If you’ve suffered serious injuries in a truck accident in Shelby Township, MI, the lawyer you choose can make a big difference in your case. Our experienced and trusted attorneys can figure out who’s at fault, uncover hidden insurance or assets, and fight to get you the largest possible settlement fast.
Specialization matters in semi crash cases. Attorneys who don’t focus their entire practice in this area often lack the knowledge to uncover violations of state laws and federal regulations, hold the right parties accountable, or negotiate the best deal for you and your family.
How quickly you hire an attorney also plays a key role in the outcome of your case. Transportation companies act fast. They can control the story and legally destroy evidence after a short time. Our experienced and trusted truck accident lawyers move quickly on your Shelby Township, MI case, preserve crucial evidence, and work tirelessly from the start to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.
Michigan Auto Law is prepared with the right truck accident lawyers to protect your rights and pursue your recovery in your Shelby Township crash case. We’ve spent over 50 years handling motor vehicle crashes and have won more million-dollar settlements and verdicts than any other firm in Michigan. Our 3,000+ 5-star reviews speak for themselves.
Contact us today for a free consultation. You won’t pay anything upfront, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
What Sets Us Apart From Other Truck Accident Lawyers In Shelby Township, MI
The lawyers at Michigan Auto Law are widely regarded as one of the top truck accident law firms for semi crash cases in Shelby Township. Here’s why:
- Our law firm has decades of experience in tractor trailer litigation. We have more than 50 years of experience with semi crashes throughout the state. We’ve seen it all.
- We specialize exclusively in large commercial vehicle crashes. This is our sole focus, which means our truck accident lawyers have the in-depth knowledge and expertise to handle any challenge that may arise in your Shelby Township, MI crash case.
- We have secured more million-dollar settlements and verdicts from commercial vehicle crash cases than any other law firm in the state. We’ve won more million-dollar commercial vehicle crash settlements and verdicts than any other firm in Michigan. We also secured the largest commercial semi crash settlement in the state’s history—and the largest in the nation that year.
- Board certification. Michigan Auto Law is the only law firm in the state whose lawyers hold a board certification in Truck Accident Law from the National Board of Trial Advocacy, giving you a distinct advantage in handling your Shelby Township, MI crash case and maximizing your potential recovery. No other attorney or law firm in the state is board certified.
- Hall of Fame – Steven M. Gursten of Michigan Auto Law is one of only three lawyers in the country named to the American Association for Justice Trucking Litigation Group “Hall of Fame” for his truck accident litigation, giving you unmatched expertise for your Shelby Township crash case.
- Every transportation company, insurance adjuster, and insurance defense attorney in Michigan knows we don’t settle for less than the full value of a case. They also know we’re ready to take a case to trial if necessary. Our reputation in the courtroom means we often settle cases for more money and in less time than other attorneys or law firms.
- We are known for our ethics and compassion. We return calls and emails promptly and treat every client with care and respect. Thanks to the exceptional service we provide, we have earned more than 2,500 five-star reviews.
If you want the best outcome for your Shelby Township, MI crash case, hire the truck accident lawyers at Michigan Auto Law.
What To Expect From Our Truck Accident Lawyers After A Crash In Shelby Township, MI
After a commercial semi crash in Shelby Township, MI, navigating the legal, medical, and insurance challenges can feel overwhelming—but our truck accident lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way. From your free initial consultation to representing you in court if necessary, we focus on protecting your rights and ensuring your case is handled thoroughly. Our team investigates your crash, gathers and preserves crucial evidence, identifies all liable parties, handles insurance negotiations, calculates damages, and takes legal action when needed.
With our experienced attorneys on your side, you can have confidence that every aspect of your case is being managed professionally and efficiently. Our goal is to give you peace of mind while we fight for the compensation you deserve. Below is a breakdown of how we work for you at every stage of your case:
Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a commercial semi crash, you may feel overwhelmed with questions about your rights, the claims process, and what steps to take next. That’s why our Shelby Township truck accident lawyers offer a free, no-obligation consultation. During this meeting, we take the time to listen to your story, review the details of your crash, and answer your questions clearly so you can make informed decisions. You’ll have the opportunity to understand your legal options without any pressure or upfront cost.
Our free consultation is designed to give you peace of mind at a difficult time. Whether your case involves a commercial semi, delivery vehicle, or other large commercial vehicle, our experienced attorneys can explain how the law applies to your situation and outline a strategy for pursuing compensation. We believe that every victim deserves access to skilled legal advice, and our free consultation is the first step in making sure your rights are fully protected.
Our Shelby Township, MI Truck Accident Lawyers Provide A Thorough Investigation and Evidence Preservation
Our experienced and specialized truck accident lawyers understand how critical it is to investigate a crash in Shelby Township, MI quickly. Evidence from the crash scene, such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and black box data, can disappear or be altered within days. That’s why our team acts immediately to gather police reports, interview witnesses, review trucking company records, and secure electronic data before it’s lost. By moving fast, we build a solid foundation for your case and ensure key details are not overlooked.
