Michigan Truck Accident Lawyers - No Fees Unless We Win!

Complexity Of Truck Accident Cases

• Multiple Parties: Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck’s owner, the manufacturer of the truck or its components, and potentially others. Determining negligence, liability, and fault allocation among these parties can be highly contested and contentious.
• Federal Regulations: Commercial trucks are subject to a complex web of federal regulations, including those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Violations of these regulations can be a contributing factor in truck accidents, and proving non-compliance can be challenging.
• Size and Weight: Trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, so the potential for severe injuries and damages is higher. Understanding the physics and mechanics involved in truck accidents is essential.
• Evidence Preservation: Trucking companies and insurers often have rapid response teams dispatched to accident scenes to gather evidence. This can make it more challenging for victims to preserve crucial evidence independently.
• Black Box Data: Many commercial trucks are equipped with Electronic Control Modules (ECMs), similar to the “black boxes” in airplanes, which record data about the truck’s operation. Extracting and interpreting this data can be complex and requires specific expertise.
• Insurance Policies: Commercial trucking companies typically have substantial insurance policies, often with higher coverage limits than individual drivers. Navigating the complexities of these insurance policies and maximizing your compensation can be intricate.
• Serious Injuries and Damages: Truck accidents are more likely to result in serious injuries and significant property damage. Calculating and documenting the full extent of these damages can be complex and may require expert testimony.
• Disputes Over Liability: In many truck accident cases, there are disputes over liability, and various parties may attempt to shift blame onto others. 
• Cross-State Jurisdiction: Truck accidents across state lines can involve different state laws and regulations, further complicating the legal aspects of the case.
• Specialized Knowledge: Truck accident cases often require specialized knowledge in accident reconstruction, engineering, trucking industry practices, and federal regulations. Attorneys and experts with experience in these areas are necessary for a strong case.
• Settlement Negotiations: Negotiating with trucking companies and their insurers can be challenging, as they often have teams of experienced adjusters and attorneys working to minimize payouts.
• Litigation Process: If a truck accident case goes to court, the legal process can be protracted and complex, involving extensive discovery, expert witnesses, and potentially a jury trial.

Michigan Truck Accident Statistics 

• There were 16,714 accidents involving heavy trucks.
• There were 105 fatal heavy-truck accidents.
• There were 2,759 injury-related heavy-truck accidents.

• Truck drivers speeding: 759 crashes, 1 fatal crash, 167 injury crashes
• Truck drivers failing to yield and disregarding traffic lights: 1,173 crashes, 8 fatal crashes, 696 injury crashes
• Truck drivers unable to stop in assured clear distance: 1,502 crashes, 5 fatal crashes, 353 injury crashes
• Truckers improperly using the lane: 907 crashes, 2 fatal crashes, 84 injury crashes
• Truckers driving carelessly and negligently: 341 accidents, 2 fatal crashes, 56 injury crashes.

Statute Of Limitations For Michigan Truck Accident Lawsuits 

Here’s What To Do After A Truck Accident 

• Call the police and seek medical attention.
• Document all of your injuries.
• Get help from an experienced truck accident attorney right away.
• Notify your auto insurer immediately.
• File your application for No-Fault benefits.
• Check your insurance policy for notification requirements.
• Check your policy for uncoordinated benefits.
• Never give statements or sign releases.

How A Michigan Truck Accident Attorney Can Help 

• Investigation: Attorneys have the resources and experience to investigate the truck accident thoroughly. They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, obtain accident reports, and work with accident reconstruction experts to establish liability.
• Determining Liability: Truck accidents can involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and potentially others. Attorneys can help determine who is liable for the accident and hold them accountable.
• Navigating Complex Laws: Truck accidents often involve complex federal and state regulations. Attorneys are well-versed in these laws and can ensure compliance and identify any violations that may have contributed to the accident.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies: Trucking companies typically have insurance with higher coverage limits than individual drivers. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure your settlement reflects the trucking company’s increased coverage. 
• Calculating Damages: Attorneys can help calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. They may also work with medical experts and economists to provide accurate assessments.
• Filing Legal Documents: The legal process involves a considerable amount of paperwork, including filing the lawsuit, motions, responses, and other documents. Attorneys handle these tasks and ensure all deadlines are met.
• Settlement Negotiations: Attorneys are skilled negotiators who can advocate for a fair settlement. They know how to evaluate offers and advise whether a settlement is in your best interest or if it’s better to proceed to trial.
• Litigation Representation: If the trucking company or insurer refuses to settle and your case goes to trial, your lawyer will present your case to the jury, question witnesses, and ask that the jury return a verdict in your favor.
• Expert Witnesses: Attorneys can enlist the help of expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, to provide credible testimony in support of your case, no matter what the road collision type.
• Legal Guidance and Support: Throughout the process, attorneys provide guidance and support, answering your questions and helping you make informed decisions about your case.
• Contingency Fees: Many truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. This arrangement can make legal representation accessible to those who might not otherwise be able to afford it.
• Peace of Mind: Having an attorney on your side allows you to focus on your recovery and well-being while they handle the legal complexities of your case.

Claims and Compensation

• Pain and suffering compensation
• Excess medical bills (i.e., medical expenses that exceed the coverage limit in their auto insurance policy)
• Excess lost wages (i.e., lost wages that exceed the yearly and monthly limitations under Michigan law)
• Wrongful Death Claims: In cases where a loved one has died as a result of a truck accident, an attorney can help you file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for (1) Funeral and burial expenses; (2) Loss of financial support and future earnings; (3) Loss of companionship and consortium; (4) Emotional distress and suffering
• Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Claims: If the at-fault party does not have adequate insurance coverage, your attorney can help you pursue claims under your own uninsured or underinsured motorist policy.