When you have suffered a serious injury after a commercial semi truck accident in Michigan, one of the most important things you can do is hire the best and most experienced lawyer near you from a reputable law firm who understands the law. These types of big rig crashes are very different from one involving a passenger motor vehicle, and having an attorney that can show the federal and state safety rules and regulations that were violated can help get you the best possible settlement for your injuries and losses.
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Hall of Fame Award – American Association for Justice Trucking Litigation Group
For more than 50 years, the commercial semi truck accident lawyers at Michigan Auto Law have specialized exclusively in helping people injured in big rig crashes. Our proven track record of winning results includes the largest tractor trailer crash settlement for an attorney in the state. Michigan Auto Law is the only law firm in the state that has a board certification in truck crash law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, which is the highest designation of skill and experience available, and one of our lawyers, Steven Gursten, is a past-president of the American Association for Justice Truck Accident Litigation Group, and has been one of only three attorneys in the entire country to be awarded the Hall of Fame Award for commercial semi crash litigation (out of approximately 110,000 attorneys in the country who say they handle big rig crash cases).
What our Michigan semi truck accident lawyers will do for you
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers will investigate the crash, gather crucial evidence like driver logs and maintenance records, and works with experts to determine liability to build a strong commercial semi crash case. We will negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to pursue maximum compensation for your losses. We will also work with experts like crash reconstructionists and mechanical engineers to build a strong claim against negligent drivers and transportation companies, handling all negotiations with insurance companies and representing you in litigation if necessary.
Here is more of a detailed breakdown of what our attorneys will do for you:
Free Consultation
Many law firms, including ours, offer an initial free consultation at no cost, during which clients can discuss the crash, review relevant documents, and receive information about potential next steps. This consultation does not obligate you to hire an attorney.
Understanding your legal options is the first step, and having the right guidance can make a real difference in the outcome of your case. At Michigan Auto Law, our truck accident lawyers offer a free consultation to personally connect with you, listen to your experience, and provide guidance tailored to your unique situation. Our attorneys are committed to supporting you every step of the way, helping you navigate complex legal processes while fighting for the compensation you deserve. From the first conversation, we aim to build trust and ensure you feel heard, understood, and empowered to take the next steps toward recovery.
Investigates the crash
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers will start by visiting the crash scene, reviewing police reports, and securing surveillance or dash-cam footage of the commercial semi crash. We collect driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records to identify safety violations or negligence. Witness interviews and photo evidence help reconstruct what caused the collision.
Once the initial evidence is gathered, we may consult with crash reconstruction experts and transportation industry specialists to build a clear picture of liability. We will also evaluate the transportation company’s safety history and compliance with state and federal regulations to strengthen your claim.
Evidence gathering
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers gather evidence by quickly sending preservation letters to stop the transportation company from destroying important records and data in your semi crash case. We request black box information, driver logs, phone records, and maintenance documents, while also collecting police reports and photos from the crash scene to support your case.
Next, we interview witnesses, obtain surveillance or traffic camera footage, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to analyze physical evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions. All of this information helps us build a comprehensive picture of how the crash occurred and who is responsible.
Access to expert witnesses
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers bring in expert witnesses to clarify complex technical issues and strengthen your commercial semi crash case with professional insight. We consult accident reconstruction specialists, mechanical engineers, and transportation industry experts who can analyze the evidence, explain how the crash occurred, and identify any safety violations or negligence involved.
These experts may prepare detailed reports, create visual reconstructions, and testify in court to help the judge or jury understand the mechanics of the crash, the severity of your injuries, and the financial impact of the incident. Their testimony can be critical in proving liability and securing full compensation.
Navigate state and federal laws
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers navigate the state’s no-fault laws by helping you file a commercial semi crash claim for PIP benefits and determining whether your injuries meet the serious impairment of body function threshold for a third party lawsuit. We evaluate medical records and lost wages to ensure all available coverage is accessed in a timely manner.
