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Southfield Personal Injury Lawyer
Table of Contents
A serious injury can change your life. Medical bills grow. Lost wages add stress. Insurance companies call and push for quick answers. You may feel unsure about your rights under Michigan law.
Waiting too long can make things harder. Evidence can fade. Deadlines can pass. You may lose the opportunity to pursue compensation for pain and suffering or economic damages allowed under Michigan law.
At Matz Injury Law, we help injured people across the state of Michigan understand their options. Our Southfield personal injury lawyers guide you through each step of the process. While you focus on healing, we handle your personal injury claim and deal directly with the insurance company.
Why Clients Partner With Matz Injury Law
Matz Injury Law offers reliable legal assistance to injured individuals across Southfield, Michigan. Our Southfield personal injury lawyers handle personal injury cases involving car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and other motor vehicle injuries. We understand Michigan law and the state’s no-fault law, and we help clients deal with insurance companies after an auto accident.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys take a personalized approach to every personal injury claim. We review medical bills, lost wages, and medical expenses while building a strategy to pursue fair compensation. From investigation to court representation, our legal team supports clients every step of the way.
Meet The Southfield Personal Injury Lawyers Taking Your Case
Our “22 Not 33” Promise: Keep More of Your Settlement
Many personal injury attorneys charge around one-third of a recovery as their fee. At Matz Injury Law, our standard contingency fee is 22%. This means more of your settlement or verdict stays with you. If we take your case, you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover money for you, and our fee is explained clearly before you move forward.
More Than $300 Million Recovered for Injured Clients Across Michigan
This record shows our power to win complex cases and secure life-changing results for injury victims. Our experienced personal injury attorneys have a history of success across the state of Michigan.
- $3,450,000 settlement from a catastrophic commercial truck accident.
- $2,350,000 settlement in a Michigan motorcycle accident case.
- $1,250,000 settlement for a family in a wrongful death drunk driving accident.
Hear What Our Past Clients Have To Say About Working With Our Lawyers
“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.
“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 leave 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.
“Jared worked with me when I broke both my ankles at the same time. He was so efficient, friendly and attentive to my needs. He was always in contact with me and answered my calls when I needed to speak to him, or he would call me back soon after. Jared did an outstanding job and looked out for my best interest during this ordeal. I believe Jared got me the most for my injury possible. A special “thank you” to you Jared, and I will refer you to anyone that is in need of an injury lawyer. I owe you a lot of gratitude” — Lisa S.
Recognition and Results in Southfield and Oakland County
You deserve a legal team that understands the Southfield and Oakland County court systems. We remain accessible and responsive throughout your case.
- Avvo Rating 10.0 “Superb”
- Crain’s Detroit Business recognition
- Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame
Types of Cases Our Southfield Personal Injury Attorney Handles
We represent injured individuals in Southfield and throughout Michigan in a wide range of personal injury matters, such as:
- Car accidents
- Rideshare accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents (premises liability)
- Dog bites
- Wrongful death claims
- Pedestrian accidents
- Swimming pool accidents
- Boating accidents
How Do I Know if I Have a Personal Injury Claim?
Not every accident leads to a claim. You may have a case if:
- Another person or company acted carelessly.
- Their actions caused your injuries.
- You have financial losses such as medical bills or lost wages.
One of the simplest ways to understand your options is through a free consultation. We will review the facts of your situation and explain how Michigan law may apply.
What Is the Process for Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Southfield?
If you’re considering a personal injury claim, it helps to know what the process usually looks like. While no two cases are exactly alike, most move through these general stages.
- Initial consultation: We listen to your story and explain your legal options during a free consultation.
- Investigation: We gather evidence, review medical records, and analyze the facts surrounding the accident.
- Demand and negotiation: We present a demand to the insurance company and negotiate based on the documented losses.
- Filing a lawsuit: If a fair resolution is not reached, we file a lawsuit within the applicable statute of limitations.
- Discovery and trial preparation: Both sides exchange information, take depositions, and prepare the case for possible trial.
- Settlement or trial: Many cases resolve through negotiation. If necessary, we present your case in court and advocate on your behalf.
What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident in Southfield?
What you do in the minutes and days after an injury can directly affect both your health and your ability to pursue compensation. Acting quickly helps protect your rights.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor
- Report the incident to the appropriate authority, such as police, property management, or a business owner
- Take clear photos of the scene, any hazardous conditions, and your injuries
- Collect names and contact information from witnesses
- Avoid admitting fault or giving a recorded statement to an insurance company before speaking with a lawyer
- Contact a Southfield personal injury lawyer to understand how Michigan law applies to your situation
How Negligence Impacts Your Michigan Personal Injury Claim
Negligence occurs when someone fails to use reasonable care and causes harm as a result. In many personal injury cases, proving negligence is necessary to recover compensation beyond personal injury protection benefits.
Examples may include:
- A distracted driver causing a collision
- A property owner failing to address a dangerous condition that leads to a fall
- A dog owner failing to control their animal
We gather evidence, review records, and build a case designed to show how the responsible party’s actions led to your injuries.
How Is Fault Determined in a Personal Injury Case?
Fault is determined by reviewing the available evidence. This may include police reports, witness statements, photographs, video footage, and, in some cases, expert analysis.
Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. In most cases, if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover pain and suffering damages.
We carefully examine the facts, identify where responsibility lies, and pursue the compensation allowed under Michigan law.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Personal Injury Claim in Michigan?
The statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. In many Michigan personal injury cases, you have three years from the date of the injury to file in court. If that deadline passes, the court will likely dismiss the case.
There are important exceptions. Claims involving minors, government entities, and no-fault insurance benefits may follow different timelines. For example, certain personal injury protection benefits are subject to shorter timing rules that can limit how far back you can recover expenses. Because these rules can affect your ability to move forward, it is wise to speak with a lawyer as early as possible.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer in Southfield Do?
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can bring structure and clarity during a difficult time. While you focus on your recovery, we handle the legal process and protect your interests.
- Provide clear legal guidance: We explain your rights, outline your options, and give an honest assessment of your claim.
- Investigate the facts: We gather evidence, review records, consult with appropriate professionals when necessary, and identify all potentially responsible parties.
- Handle communication with insurance companies: We manage discussions with adjusters, respond to document requests, and protect you from tactics that may reduce the value of your claim.
- Document and calculate losses: We evaluate medical bills, lost income, future treatment needs, and the broader impact of your injuries, including pain and suffering when applicable under Michigan law.
- Negotiate and litigate when necessary: We pursue resolution through negotiation. If a fair outcome cannot be reached, we prepare the case for court.
Why Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Make a Difference
Personal injury claims are not just about paperwork. Michigan law, especially the no-fault system, creates layers of rules that can affect what you can recover and from whom. Small mistakes early on can limit your options later.
Insurance companies evaluate claims every day. Adjusters are trained to protect their company’s financial interests. Without legal guidance, it is easy to accept a settlement that does not fully account for long-term medical needs, wage loss, or the threshold required for pain and suffering damages.
Working with a lawyer changes the dynamic. It signals that your claim is being evaluated carefully and that deadlines, documentation, and legal standards will be enforced. It also gives you someone who understands how comparative fault, personal injury protection benefits, and third-party claims interact under Michigan law.
Because we work on a contingency fee basis, there is no upfront cost. Our fee is tied to the outcome of your case, which aligns our interests with yours.
How Can I Find a Reputable Personal Injury Lawyer in Southfield?
When choosing a personal injury law firm, here are a few things to look for:
- Positive client reviews and case results: Past settlements and verdicts can show the firm’s experience with similar cases.
- Experience in Michigan injury law: A lawyer who knows Michigan laws and local courts can better guide you through the process.
- Clear communication: You should be able to ask questions and get regular updates about your case.
- Simple fee structure and free consultation: Many firms offer a free first meeting and only get paid if you recover compensation.
If you or a loved one was injured, you can contact Matz Injury Law to talk about your situation. Our Southfield personal injury lawyers are here to listen and help you take the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
The value of a Michigan personal injury case depends on several factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, the severity of your injuries, and who was at fault.
Under Michigan’s no-fault system, personal injury protection benefits typically cover medical bills and a portion of lost income first. If your injuries meet the legal threshold for a third-party claim, you may also pursue compensation for pain and suffering against the at-fault party.
Because every case is different, settlement amounts vary widely. The specific facts, available insurance coverage, and long-term impact of the injury all influence potential value. A careful review of your situation is the only way to estimate what your claim may be worth.
How Long Will My Personal Injury Case Take?
The timeline for a Michigan personal injury case depends on the facts, the severity of the injuries, and whether fault is disputed. Some claims resolve through early negotiation, while others require litigation and take longer.
In many cases, it is important to understand the full extent of an injury before reaching a final resolution. Rushing to settle before medical treatment is complete can affect the value of a claim.
If a lawsuit becomes necessary, the court process adds additional time for discovery, motions, and possible trial preparation. While some cases resolve within months, others may take a year or more depending on the complexity of the issues involved.
Do I Have to Go to Court to Get Compensation?
Most Michigan personal injury claims resolve without a trial. Many cases are settled through negotiations with the insurance company or through mediation.
A lawsuit may become necessary if there is a dispute about fault, the severity of the injuries, or the value of the claim. While filing a lawsuit does not always mean a case will go to trial, it can be an important step in moving negotiations forward.
What if the Other Party Doesn’t Have Insurance?
Under Michigan’s no-fault system, your own personal injury protection benefits typically cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of whether the other driver carries insurance. If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may pursue a claim against that individual. Recovery, however, often depends on whether the person has assets or applicable coverage.
If you purchased uninsured motorist coverage, it may provide an additional source of recovery for certain damages. Reviewing your policy language is important to understand what protections apply.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Experienced Southfield Personal Injury Lawyers
Don’t wait to protect your rights. The statute of limitations limits your time to file a personal injury claim. Call our office at 866-226-6833 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Our Southfield personal injury attorneys will listen to your story, evaluate your personal injury case, and explain your options for seeking justice.
Written By Steven Matz
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. Matz has achieved numerous million-dollar settlements. He holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized among Michigan’s Top Attorneys. Steven J. Matz is a frequent lecturer on legal ethics and personal injury law, and serves on the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board.
