Personal Injury

Understanding Personal Injury Law in Michigan: What You Need to Know After an Accident

Accidents happen when you least expect them — a car crash on your way home, a slip on a wet floor at the grocery store, or an Uber ride that ends in a collision. When these incidents occur, they don’t just leave physical injuries. They also bring emotional stress, lost income, and mounting medical bills. That’s where personal injury law comes in.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Michigan, you have the legal right to seek compensation. This blog will walk you through what personal injury law covers, what steps to take after an accident, and how a personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights.

What Is Personal Injury Law?

Personal injury law allows individuals who have been harmed — physically or emotionally — by the wrongful actions of another person, business, or organization to pursue compensation. In Michigan, common personal injury cases include:

Wrongful Death – Fatal accidents caused by another party’s negligence

Motor Vehicle Accidents – Car, truck, motorcycle, and big rig collisions

Rideshare Accidents – Injuries sustained in Uber or Lyft rides

Slip and Fall Accidents – Injuries on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions

What to Do After an Accident

If you’re involved in an accident, follow these important steps to protect your health and legal rights:

  1. Seek Medical Attention – Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
  2. Document the Scene – Take photos of the accident scene, injuries, vehicles involved, and any other relevant details.
  3. Get Contact Info – Collect the names and contact info of witnesses and those involved.
  4. Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Adjusters – They may try to minimize your claim. It’s best to speak to a lawyer first.
  5. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer – A lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

Personal injury claims can quickly become complicated. Insurance companies may offer lowball settlements, or the other party might deny fault altogether. A skilled lawyer:

  • Evaluates your case and estimates fair compensation
  • Gathers evidence and builds a strong claim
  • Negotiates with insurance companies on your behalf
  • Takes your case to court if necessary

Michigan’s Statute of Limitations

In Michigan, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation, so it’s important to act promptly.

Get the Legal Help You Deserve

At The Braxton Law Firm, PC, we help injury victims throughout Michigan get the compensation they deserve. Whether you’ve been in a car crash, a rideshare accident, or lost a loved one due to negligence, our experienced legal team is here to fight for you.