Westland, MI Truck Accident Lawyers You Can Trust
If you were seriously hurt or lost a loved one in a truck accident in Westland, MI, you need an experienced lawyer to protect your rights and pursue full compensation. Big rig crashes are often far more complex than typical car crashes, involving multiple parties such as drivers, transportation companies, and insurers.
Michigan Auto Law is an auto crash law firm with lawyers representing victims injured in truck accidents in Westland and throughout the state. We act fast, holding negligent parties accountable and aggressively pursuing the full compensation you deserve while you focus on healing—at no cost unless we win.
Our attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and proven track record to investigate your crash thoroughly, identify all responsible parties, and fight aggressively for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts. From your first consultation through settlement or trial, we guide you every step of the way.
Westland Truck Accident Lawyers That Specialize In Commercial Semi Crashes
At Michigan Auto Law, our truck accident lawyers specialize exclusively in representing victims of commercial semi crashes in Westland and throughout the state. For more than 50 years, we have helped families who were injured or lost loved ones in tractor trailer crashes. During that time, we’ve secured more million-dollar verdicts and settlements than any other law firm in the state, including the largest tractor trailer crash settlement in state history. Our experience and resources allow us to hold negligent drivers, transportation companies, and other at-fault parties accountable for the injuries and damages they cause.
Why Big Rig Crashes Are Different
Big rig crashes are more complex than other vehicle crashes because they often involve:
- Multiple victims and more than one negligent party
- Federal and state transportation regulations governing driver hours, vehicle weight, and maintenance
- Transportation company hiring, training, and safety compliance
Transportation companies and drivers are well aware of these rules, yet crashes still happen. Our experienced and trusted lawyers know how to investigate these Westland, MI truck accident cases, gather critical evidence, and enforce the law to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.
Our Truck Accident Lawyers Are Your Advocate Throughout Your Westland, MI Crash Case
We are the state’s largest and most successful tractor trailer crash law firm. Our attorneys are here to answer your questions, explain your legal rights, and guide you through every stage of your case. Don’t let negligent parties get away with injuring you or your loved ones—call one of our trusted Westland truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation and start protecting your future.
What Sets Us Apart From Other Truck Accident Lawyers In Westland, MI
The lawyers at Michigan Auto Law are widely regarded as one of the top truck accident law firms for semi crash cases in Westland, MI. 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 big rig 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 Westland, MI crash case.
- We have secured more million-dollar settlements and verdicts from big rig crash cases than any other law firm in the state. We’ve won more million-dollar tractor trailer crash settlements and verdicts than any other firm in Michigan. We also secured the largest tractor trailer 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 with more than one lawyer holding Board Certification in Truck Accident Law from the National Board of Trial Advocacy, giving you a distinct advantage in handling your Westland, MI crash case and maximizing your potential recovery. Our law firm is one of just three law firms in the entire U.S. with multiple board-certified attorneys in this area of law.
- 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 Westland, MI 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 3,000 five-star reviews.
- Most awarded – The state’s most awarded attorneys, consistently recognized as “Best Lawyers”, part of “Best Law Firms”, and ranked among “Super Lawyers”, including two attorneys listed in Michigan’s top 50 out of over 60,000 lawyers statewide.
What To Expect From Our Westland, MI Truck Accident Lawyers
When you hire our truck accident lawyers, you can expect unmatched experience, proven results, and a client-first approach in your Westland, MI semi crash case. We focus exclusively on tractor trailer crash cases—not divorce, property disputes, or traffic tickets—so every case benefits from our deep knowledge of big rig crash litigation. Our attorneys have secured some of the largest verdicts and settlements in the state, backed by a reputation for integrity, compassion, and more than 3,000 five-star client reviews. From the start, we are committed to protecting your rights, building the strongest case possible, and pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve under the law. Below we give you a breakdown of what we will do for you:
Free consultation
Our truck accident lawyers offer a free consultation because we believe every client deserves answers and guidance before making any decisions with their Westland, MI crash case. This initial meeting gives you the chance to tell your story, explain what happened, and share how the crash has impacted your life. We listen closely, ask the right questions, and begin evaluating the strengths of your case so you have a clear understanding of your legal options.
During your consultation, we also focus on your needs—whether that means immediate medical care, lost wages, or long-term support for serious injuries. Our attorneys will review the facts, explain how state and federal law applies, and outline the best path forward to maximize your recovery in your case. There is no obligation, and the consultation is always free. It’s our way of making sure you feel informed, supported, and confident from the very beginning.
