Auto Accident Attorneys
Car Accidents and Road Safety
Injured in an Auto Accident? We Can Help.
Car accidents occur every day, often leaving victims overwhelmed by injuries, vehicle damage, and complicated insurance disputes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), millions of people are involved in car accidents annually, with many suffering serious injuries. In these challenging situations, an experienced auto accident lawyer can make all the difference. Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical bills, injuries, or uncooperative insurance companies, a skilled auto accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Serving Michigan & Texas :
Our auto accident attorneys are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process and fighting for your rights. With offices in Troy, Michigan, and Dallas, Texas, we are positioned to serve clients across multiple regions. Whether you are nearby or out of state, we provide the flexibility to assist you wherever you are.
Car accidents can lead to devastating consequences from medical bills to emotional or physical trauma. The Oliver Bell Group represents accident victims in both Michigan and Texas, working to secure maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
Our experienced attorneys understand state-specific laws and provide top-tier legal
representation to protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve. We are here to help you recover fully from your accident, no matter where you are.
Michigan Car Accident Laws
Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, which requires each driver to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. Regardless of who is at fault for the accident, your own insurance will cover your medical expenses, medical mileage, lost wages, attendant care and certain household services—often referred to as PIP benefits. However, if the damages exceed the no-fault coverage limits, or if there are serious injuries, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
- Filing a No-Fault Claim: You must file a no-fault claim with your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident to qualify for benefits.
- Statute of Limitations:
- In Michigan, you have three (3) years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver for pain & suffering.
- Furthermore, if your PIP carrier is not sufficiently providing you PIP benefits, then you may be forced to sue them. There is a one (1) year statute of limitations from the date of the accident to sue your PIP
Texas Car Accident Laws
Unlike Michigan, Texas is an at-fault state, meaning that the driver responsible for the accident is financially liable for the damages. Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system, which means you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.:
- Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Filing a Claim: You can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, but it’s critical to consult with one of our auto accident attorneys before accepting any settlement offers.
Truck, Motorcycle, and Specialty Vehicle Accidents:
Accidents involving trucks, motorcycles, and specialty vehicles often lead to devastating injuries due to their size and complexity. Our auto accident attorneys are skilled in navigating the unique challenges of these cases, from trucking companies and manufacturers to biased insurance adjusters in motorcycle crashes. Whether dealing with a commercial truck, motorcycle, or another specialty vehicle, our experienced auto accident attorneys work tirelessly to ensure fair compensation for victims and their families. We handle the complexities so you can focus on recovery.
Michigan Motorcycle Accident Laws
While Michigan’s no-fault laws apply to car accidents, motorcyclists are not automatically covered under the no-fault system unless they are involved in an accident with a vehicle. This makes it especially important for motorcyclists to carry adequate insurance coverage to protect themselves in a crash.
- Filing a Claim: If a motorcyclist is hit by a car, they may file a claim under the car’s no fault policy. If no vehicle is involved, the motorcyclist can file a standard personal injury claim against the at-fault party.
- Statute of Limitations: You have three (3) years from the date of the accident to file a claim in Michigan.
Texas Motorcycle Accident Laws
In Texas, motorcyclists are treated the same as car drivers under the law. This means that the at fault driver is liable for any damage caused. However, insurance companies may try to argue that the motorcyclist was partially at fault due to the inherent risks of riding.
- Statute of Limitations: You have two (2) years to file a claim in Texas.
- Liability: Motorcyclists must follow all state road rules, including helmet laws for riders under the age of 21. Failure to comply may affect your compensation.
Determining Liability in Truck Accidents
Liability in a truck accident can involve several parties:- Truck Driver: If the driver violated traffic laws or Hours of Service regulations, they could be held liable.
- Trucking Company: If the company failed to follow safety regulations or properly maintain the truck, they may be held responsible.
- Manufacturers: Defective truck parts or equipment may lead to a claim against the truck manufacturer.
Hours of Service Regulations
The FMCSA mandates strict regulations to prevent driver fatigue:- Drivers can work up to 14 hours per day but can only drive for a maximum of 11 hours.
- Drivers must take 10 consecutive hours off-duty between shifts.
- Regular rest breaks are required.
Truck Accident Lawsuits in Michigan and Texas
- Statute of Limitations: Truck accident claims in Michigan must be filed within three (3) years, while in Texas, claims must be filed within two (2) years.
- Filing a Lawsuit: Victims of truck accidents can file personal injury claims against the atfault party or parties, which may include the truck driver, trucking company, or cargo loaders.
Michigan Auto Accident FAQs
How does Michigan’s no-fault insurance work?
No-fault insurance covers your medical expenses, lost wages, medical mileage, attendant care and household services, regardless of who caused the accident. However, you may still be able to sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering if your injuries meet a certain threshold.
When should I contact my insurance after a Michigan car accident?
Notify your insurance company immediately after the accident to ensure you remain eligible for no-fault benefits.
What damages can I recover in Michigan?
You can recover economic damages like medical bills and lost wages through your PIP carrier. In cases of severe injury, you may also recover non-economic damages like pain and suffering from the at-fault driver.
Texas Auto Accident FAQs
What should I do if I’m partially at fault for a Texas car accident?
In Texas, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What happens if the other driver is uninsured?
What happens if the other driver is uninsured? If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still be able to recover damages through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Can I file a lawsuit if my insurance company offers a settlement?
Once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to pursue further compensation. Consult with one of our Texas auto accident lawyers before accepting any offer to ensure it covers all your damages.
Choose Oliver Bell Group for Your Auto Accident Claim?
No matter what type of vehicle accident you are involved in, the Oliver Bell Group is here to help. We understand the complexities of Michigan’s no-fault system and Texas’s at-fault laws, and we are committed to fighting for your rights. Whether you have been injured in a car accident, a motorcycle crash, or a truck collision, our experienced auto accident attorneys will ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Reach out today for a free consultation
