How Michigan Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help You Maximize Your Compensation
Truck accidents often result in serious injuries and complex legal claims. These cases differ significantly from typical car accidents due to the severity of injuries, the involvement of commercial insurance policies, and the multiple parties that may be held responsible. When handling a truck accident claim in Michigan, understanding your legal rights and options is critical. As attorneys with years of experience representing accident victims, we know how overwhelming the legal process can feel. Our role is to help you recover the full compensation you deserve under Michigan law.
Understanding Michigan No-Fault Insurance Laws In Truck Accidents
Michigan follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that after an accident, injured parties must first seek compensation from their own insurance provider, regardless of who was at fault. Under MCL 500.3101, all drivers, including truck drivers, must carry no-fault insurance, which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services.
However, in serious truck accidents where injuries exceed Michigan’s no-fault coverage limits, victims may have the right to pursue additional compensation through a third-party claim against the at-fault truck driver or trucking company. Under MCL 500.3135, injured parties can seek damages for pain and suffering if they suffer a serious impairment of body function or permanent disfigurement as defined by Michigan law.
Identifying Liability In A Michigan Truck Accident
Determining fault in a truck accident case can be complicated. Unlike standard car accidents, liability in a truck crash may involve multiple parties, including:
- Truck Drivers – If the driver was distracted, fatigued, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they can be held responsible.
- Trucking Companies – Companies may be liable if they fail to maintain their trucks, enforced unsafe driving schedules, or improperly trained drivers.
- Cargo Loaders – If the cargo was not properly loaded or secured, shifting weight could have contributed to the crash.
- Truck Manufacturers – Defective truck parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, may lead to product liability claims.
Our legal team investigates every case thoroughly, reviewing accident reports, driver logs, black box data, and company records to determine who is responsible.
Maximizing Compensation Beyond No-Fault Benefits
While no-fault insurance covers economic losses, it does not compensate for pain and suffering or other non-economic damages unless a serious injury occurs. Michigan law allows injured truck accident victims to seek compensation beyond no-fault benefits if they meet the serious injury threshold under MCL 500.3135.
Through a third-party lawsuit, we help clients recover damages for:
- Medical expenses beyond PIP coverage
- Long-term rehabilitation costs
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability and disfigurement
Trucking companies and their insurers aggressively fight these claims, but we ensure that our clients are not pressured into accepting low settlement offers.
Dealing With Insurance Companies And Trucking Defense Teams
Insurance companies representing trucking companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize payouts. Many victims are pressured into quick settlements before they fully understand the extent of their injuries or financial losses. Once a settlement is accepted, additional claims cannot be made, even if medical expenses continue to rise.
We handle all communications with the insurance companies to protect our clients’ rights. Our attorneys carefully assess the long-term impact of injuries and demand full compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. If negotiations fail, we are fully prepared to take the case to court to secure the compensation our clients deserve.
Michigan Trucking Regulations And Their Impact On Your Case
Trucking companies and drivers must comply with both state and federal trucking regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets rules regarding hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading, while Michigan law enforces additional safety requirements.
If a trucking company violates these laws and causes an accident, it may be held liable for negligence per se, meaning its violation of safety regulations automatically establishes fault. We investigate whether the trucking company or driver violated any laws and use that evidence to strengthen your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Truck Accident Claims
What Should I Do After A Truck Accident In Michigan?
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Report the accident to the police and request a copy of the crash report. Avoid discussing fault at the scene, and never accept a quick settlement from an insurance company. Contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
How Is Fault Determined In A Michigan Truck Accident?
Fault is determined through an investigation of evidence, including police reports, witness statements, black box data, and trucking company records. Michigan uses a comparative fault system under MCL 600.2959, meaning compensation may be reduced if the injured party is found partially at fault. However, if a truck driver or company was primarily responsible, they can still be held liable.
Can I Sue A Trucking Company If The Driver Was At Fault?
Yes, trucking companies can be held liable for accidents caused by their drivers. Under vicarious liability laws, employers are responsible for the actions of their employees if they are acting within the scope of their job. Additionally, if the company hired an unqualified driver or violated safety regulations, they may face direct liability for negligence.
What Damages Can I Recover In A Truck Accident Lawsuit?
If your injuries meet Michigan’s serious injury threshold, you may seek damages beyond no-fault benefits. Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Every case is different, so the exact amount of damages depends on the severity of injuries and the impact on the victim’s life.
How Long Do I Have To File A Truck Accident Lawsuit In Michigan?
Under MCL 600.5805, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Michigan is three years from the date of the accident. However, if a claim involves a government entity, different deadlines may apply. It is important to act quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case.
What If The Trucking Company’s Insurance Denies My Claim?
Insurance companies often deny valid claims to protect their profits. Common tactics include disputing liability, downplaying injuries, or arguing that pre-existing conditions caused the injuries. If a claim is denied, we aggressively challenge the insurance company’s findings by providing medical evidence, accident reconstruction reports, and witness testimony. If necessary, we take the case to trial to fight for fair compensation.
Will My Truck Accident Case Go To Trial?
Many truck accident cases are settled before trial through negotiations or mediation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, taking the case to court may be the best option. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, ensuring that our clients have the strongest possible legal representation.
Contact Ravid & Associates, P.C. To Protect Your Valuable Legal Rights
Truck accident claims in Michigan are complex, and insurance companies work hard to minimize payouts. Without experienced legal representation, victims may not receive the full compensation they deserve. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we fight aggressively for our clients and ensure that their rights are fully protected.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, we are here to help. Call our Detroit truck accident lawyer at Ravid & Associates, P.C. today at (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. Our firm represents clients in Detroit and throughout the entire state of Michigan from our office in Southfield, Michigan. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
