves and move closer to securing a settlement that makes them whole again.

What can injured drivers earn compensation for?

Michigan drivers who are the victims of a motor vehicle collision deserve to be compensated for their injuries and other damages suffered. With counsel from a devoted lawyer, motorists may be able to receive a settlement that covers the following damages:

  • Medical costs: Expenses covered under this category include hospital stays, medication, rehabilitation and any surgeries deemed necessary.
  • Lost wages: Drivers may be able to recover compensation for any wages they may have lost while recovering from their injuries. Additionally, injury victims could earn further compensation if they are unable to work in the future.
  • Pain and suffering: In Michigan, motorists can potentially obtain compensation for their pain and suffering, which includes continued pain, emotional distress and trauma.
  • Auto repairs: After a collision, both vehicles will generally be damaged. Fortunately, victims will often have their repair costs covered by the at-fault driver.

Drivers should not have to worry about their finances while recovering from their injuries. By seeking legal guidance, injured motorists can rest easy, knowing they have an ally fighting for their best interests during every moment of the injury claim process.

What if I am partially at fault for an accident?

Liability for an auto accident can be complex, even in states with “at-fault” car accident laws (where the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for paying the costs of the accident). This is even more complex in Michigan, which is one of a minority of states with “no-fault” insurance laws.

All Michigan drivers must carry insurance coverage, which usually means personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. After an accident, they file a claim against their own policy, regardless of who may have been at fault. This is known as a first-party claim. However, drivers can sue the other driver directly (in a personal injury claim) if their injuries are serious enough. Examples of serious injuries would include temporary or permanent disability or disfigurement. Fault only plays a role when injuries are severe enough to warrant a third-party claim (a claim against the other driver’s insurance company).

If the accident meets the seriousness threshold, each driver may be assigned a percentage of fault, and Michigan’s “modified comparative negligence” rule will then apply. Under this rule, you can seek compensation from the at-fault driver so long as you are less than 50% at fault for the crash. However, the damages you can claim will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

As noted above, this can be complex. The good news, however, is that you don’t have to face it alone. The help of an experienced attorney can greatly improve both the legal process and the chances of a positive resolution.

What is the statute of limitations for filing an auto accident claim?

Knowing the allowable time frame for taking legal action is essential for injured drivers. In Michigan, drivers have one calendar year from the date the crash occurred to begin the car accident claim process. In terms of pain and suffering, injury victims have three years to file their claims. Failing to take action during this time could jeopardize a motorist’s chances of successfully receiving compensation and may even lead to the case being automatically dismissed in court. For additional reassurance and assistance with adhering to these time restrictions, reaching out to a local lawyer may be the best option.

Learn How We Can Fight For You

Any delay after a car accident can negatively impact an insurance claim and the entire personal injury process. To have the best chances of receiving car accident injury compensation, and protecting your rights and holding the other driver accountable for their negligence, be sure to contact the traffic collision attorneys at Mabbitt Bhimani Law by calling our firm at 616-326-1111 or completing our online form.