Detroit Road Rage Accident Lawyers
Road Rage Accident Injury Claims In Michigan
Road rage is a growing concern on Detroit’s busy streets and highways, leading to dangerous accidents that can cause severe injuries and even fatalities. As personal injury attorneys with a focus on helping Michigan families, we understand how devastating these incidents can be for victims and their loved ones.
A road rage accident isn’t just another traffic collision—it often involves reckless behavior that could have been avoided. Car accident insurance companies often downplay the severity of these cases, but our team at Ravid & Associates, P.C., is here to make sure that you are fully compensated for your injuries and damages.
With over 180 years of combined legal experience and a proven record of securing favorable outcomes, we take on the tough fights to hold reckless drivers accountable. If you or someone you love has been injured in a road rage accident, we can help you understand your legal options and seek the justice you deserve.
Our goal is to secure more compensation for you than any other attorney could, and we don’t stop until we’ve explored every avenue for your claim. Insurance companies are afraid of lawyers like us because we know how to build strong cases that demand results. We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand where you stand and what steps you can take. You pay no fees unless we win your case. Let’s take a closer look at what makes road rage accidents unique and how Michigan law applies to these cases.
What Is Road Rage And How Does It Lead To Accidents?
Road rage is aggressive or reckless behavior exhibited by drivers, often resulting from frustration or anger while driving. Common forms of road rage include tailgating, speeding, making unsafe lane changes, yelling, or even engaging in physical altercations. In some cases, drivers intentionally cause collisions to retaliate against perceived slights or mistakes by others on the road. This kind of behavior endangers everyone, from pedestrians to other drivers and passengers.
In Detroit, road rage accidents occur on high-traffic roads like I-75, I-94, and the Lodge Freeway, where traffic congestion can heighten tempers. These crashes frequently involve:
- Rear-end collisions caused by tailgating.
- Multi-vehicle pile ups due to high-speed maneuvers.
- Sideswipes resulting from aggressive lane changes.
- Intentional ramming of other vehicles.
When road rage leads to a traffic accident, you need to document the reckless behavior involved, as it may significantly impact liability and compensation.
Legal Ramifications Of Road Rage Accidents In Michigan
In Michigan, road rage incidents can result in both criminal and civil consequences. Under Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Act (MCL 500.3101), victims of car accidents are entitled to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, which cover medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services regardless of who was at fault. However, when road rage leads to serious injuries or intentional harm, victims may also pursue a liability claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Intentional acts, such as deliberately causing a collision, can remove the at-fault driver’s protection under the no-fault system. In these cases, victims can file a third-party claim for non-economic damages, including pain and suffering. Furthermore, drivers who exhibit road rage may face criminal charges, including reckless driving or assault with a motor vehicle, under MCL 257.626.
Who Pays For Damages In A Road Rage Accident?
Determining who pays in a road rage accident depends on the specific circumstances and the available evidence. In Michigan, your own PIP insurance typically covers your immediate medical expenses and lost wages. However, if you’ve suffered a serious injury, such as a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage, you may be eligible to pursue a third-party liability claim.
The at-fault driver’s insurance company may be responsible for damages, including:
- Pain and suffering,
- Future medical care,
- Long-term loss of earning capacity and
- And other damages.
If the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover damages through your own uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. Our team works diligently to investigate these scenarios, ensuring every available source of compensation is pursued.
Common Injuries In Road Rage Accidents
Road rage accidents lead to serious injuries due to the reckless and aggressive nature of the road rage driver’s behavior. Victims may suffer:
- Broken bones and fractures.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis.
- Internal organ damage or bleeding.
- Whiplash and neck injuries.
- Emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The extent of these accident-related injuries requires extensive medical care and long recovery periods, leaving victims with significant financial burdens. Our firm knows how to fight for the full compensation needed to cover your current and future needs.
How We Prove Fault In Road Rage Cases
Building a strong case requires thorough investigation and evidence collection. In road rage accidents, proving fault involves demonstrating the at-fault driver’s reckless behavior. Evidence we may use includes:
- Police report documenting the incident.
- Eyewitness statements from others who saw the road rage behavior.
- Traffic camera or dashboard footage.
- Medical records that link your injuries to the crash.
- Expert testimony to reconstruct the collision.
Our experience with Michigan’s legal system allows our attorneys to navigate these complex claims effectively, ensuring that the at-fault party is held accountable for their actions.
FAQs About Road Rage Accidents In Detroit, Michigan
What Should I Do If I’m Involved In A Road Rage Accident?
First, prioritize your safety. Move to a safe location if possible and call the police immediately. Report the aggressive behavior and provide as much detail as you can about the at-fault driver. Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor, and document everything, including photos of the accident scene and contact information for witnesses. Finally, contact a Detroit road rage accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Can I Sue For Pain And Suffering After A Road Rage Accident?
Yes, you may be able to sue for pain and suffering if you meet Michigan’s threshold for serious injuries. These include permanent disfigurement, significant impairment of bodily function, or death. Our team will evaluate your case to determine whether you qualify for non-economic damages and build a compelling argument to maximize your compensation.
What If The At-Fault Driver Claims It Wasn’t Road Rage?
Disputes about fault are common in road rage cases. That’s why evidence such as witness statements, video footage, and police reports is so important. We’ll work to uncover and present compelling evidence that proves the at-fault driver’s reckless or intentional behavior.
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Road Rage Accident?
Michigan law gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit under MCL 600.5805. However, it’s critical to act quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case. Contact us as soon as possible to get started.
Can I Recover Damages If The At-Fault Driver Was Uninsured?
Yes, if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, it can help cover your damages when the at-fault driver lacks insurance. Our team can help you file a claim with your insurer and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Call Our Detroit Road Rage Accident Attorneys To Receive A Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a road rage accident in Detroit or anywhere in Michigan, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we understand the challenges you’re dealing with and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Our team offers a free, confidential consultation to help you understand your legal options. We won’t charge you any fees unless we win your case.
Contact our Detroit road rage accident lawyer at Ravid & Associates, P.C. by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. With 180+ years of combined experience and a track record of helping over 25,000 Michigan families, we’re the firm insurance companies don’t want to face. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery.