When Should You Get An Attorney After A Car Accident In Michigan?

You’ve just been in a Michigan auto accident. Your car is damaged, medical bills are adding up, and the insurance company keeps calling with a settlement offer that feels rushed and too low. You’re hurt, overwhelmed, and unsure who to trust or what steps to take next. Accepting too soon or handling your case alone could mean missing out on the compensation you need for your recovery, both now and in the future.

This is where Matz Injury Law can help. Our experienced car accident lawyers understand Michigan’s no-fault insurance system and know what it takes to build a strong car accident claim and pursue a fair settlement for you. We’re here to fight for you so you can focus on healing, not paperwork, deadlines, or insurance games.

When Should I Hire a Michigan Car Accident Attorney?

You don’t have to wait until you are overwhelmed with bills or denied by an insurance company to call a lawyer. In fact, hiring one sooner can help you protect your rights. Here are a few situations where working with a Michigan car accident attorney may benefit you after a motor vehicle accident.

After Sustaining Injuries From a Car Crash

You should strongly consider hiring a Michigan car accident attorney if you are injured in an accident. Even minor injuries may benefit from legal help to improve your chances of fair compensation. If you have suffered serious injuries, working with an attorney becomes even more important. Insurance adjusters do not prioritize your interests, and with medical expenses ahead, you need to pursue appropriate compensation.

Navigating Insurance Claims and Settlements

Auto accident attorneys help guide you through the complex process of dealing with uninsured drivers and navigating insurance claims. Insurance coverage limits can complicate settlements for all damages. A lawyer can help you explore options to recover damages from a negligent driver. Attorneys also assist with no-fault insurance claims and accident cases, providing legal guidance that helps cover your medical bills.

If your loved one lost their life in a car accident, it is important to seek the guidance of a wrongful death attorney. If you are facing this situation, we encourage you to reach out for help.

If There Is a Dispute Over Fault or Multiple Parties

If the crash involves multiple vehicles or there is a dispute over who caused the accident, the situation can become legally complex. An attorney will gather evidence, such as police reports and medical records, and speak with witnesses to build your case to prevent unfair blame or denial of compensation.

How to Choose the Right Lawyer

Not all lawyers are the same. Here is what to consider when choosing someone to represent your Michigan car accident case:

• Experience handling Michigan car accident and personal injury cases
• A record of successful settlements and verdicts
• A contingency fee structure (you pay only if you recover compensation)
• Resources to investigate claims, gather evidence, and consult professionals
• Testimonials and reviews that show consistent client satisfaction
• Clear communication about your case progress and expectations

Can I Settle My Car Accident Claim on My Own?

Although it’s possible to settle a car accident claim on your own, having legal help can make the process easier and more effective. If your car accident involved only property damage or minor injuries with no dispute about fault, you might handle the claim directly with the insurer. For example, you could file a mini-tort claim (up to $3,000 for accidents after July 1, 2020) to recover vehicle damage.

However, you risk:

• Accepting a settlement before fully understanding your injuries
• Missing important deadlines that could block future claims (including the one-year deadline for no-fault benefits)
• Signing a release that prevents you from seeking additional compensation later

If your case is more complex, working with an attorney is often the safer choice.

Is It Worth Hiring an Attorney for My Car Accident Case?

Hiring an attorney is often worth it, especially if you have serious injuries or your claim is complicated. A lawyer can help you understand Michigan’s no-fault insurance system, calculate the full value of your damages, and deal with insurance companies that may offer lowball settlements. With legal guidance, you have a better chance of recovering the compensation for the true value of your claim.

Here are some reasons why having a lawyer on your side can help:

Knowledge of the Legal Process

Michigan car accident attorneys like ours at Matz Injury Law understand personal injury law and the legal landscape, from statute of limitations to proving a “serious impairment of body function,” which is required to sue for pain and suffering.

Protects Your Legal Rights

Your lawyer handles aggressive adjusters, low settlement offers, and overlooked benefits so you do not have to.

Access to Expert Witnesses

From medical professionals to accident reconstruction specialists, experienced attorneys work with trained professionals to strengthen your claim.

Allows You to Focus on Recovery

When someone else manages the paperwork, calls, and legal demands, you can focus on healing.

Pursues Fair Compensation

An attorney can help you identify all potential claims, including pain and suffering damages, if your injuries meet the legal threshold.

Risks of Not Hiring a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Michigan

Handling a car accident claim on your own can carry serious risks. Without legal help, you may miss out on important no-fault benefits or underestimate long-term medical expenses. Insurers often pressure car accident victims into accepting low settlements, leaving you unaware of better options or your right to pursue additional legal action, such as economic and non-economic damages.

Missing important legal deadlines can also make your claim ineligible. Fault may be unfairly assigned to you, reducing or even eliminating your compensation. Without an attorney to review the details, you risk signing away important rights, including those related to future medical care and compensation, without fully understanding the long-term consequences.

How Can a Michigan Car Accident Lawyer Help Me With My Claim?

A Michigan car accident lawyer can simplify the entire claims process so you can focus on your recovery. Your attorney can handle all legal paperwork, communicate with insurers, and evaluate the details of your case to identify every potential source of compensation. This support helps you avoid costly mistakes and improves your chances of a fair outcome.

