by Top Causes of Michigan Car Accidents
When you drive Michigan’s roads and highways, you expect everyone to share the road responsibly. Unfortunately, far too many drivers make careless choices that lead to devastating crashes. Whether it happens on I-75 through Oakland County, Telegraph Road in Wayne County, or local streets in Ann Arbor or Sterling Heights, a serious car accident can change your life in an instant.
At Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC, we understand how overwhelming recovery can feel after a crash. You may be asking:
- What caused the accident?
- Can I hold the at-fault driver responsible?
- How will I cover my medical bills and lost wages?
Our Michigan personal injury lawyers are here to help you find answers — and justice. We Tip the Scales and Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve.
1. Distracted Driving
Texting, eating, or even adjusting the GPS while driving can cause devastating crashes. Michigan law prohibits texting while driving, but distractions remain a leading cause of accidents across Metro Detroit.
Prevention Tip: Keep your phone out of reach while driving, and set your GPS or playlist before you start the car.
2. Speeding
Exceeding posted limits—especially in high-traffic areas like Southfield or Novi—reduces your reaction time and increases crash severity.
Prevention Tip: Leave early and respect speed limits, especially in construction zones and residential areas.
3. Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving
Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or prescription drugs is illegal in Michigan. Impaired drivers endanger everyone on the road.
Prevention Tip: Always plan a safe ride home—use a designated driver or rideshare.
4. Fatigued Driving
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. Falling asleep at the wheel often leads to catastrophic head-on collisions.
Prevention Tip: Get adequate rest and take breaks on long drives.
5. Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Tailgating, weaving through traffic, or ignoring signals can quickly lead to a serious crash.
Prevention Tip: Stay calm behind the wheel. If another driver is aggressive, let them pass and keep your distance.
6. Weather-Related Conditions
Michigan’s icy winters and heavy rain can create slippery, dangerous roads. Even experienced drivers lose control when traction is poor.
Prevention Tip: Slow down and increase following distance during bad weather. Keep your tires properly inflated and your brakes maintained.
7. Failing to Yield or Stop
Many crashes occur at intersections when drivers ignore traffic signs or signals.
Prevention Tip: Always come to a full stop at stop signs and yield appropriately when merging or turning left.
8. Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Worn brakes, bald tires, and broken lights can cause preventable accidents.
Prevention Tip: Perform regular vehicle inspections and maintenance to ensure your car is road-safe.
9. Inexperienced or Teen Drivers
Young drivers in Michigan often lack the experience to handle emergencies or distractions effectively.
Prevention Tip: Encourage teens to follow Michigan’s graduated driver licensing (GDL) rules and practice safe habits early.
10. Road Hazards and Construction Zones
Loose gravel, uneven pavement, and construction detours can cause unexpected collisions.
Prevention Tip: Stay alert for signage and reduce speed in all work zones—fines and injuries are both higher there.
Michigan Laws and Legal Protections for Crash Victims
Under Michigan’s no-fault insurance system, accident victims are generally entitled to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits — which may include payment for medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services.
However, if another driver was negligent, you may also pursue a third-party claim for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages. Each situation is unique, and having an experienced Michigan accident attorney can make all the difference.
Can You Sue or Recover Additional Compensation?
Yes — if you suffered a serious impairment of body function or disfigurement caused by another driver’s negligence, Michigan law allows you to seek additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
The attorneys at Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC represent clients across Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, and Washtenaw Counties, including Detroit, Southfield, Troy, Novi, Ann Arbor, and Warren. We build every case with compassion, evidence, and the determination to secure full recovery for our clients.
Why Medical Care Matters
After an accident, always see a doctor right away — even if you feel “okay.” Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, don’t appear immediately. Medical records serve as powerful evidence in your personal injury claim and help ensure you receive the care you need.
What To Do Next — Quick Checklist
- ✅ Get medical attention immediately.
- 📸 Gather photos, accident reports, and witness information.
- 🚫 Avoid discussing fault or settlement details with insurance adjusters.
- 📞 Contact Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC at (248) 538-1494 or visit www.steinberg-goodmanlaw.comfor trusted legal guidance.
Why Choose Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC
When you’ve been injured in a Michigan car accident, you deserve a law firm that knows the law, understands your pain, and fights to make things right.
At Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC, we combine decades of legal experience with genuine compassion for our clients. We proudly serve communities throughout Metro Detroit and beyond — helping Michigan families rebuild their lives after tragedy.
We Tip the Scales and Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve.
Contact Us Today
📞 Call: (248) 538-1494
🌐 Visit: www.steinberg-goodmanlaw.com
💬 Free Consultation | No Fees Unless We Win
by How to Get Paid for Bodily Injury Damages in Michigan When the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured
By Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC — experienced Michigan personal injury attorneys who fight to protect accident victims.
