Experienced Southfield, Michigan Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents in Southfield, Michigan, often involve far more than vehicle damage alone. Victim injuries may require ongoing medical care, lead to missed work, and create unexpected financial strain, while insurance adjusters often reach out shortly after the crash. Managing these issues at the same time can feel overwhelming, especially when the claims process is confusing or moves quickly.

At Matz Injury Law, we regularly help individuals navigate these challenges. Our Southfield car accident lawyers provide experienced, compassionate legal guidance focused on protecting your rights and prioritizing your well-being. We work to pursue fair compensation so you can focus on your recovery rather than insurance paperwork.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident in Southfield, MI?

Hiring a Southfield car accident lawyer may be important in many situations, including:

• Accidents involving serious injuries or fatalities
• Disputes with insurance companies about fault or coverage
• Complex cases involving multiple vehicles or commercial trucks
• Situations where the other party has legal representation

Even accidents that initially appear minor can present complications later, particularly if injuries worsen or insurance benefits are delayed or denied. Seeking legal guidance early can help clarify your options and ensure medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage are addressed appropriately under Michigan’s no-fault system.

How Do I Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer?

Choosing the right personal injury lawyer can affect how smoothly your case progresses. After a car accident, it is important to work with someone who clearly explains the process and understands how Michigan personal injury law applies to your circumstances. When comparing your options, consider:

• Experience handling Michigan car accident and personal injury cases
• Client reviews or testimonials
• Active licensing and familiarity with local courts
• Fee arrangements, including contingency fees
• How clearly and comfortably the lawyer communicates during an initial consultation

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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Why Clients Choose Matz Injury Law

At Matz Injury Law, experience and personal attention are central to how we serve clients. For decades, we have represented car accident victims in Southfield and nearby communities, handling each case with care and focus. We take time to listen, investigate thoroughly, and pursue fair compensation based on the facts of each case. Our 22% contingency fee allows clients to retain more of their recovery while receiving experienced, hands-on legal representation.

Matz Injury Law Has Received a Best Family-Led Law Firm in Southfield Award

Matz Injury Law has been recognized as the Best Family-Led Law Firm in Southfield for its long-standing commitment to personal service and client care. Clients work directly with Steven or Jared Matz throughout their case, rather than being passed off to intake staff. This family-led approach allows for consistent attention and direct communication at every stage.

Our Client-Focused Approach to Michigan Auto Accident Claims

What distinguishes Matz Injury Law is our fee structure, which allows clients to retain more of their recovery. We charge a 22% contingency fee rather than the more common 33%, meaning clients keep a larger portion of any settlement or verdict.

Our lower fee reflects an efficient, focused practice, not reduced effort or attention. We devote the same time, resources, and commitment to every case. There are no upfront costs, and you owe nothing unless compensation is recovered.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our 5-Star Auto Accident Lawyers Today

Talk with an experienced Southfield car accident lawyer at no cost. Your consultation is private, pressure-free, and focused on understanding your situation and possible next steps. Client reviews often highlight our firm’s responsiveness, communication, and focus on client care throughout the legal process. During your consultation, our legal team will explain the legal process and outline your options so you can make informed decisions about how to move forward.

Testimonials

“5 star is not enough for the service we received from Steven Matz and team for my daughter. What a great crew at Matz Injury Law! they are very professionals and awesome individuals as well. Steven always answered our phone calls even on weekends. I had an amazing experience working with steven. His dedication and professionalism makes the process simple, fast and stress free. Highly Highly recommended!!!” — Ajay G.

“I was given Steven’s information from my cousin that retained his services, and I have to say I am so pleased we did the same. The [level] of professionalism was outstanding, I never had to wonder or guess what was going to happen. Steven and his staff kept us up to date and informed in every step throughout our process. I highly recommend Matz Injury Law Firm.” — Michelle W.

“Steve and his staff have been an absolute delight to work with. I was with another firm prior to having Steve represent me. I am so glad I made the switch to Steve and the Matz Injury Law Firm. He has always been straight up with me and always kept me informed. If he wasn’t available he got back with me in a very timely manner. I am positive that I would not have received the same experience and outcome with the previous firm. If you find yourself in need of a personal injury attorney I highly recommend you give Steve and Matz [Injury] Law a call; I’m so glad I did!” — Rick K.

