Experienced Southfield, Michigan Truck Accident Lawyers

Being involved in a truck accident in Southfield, Michigan, can be a frightening and life-altering experience. Victims often face serious injuries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress while insurance companies and trucking companies delay or minimize claims. Without legal guidance, you may feel pressured to accept a settlement that does not fully reflect your losses.

At Matz Injury Law, our Southfield truck accident lawyers understand what is at stake and take prompt steps to investigate the crash, protect your rights, and pursue fair compensation under Michigan law. Getting legal help early can help protect both your health and your financial stability.

Michigan Truck Accident Statistics and Injury Risks

Truck accidents pose a significant safety risk on Michigan roads due to the size and force of commercial vehicles. When a collision involves a semi-truck or large commercial vehicle, the injuries are often more severe than in a standard car crash.

According to Michigan State Police traffic crash data, heavy trucks and buses were involved in 15,888 crashes statewide in 2024, reflecting a 5.3% increase from the year before.

These crashes resulted in 110 fatalities and injuries to 3,613 people, many of whom faced long recovery periods and ongoing medical needs.

These figures highlight why truck accident injuries often require extensive medical care and why claims involving commercial trucks tend to be more complex under Michigan law.

Why Hiring a Southfield Truck Accident Lawyer Matters

After a serious truck accident, having legal guidance can help protect your rights and reduce the stress of dealing with insurance companies and trucking carriers. A Southfield truck accident lawyer handles the legal process so you can focus on medical care and recovery.

A lawyer can help by:

• Investigating the crash and gathering evidence such as police reports, driver logs, and maintenance records.
• Identifying all potentially responsible parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, or other third parties.
• Communicating with insurance adjusters who may attempt to downplay your injuries or shift blame.
• Filing required insurance claims or lawsuits and managing deadlines under Michigan personal injury law.

Involving a lawyer early can help preserve evidence and avoid mistakes that could affect your ability to recover compensation.

Jared Matz

Partner & Personal Injury Lawyer

Once he graduated from Michigan, Jared pursued a career in real estate sales and development with a company in Lansing. After gaining valuable knowledge and business experience, Jared returned to…

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Steven Matz

Founding Partner & Personal Injury Lawyer

Steven J. Matz is the founder of Matz Injury Law, specializing in personal injury litigation with a focus on car accident victims. With over 40 years of legal experience, Mr.…

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How Much Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Cost in Southfield, MI?

Most truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay upfront legal fees. Attorney fees are only collected if compensation is recovered through a settlement or court result, and the fee is a percentage of that recovery.

At Matz Injury Law, we structure our contingency fees with injured clients in mind. While many firms charge contingency fees of around one-third, our standard contingency fee is 22% in many truck accident cases. The exact fee depends on the details of the case and is explained clearly in the written fee agreement.

Fee arrangements are explained clearly during your free initial consultation so you understand how costs work before moving forward.

How Do I Choose the Right Lawyer for a Southfield Truck Accident Case?

Choosing the right lawyer after a truck accident can affect how smoothly your claim moves forward and how well your rights are protected. Truck accident cases involve higher stakes, more evidence, and more aggressive insurance defense teams than most car accident claims.

When evaluating a Southfield truck accident lawyer, look for a law firm that offers:

• Experience handling commercial truck accident claims involving serious injuries.
• Knowledge of Michigan auto accident law and federal trucking regulations.
• A clear process for investigating crashes and identifying all responsible parties.
• A history of working directly with injured clients, not passing cases off without communication.
• Straightforward answers and honest guidance during your initial consultation.

At Matz Injury Law, we focus on helping accident victims understand their options, navigate Michigan’s no-fault system, and make informed decisions about their next steps after a truck crash.

Why Clients Choose the Truck Accident Lawyers at Matz Injury Law

Choosing a law firm after a truck accident is a personal decision, especially when your health and financial stability are at stake. Many clients choose Matz Injury Law because of our straightforward approach and focus on practical results.

We offer a lower contingency fee than many firms, charging 22% rather than the more common 33%. This structure allows injured clients to keep more of their recovery while still receiving legal guidance throughout the claims process.

Our legal team has experience handling serious injury cases across Michigan and understands how truck accident claims differ from standard motor vehicle accidents. We focus on clear communication, careful case evaluation, and helping clients navigate both no-fault benefits and third-party claims after a crash.

Testimonials

“Absolutely the most amazing lawyer we could have asked for . I couldn’t thank you enough for sticking with us and helping us with everything! Jared is the guy for you ! 10/10” — Victoria T.>

“I was involved in a fatal trucking accident. I reached out to Matz Injury Law and Jared was extremely helpful in explaining to me how I needed to proceed going forward. I highly recommend giving them a call if you’re in need of a personal attorney as they will answer all your questions and help you get proper compensation for your losses.” — Christian H.>

“Following a near head on collision that left my wife with serious injuries to her leg and a head injury from the air bag that caused “instant onset dementia”, she has been deteriorating and needs constant supervision. Hats off to Steve Matz and all the work he and his firm have done to secure the compensation needed from the insurance company to facilitate her care. Without his tireless help I don’t know where we would be today. I highly recommend Matz Injury Law and if needed would definitely utilize them again.” — Thomas C.