When someone’s careless driving causes serious injury, one of the first questions our clients ask is:
How do I get paid for my bodily injury damages if the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance?
In Michigan, your ability to recover depends on whether the driver who caused the crash carried valid auto insurance — and whether your own policy includes uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage (often called UM or UIM).
Below, the legal team at Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC explains how these claims work, the steps to take after an accident, and why prompt legal guidance can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Understanding Michigan’s Requirements for Auto Insurance
Michigan law requires every driver to carry liability insurance to pay for the injuries or damages they cause. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore this law or carry only the minimum coverage — which often doesn’t come close to covering the cost of serious injuries.
That’s where uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage comes in. UM and UIM coverage are optional and contractual — meaning they must be purchased as part of your own auto policy. If you have this coverage, your insurance company steps in to pay for your injuries when the at-fault driver has no insurance or too little insurance to fully compensate you.
Timing is critical. Michigan’s courts often apply a three-year statute of limitations to personal injury claims involving UM or UIM coverage, and your policy may have even shorter notice requirements. Speaking with an attorney at Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC as soon as possible can help ensure you meet all legal and contractual deadlines.
How to Recover for Bodily Injury Damages
1. Get Medical Care and Keep Thorough Documentation
Seek medical attention immediately after a crash, even if you think your injuries are minor. Consistent treatment and complete medical records are essential for proving your injuries and demonstrating how the accident has impacted your life.
Provide your attorney with copies of your medical bills, treatment notes, and any documentation showing time missed from work or changes in your daily activities.
2. Report the Accident and Notify Your Insurance Company
Always file a police report after a collision to create an official record of the event. Then notify your insurance company about the accident.
Your insurer may ask you to sign documents or provide statements. Before signing anything, talk to your lawyer — these forms can affect your ability to recover under your UM or UIM coverage. Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC regularly helps clients communicate with insurers and ensure that all notice requirements are properly met.
3. Determine Whether the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured
An uninsured driver carries no valid liability insurance.
An underinsured driver has insurance, but the coverage limits are lower than the value of your total losses.
Once the at-fault driver’s insurance information is confirmed, your attorney can determine whether to pursue a UM claim (if the other driver has no insurance) or a UIM claim (if the driver’s insurance is insufficient).
If you did not purchase UM/UIM coverage, recovery may be limited to what can be collected from the at-fault driver personally — and in most cases, uninsured or underinsured drivers lack the assets to pay substantial judgments. That is why Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC strongly recommends adding UM/UIM coverage to every Michigan auto policy.
4. File a UM or UIM Claim Through Your Own Policy
If you have UM or UIM coverage, you can submit a claim to your own insurance company to recover compensation under the terms of your policy.
Each policy has unique terms, notice deadlines, and exclusions. Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC reviews every detail of your insurance contract to ensure your claim is properly preserved and presented. Our attorneys handle the communication, documentation, and negotiation process directly with your insurer, allowing you to focus on recovery.
5. Prove the Full Extent of Your Damages
Successfully recovering under UM or UIM coverage requires clear evidence of both fault and the impact of your injuries. This includes:
- Medical documentation and treatment history,
- Employment records verifying lost wages,
- Expert testimony about ongoing pain, limitations, or future care needs,
- Personal statements describing how your injuries have affected your quality of life.
Our firm builds each case carefully — combining medical evidence, economic analysis, and a clear legal strategy to pursue maximum compensation.
6. Be Aware of Legal Deadlines and Notice Requirements
Michigan’s three-year personal injury statute of limitations often applies to UM and UIM claims, but your insurance policy may include shorter notice provisions or specific timeframes for filing a written demand.
Missing these deadlines can bar your right to recover. The attorneys at Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC ensure your claim is filed on time, properly documented, and fully supported by the evidence.
7. Negotiate — or File Suit if Necessary
Most uninsured and underinsured motorist claims resolve through negotiation, but insurance companies often attempt to undervalue or deny valid claims.
When that happens, Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC is ready to litigate. We are experienced trial lawyers who hold insurance carriers accountable and fight for the full measure of compensation you deserve. Our goal is simple: to protect your rights and maximize your financial recovery.
Common Pitfalls That Can Limit Your Recovery
- Failing to purchase UM/UIM coverage, leaving you exposed to uninsured and underinsured drivers.
- Missing policy notice deadlines or delaying your claim.
- Failing to obtain strong medical documentation supporting your injuries.
Example Scenarios
The following examples demonstrate the importance of protecting yourself by purchasing both UM and UIM coverage.
Driver A – Uninsured:
The at-fault driver has no liability coverage. You file a UM claim under your own auto policy for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and other damages up to your UM policy limit.
