Imagine experiencing a work-related injury only to have your workers’ compensation claim for medical care denied, or worse, workers’ compensation denies medical care. The pain, stress, and financial burden can feel overwhelming. But don’t lose hope.

You can work with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to determine the reasons behind workers’ comp denials and discuss strategies for challenging a denied medical care claim. Contact a Grand Rapids workers’ comp lawyer as soon as possible for a free consultation concerning your case.

What Medical Care Should Workers’ Comp Cover?

According to Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, workers’ comp should pay for all of an eligible employee’s reasonable and necessary medical care. Additionally, the bills related to your work injury should be sent directly to your employer – or his or her insurance carrier.

Costs covered by workers’ comp medical benefits may include:

• Emergency transportation
• Surgeries that may be required to aid in a worker’s recovery
• Medical appointments and examinations related to the injury
• Diagnostic testing, such as MRIs or X-rays that may be needed
• Hospital stays after surgery or other related treatments
• Pharmaceutical needs, such as prescription medications
• Dental services that are related to the work injury
• Chiropractic care
• Crutches, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices
• Physical therapy

What if Workers’ Comp Refuses to Pay for the Care I Need?

It is not uncommon for employers and/or their insurance carriers to initially deny payment for certain medical costs for an injured worker. For example, say that you have a back injury that was reinjured on the job. The insurance carrier may refuse to pay for the treatment you need, saying the injury was preexisting. However, it can happen later on in your recovery as well.

Regardless of when your insurance carrier denied payment for your treatment, you may still have legal options for continuing your care. Some steps you can take to overturn the insurance carrier’s decision include:

• Contacting your insurance carrier and asking them to send you a written explanation as to why the payment was denied (if not included in the notice you received)
• Filing a dispute by submitting an Application for Mediation or Hearing form
• Continuing your medical care – while your claim is in dispute, you can submit your medical bills to your health insurance carrier
• Saving the invoices, receipts, and costs related to the medical care for your work injury
• Carefully – and regularly – documenting the progress of your injuries
• Proactively discussing your injuries with your doctor
• Contacting a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer for legal help

Navigating the complex world of workers’ compensation can be challenging, especially when faced with a denied claim for medical treatment. Denials often stem from disputes over the necessity of treatment, pre-existing conditions, or unauthorized providers. The impact on injured workers can be significant, as they struggle to cover medical bills and lost wages while recovering from a work-related injury.

Understanding the reasons behind workers’ comp denials is crucial for injured workers seeking to challenge these decisions. Employers and insurance companies may question the necessity of certain treatments or argue that an injury is unrelated to work or even self-inflicted. Furthermore, using unauthorized medical providers can lead to denied workers’ comp claims. By recognizing these potential pitfalls, injured workers can better navigate the workers’ compensation system and pursue a successful claim.

Why Did Workers’ Comp Deny Payment for My Medical Treatment?

Workers’ compensation should pay for all medical costs that are related to your work injury and are also both reasonable and necessary. However, even if your treating physician recommends certain medical care, the insurance carrier may disagree. They could refuse to pay for that treatment if they determine:

• The treatment is not deemed as either reasonable or necessary: Your insurer may argue that other treatments – cheaper or less invasive – could have been tried first.
• You have failed to follow your doctor’s orders: Consistently missing doctor’s appointments or failing to adhere to his or her care recommendations.
• Your injury or medical condition was preexisting: Commonly, insurers may try to argue that if your injury was preexisting, it could not be work-related.
• You have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI): Your insurer will likely deny payment for continued medical care if they determine you have reached your MMI.

Insurance carriers often try to get out of paying for medical costs. They may hope that once they deny your claim you will just give up trying to get your medical bills paid.

Strategies for Challenging Denied Medical Care

When faced with a denied workers’ comp claim, it’s essential to explore various approaches to challenge the decision. Collecting relevant medical records and documentation to support the need for denied medical care is a crucial first step.

With the necessary evidence in hand, injured workers can explore several strategies to contest the denial. This may include filing an appeal with the insurance company, requesting a hearing with the state workers.

Requesting an Independent Medical Examination

One effective strategy is requesting an independent medical examination (IME). An IME is a medical evaluation conducted by a healthcare professional who was not previously involved in the patient’s care. This impartial assessment can help determine the severity of an injury or disability and provide crucial evidence to contest a refusal of medical treatment.

IMEs can be requested by the patient, their attorney, or their insurance company. The IM.

