Auto Accidents and No-Fault Insurance
Michigan No-Fault Auto Insurance became law in October 1973. There have been thousands of cases that have been interpreted by the courts. Find an attorney that knows about auto accident laws, you can trust and can assist in guiding you through the process.
The State of Michigan is a no-fault insurance state meaning that every vehicle on the road is required by law to be a no-fault insurance policy holder. Providing insurance coverage and benefits to anyone injured in an auto accident, whether it be the at-fault or not at-fault driver. These types of added benefits, are called Personal Injury Protection benefits, which typically consist of payments for health care expenses, lost income or wages, in-home care products and services, household maintenance products and services, as well as, many other benefits that are a direct relation to the accident.
Virtually every individual injured in an automobile, motorcycle, or truck accident, may receive No-Fault insurance benefits, no matter who was at fault for the accident. Even if you do not own the vehicle that was involved in the accident, you may receive No-Fault Benefits.
First Party vs. Third Party
A first-party case involves the accident victim and their insurance company, this is known as personal injury protection (PIP) benefits. In a first-party case, no-fault benefits are usually paid by your individual insurance company.
A third-party case involves the accident victim and the at-fault driver. In a third-party case, the vehicle accident victim sues the at-fault driver for "pain and suffering", as well as, economic benefits. In a third-party case, damages are usually paid from the at-fault parties insurance company.
If the vehicle accident in a third-party situation happened more than three years ago, the victim cannot sue or file against the at-fault driver or their insurance carrier and policy for damages. Minors are allotted more time in filing a claim or suit against the at-fault party.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident and suffered injuries within the last 3 years, you may be qualified for more repayment outside of Michigan No-Fault benefits. Being an injured party filing a liability claim, 3rd party lawsuit, may allow you to receive reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance policy if it was due to negligence. The damages that are typically associated with this type of repayment are split into non-economic damages and economic damages. The most common term used for non-economic damages is called "pain and suffering damages” and determine the threshold, as well as, whether the at-fault driver was indeed negligent.
Criteria considered for Accident Settlements & Compensation in the State of Michigan:
"Pain & Suffering" – Considering when the accident occurred, also into the foreseen future.
Psychological Injuries - PTSD, Shock, Depression are all forms of Psychological Injuries
Permanent Disfigurement and Scarring
Work & Activities Impairments – Reduction in Quality of Life
Decline of Income & Wages
Bystander Claims - Witnessing a family member injured in an accident
Wrongful Death
Bahrie Law has represented clients with pain and injuries due to a serious auto accident. In cases where an individual is fatally injured in Michigan, filing a wrong death claim is advised. Bahrie Law is here to provide you with the right defense, at the right time, in the right place. We are here to work with you and for your rights. Call Us! (517) 694-1300