Preserving evidence is equally important in holding negligent parties accountable. Transportation companies and insurers often begin their own investigations right away, which means you need an experienced legal team working just as quickly on your behalf. Our attorneys take the necessary steps to protect critical documents, driver logs, and maintenance records, and when needed, we work with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your claim. This proactive approach allows us to build the strongest case possible and maximize your chance of a fair outcome.
Identifying All Liable Parties
One of the most important steps in a commercial semi crash case is determining every party that may be responsible for your injuries. Unlike a typical car crashes, tractor trailer crashes often involve multiple layers of liability. Our truck accident lawyers carefully analyze the circumstances of your crash in Shelby Township, MI to identify whether the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, or even the manufacturer of a defective part played a role. By casting a wide net, we ensure that no potentially responsible party is overlooked.
This comprehensive approach is critical because each liable party may carry its own insurance policy, which can increase the total compensation available to you. Transportation companies and their insurers will often try to shift blame to limit their responsibility, but our attorneys are skilled at uncovering the truth through driver logs, company safety records, black box data, and expert analysis. By holding all negligent parties accountable, we maximize your chances of recovering the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Handle Insurance Communication and Negotiations
After a commercial semi crash, dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most stressful and frustrating parts of the recovery process. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, delay claims, or pressure victims into accepting settlements that are far less than what they deserve. Our Shelby Township, MI truck accident lawyers take this burden off your shoulders by handling all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf. From the moment we take your case, we step in to protect your rights and prevent adjusters from using your words against you.
We also negotiate aggressively to secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys know the tactics insurers use to undervalue claims, and we counter those strategies with strong evidence and legal experience. Whether it’s through settlement discussions or, if necessary, litigation, we are committed to making sure you receive a fair outcome while you focus on your recovery.
Filing a Lawsuit and Court Representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached in your Shelby Township, MI crash case, our truck accident lawyers are fully prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf. We handle every step of the legal process, from drafting and filing the complaint to gathering evidence, preparing legal documents, and building a strong case strategy. By taking a proactive approach, we ensure that your claim is presented effectively and that all deadlines and procedural requirements are met.
Should your case go to trial, our experienced attorneys will represent you in court with skill and dedication. We advocate aggressively for your rights, presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and making compelling arguments to secure the maximum compensation possible. With our truck accident lawyers by your side, you can have confidence that your Shelby Township, MI crash case is in capable hands and that every effort is being made to achieve a favorable outcome.
Peace of Mind With Experienced Legal Representation
Our Shelby Township truck accident lawyers provide peace of mind during one of the most stressful times in your life. With decades of experience handling complex commercial semi crash cases, our team has a proven track record of achieving favorable results for clients across Michigan. You can trust that we understand the challenges involved in pursuing compensation and have the knowledge and resources to navigate every step of the process efficiently.
We also bring extensive experience with our state’s state court systems, allowing us to anticipate potential obstacles and handle them proactively. From negotiations with insurance companies to litigation in court, our attorneys are well-versed in local procedures and legal nuances. This combination of experience, skill, and familiarity with the courts ensures that your case is in capable hands, giving you the confidence to focus on recovery while we fight for your rights.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been In A Crash With A Semi?
Our experienced Shelby Township truck accident lawyers advise that there are several steps you should take if you or a family member have been involved in a crash with a semi:
- Move to a place of safety
- Get immediate medical attention for yourself and others
- Contact the police
- Report and document all of your injuries
- Refrain from signing any legal documents if you are not represented by counsel
- Submit your No-Fault benefits application as soon as possible
- Check your insurance policy and be sure to comply with all notification requirements
- Attend all doctor appointments and follow up with diagnostic testing, procedures, etc.
- Keep detailed records
- Hire an experienced attorney right away!
Who Can A Lawyer Hold Responsible For My Shelby Township, MI Truck Accident?
Many people or companies may be at fault in a semi crash. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help determine liability in your Shelby Township, MI crash case and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve. Common at-fault parties include:
- The Semi Driver – Speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, impairment, or other traffic violations.
- The Transportation Company – Poor hiring, bad training, unsafe practices, or ignoring safety rules.
- The Owner of the Semi – If separate from the transportation company, they may be liable for poor maintenance or safety failures.
- The Trailer Owner – May be at fault for trailer-related maintenance issues.
- The Manufacturer – If a defect in the vehicle, trailer, or parts contributed to the crash.
- The Maintenance Company – If the vehicle was poorly maintained or serviced.
- The Leasing Agent – If it leased an unsafe vehicle.
- The Shipping Company – If it gave unsafe loading instructions.
- The Load Broker – If they arranged for unsafe cargo transportation.
- The Cargo Loading Company – If the big rig was overloaded or improperly loaded.
What Damages Can A Lawyer Help You Recover From A Shelby Township, MI Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one was involved in a truck accident in Shelby Township, MI, our lawyers can help recover damages that include:
- Medical costs
- Past and future lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Fright and shock
- Embarrassment, humiliation, or mortification
- Denial of social pleasures and enjoyments
- Wrongful death – If a loved one has died in the crash, compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support may be available.