Driver B – Underinsured:
The at-fault driver carries only the minimum $50,000 in liability coverage, but your damages total $150,000. After collecting the $50,000 from the at-fault driver’s insurer, your attorney files a UIM claim for the remaining $100,000 up to your UIM policy limit.
Suffice it to say, the more UM and UIM coverage you have on your policy, the more protected you are.
Why Choose Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC
Uninsured and underinsured motorist claims involve complex policy interpretation, evolving case law, and strict procedural requirements. Our attorneys understand how to navigate these cases from start to finish — and how to counter the insurance company’s efforts to limit your recovery.
At Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC, we:
- Identify all available insurance coverage,
- Protect your claim from early denial or delay,
- Gather compelling medical and financial evidence,
- Negotiate strategically and litigate when necessary, and
- Fight tirelessly for every dollar you deserve.
If you or someone you love has been injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Michigan, call Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC today for a free consultation. We’ll explain your options, evaluate your coverage, and help you move forward with confidence.
We Tip the Scales and Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve.
by What “Negligence” Really Means in a Michigan Personal Injury Case
By Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC | Personal Injury Lawyers Serving Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, and WashtenawCounties
Negligence is a key concept in nearly every personal injury case in Michigan — whether it involves a car accident, motorcycle crash, slip and fall, or animal attack.
In simple terms, negligence means someone didn’t act as carefully as a reasonable person would have, and as a result, someone else was hurt. Michigan law holds people and businesses responsible when their carelessness causes harm.
The Four Elements of Negligence in Michigan
To win a personal injury claim in Michigan, you must prove four essential elements:
- Duty – The other person or business had a legal responsibility to act carefully. For example, drivers must follow traffic laws, and property owners must keep their premises safe.
- Breach – They failed to meet that duty by acting carelessly or by not taking reasonable precautions.
- Causation – Their actions (or failure to act) directly caused your injury.
- Damages – You suffered real harm, such as medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, or permanent disability.
You must prove these elements by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it’s more likely than not that the other party’s negligence caused your injury.
Michigan’s Modified Comparative Fault Rule
Michigan follows a modified comparative fault system.
Here’s what that means:
- If you’re partly at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover non-economic damages (like pain and suffering) and may be barred from recovering entirely.
So even if you share some blame, you can still recover compensation — but your percentage of fault will reduce the amount you receive.
How Negligence Applies in Common Michigan Injury Cases
1. Motor Vehicle Accidents
Drivers in Michigan must obey traffic laws and drive reasonably under the circumstances.
Negligence can include:
- Speeding or distracted driving
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to yield or maintain safe distance
Michigan’s No-Fault insurance system covers many initial losses (medical bills and wage loss) through your own insurer. But in serious cases, you can file a third-party negligence claim against the at-fault driver for pain and suffering damages. Comparative fault will affect how much you can recover.
2. Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle crashes often result in catastrophic injuries. Negligence may involve:
- Drivers failing to see or yield to motorcycles
- Unsafe lane changes or following too closely
- Poor road maintenance or debris
Even when a rider takes every precaution, other motorists’ negligence can cause devastating results. Evidence such as skid marks, helmet use, and vehicle damage often plays a key role in determining fault.
3. Premises Liability (Slip & Fall and Unsafe Property Conditions)
Property owners and managers in Michigan must maintain safe conditions for visitors. Negligence can occur when an owner:
- Fails to fix or warn about known hazards
- Ignores icy walkways, broken stairs, or wet floors
- Doesn’t provide proper lighting or handrails
In these cases, the property owner may argue that the danger was “open and obvious,” or that you were partly responsible for not noticing it. Michigan’s comparative fault rules then determine how much compensation you can receive.
4. Animal Attacks and Dog Bites
Michigan law holds pet owners responsible for controlling their animals. Negligence may occur when an owner:
- Lets a dog roam without a leash
- Fails to warn visitors about a dangerous animal
- Ignores signs of aggression
Dog bite victims may recover damages for medical care, scarring, and emotional trauma. However, if the victim provoked the animal or ignored warnings, comparative fault may reduce the recovery.
Protecting Your Rights After an Accident
If you’ve been injured because someone else was negligent, take these steps right away:
- Document the scene — take photos, get witness information, and keep all records.
- Seek prompt medical attention — and follow your doctor’s orders.
- Avoid making statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
- Contact an experienced Michigan personal injury attorney to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.
Why Choose Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC
At Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC, we have decades of experience handling complex personal injury cases across Michigan — from auto and motorcycle accidents to premises liability and animal attacks.
We understand the laws, the insurance system, and how negligence and fault affect your claim.
We fight for every dollar you deserve — and we don’t get paid unless you do.
Call (248) 538-1494 or visit steinberg-goodmanlaw.com to schedule your free consultation today.
We Tip the Scales and Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve.