Car accidents are one of the leading causes of accidental injury in the country. Each year, thousands of people are killed in car accidents and tens of thousands more are injured. These accidents are frequently caused by the negligence of other drivers. Michigan follows a No-Fault theory of liability. This means a person injured in an auto accident can be entitled to benefits regardless of whether he or she caused the accident. That is why it is important to contact a Michigan car accident lawyer if you, a friend, or a loved one is involved in a car accident.
Basically, car accidents are divided into two separate categories, first-party and third-party claims. There is also a category called uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage which helps people recover compensation in auto accidents when the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance to cover the injuries.
A first-party claim is a claim a person makes against an insurance company for what is known as first-party no-fault benefits. These benefits include wage loss benefits, reimbursement for hospital bills and doctor’s bills, transportation expenses and other medical expenses. You do not have to own a car or even have auto insurance to receive no-fault benefits. The benefits are extensive but a claim must be set-up with the proper insurance company within one year of the accident.
A third-party claim is the typical negligence claim in which an accident victim seeks money damages because of the negligence, or fault, of another vehicle operator or owner. In a third-party claim, an auto accident victim is typically trying to obtain compensation for pain and suffering, scarring and other non-economic damages.
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage provides compensation to a car, truck or motorcycle accident victim who is hurt by a negligent driver who does not have insurance, or has insurance but not enough to cover the injuries. These claims are made against your own insurance carrier and the amount of the recovery depends on the insurance policy in effect at the time of the accident.
The Law Offices of Lee Steinberg, P.C. has represented countless auto, truck and motorcycle accident victims, helping them obtain the compensation they deserve under the law. Please contact our office directly at 1.800.LEE.FREE (533-3733) to find out your rights and how we can begin fighting for you.
"Because it’s not just the law, it’s Lee."
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