What happens when someone else’s mistake leaves you hurt? How do you heal when the bills from getting medical care keep coming? Who is really on your side when the system feels like it is built to work against you? These are the many questions people in Michigan face after an unexpected injury.
“Once a lawyer takes up your case, they do not just jump into court; instead, they first dig into the facts of the case to determine its merit,” says Attorney Gerald Thurswell of Thurswell Law
These questions are not just because of the physical pain, but also the confusion, stress, and the feeling that no one is listening. In this situation, a personal injury lawyer can step in to handle the legal side of your case. They can help you find your footing again by working to ensure you get compensation for injuries suffered.
This article will help you understand how personal injury lawyers in Michigan work.
Table of Contents
The First Call
To some, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can be tasking even though it does not have to be so. This is because you are not required to have everything figured out. You only need to tell your story as much as you can remember.
In Michigan, most personal injury lawyers offer a first consultation to get an idea of your case. During the consultation, they will listen, ask questions, and try to understand what you are going through. If they believe your case has merit, they will explain your options but make no promises. However, the first consultation is more than an introduction, it is the beginning of the legal process.
Investigation and Case Assessment
They will start by gathering reports, medical records, witness statements, photos, and anything else vital to the case. This part matters as it helps to build your story into evidence.
In Michigan, this evidence matters a lot. Hence, a personal injury lawyer has to check for facts that can support your claim. They also look out for anything the insurance companies might try to use against you. During all of this, you get space to focus on healing.
Navigating Michigan’s No-Fault System
Michigan’s car insurance laws are different from other states in the United States. Most car accident victims might have heard about the “no-fault” insurance system. It means your insurer pays for your medical bills and lost wages, no matter who caused the accident. This is called a first-party claim, and your lawyer can help you file the claim and make sure your insurer does not cut corners.
But what happens when your injuries are serious? That is when your lawyer may push for a third-party claim. The third-party claim allows you to seek compensation from the responsible party whose negligent act caused your injuries.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating and misleading. They may come across as friendly and helpful over the phone, but their primary goal is often to protect their interests and prioritize financial gain by trying to minimize payout.
In this case, your personal injury lawyer can advocate and negotiate a suitable deal for you after carefully reviewing your case. If the offers do not seem to be fair, they negotiate for a better settlement.
Filing a Lawsuit and Trial
If no fair settlement is agreed on with the insurance company, your lawyer can file a lawsuit. This process starts with your lawyer filing a formal complaint with the court, outlining every detail. After filing, the defendant has a chance to respond to issues raised or on a point of law. Then, both parties will enter a discovery phase, and if no settlement is reached after discovery, the case proceeds to trial.
In the trial stage, arguments are presented by both parties to convince the court to rule in their favor. Trials might take time, but sometimes, it is the only way to get the justice you deserve.
Conclusion
If you have been injured, the right time to act is immediately following the incident. Considering the role a personal injury lawyer can play in ensuring you get a just settlement offer or a shot at more if the case goes to trial, you may need to speak to one today.