State and Federal Regulations
Semi crash cases are more complex than regular car crashes. That’s because they involve federal rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which oversees the entire transportation industry. Michigan has adopted most of these rules. They cover things like driving time limits (hours-of-service), driver training, hiring standards, weight limits and maintenance and inspections.
Many legal representatives don’t know these rules well. Our attorneys do. Our truck accident lawyers know how to find violations that help your Shelby Township, MI crash case.
We investigate:
- The semis “black box” data – This device shows speed, braking, and other crash-related info.
- The semi’s inspection and maintenance history – We review maintenance records to reveal if the semi was in safe condition.
- The semi driver’s drug and alcohol testing records – We check for impairment.
- The driver’s employment file, driving history, and phone records – This helps us assess past violations or distractions.
Rapid Response Teams and the Importance Of Timely Crash Investigation
Delays can cost you your case and your compensation. In fact, waiting too long could mean the difference between winning and losing your case, potentially costing you millions of dollars.
That’s because transportation companies have an early advantage that can only be countered by a skilled attorney.
Transportation companies use “rapid response teams” to take control after a crash. The driver calls the dispatcher, who calls the risk manager, who calls the attorney. They go to the scene fast to protect the company and reduce its liability.
The sooner you hire our experienced and specialized truck accident lawyers, the sooner you can level the playing field for your Shelby Township, MI crash case. When you choose an attorney from Michigan Auto Law, our team immediately begins our own investigation. We gather crucial evidence, ensure that the transportation company doesn’t destroy key documents or data, interview witnesses, speak with law enforcement, and make sure that all the facts are properly documented and preserved. This swift action helps protect your rights and strengthens your case from the outset.
What Is Considered Important Evidence In A Semi Crash Case?
Our truck accident lawyers know that the most critical evidence in your Shelby Township, MI crash case includes:
- Information from the semi’s Event Data Record (EDR) or “black box” – This shows speed and braking before the crash.
- Information from the semi’s “electronic logging device” (ELD) – The ELD tracks how long the driver was on the road.
- The results of the semi driver’s mandatory alcohol and drug screening – Drug and alcohol testing is required after a crash as it may show driver impairment.
- Crash scene photos and videos – Detailed photos and videos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and surrounding area can help with crash reconstruction and strengthen your case.
- Surveillance videos – Security camera footage from intersections or nearby businesses can provide additional evidence showing how the crash unfolded.
- Dash cam videos – Many large commercial vehicles are equipped with dash cams that record video of the road, which can offer a first-hand look at the crash.
- Witness statements – Eyewitness accounts can provide important details about what happened before, during, and after the crash.
- The police report – The official police report will contain details of the crash, including any citations issued, witness accounts, and the officer’s conclusions about fault.
- The semi driver’s cell phone records, driving history, and employment file – Reviewing these records can help identify any past violations or patterns of unsafe driving behavior that may have contributed to the crash.
- Safety records – The semi driver’s and the transportation company’s safety records will show if they have a history of unsafe driving practices
- Maintenance records – These records will show whether the semi was being properly inspected, maintained and repaired prior to the crash.
Michigan Semi Crash Statistics
In 2024, there were 16,678 large commercial vehicles involved in motor vehicle crashes in Michigan, including 104 that were part of fatal collisions and 2,706 that were involved in crashes where one or more people were injured, according to the most recent data available from Michigan Traffic Crash Facts.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Semi Crash?
According to our experienced lawyers, the most common causes of truck accidents in Shelby Township include:
- Fatigued Driving – Semi drivers are often under intense pressure to deliver cargo quickly. However, they are also required to follow the FMCSA’s hours-of-service regulations. When drivers ignore these limits, they risk fatigue, which can lead to devastating crashes.
- Impaired Driving – Semi drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or even prescription or over-the-counter medications are at a much higher risk of causing a severe crash.
- Distracted Driving – Engaging in activities like texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving a large commercial vehicle can cause distractions that take a driver’s attention off the road, leading to potentially catastrophic results.
- Speeding – Semi drivers are often under pressure to meet quotas despite their hours-of-service limitations, causing them to speed and increasing the risk of a serious crash.
- Aggressive Driving – The stress of meeting tight delivery deadlines can result in reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, and weaving through traffic. These actions significantly increase the likelihood of a serious crash.
- Lack of Driver Experience or Training – To save time and money, some transportation companies hire drivers without proper training. Insufficient experience can result in critical errors on the road, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Equipment Failure – Mechanical failures, such as issues with brakes or lighting, are often the result of inadequate inspections and maintenance. When vehicles aren’t properly maintained, it can lead to dangerous equipment malfunctions that cause crashes.
- Improper loading – Improper loading or overloading of a semi can cause cargo to shift, making the vehicle harder to control and increasing the chance of a rollover crash.