If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident in Grand Rapids, you may be facing mounting medical bills and expenses and are wondering what happens if your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits aren’t enough to cover it all. This is where an experienced Grand Rapids car accident lawyer can help. With decades of experience, our personal injury law firm has helped seriously injured car accident victims manage the legal process to recover the compensation they deserve—and we’re here to help you too.
What Is Michigan’s No-Fault Law for Motor Vehicle Accidents?
Michigan is a no-fault state. This means that, according to Michigan auto law, every driver must have PIP from their own insurance company to cover their minor injuries, regardless of fault. Michigan drivers can choose among several levels of PIP coverage with auto insurance companies, which will then pay for reasonable and necessary medical expenses up to the coverage amount selected—along with lost wages, attendant care, and some funeral or burial expenses. If injuries are severe, seriously injured victims may be able to sue an at-fault driver for additional damages (if the injured person is less than 50% at fault for the accident).
Do I Need a Lawyer in Michigan’s No-Fault System?
In a no-fault insurance state like Michigan, if your injuries are severe, you may be able to pursue compensation beyond your own PIP insurance coverage and no-fault benefits. An attorney from our personal injury law firm can help you determine if you have a case.
Serious Injuries in Grand Rapids Car Accident Cases
MCL – Section 257.58c defines injuries that qualify as a serious impairment of a body function and may be grounds for pursuing additional damages beyond your no-fault insurance benefits after a car accident. These may include:
- The loss or loss of use of limbs, such as hands, feet, fingers, or thumbs
- Vision or hearing loss, as well as impairments to bodily functions
- Conditions like comas that last more than 3 days or measurable brain or mental impairments
- Serious physical trauma, including serious visible disfigurement, skull fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and substantial bone fractures
- Loss of organs or internal injuries like subdural hemorrhages or hematomas
Compensation for Seriously Injured Car Crash Victims
In a case involving serious impairment of a body function, additional damages beyond those provided by a no-fault insurer may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Common Types of Michigan Car Accidents
Car accidents in Grand Rapids that result in life-changing injuries take various forms, including rear-end, head-on, T-bone, and rollover collisions. Discuss your auto accident case with an experienced lawyer to determine if you are eligible to recover compensation from the at-fault party, including pain and suffering damages.
What Causes Car Accidents in Grand Rapids, MI?
Car accidents in Grand Rapids are often caused by a negligent driver who is texting or talking on the phone, speeding, or exhibiting reckless behaviors (like tailgating or weaving through traffic). Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another major factor when someone else’s negligence causes an accident. Poor weather like heavy rain, snow, or ice also increases the risk of a motor vehicle crash.
What to Do After a Car Crash in Grand Rapids
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Case in Grand Rapids?
Under Michigan personal injury law, the statute of limitations for an automobile accident in Michigan is three years, starting from the date of your accident.
Contact a Grand Rapids Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you have suffered life-altering injuries in an auto accident, we offer a free consultation with an experienced attorney who will review your case, outline your legal options, and answer your questions about personal injury lawsuits to determine if you have a valid personal injury claim. Call today to discuss your serious injuries and steps to seek fair compensation with our auto accident attorneys.
(312) 223-1700