Petoskey Personal Injury Lawyer

An injury from a car crash or another accident can disrupt nearly every part of your life. Physical pain, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about what comes next often arrive all at once. At the same time, insurance companies may push for quick resolutions that do not reflect the full impact of your injuries. Trying to manage this process alone can make it easier to miss important deadlines or accept a settlement that does not fully reflect your situation.

Having experienced legal guidance can make a meaningful difference. Matz Injury Law represents injured individuals in Petoskey and throughout Northern Michigan. Our role is to handle the legal and insurance issues tied to an injury claim, allowing you to focus on your health, your family, and moving forward.

Do I Really Need a Petoskey Personal Injury Lawyer?

Even an accident that seems minor at first can lead to lasting legal and financial issues. Michigan personal injury law involves detailed rules on fault, insurance coverage, and filing deadlines that can be difficult to navigate without guidance. Insurance adjusters are trained to limit payouts and may rely on your statements when evaluating a claim. Without legal support, there is a real risk of accepting a settlement that does not account for future medical care or the full impact of your injuries.

Why Clients Partner With Matz Injury Law’s Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys For Injury Claims In Petoskey

A personal injury case often affects more than legal paperwork and deadlines. It can impact your health, your family, and the plans you had moving forward. At Matz Injury Law, our approach reflects an understanding of how Michigan personal injury law applies to real-life situations, along with a focus on listening closely to what matters most to you. We take time to develop a strategy that fits the details of each case and keep you informed as the process moves forward.

Our work is shaped by years of experience representing injured individuals throughout Northern Michigan. That background informs how we evaluate claims, communicate with insurance companies, and advocate for people navigating the aftermath of serious injuries every step of the way.

Recent Personal Injury Case Results and Settlements

Past results cannot predict future outcomes, but they can provide insight into how claims are handled. The following examples reflect matters our personal injury attorneys have resolved for injured individuals and families under Michigan law:

• $3,450,000 settlement arising from a commercial vehicle accident involving a cement truck and resulting fatalities
• $2,350,000 settlement in a Michigan motorcycle accident following a fatal failure-to-yield crash
• $1,250,000 wrongful death settlement involving a drunk driving collision

Each case depends on its own facts, available insurance coverage, and how Michigan law applies to the circumstances involved.

The Power of 22, Not 33: Keep Thousands More of Your Settlement

In Michigan, legal ethics and state court rules (specifically MCR 8.121) establish a “ceiling” for personal injury fees. While the law allows attorneys to charge up to 33.3% of your settlement. We believe that just because the law allows a higher fee doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for the client. Our “22, Not 33” philosophy is a deliberate choice to ensure that you receive the financial compensation needed to cover all expenses.

When you look at the numbers, a 11.3% difference in fees translates to thousands of dollars in your pocket. Here is how that unique offering breaks down in practice:

• Significant Personal Savings: On a $100,000 settlement, a standard firm takes $33,333, leaving you with $66,666. At Matz Injury Law, our fee is $22,000, which puts an extra $11,333 back in your hands.
• Life-Changing Recovery: For a major settlement of $1,000,000, the difference is even more staggering. You would keep an additional $113,333 which can cover years of medical care, home modifications, or lost income.
• No Cost to Start: Like the higher-priced firms, we still advance 100% of all case costs (filing fees, medical records, expert witnesses), meaning you pay nothing unless we win.

Hear What Our Clients Say About Us: Our Success Stories

“This past year has been the most difficult of our lives after losing our 16-year-old daughter to a drunk driver. In the midst of our grief, we reached out to Matz Injury Law to explore our options. From the very beginning, Steve was exceptional—he carefully explained every possible avenue and ensured no detail was overlooked, all while respecting our wishes. Not only did Steve guide us through the civil and probate process, but he also supported us throughout the criminal trial of the driver responsible for our daughter’s death. Although I initially resisted the idea of receiving anything for her loss, Steve gently encouraged us to pursue the insurance payouts we were entitled to. His deep empathy for my wife and our two other children helped ease the weight of this tragedy. Thank you, Steve, for your unwavering support.” — Dennis B.

“10/10 Working with Matz injury has been the the best part of a horrible circumstance. Dealing with insurance is never fun, but Steve and everyone made it the best possible situation. Highly, highly recommend!” — Kali 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.

Meet Our Trusted Petoskey Mi Personal Injury Lawyer

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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Types of Personal Injury Cases Our Lawyers Handle in Petoskey Michigan

At Matz Injury Law, we provide experienced legal representation for a wide range of serious injury and accident cases throughout Northern Michigan. Our practice areas cover the most common and complex situations where negligence causes harm. We build a custom strategy for each client’s unique case.