At the same time, we analyzes federal regulations—such as hours-of-service rules, vehicle maintenance requirements, and driver qualification standards—to identify any violations that could establish liability. This dual understanding of state and federal laws allows the attorney to build a stronger case.
Determining Fault
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers determine fault in your commercial semi crash case by carefully examining evidence such as police reports, witness statements, black box data, and crash scene photos. We also review maintenance logs, driver qualifications, and compliance with federal regulations. By analyzing these details, we can identify negligence and hold the responsible parties accountable.
In more complex cases, we may consult crash reconstruction experts to pinpoint how the collision occurred and whether multiple defendants share liability. Because transportation companies and insurers often dispute fault to limit payouts, we rely on this thorough investigation to build a strong case. Our goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation for damages, medical bills, and lost wages
Securing full compensation
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers work to secure full compensation by thoroughly investigating the commerical semi crash and documenting all damages. We gather medical records, expert opinions, and financial assessments to cover both immediate and future costs. We negotiate firmly with insurers and are prepared to take your case to court if necessary.
Because these claims can be complex and often involve multiple parties and insurance tactics to limit payouts, we move quickly to preserve evidence, challenge insurers, and ensure all damages—including long-term care and lost income—are fully accounted for. By navigating state laws and leveraging our experience, we maximize compensation for your medical bills, pain, and financial losses.
Steps Our Michigan Truck Accident Lawyers Recommend After a Crash
Our attorneys recommend you do the following after a crash:
- Contact police – Report the crash and request emergency medical attention. A police report is a critical piece of evidence.
- Seek medical attention immediately – Even if you feel okay, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Document all injuries – Detailed medical records and photos help prove the severity of your injuries and are essential for securing full compensation in your claim.
- Notify your auto insurance company quickly – Promptly reporting the crash is often required by your policy and helps start the No-Fault benefits process for medical expenses and lost wages.
- File an application for No-Fault benefits – If your eligible, this helps cover medical bills and lost wages under Michigan’s No-Fault law.
- Check insurance policy for notification requirements – Missing a required deadline to report the crash could jeopardize your ability to receive coverage or benefits.
- Check insurance policy for uncoordinated benefits – If your policy includes uncoordinated (or “primary”) benefits, your auto insurer may be required to pay medical expenses directly, regardless of what your health insurance covers—potentially increasing your compensation.
- Never give statements – Insurance companies may use your words against you to minimize or deny your claim.
- Never sign anything without legal advice – You could unknowingly waive your rights or accept a low settlement before understanding the full value of your claim.
- Contact an experienced Michigan semi truck accident lawyer – Tractor trailer crash cases are complex and often involve federal regulations, multiple parties, and aggressive insurance companies. An experienced truck accident lawyer can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve in your Michigan commercial semi crash case.
Serious Injuries After A Crash
Tractor trailer crashes often result in serious, life-altering injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles. Victims may be entitled to compensation for both physical and emotional harm. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Head trauma can cause lasting cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – These may lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care and rehabilitation.
- Neck and Back Injuries – Including herniated discs, fractures, and soft tissue damage that may require surgery or long-term therapy.
- Fractures and Broken Bones – High-impact crashes often result in complex breaks that can take months to heal.
- Internal Injuries – Damage to organs or internal bleeding can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after the crash.
- Crush Injuries – When a smaller vehicle is pinned or impacted, victims may suffer severe muscle, nerve, or tissue damage.
- Amputations – Traumatic injuries or surgical removal of limbs may occur in severe collisions.
- Burn Injuries – Fires or chemical spills can result in painful and disfiguring burns.
- Severe Lacerations and Scarring – Deep cuts from broken glass or metal can cause permanent disfigurement.
- Psychological Trauma – Victims often experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Crash Statistics
In 2022, there were 2,759 semi-trailers involved in the 51,066 personal injury-related motor vehicle crashes in the state which resulted in 3,632 people being injured.