Types of Car Accident Cases Our Attorneys Handle at Our Southfield Office

Our Southfield car accident lawyers handle a wide range of collision types, including:

• Rear-end collisions, which often result in neck and back injuries
• Side-impact or T-bone crashes that may cause serious torso or head injuries
• Head-on collisions, which frequently lead to severe or fatal injuries
• Multi-vehicle pile-ups involving complex liability questions
• Rollover accidents with a heightened risk of multiple injuries
• Single-vehicle crashes that may involve roadway conditions or vehicle defects

Our office is located at 25800 Northwestern Hwy #575, Southfield, MI 48075, near the Southfield Town Center.

What Are the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Southfield?

Many car accidents in Southfield happen because another driver makes an unsafe decision that puts others at risk. For injured victims, understanding what caused the crash can help explain why the accident was not their fault. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone behind the wheel
• Speeding or driving too fast for traffic or weather conditions
• Drunk or impaired driving involving alcohol, drugs, or certain medications
• Poor weather conditions that drivers fail to adjust to safely
• Running red lights or stop signs, often leading to serious intersection crashes
• Aggressive driving, including tailgating and unsafe lane changes

Identifying the cause of the crash is an important step in determining responsibility and pursuing compensation.

What Are Common Types of Car Accident Injuries?

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from mild to life-altering. These injuries often require ongoing treatment and can disrupt daily life and work. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash and neck injuries that cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility
• Back and spinal injuries, including herniated discs or more serious spinal damage
• Head injuries and concussions, ranging from mild traumatic brain injuries to severe trauma
• Broken bones and fractures involving the arms, legs, ribs, or skull
• Soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and deep bruising

At Matz Injury Law, we help clients document their injuries, connect with appropriate medical care, and clearly present how those injuries affect their lives. Proper medical documentation is critical to protecting your claim and pursuing fair compensation.

What You Should Do After a Car Accident in Southfield, Michigan

Your actions immediately after a Southfield car accident can affect both your health and your legal rights. Taking the right steps early can also make the insurance process easier to manage later.

• Check for safety by moving to a secure location if possible and calling 911
• Seek medical attention promptly, even if you feel fine, since some injuries may not show symptoms right away
• Exchange names, insurance information, and contact details with all drivers, and gather witness contact information when available
• Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries
• Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible
• Avoid admitting fault and limit statements to basic facts while police and insurers investigate

At Matz Injury Law, we help clients understand how these early steps affect their claim and step in quickly to handle insurance communications when needed, allowing injured individuals to focus on their recovery.

What Are the Initial Steps I Should Take With My Auto Insurance Company?

Dealing with insurance after a Michigan car accident requires care, especially while you are still recovering. Taking a cautious approach can help protect your rights under the no-fault system:

• Report the accident to your insurer promptly to open your no-fault (PIP) claim for medical expenses and lost wages
• Provide only basic information, such as the date, location, and vehicles involved, and avoid speculating about fault or injuries
• Keep detailed records of all calls, emails, and documents, and review your policy to understand your coverage
• Consider speaking with a car accident lawyer before providing recorded statements or detailed explanations

How to Document Your Injuries After a Car Accident

Thorough documentation can play an important role in protecting your claim and clearly showing how the accident has affected your life:

• Keep all medical records, medical bills, and prescription receipts related to your treatment
• Take clear, dated photos of visible injuries as they heal
• Maintain a daily journal describing pain levels, symptoms, and how your injuries affect daily activities such as sleep, household tasks, or work
• Collect contact information for people who can describe how your injuries have impacted you
• Keep records of missed work and lost income from your employer

What Compensation Can I Get After a Car Crash in Michigan?

If your case qualifies under Michigan law, you may recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Potential compensation may include:

• Medical costs related to accident injuries, including ongoing or future treatment
• Income lost while you recover, and reduced earning ability in more serious cases
• Pain and suffering, including physical discomfort, emotional distress, and long-term effects, when legal thresholds are met
• Vehicle repair or replacement costs under Michigan’s mini-tort rules
• Other losses, such as permanent impairment, disability, loss of enjoyment of life, or replacement services

The amount recoverable depends on factors like the nature of your injuries, fault determination, and available insurance coverage. A Southfield car accident attorney can review the details of your situation and explain what compensation may be available under Michigan law.