• Car Accident Cases: From fender benders to major collisions, we handle all auto accident claims, fighting for your rights against insurance companies.
• Truck Accident Cases: We pursue trucking companies and their insurers after crashes involving commercial semis, dump trucks, and delivery vehicles.
• Motorcycle Accident Cases: We advocate for bikers who are often severely hurt in crashes caused by drivers who fail to see them.
• Drunk Driving Accident Cases: We aggressively seek full compensation from negligent drivers who choose to drive under the influence.
• Rideshare Accident Cases: Navigating claims involving Uber or Lyft requires specific knowledge of insurance layers that we handle for you.
• Bus Accident Cases: Whether a city transit, school, or charter bus, we pursue claims involving passenger and pedestrian injuries. These cases can involve additional legal requirements, particularly when a government entity is involved.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Cases: We fight for vulnerable road users who suffer catastrophic injuries when struck by vehicles.
• Boating Accident Cases: On the waters of Northern Michigan, we handle injury claims arising from negligent boat operation and collisions.
• Slip and fall Cases: We prove property owner negligence in cases involving hazardous conditions like ice, snow, wet floors, or poor lighting.
• Dog Bite Injury Cases: Michigan law may hold dog owners responsible in many situations, including when a bite occurs without provocation and the injured person is lawfully on the property. We seek compensation for attack injuries, including scarring and trauma.
• Swimming Pool Accident Cases: We handle cases involving drownings, near-drownings, and slip/fall injuries due to poor maintenance or lack of supervision.
• Wrongful Death Claims: We provide compassionate, fierce legal advocacy for families grieving the loss of a loved one due to another’s negligence.

What Should I Look for When Choosing a Personal Injury Lawyer in Petoskey?

Choosing the right legal team is an important decision. When evaluating your options, it can help to look for a law firm with:

• Proven experience handling Michigan personal injury cases similar to yours
• A strong track record of settlements and trial results
• Local knowledge of Petoskey courts, judges, and insurance practices
• Clear communication and a willingness to explain your options
• A contingency fee structure, meaning there are no legal fees unless compensation is recovered

One effective way to assess whether a law firm is a good fit is through a free, no-obligation consultation.

Common Injuries After a Serious Accident

Serious accidents often lead to injuries that extend beyond the initial shock of the event. Some conditions develop over time or worsen without proper treatment. Common injuries seen in personal injury cases include:

• Whiplash and ongoing neck or back pain
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Broken bones, fractures, and spinal cord injuries
• Soft tissue injuries involving muscles, tendons, or ligaments
• Emotional and psychological trauma, including anxiety or post-traumatic stress

These injuries can affect your ability to work, manage daily responsibilities, and enjoy life. Medical documentation and consistent treatment play an important role in showing how an injury has changed your daily routine and overall well-being.

Important Steps to Take in a Petoskey Personal Injury Claim

The actions you take in the hours and days after an accident can affect both your health and how an injury claim develops. Early decisions often shape the evidence available later, particularly once insurance companies become involved.

• Get medical care as soon as possible, even if symptoms seem minor or delayed
• Document the scene, injuries, and property damage with photos and notes
• Collect contact information for any witnesses who saw what happened
• Report the accident to your insurance company and stick to basic facts
• Avoid recorded or detailed statements to the other party’s insurer before getting legal guidance
• Keep copies of medical bills, treatment records, and documentation of missed work
• Consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer early to help manage communications and preserve important evidence

Taking these steps can reduce confusion later and help you make informed decisions as your recovery and claim move forward.

Proving Fault and Damages in a Petoskey Personal Injury Claim

Proving a personal injury claim in Petoskey generally involves two key elements: showing who was at fault for the accident and documenting the damages caused by that conduct. Fault focuses on whether another party acted negligently, while damages address how the accident affected your health, finances, and daily life.

Evidence commonly used to establish fault includes police reports, witness statements, photographs or video from the scene, and physical evidence showing how the accident occurred. Damages are typically supported through medical records, treatment history, wage information, and documentation showing how injuries limit work or everyday activities. In some cases, medical providers or accident reconstruction professionals may help explain the connection between the accident and the resulting harm.

Legal guidance can be helpful when determining how fault and damages should be presented together. At Matz Injury Law, we focus on organizing the facts and supporting records in a clear, accurate way that reflects both how the accident happened and how it has affected your life.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Michigan?

Michigan law sets strict time limits for filing personal injury claims. In many situations, a lawsuit must be filed within three years from the date of the injury. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations.

Some claims involve additional or shorter timelines. Car accident cases, for example, can include separate deadlines tied to no-fault benefits and insurance notice requirements. Claims involving government entities may also have special notice rules. Missing a deadline can limit or eliminate your ability to pursue compensation, which is why understanding these timelines early is important.

