Are you aware that in Michigan, you can still recover damages even if the accident is partially your fault? Or that documenting your injuries late can reduce your compensation? These are just a few of the facts that many injured people realize when it is already too late.
Most times, injury victims assume that their insurance company will cover the cost of damages, but this is not always the case. How you handle the case can impact the outcome of your claim. So, how do you protect your rights? How do you ensure your claim is fair regarding your injury?
This article breaks down the key strategies for maximizing your compensation in a Michigan personal injury claim.
Understand Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Rules
Michigan follows a unique no-fault insurance system that needs to be understood when claiming compensation for personal injury claims. That means after a car accident, your insurance company covers your damages up to your policy limit, irrespective of who is responsible. This kind of insurance is called the Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
However, PIP does not cover all damages, so you must know what is included under this coverage. It does not compensate you for pain, suffering, or non-economic losses. “If you are dealing with serious injuries, you can file a lawsuit against the party at fault also seeking compensation for intangible losses,” says Attorney Gerald Thurswell of Thurswell Law .
Gather Evidence
The moments after an injury can be overwhelming. However, these moments matter more than most people realize. What you do during this moment can shape the outcome of your entire case.
First, you start by gathering every piece of evidence that will be pivotal to your case. Take clear pictures of the scene, your injuries, and damaged property. If you delay, details might fade, and evidence will disappear. Every detail you save is a building block in your case. The stronger the foundation, the stronger your chances of getting fair compensation.
Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer
Some people wait too long to speak with a personal injury lawyer in Michigan. Surprisingly, others think they do not need one at all. But the truth is that consulting a lawyer can tilt the case in your favor. They understand the worth of your claim and know how to negotiate with insurers or other parties involved. Hiring a lawyer helps you protect your rights, time, and peace of mind.
In addition, the majority of Michigan personal injury lawyers charge contingency fees. That is, you do not have to pay a percentage until your case has been won. They also offer an initial consultation that gives you a chance to understand your options without any financial commitment.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Following a sudden accident, it’s tempting to ignore or minimize the extent of your injuries, particularly if you’re not experiencing any immediate pain. But the truth is that injuries can take time to show, even when they can create an underlying condition. That is why seeking medical attention immediately is important, regardless of how your injuries seem or feel.
Seeking medical attention also helps in evaluating the seriousness of your injury. If you delay, insurance adjusters might say your injuries are not linked to the accident.
Make a Realistic Demand
It is natural to feel like you deserve a big payout when you are injured. However, for personal injury claims, making unrealistic demands can affect your chances of getting fair compensation. To get fair compensation, your claim needs to be backed by concrete evidence. Asking for too much without proof can affect your case and the compensation value you will get.
Being realistic does not mean settling for less but knowing the value of your case and focusing on what you can clearly show. The goal of this is to get what you need to recover and move forward.
Conclusion
Every action you take after an injury-causing accident is crucial. To secure the highest possible compensation, it’s essential to understand and apply the right strategies at each stage. A great way to get through the process may be to seek the services of a personal injury attorney or firm in Michigan.