Okemos Car Accident Attorney

Fighting For Car Accident Victims in Michigan

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Okemos, MI, navigating the complexities of car accident claims can be overwhelming. At Grewal Law PLLC, we understand the challenges you may face during this difficult time. Our experienced car accident lawyers in Okemos are here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Call (888) 211-5798 or contact us online today to request a free case evaluation with our car accident attorney in Okemos.

Common Types of Car Accidents

A car accident, often referred to as a motor vehicle accident (MVA), occurs when one or more vehicles collide with each other or with stationary objects, such as trees, poles, or buildings. These incidents can result in property damage, injuries, and sometimes fatalities.

Common types of car accidents include:

• Rear-End Collisions: These accidents typically occur when one vehicle strikes another from behind. Often caused by tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops, rear-end collisions can result in significant injuries and property damage.
• Side-Impact Collisions: Also known as T-bone accidents, these occur when one vehicle strikes the side of another. This type of accident often happens at intersections and can lead to severe injuries, especially for passengers in the struck vehicle.
• Head-On Collisions: Among the most dangerous types of car accidents, head-on collisions involve two vehicles crashing into each other from opposite directions. These accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to the high impact involved.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents: These accidents involve only one vehicle and can result from various factors, including loss of control, hitting a stationary object, or rolling over. Often, these accidents are the result of driver error, weather conditions, or mechanical failure.
• Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups: These involve three or more vehicles and can occur on highways or busy streets. Such accidents can be particularly complex in terms of liability and damages, often requiring the guidance of a car accident lawyer in Okemos.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Understanding the common causes of car accidents is crucial in both preventing accidents and establishing liability in the event of a claim. Here are some prevalent causes:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of car accidents, distracted driving includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. Any distraction can divert attention away from the road and lead to severe accidents.
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit reduces a driver's ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions and increases the severity of accidents. Speeding not only endangers the driver but also poses risks to other road users.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and motor skills. DUI accidents often result in severe injuries and fatalities and carry significant legal consequences for the responsible driver.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, ice, and fog can drastically affect driving conditions. Many accidents occur due to poor visibility or slippery roads, emphasizing the need for cautious driving during adverse weather.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and road rage, contribute to many car accidents. Such behavior endangers not only the reckless driver but everyone else on the road.

Michigan Car Accident Laws

Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning that after a car accident, each driver’s insurance typically pays for their own medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. This system can streamline claims for medical costs but can complicate other types of compensation, such as pain and suffering.

Drivers in the state are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which covers medical expenses and some lost wages. The amount of PIP coverage can vary based on individual choices, but it is crucial to have adequate coverage to protect against the costs associated with serious injuries. 

Although Michigan’s no-fault law covers medical expenses, determining fault can still be essential for recovering damages for pain and suffering or property damage. Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident, you may not be eligible for compensation.

Lastly, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to file within this time frame can result in losing your right to seek compensation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately Following a Car Accident?

After ensuring the safety of everyone involved and contacting emergency services, it's essential to document the accident scene. This includes photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and visible injuries. Recording witness accounts can be helpful. Always report the accident to local authorities, as an official report can be vital in legal proceedings. After these steps, reaching out to an Okemos car accident attorney from Grewal Law PLLC can help streamline the insurance claim process and offer legal guidance tailored to the specifics of your situation.

How are Damages Calculated for Car Accidents?

Calculating damages in car accident cases involves several factors, including medical expenses, repair costs, lost wages, and the impact on your lifestyle. In Okemos, the specifics of state law and local precedents can influence settlement negotiations. At Grewal Law PLLC, we conduct thorough investigations to assess all potential forms of compensation. By understanding your injuries' immediate and long-term impacts, we can advocate for fair compensation that fully meets your needs.

Can I Pursue a Claim If I Share Fault in the Accident?

Yes, under Michigan's modified comparative negligence rule, you can pursue a claim even if you share some responsibility for the accident, provided you are not more than 50% at fault. Your compensation may be reduced by your degree of fault. Working with a seasoned attorney can be beneficial in these situations. At Grewal Law PLLC, we diligently analyze all details to determine fault percentages accurately, maximizing your opportunity to receive a fair settlement.