How Electric Vehicle Accidents Can Lead To Serious Injuries
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, but they also come with unique risks. While EVs are safe and beneficial for the environment, their special technology, such as lithium-ion batteries, can create specific dangers in crashes. These risks can result in severe injuries, especially in high-speed crashes or in accidents causing battery damage. It’s important to recognize these unique risks and the protections Michigan law offers to accident victims. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we’re dedicated to helping victims of electric vehicle accidents pursue justice and secure the financial compensation their cases deserve under Michigan’s car accident laws.
The Unique Risks Of Electric Vehicle Accidents
Electric vehicles operate differently from traditional cars, mainly due to their high-voltage lithium-ion batteries. Although these lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, they do pose serious risks in collisions. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, EVs are prone to battery fires and explosions. The incidents often lead to severe burns and other injuries. EVs also have electrical components that can complicate rescue efforts, increasing the potential for harm.
Another major difference is in EV acceleration. Many electric vehicles are designed to accelerate quickly, making high-impact collisions more likely and potentially more dangerous. Given these factors, EV accidents often require a distinct legal approach under Michigan law.
Common Catastrophic Injuries In Electric Vehicle Accidents
Catastrophic injuries are those that often result in long-term or permanent disability. In electric vehicle accidents, some of the most common catastrophic injuries include:
Burn Injuries: Due to the risk of battery fires, burns are a significant concern. These burns can range from severe surface burns to deep tissue damage, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The rapid acceleration and high impact associated with some EV collisions can lead to serious head trauma.
Spinal Cord Injuries: The forceful impact in EV accidents can result in damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis.
Fractures and Internal Injuries: The structure and weight of electric vehicles can increase the likelihood of severe fractures and internal injuries. The weight of the EV battery adds additional mass, which can intensify the force of a collision.
In Michigan, individuals who have suffered these kinds of injuries may be entitled to compensation. By working with experienced attorneys, victims can navigate the legal complexities and pursue the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
Michigan Laws Relevant To Electric Vehicle Accidents
Under Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws, individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents are entitled to certain benefits, regardless of who was at fault. However, the severity of injuries in EV accidents often leads to extensive medical bills and long-term care needs, which may exceed the limits of no-fault insurance. When this occurs, accident victims may pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party through a third-party liability claim.
Michigan Compiled Laws Section 500.3135 provides guidance on third-party claims. Under this statute, accident victims may sue for noneconomic damages (such as pain and suffering) if they meet Michigan’s injury threshold, which generally requires showing that the injury caused death, serious impairment of a body function, or permanent disfigurement. Because catastrophic injuries often satisfy this threshold, individuals injured in EV accidents may be able to pursue additional compensation.
Liability In Electric Vehicle Accidents: Understanding Product Defects
In some cases, a catastrophic injury in an electric vehicle accident may be linked to a defect in the vehicle itself. For example, if a battery fire was caused by a manufacturing flaw or design defect, the vehicle manufacturer may be liable for damages. Michigan Product Liability Law (MCL § 600.2945) allows victims to seek compensation if they can demonstrate that their injuries were due to a defect in the vehicle’s design, manufacture, or labeling.
Our team understands how to investigate potential product defects and hold manufacturers accountable for injuries caused by their vehicles. Whether the accident resulted from a battery malfunction or another issue unique to electric vehicles, we work diligently to ensure our clients have every avenue of compensation available to them.
EV Accident FAQs
How Can Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance System Affect Electric Vehicle Accident Claims?
Michigan’s no-fault insurance covers a portion of medical bills, lost wages, and other essential benefits for accident victims, regardless of fault. However, if injuries are catastrophic, no-fault benefits may not cover all costs. In such cases, we may pursue a third-party claim against the at-fault driver. The severity of EV-related injuries often meets Michigan’s injury threshold, allowing us to pursue noneconomic damages like pain and suffering.
Can I Hold An EV Manufacturer Liable For Injuries In A Battery Fire?
Yes, if the battery fire or another injury was due to a defect in the EV’s design, manufacture, or instructions, Michigan product liability laws allow you to hold the manufacturer accountable. We would investigate whether the battery or another component failed due to a defect, causing or worsening the injuries sustained.
What Types Of Damages Can Be Pursued In Michigan After An EV Accident?
Michigan law allows accident victims to pursue various types of damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. For catastrophic injuries, damages may also include costs for long-term care and rehabilitation. Michigan’s third-party claims allow victims to seek noneconomic damages if the injury meets the statutory threshold of a serious impairment or disfigurement.
Are There Additional Challenges In Pursuing An EV Accident Claim?
Yes, EV accidents can be complex because of the unique risks they pose. Determining liability may involve investigating both the driver and the vehicle manufacturer. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we have the experience needed to navigate these challenges and ensure our clients’ rights are protected.
How Soon Should I Contact A Lawyer After An EV Accident?
It’s essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible to help preserve evidence and begin building your case. Electric vehicle accidents may involve product liability elements that require a thorough investigation, so early legal representation can make a significant difference in your claim.
Call Our Detroit Car Accident Lawyer For Your Free Consultation
At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we understand the profound impact that catastrophic injuries from electric vehicle accidents can have on individuals and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in an EV accident, we’re here to help. Our team has the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate Michigan’s complex car accident laws and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call Ravid & Associates, P.C., to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
Our office in Southfield serves clients in Detroit and throughout Michigan. To receive your free consultation, contact our Detroit car accident lawyer at Ravid & Associates, P.C., by calling (248) 948-9696, and let us help you through this challenging time.
