If your vehicle was damaged in an auto accident, then you may be able to file a car accident insurance claim, which is a request for your insurance company to provide reimbursement for the physical damage to your vehicle. But hurry; the clock is ticking.
Michigan laws govern the insurance claim process, including how long you have to file a claim and any caps on coverage. Michigan car accident lawyer Marc J. Shefman is your resource for understanding your rights related to car accident insurance claims and how to get the compensation you seek.
Here, our lawyers explain the process of filing an insurance claim in Michigan. As you can see, time is of the essence. Contact the law offices of Marc J. Shefman today to represent you to your insurance company and to get help with filing a claim or lawsuit.
What to Do if You are in a Car Accident
If you are in a car accident, follow these steps immediately, or as soon as possible:
- Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries
- Determine if it is safe to leave the vehicle; if it is, do so
- Do not move any injured persons unless they are in imminent danger
- Call for emergency services
- Render first aid if possible
- Collect information from others involved in the accident
- File an accident report with the police
When to Contact a Michigan Car Accident Lawyer
Time is critical after a Michigan auto accident. The insurance companies of the other drivers involved will quickly conduct their own investigation in order to begin building a defense against any legal claim. Therefore, if you are involved in a car accident, and especially if you sustain an injury, you must counter this effort by hiring your own car accident lawyer.
Your Michigan car accident lawyer should immediately begin the process of accident investigation by interviewing you, your passengers, and any available witnesses. They will also take pictures of the accident scene and all vehicles involved and collect documentation from the police reporting at the scene. Any medical treatments required should also be documented, especially any ongoing treatments or therapies.
When to File a Car Accident Insurance Claim
Under Michigan law, there is a one year time limit to inform your insurance company of your car accident, and to file your car accident insurance claim. In addition, there is a three year time limit to file a lawsuit against another driver. However, some insurance companies have different notification requirements. Be sure to check your Michigan insurance policy for their specific notification requirements pertaining to your car accident. Some pose strict notification requirements, like 30 days from the date of the accident.
The insurance company will require a copy of the accident report prepared by the police department at the scene of the accident. They will also ask you some questions pertaining to what happened, especially concerning any factors that may have contributed to the accident. Answer their questions and inform them that you have retained the services of a Michigan car accident lawyer who is actively investigating the accident. Provide your attorney’s contact information to the insurance company and ask that all correspondence be handled through their offices.
Marc J. Shefman – Michigan Car Accident Lawyer
Laws governing car accidents in Michigan can be complicated, so many attorneys do not handle those cases. Marc J. Shefman is an experienced Michigan car accident lawyer who faithfully serves Metro Detroit. Call (248) 298-3003 or contact us online to arrange your free consultation to learn more about Michigan car accident laws and how to file a claim.