What Are The Types Of Commercial Semi Truck Accidents That Your Michigan Lawyers Handle?
In Michigan, there are many types of commercial semi truck accidents that our lawyers have handled, but the most common include: (1) head-on collisions; (2) rear-end crashes; (3) broadside crashes; (4) a jack-knifed tractor-trailer; (5) roll overs; and (6) underride crashes (where a passenger vehicle slides underneath the big rig’s trailer).
Remember That Our State Has Unique Liability Laws
Our state’s crash liability laws for these types of vehicles are different from all other states. Damages that our truck accident lawyers can recover for your injuries after a commercial semi crash in Michigan will include first-party claims (victim’s insurance), such as medical bills, wage loss, replacement services, attendant care and medical mileage. Third-party auto negligence tort claims (negligent driver’s insurance) involve personal injury and excess economic loss. All auto insurance policies sold in our state include some limited coverage for vehicle damage, property damage and pain and suffering compensation for physical and emotional injuries.
What Causes Most Big Rig Crashes?
The most common cause of big rig crashes involve driver error. However, as every transportation company has a non-delegable duty to safely train, supervise, and monitor their drivers, even cases involving driver error usually involve a larger failure in the safety system of the motor carrier company itself.
Other examples of failures in safety systems that the attorneys from our law firm have found include: (1) motor carrier companies negligent hiring of unqualified and unsafe drivers; (2) motor carrier drivers driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; (3) dangerous out-of-service-vehicles; (4) chameleon carriers; (5) driver fatigue; (6) no punitive damages; (7) bad weather; (8) speeding; (9) failing to yield; and (10) improper lane usage.
Legal Rights To No-Fault Benefits
According to state law, when you have been injured in a crash with a tractor trailer, you are entitled to collect No-Fault PIP benefits from the responsible auto insurance company to help pay for your medical bills, lost wages, transportation costs for medical appointments, and attendant care services.
To protect your right to recover No-Fault insurance benefits, you must file an application for No-Fault benefits – which is also called a “written notice of injury” – with the responsible auto insurance company within one (1) year after your crash. (MCL 500.3145(1) and (4))
Generally, the insurance company that is responsible for paying your No-Fault insurance benefits will be your insurer or the insurer of your spouse or a relative living in your home. If no coverage is available through those sources, then you will need to apply for No-Fault benefits through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan.
If you do not file your application on time, then the auto insurance company will use this to deny your claim and refuse to pay any and all of the No-Fault benefits you would have otherwise been entitled to.
Legal Rights To Pain And Suffering Compensation
After a crash with a tractor-trailer, you or a loved one may be able to recover pain and suffering compensation from the at-fault driver, the owner of the big rig, the motor carrier and other responsible parties. An experienced attorney will need to prove the motor carrier driver was negligent and was at-fault for the crash.
Legal Rights To Wrongful Death Compensation
If you have lost a loved one in a commercial semi truck accident in Michigan, then you and your family can hire an experienced lawyer to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver, the owner of the big rig and other responsible parties.
A wrongful death lawsuit allows you and your family to recover damages for: (1) medical, hospital, funeral, and burial expenses; (2) pain and suffering compensation; and (3) loss of the deceased’s financial support, society and companionship.
Why Hire A Lawyer For A Semi Truck Accident in Michigan?
If you’ve been involved in a commercial semi truck accident in Michigan, our experienced lawyers can make a crucial difference in the outcome of your case. Big rig crashes often involve complex regulations, multiple parties, and serious injuries, which can make it overwhelming to navigate the legal system alone. We work to maximize your compensation, protect your rights, and reduce the stress of dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures. Below, we break down the key reasons why having our attorneys on your side is so important.
