Trusted Traverse City Car Accident Lawyers

A car accident in Traverse City happens in an instant, but the aftermath can feel endless. In that moment of crisis, dealing with insurance companies and Michigan’s complex no-fault laws is the last thing you want to do.

You need to focus on your recovery and your loved ones, not on legal paperwork and adjuster negotiations. Without legal guidance, some people accept settlements that may not fully reflect their injuries or future needs. This can create unexpected financial strain over time.

At Matz Injury Law, we help accident victims and passengers across Michigan navigate insurance claims and legal requirements so they can focus on their recovery. Let us handle the fight with the insurance companies so you can focus on healing.

Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for a Car Accident?

Yes. An attorney can play an important role after a car accident, including crashes that initially appear minor, such as:

• Guidance through the legal process: An attorney explains Michigan’s no-fault system, filing deadlines, and required steps so your claim stays on track.
• Full claim evaluation: Legal representation helps identify medical expenses, lost income, and other damages connected to the accident.
• Insurance company communication: An attorney manages contact with insurance adjusters and responds to efforts to question, delay, or limit your claim.
• Court representation when needed: If a claim does not resolve through settlement, an attorney can prepare and present the case in court.

How Do I Find the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Traverse City?

Selecting a legal advocate is an important decision. A car accident lawyer handling your case should have:

• Specific experience: Proven success in handling Michigan car accidents and insurance claims under the unique laws.
• A strong record: A history of securing meaningful settlements and verdicts, particularly in serious injury cases.
• Client focus: Clear communication, responsiveness, and stellar client reviews that highlight a supportive attorney-client relationship.

Taking time to schedule consultations, ask direct questions, and review client feedback can help you evaluate whether a firm is a good fit for your situation. These steps allow you to see how a lawyer approaches case preparation and client support.

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 Victims of Car Accidents in Traverse City Choose to Partner With Matz Injury Law

When your family’s future is at stake, you need more than legal representation. You need a dedicated partner. Traverse City accident victims choose Matz Injury Law because we listen first. We take the time to understand your unique story, your injuries, and your goals. Then, we build a custom legal strategy.

With nearly 50 years of experience and more than $300 million recovered for clients, our legal team is prepared to manage your case from the initial police report through trial if needed. We combine this deep legal knowledge with a genuine, family-led approach to legal representation.

Our Lawyers Have Been Inducted Into Michigan Lawyers Hall of Fame

Founder Steven Matz serves as the firm’s lead attorney and is a recognized figure in Michigan’s legal community. His induction into the Michigan Lawyers Hall of Fame reflects a long career focused on service, integrity, and advocacy for injured individuals across Michigan.

This recognition reflects a lifetime of:

• Securing financial recovery for injured clients
• Maintaining strict ethical standards in personal injury representation
• Contributing to the legal profession through leadership and long-standing service within Michigan

How Matz Injury Law Is Different From Other Michigan Auto Law Attorneys

One defining difference is our commitment to helping clients retain more of their recovery. While many auto accident attorneys in Michigan charge a standard 33% contingency fee, Matz Injury Law charges only 22%.

This fee structure allows clients to retain a larger portion of their recovery compared to higher contingency fee arrangements, depending on the outcome of the case. There is no upfront attorney’s fee.

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

For nearly 50 years, Matz Injury Law has served Michigan as a family-led practice built on personal attention and trust. Our firm’s Best Family-Led Law Firm Award reflects a long-standing commitment to individualized client care.

Clients speak directly with their personal injury attorney when they call. Our law firm handles cases directly, facilitating clear communication and consistent guidance. Each client receives attentive and compassionate service grounded in the firm’s family-founded values and long-term dedication to the people of Michigan.

Client Testimonials and Stories

“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 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.

“Steve was communicative, clear, highly competent, efficient and friendly. I have not pursued anything like this before and felt that I was in good hands. I was satisfied with the settlement – and would highly recommend Matz Injury Law to those who are looking for this type of service.” — Jennifer B.

Recent Cases and Settlements

Our track record speaks for itself. We have a history of winning substantial compensation for clients with serious injuries:

• $4.15 million settlement for a family after a fatal motorcycle accident. The client kept an additional $470,195 with our lower fee.
• $3.45 million settlement for a family after a fatal crash with a commercial vehicle. The client kept an additional $390,885.
• $1 million settlement for a Northern Michigan woman with fractured ankles from a rear-end crash with a truck. The client kept an additional $107,635.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Personal Injury Lawyers

Begin your recovery with a no-risk conversation. We offer a free consultation to review your personal injury case. There is no cost or obligation, only an opportunity to learn your legal rights and options.

How Our Traverse City Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You

Navigating the aftermath of a crash can feel overwhelming. Our Traverse City car accident lawyers assist with the legal and insurance aspects of your personal injury claim so you are not handling them alone.

• Case strategy: We evaluate your claim, explain Michigan’s laws, and develop a winning plan.
• Thorough investigation: We gather police reports, witness statements, photos, and expert analysis.
• Damage calculation: We account for all medical expenses, future care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
• Negotiation with insurers: We handle all discussions with insurance adjusters while advocating for appropriate compensation.
• Trial advocacy: If insurers refuse to be fair, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.

What Are the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Traverse City

Car accidents in the Traverse City area often occur for several clear reasons, including:

• Distracted driving: Using a phone, adjusting navigation systems, or focusing on passengers instead of the road.
• Speeding and aggressive driving: Driving at unsafe speeds or engaging in aggressive behavior on highways and rural roads.
• Drunk or impaired driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which continues to pose a risk to the community.
• Weather-related hazards: Snow, ice, and rain that affect road conditions and vehicle control across Northern Michigan.
• Failure to yield: Not yielding the right-of-way at intersections, highway entrances, or during left turns.

