- March 4, 2015
- Car Accidents
- Personal Injury
Under the Michigan no-fault law, a person injured in a Michigan car accident who is unable to operate his or her car or truck or requires special accommodations to their vehicle as a result of their injuries may be entitled to vehicle modification benefits from their insurance company, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.At the law firm of Goodman Acker, P.C. our auto accident attorneyshelp victims obtain these benefits on a daily basis. This includes not only those injured as a driver and/or passenger, but any person injured in any type of motor vehicle accident in Michigan, including motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, pedestrian accidents, and bicycle accidents.
What Are Vehicle Modification Benefits?
Vehicle modification benefits are changes to a vehicle so that the accident victim is able to drive his or her vehicle or modifications to the vehicle so that the vehicle will accommodate the accident victim as a passenger in a wheelchair.Examples of vehicle modifications that could be made include wide doors, motorized lifts, or special equipment added to the steering wheel, brakes, or gas pedal. In some cases, if certain modifications required are unable to be made to the accident victim's current car, truck, or van, the insurance company will have to purchase a new van and pay for any modifications the vehicle will need to accommodate the injured person.
Who Is Responsible For Paying For My Vehicle Modifications?
Because vehicle modification benefits are an allowable medical expense under the Michigan no-fault law, typically it is the accident victim's no-fault (auto) insurance company that is responsible for paying the costs.
However, it is important to realize that the vehicle modifications must be priced reasonably and deemed "reasonably necessary" for the person's care, recovery, or rehabilitation for the no-fault insurance company to be obligated to pay. If they are not, then the no-fault insurance company may not be obligated to pay for the benefits.
When Do I Submit My Claim For Vehicle Modifications?
If you or your loved one requires modifications to your car, truck or van after a Michigan car accident, you need to submit a claim to your insurance company requesting payment. This claim should be submitted as soon as it is determined necessary that the modifications will be required.
Typically, an occupational therapist will assess your existing vehicle first and determine whether it can be modified and what modifications need to be made, or whether a new vehicle is necessary. Once the assessment is done it should be sent to a company that specializes in vehicle modification so that they may put together a quote. This quote should be submitted to your insurance adjuster assigned to your claim. Often times, the insurance adjuster may require you to submit two to three quotes from different companies so they can compare pricing.
What To Do If My Michigan Vehicle Modification Benefit Claim Is Denied?
It is not uncommon for auto accident victims who submit their claim for Michigan vehicle modification benefits to get denied by their insurance company. If your insurance company refuses to pay, delays payment, or refuses to pay full amount deemed necessary for your care and recovery, your only recourse is to file a lawsuit against your auto insurance company. This is called a no-fault lawsuit.
When this happens, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced Michigan no-fault insurance lawyer. Insurance companies are notorious for playing tricky tactics and it is important that the attorney you hire to represent you knows how to properly handle your claim and has significant experience negotiating with the insurance companies so that you receive full payment. Having an attorney who has no experience or knowledge of Michigan no-fault law can very detrimental to your case and may result in you not receiving the benefits you deserve.
Get Help From Our Michigan No-Fault Insurance Lawyers Today
At the law firm of Goodman Acker, P.C. our Michigan no-fault insurance lawyers have been handling vehicle modification benefit claims for victims of auto injury accidents for over 30 years. We understand how to navigate through the insurance claims process and how to negotiate with the insurance adjusters so that your case ends with the best result and full payment of modifications and accommodations that you deserve and are entitled to.
There are strict time limitations for filing a claim against the insurance company so it is important that you do not wait to get the help you need. Whether you need advice on how to submit a claim, or just have some questions regarding your vehicle modification benefits, or your claim has been denied and you need to file a lawsuit against your insurance company, call our trusted no-fault insurance lawyers today at(248) 286-8100. We offer a free, no obligation consultation where we will be able to answer all your questions and concerns, and provide the help and advice you need.
Best of all, should you need our representation our attorneys offer a trusted no-win no-fee promise, which means there are no fees or costs to you until we win or settle your claim. For more information on Michigan vehicle modification claims or to find out how our auto accident attorneys can help you, calls now!
For a list of all other no-fault insurance benefit you may be entitled to as a Michigan auto accident victim, visit our no-fault insurance benefits page.