Filing an Appeal

Another option is to file a workers’ compensation claim and, if needed, an appeal with the workers’ compensation board. This legal process involves submitting a written appeal, requesting an independent medical evaluation, and attending a hearing. To strengthen your claim, it’s essential to collect the necessary evidence, such as medical records, reports, and other documents that validate your claim.

Engaging a workers’ compensation lawyer during a hearing can provide significant benefits. They can help strengthen your claim, provide clarity on any denials, and create a more equitable situation if the employer is represented by legal counsel. With their expertise, injured workers can increase their chances of a successful appeal.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Enlisting the help of a workers’ compensation attorney can be a game-changer. They can assist with navigating the appeals process, advocating for medical benefits, and offering advice on maximizing medical benefits through alternative coverage options.

Don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance, as it can significantly impact the outcome of your workers’ compensation case.

Is Workers’ Comp Refusing to Pay For Medical Care You Need?

At Jay Trucks, we understand how important it is for you to get the medical treatment you need after suffering a work-related injury. Our qualified attorneys have been handling workers’ comp cases for decades. We have recovered millions for our clients, including $480,000 for a pipefitter who suffered a severe close head injury in a work accident.

Get legal help you can trust when you call our firm. We are available to take your call 24/7, but deadlines may apply, so call today. If we find you have a case and you hire our services, there is nothing to pay up front. We do not get paid unless we recover compensation for you.

Speak to a Lawyer Today. (800) 762-8623

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PIP Benefits At a Glance

At a high level, Michigan PIP benefits, which are paid through your own car insurance company after a car crash, provide the following no-fault benefits – up to the limits of your policy:

• Payment of all related medical costs – paid even if you share any fault for the crash
• Medical travel– covers the cost of traveling to and from your medical appointments
• Lost wages– Provides up to 85 percent of wages while you are unable to work
• Attendant care– Pays up to 56 hours per week to help accident victims with personal care
• Replacement services– Pays up to $20 per day to help injured victims with household tasks

The minimum amount of PIP coverage in Michigan is up to $20,000 per person, per accident, or $40,000 if more than one person was injured or killed. The minimum property damage coverage under PIP is $10,000. You may purchase higher policy limits as well as other forms of insurance coverage, such as comprehensive and collision.

Who Pays What First?

This process is confusing for many Michigan policyholders. To provide a more accurate answer, you need to be able to answer the following questions:

• What PIP option did you select when you purchased your car insurance policy?
• Do you have coordinated or uncoordinated benefits?
• Are you covered under your own policy or through a spouse or relative who lives in your home?

The priority rules for who pays for your medical costs can be complex. Regardless of the order that applies in your situation, it is important that you file your no-fault auto insurance claim immediately after the accident – or at least within your provider’s deadline.

Here is what you need to know about the current priority rules:

Coordinated Benefits

• Health insurance: If you selected coordinated auto no-fault insurance coverage, your medical bills will be covered by your health insurance first. Depending on the type of coverage you have, this can be risky. For example, if you have lifetime maximums that get tapped out for your car crash injuries, you may have no benefits left to pay for other medical issues.
• No-Fault PIP Benefits: Once your health insurance is exhausted, your no-fault benefits will kick in for your remaining costs – again, up to the limits of your policy.

If you get laid off from work and lose your health insurance, your no-fault benefits immediately apply and your auto insurance provider would pay first. However, in this situation, they may charge you a higher medical deductible than what you would have paid if you still had health insurance.

Uncoordinated Benefits

At Jay Trucks, we strongly recommend uncoordinated benefits. In this situation, your payment priority rules after an accident apply as follows:

• No-Fault PIP Benefits: Your PIP will cover the medical costs for your crash – up to policy limits.
• Health insurance: If your private health insurance provider pays for injuries caused by a car crash (some may not), then this will be your next source of coverage for your injuries.

Do Medicare or Medicaid Cover Pay For Medical Costs?

Neither Medicare nor Medicaid are meant to be used to cover medical costs after an accident. Under federal law, both are classified as secondary payers. Sometimes, an insurance agent may ask an accident victim to tell them if they have other insurance that may apply. However, in this situation, it is important to understand that neither of these options should be mentioned to your insurer as another type of health coverage.

If your medical costs do end up being paid by either Medicare or Medicaid, you will be required to pay that money back. A bigger issue is that it may also mean that your auto insurance carrier or health insurance provider is not paying when they should be. This error is something you should immediately discuss with your attorney.

How Do I Pay My Medical Costs When My PIP Runs Out?