Understanding How Car Accident Damages Are Calculated

Calculating damages in a Southfield car accident case involves reviewing both financial losses and the personal impact of the injuries. Economic damages include measurable costs such as medical expenses, lost income, and vehicle repairs. Non-economic damages address less tangible harm, including physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

In cases involving serious or long-term injuries, medical and economic professionals may be consulted to help estimate future care needs and financial impact. Available insurance coverage and policy limits also affect the amount that may ultimately be recovered.

Can I File a Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver in a Car Accident in Michigan?

Michigan law allows injured drivers to file a personal injury lawsuit against an at-fault driver, but only in certain situations. In most cases, your own no-fault (PIP) insurance pays initial medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash.

To pursue a lawsuit for pain and suffering, the injury must meet a legal threshold, such as a serious impairment of body function, permanent serious disfigurement, or death. A lawsuit may also be appropriate if there is a dispute over fault or if insurance coverage does not fully address vehicle damage or other losses.

What Happens if You Are at Fault in a Car Accident in Michigan?

If you are considered at fault for a car accident in Michigan, your own no-fault (PIP) insurance generally covers your medical expenses and lost wages, subject to your policy limits. Your liability insurance may cover damage to the other driver’s vehicle and certain losses if a claim or lawsuit is filed against you.

The other party may still pursue a claim depending on the circumstances and the severity of their injuries. Even if you believe you caused the accident, it is important to avoid admitting fault and to limit statements to basic facts. Speaking with a lawyer can help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and insurance obligations.

What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Lawsuit After a Crash?

Michigan law sets a firm deadline for filing a lawsuit after a car accident. In most personal injury cases, a lawsuit must be filed within three years of the date of the crash. A similar three-year statute of limitations generally applies to vehicle property damage claims.

Missing this deadline can result in the court dismissing the case, which would prevent any further recovery. Speaking with an experienced attorney early can help confirm that deadlines are met and required filings are handled properly.

How Long Does a Settlement Take After a Crash?

The time it takes to resolve a car accident claim can vary widely based on the details of the case. Claims involving clear liability and minor injuries may resolve in a matter of weeks or months. Cases that involve serious injuries, extended medical treatment, or disagreements over fault often take longer and may extend to a year or more.

Several factors affect the timeline, including the course of medical treatment, evidence collection, negotiations with insurance companies, and whether a lawsuit becomes necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the Driver Who Hit Me Does Not Have Auto Insurance?

Under Michigan’s no-fault system, injured drivers may still receive personal injury protection (PIP) benefits from their own auto insurance for medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services, even if the at-fault driver is uninsured. Optional uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may provide additional compensation in certain situations, including for pain and suffering.

What if the Other Driver Claims I Caused the Accident?

Michigan uses a modified comparative negligence system. An injured person may pursue compensation if they are found 50% or less at fault, with any recovery reduced by their percentage of fault under MCL § 600.2959. If a person is found more than 50% at fault, they are barred from recovering non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, though no-fault insurance benefits may still apply. Fault determinations are based on evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.

Can I Recover Compensation if I Was a Passenger in the Car?

Yes. Passengers injured in a Michigan car accident may be entitled to no-fault PIP benefits, regardless of who caused the crash. In some cases, a passenger may also have the right to pursue a claim for pain and suffering against the at-fault driver if the injury meets the legal threshold. The available coverage often depends on the insurance policies involved and the passenger’s household situation.

What if My Injuries Did Not Appear Right Away After the Crash?

It is common for some car accident injuries, such as soft tissue injuries or concussions, to develop symptoms hours or days later. Seeking medical attention as soon as symptoms appear is important for both your health and your claim. Delayed treatment can make it more difficult to link the injury to the accident, which is why documenting symptoms and obtaining medical evaluation promptly is strongly advised to support your personal injury claim.

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Matz Injury Law About Your Compensation Options

A car accident can disrupt your life in an instant, but Michigan law provides important protections for injured individuals. Navigating no-fault insurance, responding to adjusters, and understanding your legal options can feel overwhelming, especially while you are focused on recovery. The Southfield car accident lawyers at Matz Injury Law provide clear guidance and support throughout each stage of the process.

You do not have to handle insurance issues on your own or make decisions without understanding your options. Time limits apply to car accident claims, and early guidance can make a meaningful difference. Contact Matz Injury Law at 866-226-6833 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We are here to help you understand your rights and determine the next steps after a crash.