Being involved in an auto collision of any kind can be shocking and traumatic. When a motor vehicle accident leads to significant injuries, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be life-altering. If you’ve suddenly found yourself in this situation, you’re likely dealing with excruciating pain, overwhelming hospital bills, and lost income due to missed time at work. These factors and others can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and the disruption of your personal relationships.
Working with an experienced car crash attorney in Birmingham, Michigan, can give you the support and guidance you need as you pursue the compensation you deserve. Atnip & Associates, PLLC has over 85 years of experience helping car accident victims in the region get their lives back on track. Call our law firm today at 248-599-1607 or contact us online for a free consultation with a compassionate and knowledgeable motor vehicle accident lawyer in Birmingham.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Birmingham, MI
While car accidents in Birmingham can happen for many reasons, most happen due to some form of human error. Our law firm frequently handles auto accident cases that happen for the following reasons:
Operating a motor vehicle requires a person’s complete attention. When they allow themselves to be distracted by other activities, they put others at risk of dangerous accidents. According to statistics from the Michigan State Police, distracted driving was a factor in nearly 15,500 accidents in 2022 alone. Such distractions may include:
- Talking on a cell phone– Whether using a handheld or hands-free device, phone conversations are significantly more distracting than speaking to another vehicle occupant.
- Texting– Sending a text message, even for a brief moment, can take a driver’s eyes off the road for long enough to cause a deadly crash.
- Eating or drinking– Using one or both hands to eat or drink can impair a person’s ability to respond to changing traffic conditions.
- Rubbernecking– Allowing oneself to be distracted by the aftermath of an accident can increase a driver’s own likelihood of being involved in a crash.
Speed limits have a clear purpose: to protect road users from injury and death. When a driver exceeds the speed limit or drives too fast for conditions, they reduce their ability to change course or slow down in the event of a road hazard. Furthermore, speeding increases the impact of collisions, making catastrophic or fatal injuries more likely.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants is illegal because it is deadly. People who drive with an elevated blood alcohol level are more likely to cause accidents, and those accidents are more likely to be deadly.
Poorly maintained roads and inclement weather are often factors in collisions in Michigan, especially in the winter. While government agencies may share the blame for accidents due to poor road maintenance, all drivers have a responsibility to take proper precautions for conditions. If they fail to do so, they can be held accountable for resulting accidents and injuries.
Types of Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents in Birmingham, Michigan, can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic, life-altering trauma. Common injuries we see in motor vehicle collisions include:
- Whiplash – This neck injury occurs when the head is suddenly thrust back and forth, damaging muscles and ligaments. It causes stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.
- Broken bones – Fractures commonly occur in the arms, legs, ribs, and hips as the result of car crashes. They often require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – A violent blow to the head can cause concussions, contusions, and internal bleeding in the brain. These TBIs can result in cognitive deficits, personality changes, and loss of coordination.
- Back and neck injuries – Herniated discs, pinched nerves, spinal fractures, and other back and neck traumas frequently occur in collisions. These debilitating injuries can make everyday tasks difficult without assistance.
- Internal bleeding and organ damage – Penetrating trauma from car parts, seat belts, or deploying airbags can damage organs like the spleen, kidneys, liver, and intestines. The resulting internal bleeding is life-threatening if not treated promptly.
How a Birmingham Car Crash Attorney Can Help
While many people attempt to handle their car accident insurance claims alone, doing so can lead to frustration, disappointment, and financial instability. Insurance adjusters are adept at denying claims whenever possible and convincing claimants to accept less than they deserve. Retaining an experienced auto accident lawyer in Birmingham can neutralize their tactics and give you the support and advocacy you deserve. A motor vehicle collision lawyer in Birmingham will:
- Review your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance policy and other applicable coverage to determine all compensation available to you under Michigan’s no-fault laws.
- Work with medical experts to determine if you have a qualifying injury, allowing you to file a liability claim or lawsuit against the other driver.
- Investigate the accident to uncover evidence proving the other driver’s fault, such as skid marks, debris, witness statements, police reports, and video footage.
- Negotiate assertively with insurance companies to obtain fair compensation. We won’t let adjusters pressure you into accepting an unreasonably low settlement.
- File lawsuits against any liable parties as necessary. We aren’t afraid to take your case to court if needed.
- Allow you to focus on healing while we handle the legal process. Our lawyers aim to reduce your stress by managing your case from start to finish.
Along the way, we will treat you with the kindness and compassion you deserve at this challenging time.
Possible Compensation in Birmingham Car Accident Claim
While the amount you recover will depend on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to claim compensation for the following losses:
A knowledgeable motor vehicle accident lawyer in Birmingham can review your case and determine how much money you can reasonably expect to recover in your claim.
Why Choose Atnip & Associates, PLLC
When choosing a personal injury attorney in Birmingham to handle your car accident claim, you should look for someone with experience, tenacity, and compassion. The Birmingham, Michigan, personal injury attorneys at Atnip & Associates, PLLC, have over 85 years of experience handling auto collision claims across the state. The millions of dollars we have recovered for past clients are a testament to our determination and willingness to fight for the compensation injured Michiganders deserve.
Compassion is at the heart of our practice. We pride ourselves on giving each client the individualized attention they and their case deserve. Moreover, we offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid after we have recovered a settlement or verdict for you. This arrangement allows you to access high-quality legal services regardless of your current financial situation. If you’re looking for a car accident lawyer in Birmingham, Michigan, who will help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially, Atnip & Associates, PLLC, wants to hear from you.
Contact a Birmingham Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Birmingham or anywhere in Michigan, call Atnip & Associates at 248-599-1607 for a free consultation. An experienced auto collision lawyer in Birmingham is ready to fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
