Southfield Personal Injury Lawyer

Southfield Personal Injury Attorney

A personal injury can happen to anyone in Southfield. When an injury results from someone else’s negligence or misconduct, victims have the right to seek compensation by hiring a skilled Southfield personal injury lawyer. Michigan’s personal injury laws are complex but allow for a range of damages to be awarded to the injured party.

If you were harmed due to someone else’s negligence, you can trust the law firm of Wigod & Falzon to tirelessly seek compensation for your injuries. We have served Southfield residents since 1997. We are not intimidated by the tactics used by insurance companies and negligent parties.

Why Choose Wigod & Falzon?

At Wigod & Falzon, we prioritize the well-being and success of our clients above all else. With years of experience in handling personal injury cases in Southfield and the surrounding areas, our team understands the intricacies of Michigan’s laws and the challenges that accident victims face.

Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or the pain and suffering caused by an injury, we can provide personalized legal representation to get you the compensation you deserve. Our firm works closely with clients, keeping them informed and supported at every step of the legal process.

What sets Wigod & Falzon apart is our unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. Our team’s dedication to results is reflected in our long-standing reputation for achieving favorable outcomes for those we represent. We understand the emotional and financial toll that personal injuries can take, so we fight aggressively to protect your rights. Surveillance is often used in personal injury claims to gather evidence, verify claims, and ensure that all aspects of your case are thoroughly investigated, helping to strengthen your position in securing compensation.

Common Personal Injuries in Southfield

The same types of personal injuries that occur in Southfield generally occur throughout Michigan as well. Personal injuries can happen for a variety of reasons. The aftermath of these injuries can lead to both physical and emotional distress. Understanding the common types of personal injuries can help victims know whether they may qualify for a personal injury claim.

• Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury that results from car collisions, especially rear-end crashes. The injury occurs when the neck and head are whipped back and forth. This can cause significant strain on the muscles and ligaments. Symptoms can range from mild stiffness to serious pain and potential long-term complications.
• Fractures: Fractures commonly result from accidents, falls, and workplace injuries. Depending on the severity and location, fractures may require surgical intervention, extensive rehabilitation, or permanent impairment. These injuries can significantly disrupt a person’s ability to work or engage in everyday activities.
• Traumatic Brain Injury: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by a blow or jolt to the head. This type of catastrophic injury can result from accidents, falls, or even physical assault. TBIs can vary in severity, from mild concussions to severe brain damage, which can impact cognitive functions, memory, and motor skills. These injuries require long-term care and can result in permanent disability.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious personal injuries. They can result in paralysis or loss of motor function. They are typically caused by accidents, falls, or violent impacts. Victims of spinal injuries may require ongoing medical treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, and home modifications.
• Burns: Burn injuries are commonly caused by fires, explosions, or exposure to hot surfaces or chemicals. They can range from minor first-degree burns to severe third-degree burns that require surgery and skin grafts. Burns often result in permanent scarring and long-term recovery, which can impact the victim’s physical and emotional well-being.

No matter the type of injury you incurred, you have the right to seek legal representation and secure fair compensation for your injury.

Common Causes of Personal Injuries in Southfield

Personal injuries in Michigan can result from a variety of accidents, many of which are unique to the state’s climate and road conditions. One of the most common causes of personal injury in Michigan is car accidents, particularly given the state’s high number of vehicles on the road, especially in urban areas like Southfield.

These accidents are often caused by speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving. Additionally, Michigan’s severe winters create hazardous driving conditions, with icy roads and snow leading to an increase in car accidents during colder months. A car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of Michigan’s no-fault insurance system and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Another significant cause of personal injuries in Michigan is slip and falls. These types of accidents are common during Michigan’s winter months. The state’s long and harsh winters create icy sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways. Slips can occur in public spaces or on private property, especially when properties are not properly cleared of ice and snow.

Workplace injuries are also a common cause of personal injury in Michigan, particularly in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and warehousing, where heavy machinery, tools, and chemicals are used. These accidents can result in anything from cuts and bruises to severe injuries, like amputations or spinal cord damage.

If a workplace injury was caused by a third party (such as the maker of a defective product or a negligent contractor), the injured person could pursue a personal injury claim outside of workers’ compensation. This is often referred to as a third-party liability claim.

Determining Fault

Determining fault in a car accident in Michigan is a crucial step in the claims process. Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning that your own insurance will cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and some other costs, regardless of who caused the accident. However, determining fault is still important, especially if your injuries exceed the state’s no-fault threshold, allowing you to file a claim for pain and suffering. Documenting your personal injury claim with insurance is essential to ensure all necessary details are recorded, helping to support your case and secure the compensation you deserve.