Why Are Commercial Truck Accident Cases So Complex?

Commercial truck accident claims are often more complex than typical car accident cases because they involve additional parties, regulations, and evidence. These factors can make it harder for injured victims to identify who is responsible and how compensation should be pursued.

Common reasons truck accident cases are more complex include:

• Multiple potentially responsible parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, or vehicle manufacturer.
• Federal and state trucking regulations that may affect fault and liability when violations occur.
• Larger insurance policies and defense teams working to limit financial exposure.
• Technical evidence, including electronic logging devices, onboard data, and maintenance records, that must be preserved and reviewed carefully.

Because of these issues, truck accident claims often require early investigation and a detailed understanding of both Michigan law and federal trucking rules.

Michigan and Federal Trucking Regulations That Affect Accident Claims

Commercial trucking is heavily regulated to promote safety and reduce the risk of serious crashes. Truck drivers and trucking companies must follow both federal and Michigan-specific rules that govern how trucks are operated and maintained.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets nationwide safety standards, while Michigan law also regulates truck weights, equipment, and roadway compliance. Important regulations include:

• Hours-of-service rules that limit how long a driver can operate a commercial truck without rest.
• Maintenance and inspection requirements that mandate regular upkeep and accurate repair records.
• Cargo securement rules that address how loads must be balanced and restrained to prevent shifting or rollovers.

When a trucking company or driver fails to follow these regulations, those violations may play an important role in determining fault and liability after a truck accident.

What Are The Most Common Causes of Southfield Truck Accidents?

Identifying what caused a truck accident is an important step in determining who may be legally responsible. Commercial truck crashes often involve more than one contributing factor, especially when safety rules are ignored.

Common causes of truck accidents in and around Southfield include:

• Driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, fatigue from hours-of-service violations, or impaired driving.
• Poor vehicle maintenance, including brake failures, worn tires, or steering system defects.
• Improperly secured cargo that shifts or spills and causes loss of control or rollovers.
• Weather-related issues when drivers fail to adjust speed or handling for rain, snow, or icy road conditions common in Michigan.

A thorough investigation can uncover one or more of these factors and help clarify how the crash occurred and who may be held accountable under Michigan law.

Serious Injuries Victims Suffer in Michigan Truck Accidents

Because of the size and force involved, truck accidents often cause serious injuries that can change a victim’s life in lasting ways. Many people hurt in these crashes face long recovery periods, ongoing medical care, and uncertainty about returning to work.

Common truck accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries and head trauma that may affect memory, concentration, or personality.
• Spinal cord injuries that can result in partial or permanent paralysis.
• Broken bones and complex fractures that require surgery or rehabilitation.
• Internal injuries, including organ damage or internal bleeding that may not be immediately visible.
• Burns, deep cuts, or scarring that can lead to permanent disfigurement.
• Emotional trauma, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress that affects daily life after the crash.

When injuries are this severe, working with a personal injury lawyer can help accident victims document the full impact of their injuries, address insurance challenges, and pursue compensation that reflects both current needs and long-term consequences under Michigan law.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been in a Crash With a Semi-Truck in Southfield?

What you do after a crash with a semi-truck can affect both your health and your ability to pursue a claim. Truck accidents often involve serious injuries and aggressive insurance responses, so taking the right steps early matters.

After a truck accident, you should:

• Call 911 so police and emergency medical services can respond to the accident scene.
• Seek medical care right away, even if your symptoms seem minor at first.
• Take photos of the vehicles, roadway conditions, and any visible injuries if you are able.
• Get names and contact information for witnesses who saw the crash.
• Notify your own auto insurance company to start the no-fault claim process.
• Speak with a Southfield truck accident lawyer before giving statements to the trucking company’s insurer.

Early legal guidance can help accident victims avoid common mistakes, protect their rights under Michigan’s no-fault system, and preserve important evidence before it is lost.

When Should I File a Truck Accident Claim After My Crash?

After a truck accident, it is generally helpful to take legal action as soon as your medical condition allows. Waiting too long can make it harder to gather evidence, address insurance issues, and protect your rights under Michigan law.

Speaking with a Southfield truck accident lawyer early may help with:

• Preserving evidence before records are lost or destroyed.
• Documenting witness statements while memories are still fresh.
• Handling communications with insurance companies as the claim develops.
• Making sure required paperwork and notices are submitted within legal deadlines.

Taking timely action can help accident victims stay informed about their options and avoid unnecessary complications as their recovery and claim move forward.

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Southfield?

Michigan law sets a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a truck accident lawsuit. In most truck accident cases involving injuries, an injured person has three years from the date of the crash to file a claim in court. Separate deadlines may apply to no-fault benefit claims, which often require action much sooner.

Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation through the legal system. Shorter deadlines and additional notice requirements may apply when a government entity is involved.

Understanding how these deadlines apply to your situation can help you avoid losing the opportunity to pursue a claim under Michigan law.

Should I Accept the Initial Offer from the Insurance Company?

It is usually not in your best interest to accept the first settlement offer after a truck accident. Insurance companies often make early offers before the full extent of your injuries, medical needs, or time away from work is clear.

An initial offer may not account for future medical care, ongoing wage loss, or the long-term impact of serious injuries. Once a settlement is accepted, you generally cannot seek additional compensation later.

Having a truck accident lawyer review any settlement offer can help accident victims understand what the offer covers, identify what may be missing, and decide whether it reflects their losses under Michigan law.

What Evidence Is Most Important for a Lawyer Handling My Truck Accident in Southfield, MI?

Evidence plays a critical role in showing how a truck accident happened, who was responsible, and how the crash affected your life. Because commercial trucking companies often control key records, gathering evidence early is especially important for injured victims.

Important evidence in a Southfield truck accident claim may include:

• The police crash report and any citations issued at the scene.
• Photos or videos showing vehicle damage, roadway conditions, and visible injuries.
• Statements and contact information from witnesses who saw the collision.
• Trucking records such as electronic logging device data, maintenance logs, and driver qualification files.
• Medical records and bills that document the nature and extent of your injuries.
• Employment records that show lost wages or reduced ability to work.

A personal injury attorney can help identify what evidence is needed, take steps to preserve trucking records, and use this information to support your claim under Michigan law.

Who Can a Lawyer Hold Responsible for My Truck Accident in Southfield, MI?

Truck accident liability often involves more than just the driver behind the wheel. Commercial trucking operations include multiple companies and contractors, and responsibility may rest with one or more parties depending on how the crash occurred.

Parties that may be held responsible in a Southfield truck accident include:

• The truck driver, if negligent driving behaviors contributed to the crash.
• The trucking company, when unsafe hiring practices, inadequate training, or unrealistic schedules play a role.
• A cargo loading company, if improper loading or securement caused a loss of control.
• A maintenance provider, when mechanical failures result from missed or improper repairs.
• A vehicle or parts manufacturer, if defective equipment contributed to the collision.

Identifying all potentially responsible parties can affect what insurance coverage is available and how compensation may be pursued under Michigan law.

What Financial Compensation May Be Available After a Truck Accident?

After a truck accident, injured victims may be able to pursue financial compensation for the losses they have suffered. The types and amount of compensation available depend on the facts of the crash, the injuries involved, and how the injuries affect daily life and work.

Compensation in a Michigan truck accident claim may include:

• Medical expenses related to the crash, including ongoing or future care.
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if injuries affect your ability to work.
• Vehicle repair or replacement and other out-of-pocket costs.
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress when the injury meets Michigan’s legal threshold.

Michigan law does not allow punitive damages in personal injury cases. Instead, compensation focuses on addressing the actual harm and losses caused by the accident. The value of a claim depends on injury severity, long-term effects, and the supporting evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring to My First Meeting With the Attorney?

Bringing helpful documents to your first meeting can make the consultation more productive. This may include police reports, medical records, photos of the scene and vehicle damage, witness contact information, insurance policy details, and a brief timeline of what happened. Wage statements and bills can also help explain losses under Michigan’s no-fault personal injury protection system.

How Long Does a Truck Accident Lawsuit Take?

The length of a truck accident lawsuit can vary based on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether liability is disputed. Some claims resolve through settlement, while others may take longer if a lawsuit is filed and the case proceeds through discovery or trial. Your lawyer can explain what factors may affect the timeline based on your specific situation.

Will My Case Go to Court or Settle with the Insurance Company?

Many truck accident claims are resolved through settlement, but some cases do proceed to court. Whether a case settles or goes to trial depends on factors such as liability disputes, injury severity, and whether the insurance company offers fair compensation. A lawyer can help evaluate settlement offers and explain when litigation may be appropriate.

What if the Trucking Company Blames Me or Denies Liability?

Trucking companies and insurers may try to shift blame after a crash. Michigan follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault, and recovery is limited if you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the crash. Evidence such as crash reports, vehicle data, and witness statements can play an important role in addressing liability disputes.

Find Out How Our Southfield Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help With Your Claim. Schedule a Free Case Review Today.

A serious truck accident can leave you dealing with injuries, medical bills, and uncertainty about what comes next. When commercial vehicles and multiple insurance companies are involved, understanding your rights under Michigan law can feel overwhelming.

Matz Injury Law offers free consultations to help truck accident victims understand their legal options, no-fault benefits, and potential next steps. This conversation is an opportunity to ask questions, review what happened, and decide how you want to move forward.

To schedule a free consultation with our truck accident attorney, call 866-226-6833 or use our online contact form.