Once your PIP and other insurance options are depleted, you may be eligible to pursue additional damages that are not available or part of your no-fault insurance benefits. These additional damages include:

In order to pursue a liability claim for these non-economic damages, however, you must first meet the state’s injury threshold. If you are unsure whether you may be eligible for any of these additional damages, you can speak with one of our experienced attorneys for a free case assessment.

Contact Jay Trucks for Legal Help

Pursuing compensation for your injuries, whether through your no-fault benefits or through a liability claim, our Grand Rapids car insurance lawyers are prepared to help. We have the resources and staff to investigate and determine all potential sources of compensation to help you obtain maximum recovery after an accident caused by a negligent driver.

Find out whether you may have a valid case in the free legal consultation we offer. There is no pressure to hire our services after this free meeting, so there is no risk in getting the information you need. If we do represent you, there is nothing to pay upfront. We do not get paid until your case concludes – and only if we recovered compensation for you.

Free Consultation. No Upfront Costs. (800) 762-8623

Posted in Auto Accidents | No Comments »

At any time, tens of thousands of vehicles traverse Michigan’s roads and highways. With so much traffic, you always risk getting into a car accident no matter how safely you drive. You cannot control the actions of others, and another driver could cause a severe car accident that injures you or kills someone you love. Additionally, defective auto components, unrepaired roads, and other preventable hazards cause hundreds of car accidents each year throughout the state.

Understanding the types of car accidents and what causes them can help you and your passengers remain safe on the road. If a negligent driver or other factor beyond your control caused the accident, you could obtain compensation for your injuries and losses from those responsible. Reach out to a car accident lawyer.

Contact an experienced Michigan car accident attorney for a free review of your case and advice regarding your options to recover damages from a car accident someone else caused.

Call 989-244-0356 for a Free Consultation.

Michigan Car Accident Statistics

The Michigan State Police maintains reports of car accidents in the state. In the most recent reported year, they recorded 282,640 motor vehicle crashes in the state. Of those, 1,068 accidents resulted in 1,131 fatalities, while 51,666 crashes caused 71,246 injuries.

Fatalities increased by 4 percent from the previous year, and injuries increased by 17 percent.

Additionally, the number of injurious and fatal car accidents caused by drug and alcohol impairment increased anywhere from 3 percent to 11 percent from the previous year, and the number of teen fatalities from car accidents increased by 38 percent. Young drivers in general accounted for more than 47,000 vehicle crashes, with 168 total fatalities, an increase of 27 percent from the year prior.

Kinds of Car Accidents

Each type of car accident comes with unique characteristics and consequences.

Here are some common car accidents:

• Rear-end collisions occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These collisions often happen when the following driver fails to maintain a safe distance or doesn’t react in time to the vehicle in front slowing rapidly or stopping suddenly.
• Head-on collisions happen when two vehicles collide front-to-front. Head-on collisions can result in severe injuries or fatalities, especially at high speeds.
• Side-impact collisions—also known as T-bone accidents—occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle, forming a T shape. Side-impact collisions commonly happen at intersections or when a driver fails to yield the right of way.
• Sideswipe collisions occur when the sides of two vehicles make contact while traveling parallel to each other. Sideswipes often occur during lane changes, when drivers fail to check blind spots or properly signal their intentions.
• Rollover accidents happen when a vehicle tips onto its side or roof. Taller and top-heavy vehicles, such as SUVs or vans, roll over more often, and high speeds, sharp turns, or collisions can cause them.
• Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver in an accident flees the scene without stopping to exchange information or provide aid. Hit-and-run accidents are illegal and can have serious legal consequences.
• Multi-vehicle pile-ups involve multiple vehicles colliding with each other in a chain-reaction. These accidents often occur on highways or in poor visibility, such as fog, and can result in extensive property damage and multiple injuries.

In addition to accidents with other vehicles, you can also get into a single-vehicle crash if a defective component on your car fails, such as your brakes, steering, or suspension, causing you to lose control. Potholes and unrepaired road surfaces can also cause car accidents.

These are just a few examples of car accidents. Each accident may require specific considerations when it comes to insurance claims, legal actions, and seeking compensation for injuries or damages.

If you’re in a car accident, consult a qualified attorney or contact local authorities for guidance based on the specific circumstances of your case.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents?

Understanding these common causes of car accidents can promote safer driving practices and reduce the risk of accidents.