Thorough investigation of the crash
Our specialized truck accident lawyers know that a thorough investigation is the foundation of a successful Westland, MI crash case. From the moment you hire us, we act quickly to secure and preserve the evidence that can make all the difference in your claim. This includes obtaining the semi’s black box data, driver logbooks, GPS records, and maintenance reports, as well as securing witness statements and police reports. We work with top crash reconstruction experts to analyze every detail of the crash so the truth comes to light and the responsible parties are held fully accountable.
We also understand how fast transportation companies and their insurers move to protect themselves after a crash—sometimes even destroying or hiding evidence. That’s why we step in immediately to send preservation letters, subpoena critical documents, and make sure no stone is left unturned. Our attorneys have decades of experience exposing violations of federal and state regulations, uncovering unsafe practices, and building airtight cases for our clients. When you trust our specialized and experienced attorneys with your case, you can be confident that we will investigate thoroughly and fight tirelessly to secure the justice and maximum compensation you deserve.
Identify every party responsible
In a crash with a tractor trailer, identifying every party responsible is critical to securing the compensation you deserve. Our truck accident lawyers use their decades of experience to carefully investigate your Westland, MI crash to uncover all potentially liable parties, which may include the semi driver, the transportation company, fleet managers, contractors, or even vehicle manufacturers. By examining driver logs, maintenance records, company policies, and other key evidence, we make sure no responsible party is overlooked.
Holding all liable parties accountable not only strengthens your case but also increases the potential recovery for your injuries and losses. Our specialized and experienced attorneys use their deep knowledge of federal and state regulations and years of experience in commercial semi crash litigation to uncover negligence that insurance companies often try to hide in your crash case. With our team advocating for you, you can trust that every avenue for compensation will be pursued, from medical bills and lost wages to pain, suffering, and long-term care needs.
Protect your rights against insurance companies
Dealing with insurance companies after a crash can be overwhelming, and their goal is often to minimize or deny your claim. Our board certified truck accident lawyers step in immediately in your Westland, MI crash case to handle all communications with insurers on your behalf. We know the tactics insurance companies use to reduce payouts, including lowball settlement offers, delayed responses, or attempts to shift blame. By letting us take the lead, you are protected from pressure, confusion, and mistakes that could cost you compensation.
Our attorneys also know how to negotiate aggressively and strategically to secure the full recovery you deserve in your case. We carefully document your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, then use this evidence to counter any tactics aimed at undervaluing your claim. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court, fighting tirelessly to ensure you receive every dollar the law allows. With our team on your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the complexities of your claim.
Accurately calculating your damages
Our trusted truck accident lawyers understand that calculating damages for your Westland, MI crash case goes far beyond medical bills and lost wages. We take a comprehensive approach, evaluating not only your immediate expenses but also long-term costs such as ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, reduced earning capacity, and property damage. We also consider non-economic impacts like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the lasting effects on your quality of life, ensuring every aspect of your loss is accounted for.
With years of experience handling complex tractor trailer crash cases, our attorneys work closely with medical experts, financial analysts, and crash reconstruction specialists to accurately assess the full scope of your damages. This thorough evaluation allows us to negotiate effectively with insurance companies and, if necessary, present a compelling case in court. By trusting us to calculate your damages, you can be confident that your claim will reflect the full compensation you deserve under the law.
File a lawsuit
When a fair settlement isn’t possible in your Westland, MI crash case, our top-rated 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 managing court deadlines and motions. Our attorneys know the complexities of tractor trailer crash litigation, including federal and state regulations, and use this expertise to build a strong case that holds all responsible parties accountable.
Filing a lawsuit is not just about paperwork—it’s about strategically positioning your case to maximize compensation. Our attorneys meticulously gather evidence, consult with experts, and develop compelling arguments to support your claim in court. By taking this comprehensive approach, we ensure your rights are fully protected and that your case is presented with the skill, experience, and authority necessary to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Aggressive court representation
When your case goes to trial, our specialized truck accident lawyers are prepared to represent you every step of the way in your Westland, MI crash case. With decades of experience, specialized knowledge, and board certifications, we bring a deep understanding of tractor trailer crash litigation, extensive courtroom expertise, and an unwavering commitment to protecting your rights. From presenting evidence and questioning witnesses to making persuasive arguments, we handle all aspects of your court representation so you can focus on your recovery.
