Personal Injury

1. "I've been injured in an automobile collision.  What do I need to do to make sure my rights are protected?"

Consult an experienced attorney immediately.  It is very important that a police report is created and that photographs of the vehicles and the scene are taken as soon as possible.  All too often, insurance companies fail to advise their policyholders what they're entitled to after being injured in an automobile collision.  You need to know what benefits are available and for how long.  Michigan law provides that your own insurance company is responsible for all of your medical and rehabilitative expenses that arise from the collision.  If you have private medical insurance, your insurer is responsible to cover those expenses that fall outside that private coverage.  Also, your insurer should be reimbursing you for mileage to necessary treatment and replacement expenses for having assistance around the house.  More importantly, your own insurance company is responsible for paying 85% of your lost wages (tax free) for up to three years following the collision.  Let our firm make sure that you're getting all that you paid for in your premiums, by helping you make a timely claim.

2.  "Can I get damages for my pain and suffering from the person who caused my auto accident?"

Again, this question is one that needs the assistance of an experienced attorney to answer correctly.  Michigan law provides that when you're injured in a collision by another person's negligence, as a driver, a passenger or even a pedestrian, you're entitled to compensation for your physical pain and mental anguish, or "non-economic damages", only if you have suffered a serious bodily injury.  Unless a family member has died or you have suffered a permanent and serious disfigurement or a serious impairment of body function, Michigan law states that you cannot recover for pain and suffering.  Let our firm's experience in this area of law allow you to concentrate on getting better, knowing that the complexities of the case are being investigated and evaluated properly.  Our approach in assessing the merits of your case roots out how your injuries have truly affected your ability to lead your normal life.  Don't let the other side tell you why you aren't entitled to some measure of relief.  Let us help you collect the damages to which you are entitled.

3. "I've been injured in a fall.  I think that the owner of the property is responsible.  Can you help?"

Michigan law provides that landowners and those in control of property have a duty to protect those upon the premises from certain dangers.  What level of protection depends on your reason for being on the property.  For example, a storeowner owes a customer a different level of protection than a homeowner does a social guest.  This can be a very complicated area of law and how any court may rule is hard to predict these days.  If the defect or condition on the property was special, hidden or somehow not otherwise recognizable, the landowner or those in control may be responsible for your injuries.  Again, get photographs of the surrounding area and attempt to identify any witnesses.  Most importantly, don't get hurt twice; consult with our attorneys and obtain an experienced and reasoned opinion on whether you have a compensable case.

4.  "My child was bitten by a neighborhood dog and has scars on her face and hands.  The dog had never bit anyone before, but I am concerned about my child's future medical expenses.  Should I talk to an attorney?"

Yes.  Michigan does not require that a dog, even a family pet, have had a history of vicious or biting behavior in order to provide a remedy for those injured.  It is important to get an attorney involved early to determine the facts of the bite and the availability of insurance coverage.  Scarring, especially to the face or to young children are something that should be carefully documented.  Take pictures immediately and as the wound(s) heals.  Report the bite to your local Animal Control office and follow through to make sure that the animal is quarantined to ensure it is otherwise healthy.  Also, take care to note any changes in your loved one's physical condition, behaviors and their willingness to interact with dogs.  These are important factors that any experienced attorney will need to take into account in order to determine the value of your child's damages.