Here are frequent causes of car accidents:

• Distracted driving: One leading cause of accidents is driver distraction. This includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, grooming, or using in-car technologies while driving. Taking your eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, can have serious consequences.
• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for the current road conditions reduces the driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations. Speeding increases the severity of accidents and the likelihood of loss of vehicle control.
• Drunk driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, leading to a higher risk of accidents. Driving while intoxicated violates the law and endangers the driver and others.
• Reckless driving: Aggressive or reckless behavior, such as tailgating, frequent lane changes, running red lights, or ignoring traffic rules, can cause accidents. Reckless driving puts everyone on the road at risk.
• Fatigue: Driving while excessively tired or drowsy can impair a driver’s judgment and reaction time. Falling asleep at the wheel can result in severe accidents.
• Failure to obey traffic laws: Disregarding traffic signs, signals, or right-of-way rules can lead to accidents. Running stop signs or red lights, failing to yield, or improper lane changes can result in collisions.
• Inexperienced or elderly drivers: Teenagers or elderly individuals may cause accidents due to their lack of experience or diminished physical capabilities.
• Mechanical failures: Vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering problems, can contribute to accidents. Automakers regularly issue recalls for defective devices like airbags, tires, and other vital components. Also, cars have caught fire spontaneously or their transmissions have failed, which has led to serious injuries and fatalities.
• Poor road conditions: Defective road design, inadequate signs, potholes, or debris can contribute to accidents. Government entities responsible for road maintenance play a role in ensuring safe driving conditions, and your attorney can advise you on how to file a claim with the appropriate parties and represent you throughout the process.
• Bad weather: Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, ice, fog, or strong winds, can make driving more challenging and increase the risk of accidents. Reduced visibility and poor road conditions require drivers to adjust their driving behavior accordingly. If a driver drove too fast for conditions, for instance, your attorney could hold them accountable for negligent driving.

No matter the cause of the car accident that injured you, an experienced auto accident attorney can explain your rights and options for pursuing compensation. A lawyer will determine the cause, establish liability for those responsible, and get the financial recovery you deserve.

How Do I Obtain Compensation After a Car Accident?

If you wish to obtain compensation for your injuries and losses after a car accident that you didn’t cause, you may pursue damages.

The steps you must take can vary depending on your jurisdiction and other circumstances, so consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible for advice regarding your specific situation.

1. Seek medical attention: Prioritize your health and safety by seeking immediate medical attention for your injuries. Receive proper medical documentation and follow your treatment plan to the letter. You will need to do this for your compensation claim.
2. Document the accident: Gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This includes photographing the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from any witnesses at the scene.
3. Report the accident: Notify the police and your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Discuss the accident carefully with the insurance company and avoid admitting fault. Better yet, let your car accident lawyer do this for you.
4. Consult a car accident attorney: As soon as possible after treating your injuries, hire an experienced car accident injury attorney. They will guide you through the legal process, evaluate your case, and provide you with advice on the best course of action. They can document the accident and report it properly to the authorities and relevant insurance companies.
5. Gather documentation: Work with your attorney to gather all relevant documentation related to the accident, including medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any other evidence that supports your claim. This documentation will establish the extent of your injuries and your damages.
6. Negotiate with insurance companies: Your attorney will handle communications and negotiations with the insurance companies involved. They will ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and other damages.
7. Consider a lawsuit: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement or unjustly denies your valid claim, your attorney may advise you to file a lawsuit. They will guide you through the litigation process and represent you in court.

An important note: The statute of limitations in your state sets a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit in court. For instance, Michigan allows you three years from your injury to file a lawsuit seeking damages. If you do not file within that time, you will forfeit your right to pursue compensation, so consult an attorney immediately to discuss your case and get advice on your options.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Today

Unfortunately, you risk getting into a car accident in Michigan at virtually any time or location, and the other party could have avoided injuring you by exercising a little care. If a careless or reckless driver injured you or a close family member, or if a defective component on your car failed and caused you to crash, contact an experienced car accident attorney immediately to discuss your options. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer.

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Car accidents can cause serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Bills for treatments, hospitalizations, rehabilitation, medical equipment, and medications add up quickly. The financial impact increases if your injuries prevent you from working while you recover. Your insurance company may offer you compensation to cover your damages.

But talk with a car accident lawyer before accepting an insurance company offer.

Chances are you deserve far more compensation than what the insurance company offered you. A lawyer can review your accident to determine the full value of your case based on several factors. Reach out to a car accident lawyer.