Our attorneys approach every case with a strategic mindset, ensuring your story is told effectively and that the full scope of your damages is clearly demonstrated to the judge and jury. We fight tirelessly to hold all responsible parties accountable and to secure the maximum compensation possible for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs. With us advocating for you in court, you can have confidence that your case is in capable, experienced hands.
Provide peace of mind during a difficult time
Our specialized truck accident lawyers provide peace of mind by handling every aspect of your Westland, MI crash case, so you can focus on healing and recovery. From investigating the crash and identifying liable parties to negotiating with insurance companies and preparing for trial, we manage the complexities of your claim with skill and dedication.
We also prioritize clear communication and compassionate support throughout the legal process. You’ll always know the status of your case, understand your options, and have an attorney who truly listens to your concerns. By trusting us to advocate for you, you can rest assured that your rights are protected, your case is thoroughly handled, and your pursuit of maximum compensation is in capable hands.
No fees unless we win your case
Our truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your Westland, MI crash case. We understand that after a serious crash with a tractor trailer, you’re already facing medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of recovery, so we make sure there’s no financial burden when seeking legal help. From the moment you contact us, we cover the costs of investigating your case, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies—allowing you to focus on healing without worrying about attorney fees.
This “no-win, no-fee” approach ensures our lawyers are fully committed to securing the best possible outcome for you. You only pay if we successfully recover compensation through a settlement or verdict, which aligns our goals with yours. By removing the financial risk, our attorneys make it easier for you to get the legal representation you need to protect your rights and maximize your recovery after a crash.
Why Choosing The Right Truck Accident Lawyer For Your Westland, MI Crash Case Matters
Choosing the right truck accident lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your Westland, MI crash case. Big rig crashes are complex and often involve multiple parties, intricate federal and state regulations, and serious injuries. An attorney with specialized experience can ensure your rights are protected, all liable parties are identified, damages are accurately calculated, and you receive the maximum compensation available under the law.
The lawyers at Michigan Auto Law are widely regarded as one of the top truck accident law firms for commercial semi crashes in Westland and throughout the state and for good reason. With over 50 years of combined experience in tractor trailer litigation, we focus exclusively on big rig cases, giving us unmatched knowledge and expertise. Our attorneys have secured more million-dollar settlements and verdicts in the state than any other firm, including the largest tractor trailer crash settlement in the state’s history. With our reputation for specialized skill, ethics, and compassion, you can trust that your case will be handled with the utmost care and dedication, giving you the best chance for maximum recovery.
Record-Setting Settlements
Our lawyers have won some of Michigan’s largest truck accident settlements, proving their expertise and commitment to getting clients maximum compensation in their Westland, MI crash case.
- $34.5 Million – After a final insurance company offer of $14million
- $14.3 Million – Last insurance company offer was $25,000
- $13.5 Million – Settlement for burn injuries
- $13.2 Million – Verdict for wrongful death semi crash
- $10.5 Million – Our attorneys found $9 million of extra insurance coverage that 2 other law firms had missed
State and Federal Regulations
Semi crashes are far more complicated than typical car crashes due to the complex regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which oversees the entire transportation industry. These regulations, which Michigan has largely adopted, cover hours-of-service, driver training, driver hiring, weight limits, vehicle inspections and vehicle maintenance. Violations of these rules often play a key role in semi crashes.
However, many lawyers aren’t fully familiar with the FMCSA regulations and may struggle to identify violations that could be important to your Westland, MI truck accident case. This is where experience and specialization make all the difference. At our law firm, every attorney is well-versed in the FMCSA rules and knows exactly where to look for potential violations.
When our truck accident lawyers take on your Westland, MI crash case, we conduct a thorough investigation that includes examining:
- The vehicle’s “black box” data – This device records critical information such as speed, braking patterns, and other metrics that can reveal if the semi was being operated unsafely.
- The vehicle’s inspection and maintenance history – We review maintenance records to determine if the semi was properly maintained or if any mechanical issues contributed to the crash.
- The semi driver’s drug and alcohol testing records – We check to see if the driver passed his or her mandatory drug and alcohol screenings to determine whether impaired driving caused or was a factor in the crash.
- The driver’s employment file, driving history, and phone records – This helps us assess if the driver had a history of violations or was distracted at the time of the crash.
Rapid Response Teams and the Importance Of Timely Crash Investigation
Delaying the decision to hire an experienced truck accident lawyer can have serious consequences in your Westland, MI crash case. 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 deploy what are known as “rapid response teams” to get a head start on shaping the narrative of the crash. Here’s how it works: as soon as a crash occurs, the semi driver contacts the dispatcher, who then notifies the company’s risk manager, who in turn calls the insurance defense attorney. The risk manager and attorney rush to the scene, where they begin immediate damage control, working to minimize the company’s liability and avoid paying you for your injuries.
