Committed Muskegon Car Accident Lawyers
Moving through the personal injury process after a severe car wreck can be challenging, especially when the victim of the crash is also worried about securing medical treatment, fighting for compensation and understanding how their accident will impact their family. Michigan car accident victims also have to focus on dealing and negotiating with insurance companies, which can be quite a grueling and stressful process.
It’s important to be careful during this time and work with empathetic legal advocates, as the insurance provider will undoubtedly attempt to pressure the injured driver into accepting a low settlement offer. At Mabbitt Bhimani Law, we know how challenging it can be to obtain compensation after a catastrophic collision, but we take pride in relentlessly and compassionately advocating on behalf of our clients.
We are committed to offering comprehensive legal support to injured drivers in Muskegon. With our dedicated and holistic mindset, we routinely secure settlements that improve our clients’ lives while ensuring they understand how much we value them.
What Should Drivers Do After A Motor Vehicle Accident?
Even with all of the latest safety technology, car wrecks are still a normal part of life and are a concern for drivers on a daily basis. In 2021, there were three traffic fatalities in Muskegon alone. Michigan residents who become injured due to the negligence of another motorist should always take the following steps:
- Call 911
- Collect the driver’s information
- Gather evidence
- Contact the insurance company
- Seek medical attention
After an auto collision, failing to take the correct steps can jeopardize a person’s injury claim before it is even filed. With guidance from a trustworthy car accident lawyer, injured drivers can confidently handle the aftermath of a crash and strengthen their chances of earning compensation.
How To Prove Negligence In A Michigan Car Accident
The vast majority of car accidents in Michigan are not intentional, so there is no need to worry about proving intent. Instead, you need to show that the other driver was negligent. This negligence is why they should be held responsible for your medical bills and related costs. There are four elements that must be proven during this process:
1. The driver owed you a duty of care
All drivers are expected to operate their vehicles in a safe manner. This duty of care is the standard of conduct you deserve and have a right to expect on the road.
2. The driver breached that duty of care
The driver made a mistake or took a reckless action that violated their duty of care, resulting in the unsafe operation of their vehicle. For instance, they may have broken the speed limit or tailgated your vehicle prior to the crash. They did not necessarily mean to injure you, but they clearly acted in a way that was unsafe and put you at risk.
3. The breach of duty caused the accident
The accident must be directly linked to the driver’s negligence. For example, if the driver was texting at the time, their distraction caused them to fail to drive safely, leading to the collision. The crash is therefore their fault because they were careless.
4. The accident caused your injuries
Finally, you need to prove that the injuries you suffered were caused by the crash and that the costs you’ve incurred are directly related to those injuries. These bills must be clearly connected to the accident.
Every accident is unique, so the exact tactics needed to prove negligence will vary. Evidence can include:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Physical evidence
- Crash reconstruction analysis
- Video footage or dashcam footage
As long as you can demonstrate that the other driver acted negligently, putting you in danger and causing the accident that led directly to your injuries, you may be able to seek compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, long-term medical needs and more.
How Can We Help After A Car Crash?
Taking quick action after an auto accident is paramount, but mistakes are bound to happen without experienced legal support. You can depend on us to guide you through each step of the process and help you achieve positive outcomes.
For more information, please contact our firm by calling 616-326-1111 or filling out our online contact form today.