Call 989-244-0356 for a Free Consultation.

Factors Affecting the Value of a Car Accident Claim

Some factors that that can determine the value of your case include:

Damages

In a car accident case, damages refer to the losses or harm you suffered due to the accident. Damages may include:

• Medical expenses, such as the cost of treatment, medical stays, surgeries, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and any other healthcare-related expenses
• Future medical expenses
• Lost earnings if you missed work to recover from your injuries
• Loss of earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from working in the same capacity as you did before the accident
• Home or vehicle modifications if your injuries caused disabilities
• Special equipment to assist with mobility
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium if your injury has a negative impact on your relationship with your spouse or partner

You must meet certain thresholds to qualify for some of the damages mentioned above. A car accident lawyer can determine whether your injuries qualify you to claim them.

Fault Determination

To prove negligence in a car accident case, the injured party must establish:

• Duty of care: You must establish that the other party had a duty of care to you. For example, the other driver must operate their vehicle reasonably to ensure that they don’t endanger others.
• Breach of duty: Next, you must establish that the other party breached their duty of care. For example, a motorist who speeds breaches their duty to drive safely and protect others from harm.
• Causation: The third element links the at-fault party’s breach of duty to the accident that causes your injury. So, if the other driver loses control of their vehicle by speeding and crashes into your car, injuring you, you establish causation.
• Damages: The final element is proving that you suffered damages like medical bills and lost income due to your accident injuries.

Liable Parties

In a car accident case, you may hold several at-fault parties responsible for the accident.

You may seek compensation from all of those at-fault parties, including:

• Negligent drivers: The most common at-fault party in a car accident case is the driver whose negligence or recklessness caused the accident. This could involve speeding, running a red light, distracted driving, drunk driving, or any other violation of traffic laws.
• Vehicle owners: If the negligent driver operated a vehicle owned by someone else, you may hold the vehicle owner liable for the accident under certain circumstances.
• Employers: If the at-fault driver operated a vehicle in the course of their employment, you may hold their employer liable for the accident.
• Government entities: If a dangerous or poorly maintained roadway caused the accident, you may hold a government entity responsible for designing, building, or maintaining the road liable. However, filing a claim against a government entity usually involves specific procedures and deadlines.
• Vehicle manufacturers: In some cases, a defect in the vehicle itself may cause a car accident. If a defect in the vehicle’s design or manufacturing contributed to the accident, you may hold the vehicle manufacturer or other parties involved in the vehicle’s supply chain liable.

Comparative Negligence Rules

Different states deal with the liability of multiple people or entities differently.

Michigan, for example, follows a modified comparative negligence rule when determining fault and liability in auto accidents. Under Michigan’s comparative negligence rule, an injured party’s ability to recover compensation may decrease by their percentage of fault.

Michigan modified comparative negligence system has a 51 percent bar. This means that an injured party can still recover damages if the court doesn’t find them more than 50 percent at fault for the accident. If the injured party contributes 50 percent or less to an accident, their damages will decrease proportionately to their assigned percentage of fault.

Understanding Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance

Michigan is a no-fault state for auto insurance, meaning if you suffered injuries in a Michigan car accident, you first file a claim with your own car insurance company for compensation for your medical bills and lost earnings, regardless of fault for the accident. Similarly, the other drivers would collect compensation for their losses from their insurance company.

Required Auto Insurance in Michigan

Because Michigan is a no-fault insurance state, Michigan law requires all motorists to purchase auto insurance. The state punishes driving without automobile insurance as a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500 and up to one year in jail. The court may also suspend your license for up to 30 days or until you provide proof of valid car insurance.

Buckle up and we’ll try to explain the confusing car insurance requirements in Michigan.

First, all auto insurance policies must have at least three parts—personal injury protection, property protection, and residual liability insurance:

Personal injury protection

Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage pays all reasonable and necessary medical expenses for your injuries up to your maximum coverage amount. PIP also covers income loss and replacement services for up to three years after the accident. The insurance places additional limits on the amount of attendant care should you need help with daily living activities in your home while you recover from an accident.

PIP medical coverage options are:

• Unlimited coverage;
• $500,000 per person per accident;
• $250,000 per person per accident: To qualify, a named insured excluded from PIP medical must have qualified health coverage that is not Medicare and/or any resident relative or spouse excluding PIP medical must have qualified health coverage.
• $50,000 per accident: To qualify, the applicant or named insured must enroll in Medicaid and any spouse and all resident relatives must have qualified health coverage, enroll in Medicaid, or another auto insurance policy with PIP medical coverage must cover them.
• No Medical PIP coverage: To qualify, both Medicare Parts A and B must cover the applicant or named insured, and any spouse and all resident relatives must have qualified health coverage or another auto insurance policy with PIP medical coverage must cover them.

