What Can You Sue for After a Car Accident?

In an ideal world, people who were 0% responsible for a car accident would receive 100% of their damages through compensation in a settlement or through a jury verdict. However, this is not the case for many car accident victims, as certain damages can only be claimed in some circumstances but not in others.

Liable parties can be expected to pay damages based on each state’s liability laws. This blog examines who you can sue after a car accident in Michigan. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a car accident, our car accident lawyers at Goodman Acker, P.C., can help you assess the facts of your case and provide guidance on steps to take. Contact us at 248-286-8100 to book a free case review.

Why hire Goodman Acker, P.C., to represent you?

At Goodman Acker, P.C., we have dedicated our careers and resources to helping car accident victims seek compensation for their damages. We have decades of experience doing this and an in-depth understanding of the workings of the Michigan legal system. Our attorneys are committed to every case we handle, and we do not see any client as more important than any other.

We have secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients and will help you get fair compensation.

We do not charge upfront fees; we only get paid when we secure a favorable outcome. Learn more about our services by calling 248-286-8100 to schedule a consultation.

Who can you sue after a car accident in Michigan?

In Michigan, the following parties can be sued after a car accident:

First-party

In Michigan, first-party lawsuits involve a car owner suing their insurer after an accident. Depending on how a car accident lawsuit develops, you sue for compensation that covers medical (PIP) benefits, lost wages, attendant care, and special needs treatments. But filing a lawsuit against your insurer only comes into play if they fail to pay your benefits or offer an amount less than you’re entitled to.

Third-party

The situation changes slightly when a third party is responsible for the plaintiff’s injuries. In addition to the aforementioned first-party damages, you can sue a third party for pain and suffering caused by the car accident and other non-economic damages. Since Michigan is a No-Fault state, third-party lawsuits are filed against the party responsible for the accident.

You can sue for “pain and suffering” damages if you meet the legally defined threshold under Michigan law, like permanent disfigurement or significant impairment of bodily function. In other words, you have to prove that your life is more difficult now that you have suffered an injury, that the injury was severe, and that the injury is directly linked to your difficulties. Third-party lawsuits also come into play when a person dies in a car accident.

It is essential that you Identify who you can sue after an accident and what you can sue for to ensure you get proper compensation.

UM/UIM parties

In Michigan, you can sue for uninsured or underinsured benefits if you were involved in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver (someone whose policy limits are not enough to pay for your damages) and have an uninsured or underinsured insurance policy. You can also sue for these benefits if involved in a hit-and-run accident. However, like suing first parties, you can only file a lawsuit if your uninsured or underinsured insurance provider fails to pay your benefits and pays less than you deserve.