The sooner you hire an experienced truck accident lawyer, the sooner you can level the playing field for your Westland, 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 Case?
Our truck accident lawyers know that the most critical evidence in your Westland, MI crash case includes:
- Information from the tractor trailer’s Event Data Record (EDR) or “black box” – This device records key data such as speed, braking patterns, and other critical information that can help establish how the crash occurred.
- Information from the tractor trailer’s “electronic logging device” (ELD) – The ELD tracks the driver’s hours-of-service, ensuring that he or she stayed within the legal limits for driving time. This is essential in cases involving tired driving.
- The results of the semi driver’s mandatory alcohol and drug screening – Drug and alcohol testing is required after a crash, and the results of the driver’s post-crash toxicology test may show that impaired driving led to the crash.
- 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 tractor trailers 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 vehicle was being properly inspected, maintained and repaired prior to the crash.
What Our Lawyers Recommend Doing After A Truck Accident In Westland, MI
Our experienced Westland truck accident lawyers advise that there are several steps you should take if you or a family member have been involved in a semi crash:
- 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 A Truck Accident In Westland, MI?
In many semi crashes, multiple parties may share responsibility. Our experienced and trusted truck accident lawyer can help determine liability in your Westland, MI crash case and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve. These are the most common parties who could be liable:
- The Semi Driver – More often than not, the driver is the primary responsible party. Negligent actions such as speeding, distracted driving, tired driving, impaired driving, or failing to follow traffic laws are negligent actions that create liability.
- The Transportation Company – If the transportation company is negligent in its hiring or training of drivers, or in the maintenance of its vehicles, or specialized truck accident lawyer could hold the company liable for your Westland, MI crash. Companies that push drivers to work beyond hours-of-service limits or fail to enforce proper safety protocols may share responsibility.
- The Semi Owner – If the semi is owned by a separate entity from the transportation company, the owner of the semi could be held liable for safety violations, maintenance issues, or equipment failure that causes or contributes to the crash.
- The Trailer Owner – Similar to the truck owner, our experienced truck accidents lawyer can hold the trailer owner may be responsible if there were issues related to the trailer’s condition or maintenance that led to the crash in Westland, MI.
- The Manufacturer – The manufacturer of the semi, trailer, or specific parts (like brakes, tires, or lighting) could bear some fault if a defect in the vehicle or its components contributed to the crash.
- The Maintenance Company – If the semi or trailer was improperly serviced or maintained or serviced, the maintenance company could face liability.
- The Leasing Agent – Where a semi is leased, the leasing company could be liable if it failed to ensure the vehicle met certain safety standards.
- The Shipping Company – If the shipping company provided inadequate or unsafe instructions for handling the cargo, our attorneys can find them at-fault for your crash.
- The Load Broker – Load brokers, who arrange for the transportation of cargo, can be held liable if they negligently allow a tractor trailer to carry an unsafe or improper load.
- The Cargo Loading Company – Improper loading of the cargo, whether it’s overloading the semi or failing with cargo securement, can make the cargo loading company an at-fault party.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Crashes?
According to our experienced lawyers, the most common causes of truck accidents in Westland include:
- Fatigued Driving – Tractor trailer 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 – Tractor trailer 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 semi can cause distractions that take a driver’s attention off the road, leading to potentially catastrophic results.
- 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.
How Long Do I Have To Sue After A Crash?
Michigan’s statute of limitations allows you three (3) years from the date of the crash to sue for pain and suffering and economic damages resulting from your crash. (MCL 600.5805)
Failing to file your lawsuit within this three-year window will preclude you from filing it at all. You will lose all of your legal rights to sue the negligent parties and hold them accountable for your injuries.
This is another reason to consult with an experienced and specialized attorney as soon as possible after your crash. An experienced attorney knows what needs to be filed, and when.
What Damages Can A Lawyer Help Recover From A Truck Accident In Westland, MI?
If you or a loved one was involved in a truck accident in Westland, a lawyer can help you recover the following damages:
- 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 a crash, compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support may be available.
How Common Are Semi Crashes In Michigan?
In 2023, Michigan saw 15,852 semi crashes, resulting in 103 deaths and 3,677 injuries, according to Michigan Traffic Crash Facts.