If you fail to select a PIP level when signing up for auto insurance, you will automatically receive and must pay for the unlimited medical coverage.

Property protection

Property protection insurance (PPI) pays up to $1 million for damage your car does in Michigan to other people’s property, such as buildings or fences. It also covers any damage your car does to another person’s properly parked vehicle. PPI does not cover any other damage to vehicles.

Residual liability insurance

Michigan law also requires motorists to purchase a minimum amount of bodily injury and property damage (BI/PD) insurance. This residual liability insurance protects insured drivers from being sued over an auto accident. This includes when the injured party does not have enough insurance coverage to pay for their treatment or a payment must compensate someone who the accident killed or seriously injured.

This portion of your insurance pays up to your coverage limit amounts if you caused damages in the following circumstances:

• You are found at-fault in a car crash in Michigan in which someone was killed, seriously injured, or permanently disfigured;
• You are involved in an accident in Michigan with a non-resident of the state who is an occupant of a motor vehicle not registered in the state;
• You are involved in an accident in another state; or
• Up to $3,000 if you are 50% or more at fault in an accident that results in damages to another person’s car which are not covered by insurance.

Motorists required minimum coverage no-fault policy will pay up to certain amounts if you harmed someone.

You may purchase higher limits, but the minimum required is:

• Up to $250,000 per person hurt or killed in an accident.
• Up to $500,000 for each accident that kills or hurts several people.
• Up to $10,000 for property damage in another state.

If Your Accident Expenses Exceed Your Policy Limits

If the other party caused an accident that injures you, you may hold the other driver liable for your pain and suffering, as well as any medical costs and other care that exceeds your own policy’s limits. The bodily injury liability limit of the at-fault driver’s policy will pay for these damages, but only up to the amount they choose. If your damages exceed this level, you may have grounds to file a car accident lawsuit in civil court to recoup your losses.

 A Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Recover the Maximum Compensation You Deserve

Car insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlement offers that don’t cover the full value of the damages you suffered. A car accident lawyer will look out for your best interests and determine the full extent of your damages. Talk with a car accident lawyer, get your free consultation, and find out what your case is really worth. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer.

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After finalizing a workers’ comp claim and going back to your job, you may believe that your claim is closed permanently. However, what happens if your prior work-related injury or medical condition gets worse and you need further medical treatment or surgery? Can you reopen your workers’ compensation case for the incident that caused the original injury or condition?

If you have a previously treated work injury or illness that has gotten worse after closing your claim, our qualified workers’ comp lawyers in Flint are ready to help.

Contact Jay Trucks & Associates to learn more. We are prepared to help determine whether you may be eligible to reopen your workers’ comp claim for additional medical benefits or lost wages.

Free Initial Case Review. 9892546113

Why Reopen a Closed Workers’ Comp Claim?

Michigan state law entitles injured workers to receive lifetime workers’ compensation benefits for that injury. Even if a workers’ comp claim has already been closed, an injured worker may still be able to reopen the original injury claim for further treatment—and lost wages if he or she is unable to work, such as if:

• The treating physician found new evidence of further injury from the original incident
• A doctor recommends a new medical treatment or additional medical care that may benefit your worsened condition
• The original workplace injury or condition has regressed to the point that you cannot keep working

How to Reopen a Michigan Workers’ Comp Claim

Before you attempt to reopen your Michigan workers’ comp claim, there are some requirements that must be met:

Proper Notice and Claim of Original Injury

The original injury must have been reported to your employer within 90 days of the occurrence. Sooner is better, as any long gap—even days—gives room for an employer or insurance carrier to argue an injury could have happened elsewhere. Your best bet is to report the injury immediately and to complete a formal accident report, remembering to keep a copy of the document for your records. The claim for benefits must also have been filed within two years of the date of the initial injury or illness.

Medical Evidence Must Support Reopening Your Claim

In addition to reporting the claim, there must also be medical evidence that links your current injury or illness to your prior work injury. An attorney could help you to obtain this evidence, which may include:

• Medical records from a follow-up appointment describing your worsened condition
• Diagnostic tests—including X-rays, MRIs, CT-scans
• A doctor’s report diagnosing the aggravation of your original injury, along with recommended treatment
• Prior evidence from your original claim

Is There a Deadline for Reopening a Michigan Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Unlike many other states, Michigan has no statute of limitations for reopening a closed workers’ comp claim. If you meet eligibility requirements, there are no deadlines that prevent you from reopening a workers’ compensation claim from a previous injury.