Your lawyer will also help you understand important deadlines under Michigan law. For example, you generally have three years to file a lawsuit for personal injury claims under Michigan Compiled Laws § 600.5805 (2023). Acting within these limits is essential to protect your right to pursue damages. By working with an attorney, you can move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Lawyer Fees and Costs for Car Accident Cases

Michigan car accident attorneys like Matz Injury Law work on a contingency fee basis. A contingency fee means that:

• You do not pay any fees upfront.
• You pay only if you recover compensation.
• Your attorney’s payment comes from a percentage of your settlement.

Matz Injury Law offers a lower 22% fee compared to the typical 33⅓% charged across the state. This approach helps you keep more of your settlement after your case is resolved.

Why Choose Matz Injury Law as Your Car Accident Attorney in Michigan

With a reputation for clear, client-focused communication, Matz Injury Law has earned the trust of car accident clients across Michigan. Our goal is to support your recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially. We take the time to listen, explain your legal options, and advocate for the results you need.

Free Case Review for Car Accident Claims

Matz Injury Law offers a free consultation, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, learn about your rights, and plan your next steps without any upfront fees.

Only Pay If You Recover Compensation

You do not pay any fees upfront. We are paid only if we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor. With our 22% contingency fee, you keep more of your compensation compared to the typical rates charged by many other firms.

Testimonials

“After a vehicle accident you should seek legal representation whether or not you are at fault. I contacted Matz Law Firm by leaving a message and received a return call promptly from attorney Jared Matz. We agreed that I would send accident specifics via email. Upon receipt, he contacted me immediately, offering his opinion and advice. He was very thorough and explained the financial and legal considerations for each decision. I trusted Jared Matz and all issues were reasonably and effectively resolved. Jared Matz has great communication and negotiation skills, a good understanding of the law, and broad legal experience. Attorney Jared Matz and his staff were consistently courteous, considerate and empathetic. My interactions with Jared Matz and the Matz Injury Law Firm resulted in a good outcome. Because of my positive experience with Jared Matz as my legal representative, I recommend attorney Jared Matz and Matz Injury Law Firm” — Annette L.

“I had an amazing experience working with Steve and his practice. Whenever I needed any help, he was right there to help. He even came to my house to discuss my case with me when I was bedridden! His dedication, professionalism, truly made a difference. One of the best parts is he takes 22% not 33%!! I would highly recommend Matz Injury Law to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thanks again to Steve and his practice you truly made this process simple and stress free for me!” — Grant B.

“If you need an injury attorney then Steve Matz is the attorney you want. He went above and beyond his responsibilities with my case. My case had several different parts (uninsured driver, medical, employer, and insurance company) and Steve was able to assist with most and the ones he couldn’t he was able to give us another attorney name. He is a great listener and he gets right to the point with any questions. I would recommend Steve to anyone – thank you so much Steve for all your help” — Chris N.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Sue Without a Lawyer for a Car Accident?

While you can technically file a lawsuit without a lawyer, it can be challenging, especially if your case involves injuries or disputes over fault. For simple property damage under $3,000 (mini tort claims), you might handle it alone. But for injury claims, having an attorney from Matz Injury Law on your side means you have guidance through every step, help dealing with insurance companies, and someone focused on protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation.

Can You Sue for Pain and Suffering in Michigan?

Yes, you can sue for pain and suffering in Michigan, but certain legal requirements apply. The at-fault driver must be more than 50% responsible for the accident, not just equally at fault. You also need to show that your injuries meet the legal threshold, which includes death, serious impairment of body function, or permanent serious disfigurement. An attorney can help you determine whether your case qualifies and guide you through the process of pursuing compensation.

How Do Car Accident Settlements Work in Michigan?

You generally start by filing a no-fault claim with your own insurer to cover medical expenses and lost wages. If your injuries meet Michigan’s legal threshold, you may also pursue additional damages from the at-fault driver for pain and suffering.

What Is the Average Michigan Car Accident Settlement?

There is no fixed average for Michigan car accident settlements because each case is unique. Settlement amounts depend on factors like injury severity, wage loss, impact on daily life, medical costs, and other damages.

How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take in Michigan?

Cases involving serious injuries or disputes over fault can take several months or even years, especially if a lawsuit is necessary. Keep in mind that Michigan has different deadlines: generally, you have three years to file a lawsuit for injury claims, but only one year to file for no-fault (PIP) benefits, and you can only recover PIP expenses going back one year from when you file. Your attorney can help manage these timelines and work toward a fair resolution.

Do You Have to Pay Taxes on Your Settlement?

Generally, personal injury settlements are not considered taxable income in Michigan. However, any interest earned on the settlement may be taxable. If part of the settlement covers non-injury damages or includes confidentiality conditions, those portions might be subject to tax. It is best to consult an attorney or tax professional about your specific situation.

Contact Matz Injury Law for Your Free Consultation

When you are ready to discuss your Michigan car accident claim, Matz Injury Law is here to help. Our team will work with you to find solutions tailored to your needs and focus on maximizing the compensation available to you. Let our personal injury lawyers manage the legal details so you can concentrate on your recovery. Call us at 866-22Not33 or complete our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.