Maximize compensation
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers work to maximize your compensation by thoroughly evaluating every aspect of your commercial semi crash case, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and long-term impacts such as ongoing treatment or diminished earning capacity. We calculate both economic and non-economic damages to ensure nothing is overlooked when negotiating with insurance companies.
We also gather compelling evidence, work with expert witnesses, and document the severity of your injuries and the liability of the big rig driver or company. By presenting a well-supported claim, we increase the likelihood of securing a higher settlement or court award than you might obtain on your own
Expertise in complex cases
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers bring specialized expertise to handle the complexities of commercial semi crash cases, which often involve multiple parties, federal regulations, and commercial insurance policies. Our experience allows us to navigate intricate liability issues and identify factors that a standard car crash attorney might overlook.
We understand transportation industry standards, such as driver qualification rules, hours-of-service regulations, and vehicle maintenance requirements, which can be critical in proving negligence. By combining our legal knowledge with industry-specific insight, we build strong cases and advocate effectively for maximum compensation.
Protection of rights
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers protect your legal rights by ensuring all deadlines are met, paperwork is filed correctly, and communications with insurance companies don’t jeopardize your commercial semi crash claim. We act as your advocate, preventing insurers or other parties from taking advantage of mistakes or missteps during the process.
We also advise you on what to say and what documents to provide, investigate the crash thoroughly, and challenge any attempts to minimize your injuries or liability. By safeguarding your rights at every stage, we help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve while reducing the risk of legal pitfalls.
Reduce stress
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers reduce stress by handling the complex legal process on your behalf, including filing claims, negotiating with insurance companies, and gathering necessary evidence for your commercial semi crash case. This allows you to focus on recovery while knowing we are advocating for your best interests.
We coordinate with medical experts, crash reconstruction specialists, and other professionals, keeping you informed without overwhelming you with legal jargon. By managing deadlines, paperwork, and potential disputes, we alleviate much of the pressure that comes with pursuing compensation after a serious tractor trailer crash.
How Do Lawsuits Work?
The stages of a lawsuit include: (1) investigating the crash scene; (2) preserving key evidence; (3) interviewing witnesses; (4) hiring expert witnesses; (5) identifying the liable parties; (6) filing the lawsuit; (7) conducting discovery; (8) negotiating a settlement; and/or (10) going to trial.
What are the statute of limiations for a lawyer to file a commerical semi truck accident lawusit in Michigan?
In Michigan, a lawyer has three years from the date of the crash (statute of limitations) to file a commercial semi truck accident lawsuit. For No-Fault insurance benefits, an attorney must file your claim within one year (statute of limitations) of the crash. Filing within these timeframes is critical, as missing the deadline usually prevents you from pursuing benefits and compensation. Acting promptly ensures your rights are protected and all evidence is preserved.
Certain exceptions may extend these deadlines, such as if the injured person is a minor or mentally incapacitated.
Because legal deadlines can be complex, it’s important to contact our experienced Michigan truck accident lawyers as soon as possible after a commercial semi crash. We protect your rights and ensure your injury claim is filed on time.
Who Can A Lawyer Sue After A Commercial Semi Truck Accident In Michigan?
Our experienced Michigan truck accident lawyers can help you pursue claims against the following parties after a crash with a commercial semi: (1) the driver who caused the crash; (2) the maintenance company; (3) the shipping company; (4) the load broker; (5) the leasing agent; (6) the trailer owner, if different from the owner of the tractor; (7) the loading company; and (8) the vehicle manufacturer.
What Is The Average Settlement For A Tractor Trailer Crash?
The average settlement amount that an attorney can help you recover after a tractor trailer crash will depend on the liability coverage limits of the motor carrier driver and motor carrier company involved. Federal law requires interstate big rigs to have a minimum of $750,000 to cover bodily injury and property damage.
Tractor trailers that are hauling hazardous materials and large buses may be required by federal law to carry a minimum of $5 million in liability coverage.
Other factors that may affect the amount of your settlement after a crash with a big rig include your injuries, medical needs (present and future), work disability and the experience and track record of your attorney.
More On The Factors That Impact A Settlement
- Severity of injuries – More serious or permanent injuries typically lead to higher settlements.
- Medical expenses – Both past and future medical costs are considered.
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity – If the injury affects your ability to work, compensation may increase.
- Pain and suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life all factor into the settlement amount.
- Liability and fault – If the tractor trailer driver or tranportation company was clearly at fault, your case is generally stronger.
- Insurance coverage – The available insurance policies and their limits can affect how much you can recover.
- Tranportation company negligence – Violations of federal regulations (like driver fatigue, improper maintenance, or overloaded vehicles) can increase the value of your claim.
- Legal representation – Having an experienced Michigan truck accident lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your commercial semi crash case.
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Do Tractor Trailer Crashes Cases Go To Trial?
Tractor trailer crash cases can go to trial if a settlement cannot be reached through negotiation or alternative dispute methods. When a case goes to trial, it means the parties were unable to reach a mutually satisfactory settlement, and we present the case before a judge or jury.
We typically consider trial a last resort after all other attempts to settle have failed. The decision to go to trial depends on factors such as the complexity of the case, the extent of damages, the strength of the evidence, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. While the majority of personal injury cases, including tractor trailer crash cases, are settled out of court, we are prepared to take your case to trial if liability is heavily contested or the damages are substantial to seek a fair resolution.
Trusted And Experienced Michigan Semi Truck Accident Lawyers
Key Takeaways
- There are no up-front costs and you will never pay-of-pocket to hire a trusted and experienced truck accident lawyer from Michigan Auto Law. We work on a contingency-fee basis, which means you only pay if we win your case for you.
- 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 Michigan commercial semi crash case and maximizing your potential recovery. No other attorney or law firm in the state is board certified.
- 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 Michigan commercial semi crash case.
- Victories for our clients include $34.5 Million which is the largest tractor trailer crash settlement of any attorney or law firm in our state and a $13.4 Million verdict on a case that the insurance company insisted was only worth $25,000.
- Our attorneys have consistently been named by independent third-party attorney review organizations as “Super Lawyers” and being among the “Best Lawyers” and “Best Law Firms” in America. We have received the highest rating for legal ability and ethics from Martindale-Hubbell
- Our attorneys have recovered over $181 Million in verdicts on just $2.6 Million in final insurance offers.
- We have offices in Farmington Hills, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Sterling Heights, Flint and Traverse City. We help crash victims all across the state. Wherever you need us, we’ll be there.
The truck accident lawyers at Michigan Auto Law are among the most trusted and experienced in the state. They have secured record tractor trailer crash verdicts and settlements over multiple years, as reported by Michigan Lawyers Weekly, and are the only law firm in the state with a national board certification in tractor trailer crash law.
For more than 50 years, the our attorneys have been helping people like you who have been injured in tractor trailer crashes and wrongful death cases get the best possible settlement for their case. Our attorneys understand the physical, emotional and psychological hardships you are experiencing. We can help.
Crash Resources
Suffering From An Injury After A Semi Truck Accident In Michigan And Need A Lawyer Near You? Call Now For A Free Consultation!
If you were injured in a commercial semi crash in Michigan, call now for a free consultation with an experienced truck accident lawyer near you. There is no cost or obligation. You can also visit our contact page or use the chat feature on our website. Our attorneys can help you better understand your legal rights to sue for pain and suffering compensation as well as other non economic and economic damages.
Our law firm specializes in tractor-trailer crash cases and receives referrals from attorneys all over the state and the U.S. Our attorneys have spoken at nearly 300 seminars and legal education programs throughout the country, educating other personal injury attorneys on how to handle these unique types of cases. Attorney Steven Gursten is a past-president of the American Association for Justice Truck Accident Litigation Group. Our law firm is also the only law firm in the state that has national board certification in big rig crash law.