Do Workers’ Comp Settlements Impact My Ability to Reopen a Workers’ Comp Claim?

Whether a settlement impacts your ability to reopen a claim depends on the type of workers’ comp settlement you received. In Michigan, you may have settled your workers’ comp claim in one of two ways:

Settlement via Redemption

This type of settlement occurs when an injured employee opts to accept a lump sum cash payment, rather than continue receiving weekly benefits. For some workers, who have reached their maximum medical improvement (MMI), receiving a full and final settlement may make sense. However, if you settled your workers’ comp claim in this way, you will not be able to reopen your workers’ comp claim. This type of settlement is a one-and-done kind of deal.

That said, if you only just settled your workers’ comp claim and changed your mind about the lump sum settlement, you have 15 days after the workers’ compensation judge approves your redemption to cancel the settlement agreement. You can only cancel your settlement agreement at this point with good cause. For example, if your condition suddenly worsens and additional diagnostic tests reveal an additional injury that was missed.

Structured Settlement vs Voluntary Payment

If the insurance company makes a voluntary payment—which is the payment of an injured worker’s benefits up through a determined date—the worker may still reopen his or her claim later. In this instance, the injured employee did not agree to give up any additional benefits for future medical care to accept a lump sum payment.

Need to Reopen Your Workers’ Comp Claim? Call Our Firm for Legal Help Today

If you need to reopen a workers’ compensation claim, the experienced lawyers at Jay Trucks & Associates are available to assist you. We offer a free initial consultation to review the circumstances of your request. There is no obligation to move forward after this meeting.

If we represent you, there is nothing to pay upfront. We do not get paid our fees unless we are successful in recovering additional workers’ comp benefits for your aggravated injury or illness.

Our offices are available anytime, day or night, to take your call.

Millions recovered for our clients. 9892546113

Posted in Workers Compensation - Latest News | No Comments »

Many car accidents are minor fender-benders that don’t lead to injuries or fatalities. Some don’t require more than a small insurance claim for property damage. Yet, no shortage of accidents leading to injuries exists.

If you suffered injuries in a car accident, the law permits you to bring a lawsuit against the party responsible for the accident, often another motorist. In most cases, car accident victims sue the other driver’s insurance company. Regardless of who you name as a defendant in a car accident claim, you must take action before the statute of limitations runs out in your case.

It’s best to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer soon after your accident so you meet all applicable deadlines. Taking swift action gives you the best chance to recover compensation for car accident injuries. Until you have the chance to meet with a lawyer, the following preliminary information provides more details about statutes of limitations in car accident claims.

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What Is a Statute of Limitations?

Broadly speaking, a statute of limitations is a law that governs how much time someone has to take legal action after a crime or injury. Civil actions and crimes have varying statutes of limitations depending on the circumstances and the state where they occur.

In car accidents and other personal injury claims, the statute of limitations specifically refers to the amount of time a claimant has to file a lawsuit in civil court to seek compensation for damages.

Once the statute of limitations expires, the law prohibits victims of negligence from seeking damages for the accident and their injuries. Courts typically dismiss claims when plaintiffs try to bring a lawsuit after the statute of limitations deadline. Each state has different statutes of limitations for different types of car accident claims.

Types of Statutes of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

The specific time limit that applies to your car accident claim can vary based on who your lawyer recommends you name as a defendant. Car accident victims have between six months and six years to bring a car accident lawsuit depending on the state where the accident occurred and the type of car accident claim they file.

Here is an overview of each type of claim.

• Accident injury claims. Injured drivers and passengers who want to take action after a car accident have a specific time from the accident date to bring a lawsuit against another driver or business responsible for their injuries. It’s almost certain a court will not hear a case once the statute of limitations expires.
• Wrongful death claims. The law permits eligible family members to bring a wrongful death lawsuit against a party responsible for the death of their loved one in a fatal car accident. In most states, the wrongful death statute of limitations is the same as the statute for an accident injury claim.
• Product liability claims. Sometimes car accidents occur because of defective automobile or auto parts, such as tires or brake pads. Although this is relatively rare, victims have viable claims when they suffer injuries. The statute of limitations for product liability car accident claims varies greatly.
• Car accident claims against a city, county, town, or government entity. Sometimes car accidents happen when a government does not properly maintain roads, or a government employee causes an accident. You could have grounds to sue the particular entity, but the time limit varies among entities. Some deadlines are as soon as six months, so it’s crucial to contact a lawyer immediately if this is your situation.
• Medical malpractice claims. Car accidents and medical malpractice rarely intersect, but they can happen. Medical malpractice might come into play if a misdiagnosis or medication error causes a medical emergency that leads to an accident. If you find yourself in this situation, you must comply with your state’s medical malpractice statute of limitations.