In Michigan, certain requirements must be met before you can file a claim against the at-fault driver. These include serious impairment of bodily function, disfigurement, or death. When determining fault, it can be helpful to have legal representation. Your lawyer can examine police reports, witness statements, photographs, and video footage, among other forms of evidence, when determining who is at fault for causing your injury.

If the injury resulted from a car collision, factors such as speeding, distracted driving, or running a red light can indicate fault. Road conditions (e.g., weather, construction zones) are also considered. In some cases, Michigan’s comparative fault system may apply. If you’re partially at fault for the accident, your compensation can be reduced accordingly.

Seeking Compensation

When a personal injury disrupts your life, seeking compensation can provide financial relief and help you move forward. In Michigan, the compensation you may be entitled to depends on the circumstances of your injury.

Victims can pursue damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Michigan’s no-fault insurance system means your own insurance initially covers many costs. Serious injuries may allow you to pursue additional claims against the at-fault party.

Compensation for personal injuries is designed to address both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages, such as hospital bills and rehabilitation expenses, are tangible expenses. Non-economic damages, like emotional distress or reduced quality of life, address the less visible but equally important aspects of an injury.

Proving these damages often requires substantial evidence, including medical records, opinions from medical professionals, and documentation of lost income. Acting quickly is beneficial because Michigan law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims.

How an Attorney Can Help

Navigating a personal injury claim can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies and Michigan’s unique laws. An experienced personal injury attorney can be a vital ally, guiding you through every step of the process and advocating on your behalf.

Their role begins with a thorough investigation of your case, gathering evidence such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements to build a compelling claim.

An attorney can also handle communications with insurance companies. Adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts, but a skilled attorney knows how to counter these tactics and negotiate for a fair settlement agreement. In cases where settlement negotiations fail, your attorney can prepare the case for court by leveraging their knowledge of Michigan’s legal system to present a strong argument for your damages.

A personal injury attorney can assess the true value of your claim by considering all economic and non-economic damages. They provide clarity on Michigan’s comparative fault laws, which may affect your compensation if you share part of the responsibility for the accident. A personal injury attorney allows you to focus on recovery while they pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Tips for Finding the Right Personal Injury Attorney: How an Attorney Can Help

Choosing the right personal injury attorney is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome for your case. Start by seeking a lawyer with experience in personal injury law, particularly in Michigan. Knowledge of the state’s unique no-fault insurance system and comparative fault laws enables them to effectively navigate your claim. Look for a firm with a strong reputation, evidenced by client reviews and case results, to confirm their reliability and dedication.

An attorney’s role extends beyond legal representation. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

They can also advise on the long-term implications of settlement offers, thus addressing your future needs. By providing personalized guidance and advocating for your interests, a skilled attorney can alleviate stress and maximize your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.

FAQs

What Percentage Do Most Personal Injury Lawyers Take?

Personal injury lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning their payment depends on the outcome of the case. The exact percentage varies and is agreed upon between the client and the attorney. This arrangement keeps clients from paying upfront costs. Clients should review and understand the terms of the contingency agreement before hiring their legal representation, as this can prevent any confusion about fees later.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in Michigan?

Michigan law generally requires personal injury claims to be filed within three years of the injury date. This timeframe applies to most negligence-based cases, including car accidents and slip and fall incidents. However, certain exceptions, such as cases involving minors or government claims, may affect the deadline. A qualified attorney in Southfield, Michigan, can make sure your case meets the filing requirements and preserve your ability to seek compensation.

How Much Can You Sue for Pain and Suffering in Michigan?

The amount you can sue for pain and suffering in Michigan depends on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. While there are no strict limits in general cases, certain claims, like medical malpractice, may have caps. Determining the appropriate compensation involves evaluating physical and emotional harm, which an experienced personal injury attorney can calculate based on your circumstances.

What Is the Bodily Injury Limit in Michigan?

Michigan law mandates minimum bodily injury liability coverage limits of $50,000 per person injured or killed in an accident and $100,000 per accident if multiple people are injured or killed. However, the default coverage limits are higher: $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident. Drivers can opt for different limits, but it’s crucial to understand that selecting lower coverage may expose them to significant financial risk in the event of a serious accident.

What Is No-Fault Insurance in Michigan?

Michigan’s no-fault insurance system enables drivers to receive coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services, regardless of fault in an accident. This system aims to reduce litigation and provide prompt compensation. Drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) as part of their insurance, which covers their own injuries. While no-fault laws simplify claims, navigating the system’s nuances can require professional guidance in more complex situations.

Contact Wigod & Falzon PC to Get Defense Related to Personal Injury Cases

At Wigod & Falzon, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that follow a personal injury. Since 1997, we have been dedicated to helping Southfield residents seek the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. Our experienced team takes a client-focused approach, fighting tirelessly to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

If you have suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to take action. Contact Wigod & Falzon today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.