Types of Compensation Available in a Michigan Personal Injury Claim

Michigan law allows injured individuals to seek compensation for losses connected to an accident, depending on the facts of the case and the coverage involved. Compensation may address both financial losses and the personal impact of an injury, including:

• Medical expenses related to accident injuries, including past treatment and reasonably anticipated future care
• Lost wages and, in some cases, reduced earning capacity
• Repair or replacement of damaged property
• Physical pain and discomfort
• Emotional distress and mental anguish associated with the injury

The types of compensation available depend on factors such as fault, injury severity, and the insurance coverage that applies.

How Is Pain and Suffering Calculated in Michigan Personal Injury Claims?

Pain and suffering compensation is intended to reflect the physical pain and emotional strain caused by an injury, rather than direct financial losses such as medical bills. Michigan law does not use a fixed formula to calculate these damages. Instead, pain and suffering is evaluated based on the specific facts of each personal injury case.

Factors that may be considered include the seriousness of the injury, the length of recovery, whether symptoms are ongoing, and how the injury affects daily activities and quality of life. Medical records, consistent treatment, and documentation showing how an injury interferes with normal routines are often central to this evaluation.

How Much Is My Petoskey Personal Injury Case Worth?

The value of a personal injury claim depends on several factors that are unique to each situation. These often include the severity of the injuries, the length and cost of medical treatment, and how the injuries affect work, daily responsibilities, and overall quality of life. Fault considerations and available insurance coverage also play an important role in how a claim is evaluated.

Because these factors develop over time, especially as medical treatment continues, claim value is rarely clear immediately after an accident. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help clarify how Michigan law applies to your circumstances and what information is typically used when evaluating a claim.

Dealing With Insurance Companies After a Petoskey Injury Accident

Insurance companies often approach injury claims with the goal of limiting what they pay. This may involve delaying responses, disputing the severity of injuries, or questioning fault. These practices can add stress and uncertainty, especially while medical treatment is ongoing.

At Matz Injury Law, we handle communication with insurers, evaluate whether their positions align with the available evidence, and assess when a claim may need to move beyond settlement discussions. When negotiations do not lead to a fair resolution, filing a lawsuit may become part of the process.

How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help With the Insurance Claim Process?

Insurance claims often involve detailed paperwork, ongoing communication, and decisions that can affect how a personal injury case develops. Legal guidance can help manage these responsibilities while you focus on medical care and recovery.

A personal injury lawyer can assist you by:

• Communicating with insurance companies involved in the claim
• Handling required paperwork and tracking important deadlines
• Reviewing medical records and other documentation
• Evaluating settlement offers based on the available information
• Advising when additional legal steps, including litigation, may be appropriate

Legal support can be especially helpful when injuries are serious, insurance coverage is disputed, or the legal process becomes difficult to manage alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Petoskey Personal Injury Claims

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Petoskey Personal Injury Lawyer?

The personal injury lawyers often work on a contingency fee basis. A contingency fee structure, meaning there is no upfront attorney fee and the attorney fee is typically paid only if compensation is recovered. This structure allows injured individuals to explore their legal options without taking on immediate out-of-pocket costs.

What Is the New PIP Law in Michigan?

Michigan’s “new PIP law” refers to no-fault insurance reforms that took effect in July 2020. These changes allow drivers to choose different levels of personal injury protection coverage. In limited situations, some drivers may opt out of PIP medical benefits, such as when the named insured has Medicare and the household meets specific coverage requirements. The reforms also introduced a medical fee schedule and increased minimum bodily injury liability limits to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident.

Because PIP choices directly affect what benefits may be available after a car accident, understanding how these rules apply to your situation is important.

How Often Do Personal Injury Cases Go to Trial in Michigan?

Settlements, rather than trials, often resolve many Michigan personal injury claims once medical treatment has advanced sufficiently to determine the extent of injuries. Insurance companies typically prefer negotiated resolutions, but some cases move toward litigation when injuries are severe, liability is disputed, or settlement offers do not reflect the available evidence.

Factors such as fault, injury severity, and available insurance coverage all influence whether a case settles or proceeds to court.

Let Our Team Fight for the Compensation You Deserve

If you were injured in an accident in Petoskey or Northern Michigan, you may be facing uncertainty about medical care, insurance coverage, and what steps to take next. A conversation with a personal injury lawyer can help clarify your options and explain how Michigan law applies to your situation.

Matz Injury Law offers free consultations to discuss the circumstances of your accident and answer your questions. If you decide to move forward, we can help manage the legal and insurance process while you focus on recovery. You can call our law office at 866-226-6833 or use our online contact form to schedule a time to talk.