Detroit Animal Crossing Accident Lawyers

Animal Crossing Accident Injury Claims in Michigan

Animal crossing accidents in Detroit, Michigan, present unique challenges for drivers and pedestrians alike. When a sudden animal encounter leads to an accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. As accident injury attorneys with decades of experience, we understand the complexities of Michigan’s car accident laws and how they apply to collisions involving animals.

Whether your accident was caused by a deer darting across the road or a stray dog causing another driver to swerve, these incidents can result in significant damage and injuries. Our goal is to help you understand your valuable legal options and fight for the economic compensation your case deserves. With over 180 years of combined experience, our team has helped more than 25,000 Michigan families recover after accidents. We’re here to make sure your voice is heard and that you get more than any other lawyer would get you.

How Animal Crossing Accidents Happen

Animal crossing accidents typically occur when an animal unexpectedly enters a roadway, forcing drivers to react quickly. These scenarios may involve:

• Wildlife Collisions – Michigan is home to a large deer population. Deer-related accidents are especially common during mating season in the fall and can cause severe damage to vehicles and injuries to drivers and passengers.
• Domestic Animal Incidents – Stray dogs or livestock wandering onto roadways can lead to accidents, especially in rural or suburban areas.
• Swerving To Avoid Animals – In many cases, drivers may not hit the animal directly but lose control while trying to avoid it, causing collisions with other vehicles or fixed objects.

Understanding how these animal crossing accidents occur is crucial for determining liability and seeking compensation.

Legal Issues Surrounding Animal Crossing Accidents In Michigan

Animal crossing accidents raise complex legal questions about liability. Michigan car accident laws address various scenarios, and determining who is responsible often depends on the type of animal and the circumstances of the collision.

• No-Fault Insurance System – Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws require drivers to seek compensation through their own insurance policy for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, property damage claims may still depend on liability.
• Wildlife Collisions – If a crash involves wildlife, such as a deer, no single party is typically at fault. Drivers can file a comprehensive claim with their insurance to cover vehicle damage.
• Domestic Animals – If a collision involves a domestic animal, such as a dog or livestock, the animal’s owner may be held liable if they fail to secure the animal properly. Michigan law requires pet owners to keep their animals under control and may hold them accountable for damages caused by negligence.
• Comparative Negligence – Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are partially at fault for the accident—for example, by speeding or failing to maintain control—you may still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Who Pays For Damages?

The question of who pays for damages after an animal crossing accident depends on the specifics of the case. In Michigan, potential sources of compensation include:

• Your Insurance Policy – Under Michigan’s no-fault system, your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage will pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to your injuries. Comprehensive coverage may also pay for vehicle repairs if you hit an animal.
• The Animal Owner’s Insurance – If a domestic animal caused the accident, the owner’s homeowner’s or farm insurance policy might cover your damages.
• At-Fault Drivers – If another driver’s negligence contributed to the accident, their liability insurance may cover your damages.

Our role as your attorneys is to identify all possible sources of compensation and pursue them aggressively on your behalf.

Steps To Take After An Animal Crossing Accident

If you’ve been involved in an animal crossing accident, taking the following steps can strengthen your case and help protect your valuable rights:

1. Report The Accident – Contact local law enforcement and obtain an official accident report.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, getting a medical evaluation is essential.
3. Document The Scene – Take pictures and videos of the crash scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle. If possible, include images of the animal involved.
4. Exchange Information – If another driver or an animal owner is involved, collect their contact and insurance information.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurer, providing them with the details of the incident.
6. Consult An Attorney – Animal crossing accidents often involve complex legal issues. Our legal professionals are ready to evaluate your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the process.

Michigan Statutes Relevant To Animal Crossing Accidents

Several Michigan laws may apply to your case, including:

• MCL 257.722 – This statute requires animal owners to keep their animals from straying onto public roadways.
• MCL 500.3105 – Part of Michigan’s no-fault insurance law, this statute outlines the benefits available for medical expenses and wage loss resulting from an accident.
• MCL 600.2959 – Michigan’s comparative negligence statute, which reduces compensation based on the plaintiff’s percentage of fault.

Understanding these statutes can help clarify your legal rights and options after an accident.

Why Choose Ravid & Associates, P.C.?

Insurance companies are afraid of lawyers like us because we don’t back down from a fight. Our team is dedicated to getting every client more than any other lawyer would. With a focus on personal injury and over 180 years of combined experience, we’ve recovered millions for Michigan families. We offer free, confidential consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win. When you choose us, you’re choosing a team that’s committed to putting your needs first.

Animal Crossing Accident FAQs

What Should I Do If I Hit A Deer In Michigan?

If you hit a deer, your first step should be to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Pull over to a safe location and call the police to report the accident. Document the scene with photos and contact your insurance company to report the damage. Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws cover medical expenses and lost wages, but comprehensive coverage is required for vehicle repairs caused by hitting a deer.

Can I Sue The Owner Of A Dog Or Livestock That Caused My Accident?

Yes, you can sue the owner of a domestic animal if their negligence caused the accident. Michigan law holds animal owners responsible for keeping their animals off public roads. If the owner fails to secure the animal, you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering.

What Happens If I Swerve To Avoid An Animal And Hit Another Vehicle?

If you swerve to avoid an animal and collide with another vehicle or object, you may be partially at fault under Michigan’s comparative negligence rules. Your financial compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you may still recover damages through your no-fault insurance policy.

Does My Insurance Cover Damage Caused By An Animal Crossing Accident?

Yes, your no-fault insurance will cover medical expenses and lost wages. For vehicle damage, you’ll need comprehensive coverage, which typically covers collisions with animals. If another party is at fault, their insurance may also be a source of compensation.

Call Our Animal Crossing Accident Lawyers To Protect Your Valuable Rights

At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we understand the challenges you face after an animal crossing accident in Detroit, Michigan. Our goal is to fight for the monetary compensation your case deserves and make sure that you have the support you need during this difficult time. Call for a free consultation today to discuss your case and learn your legal options. You won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.

Contact our Detroit animal crossing accident lawyer at Ravid & Associates, P.C. by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. We proudly represent clients in Detroit and throughout Michigan from our Southfield office. Don’t wait—contact us today to get the help you need.