The Most Common Injuries Following a Traverse City Accident

Car crash injuries can vary in severity and impact. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash and neck injuries: Often caused by the sudden force of rear-end collisions.
• Broken bones and fractures: Injuries to arms, legs, ribs, or ankles resulting from direct impact.
• Concussions and head injuries: Trauma to the head that may affect memory, focus, or daily function.
• Back and spinal cord injuries: Damage that can lead to ongoing pain, limited mobility, or paralysis.
• Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears affecting muscles, ligaments, or tendons.

Some injuries, like internal bleeding or certain brain trauma, may not show symptoms for days. Always seek a medical evaluation immediately after a crash.

Steps You Can Take After a Car Accident in Traverse City

Your actions after a crash can protect your health and your claim.

• Ensure safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check on others.
• Call 911: A police report is vital for your claim.
• Seek medical attention: Get checked immediately, even if you feel okay.
• Document the scene: Take photos of vehicles, injuries, and the surroundings.
• Exchange information: Get names and insurance details from other drivers.
• Notify your insurer: Report the accident, but avoid providing detailed statements without legal guidance.
• Contact a lawyer: Speak with a Traverse City car accident attorney before talking to other insurance adjusters.

What Compensation Can Our Traverse City Car Lawyers Recover for Our Clients?

Our Traverse City car accident lawyers help clients pursue several types of compensation after a motor vehicle accident. Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical bills and long-term treatment costs
• Lost wages and future income loss
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Emotional distress related to the accident

Michigan’s no-fault system pays several immediate expenses through PIP benefits. However, if you suffer a serious impairment, our attorneys can also pursue a separate claim against the at-fault driver to seek additional compensation.

How Do I Get Pain and Suffering After a Traverse City Car Crash?

You can pursue pain and suffering compensation by filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver if your injury meets Michigan’s legal “serious impairment” threshold. We build this part of your claim by:

• Documenting your physical pain and emotional distress through journals and testimony
• Using medical records and expert witness opinions to prove the injury’s severity and permanence
• Negotiating fiercely with insurers or presenting a compelling case to a jury

How Does Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance System Affect My Claim?

Michigan’s no-fault system means your own auto insurance pays for your initial medical treatment and wage loss through personal injury protection (PIP) benefits, regardless of who caused the crash.

However, this system limits lawsuits against other drivers. You can only sue for pain and suffering if your injury results in death, serious disfigurement, or a “serious impairment of body function.”

Our lawyers help you navigate PIP claims and determine if you have a valid third-party lawsuit.

Can I Still File a Claim If I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes. Michigan follows a comparative negligence rule. You may still pursue pain and suffering compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the crash. Any recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your recovery is reduced by 20%. We work to establish clear facts and minimize any unfair blame placed on you by insurance companies.

How Much Can Someone Sue for a Car Accident in Michigan?

There is no fixed cap on damages for most car accident lawsuits in Michigan. The value depends on the specifics of your case. Key factors include:

• Injury severity: Catastrophic injuries warrant higher compensation.
• Economic losses: Total of medical bills, future care needs, and lost earning capacity.
• Impact on life: The degree of your pain and suffering and lifestyle limitations.
• Evidence strength: Clear proof of the other driver’s fault and your damages.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Michigan?

You must act within strict deadlines, known as the statute of limitations:

• Personal injury lawsuits: 3 years from the accident date.
• Property damage lawsuits: 3 years from the accident date.
• No-fault (PIP) benefit claims: Subject to strict notice and filing requirements.

Missing these deadlines can limit or prevent recovery, so acting promptly is important.

How Long Does Settlement After a Vehicle Crash Take?

Every case is unique. A settlement can take anywhere from a few months to several years. Factors influencing the timeline include:

• Injury severity: Cases stabilize only when you reach maximum medical improvement.
• Dispute over fault: If liability is contested, investigation and litigation take longer.
• Insurance company delays: Some insurers drag out the process.
• Case complexity: Involving multiple vehicles, commercial policies, or wrongful death.

Our goal is to resolve your case efficiently while still pursuing the full value supported by the facts and law. If you or a family member has been injured in a Traverse City car accident, do not face this difficult time alone. Contact Matz Injury Law today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Questions Should I Ask When Looking to Hire Car Accident Lawyers?

When choosing a lawyer, ask about their experience in Michigan personal injury law and car accident cases. Discuss case timelines, courtroom experience, and how claims are handled when settlements do not resolve the matter. You should also confirm the fee structure, including contingency arrangements, and the lawyer’s understanding of Michigan’s injury requirements.

What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

Michigan’s no-fault system allows your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits to cover medical bills and lost wages regardless of the other driver’s insurance status (MCL 500.3105). For pain and suffering or excess damages, you can use your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if included in your policy.

Without it, suing the driver is possible, but recovery depends on their assets. File a police report immediately and contact your insurer promptly to access benefits.

What Evidence Do I Need for a Car Accident Case?

Gather police reports detailing the crash, photos of the scene and damage, and witness statements. Include medical records like MRIs, bills, and treatment notes to prove injuries.

Will My Car Accident Case Go to Court?

Most Michigan car accident cases settle during insurance negotiations or discovery, avoiding trial. Cases proceed to court for severe injuries meeting the serious impairment threshold, fault disputes, or denied claims like trucking accidents.

Contact Our Traverse City Car Accident Team Today to Discuss Your Case

If you or a loved one was injured in a car crash, contact Matz Injury Law today at 866-226-6833 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free case evaluation today. Our attorneys are ready to review your case, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way.