Complying with the statute of limitations for your car accident claim allows you to fight for compensation for your injuries. Your lawyer can review your case and meet all necessary deadlines.

Exceptions to Statutes of Limitations in Car Accident Claims

The law provides some exceptions to the statute of limitations in personal injury claims, including those that stem from car accidents. Below are some examples in which the court might extend or toll the statute of limitations for a car accident claim. If you’re concerned about a looming deadline, your lawyer can advise whether your situation might warrant an extension under the law.

Defendant Disappears

Unfortunately, some negligent drivers add insult to injury by disappearing after causing an accident. Maybe they are uninsured or do not have a valid driver’s license. People make these poor choices for various reasons.

Sometimes they want to avoid civil action or criminal proceedings. In other cases, they must leave the state for work or family obligations. You cannot serve court papers to a defendant who leaves the state or hides from the law. In this situation, the court might toll the statute of limitations until the defendant returns.

False Identity

Sometimes drivers involved in traffic accidents provide false information to the police at the accident scene. They might want to avoid financial liability, increased insurance rates, or losing their coverage.

Many who engage in this behavior commit a crime to avoid criminal prosecution for drunk driving, driving after suspension, or other major moving violations.

If an investigation fails to immediately turn up the right person, the court might pause the statute of limitations until the police, investigator, or another interested party can verify the driver’s identity and current location.

Sustaining Incapacitating Injuries

Some types of injuries leave car accident victims without the physical and/or mental capacity to file a car accident claim. Comas provide the most recognizable example. Consider a situation in which a car accident victim suffers brain damage and ends up in a coma for months or years. Someone might file a lawsuit on behalf of the car accident victim, but this is not always the case. If the victim awakens past the statute of limitations deadline, the court might grant an extension.

Delayed Discovery of Injuries

Some car accidents cause hidden injuries that victims and their doctors do not immediately discover. Typically, the statute of limitations time clock begins ticking on the date of the accident because victims discover their injuries.

If victims experience delayed discovery of their injuries, the time clock begins from the discovery date or when a reasonable person should have discovered the injury. Delayed discovery is not common in car accident claims but can happen. The time extension allows victims to take legal action after discovering an injury.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are the most common example where delayed discovery might apply to a traffic crash. Brain injuries can take weeks or months to present recognizable and diagnosable symptoms.

Even if a doctor diagnoses a TBI soon after the accident, it could take months to discover the extent of the brain damage and whether full physical recovery is possible. This is especially true of children whose brains are not yet developed. A TBI can halt or slow brain development causing lifelong problems.

Child Car Accident Victims

If an infant or child suffers car accident injuries, parents and guardians can bring a lawsuit on behalf of the minor. However, parents and guardians do not always file a claim. A court might extend the statute of limitations if they choose to take action once they turn 18.

Each situation is different, and child injury claims are notoriously complex. If your child suffered car accident injuries or you suffered car accident injuries as a child, an experienced car accident lawyer can advise you on your rights and help you determine the next steps.

When the Statute of Limitations Ends in a Car Accident Claim

If you attempt to file a car accident claim after the statute of limitations expires for your car accident claim, the other side will likely move to dismiss your case. The exceptions mentioned above provide grounds for the court to hear your case, but they might still dismiss it and refuse to grant an exception or toll the statute.

Once a court dismisses a car accident claim, the plaintiff cannot sue for compensation for injuries from the same event. Fault and the strength of your case do not matter.

Also, most car accident claims settle long before going to trial. Filing a lawsuit is often a way to bring both parties back to the negotiating table and try to avoid costly litigation.

Once the statute of limitations runs out on your car accident claim, you also lose any leverage or advantage you had with the insurance company for negotiating a fair settlement. Meeting with and hiring a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your car accident is the best way to avoid issues related to missing a statute of limitations deadline.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

If you have sustained injuries in a car accident, you should have already visited the emergency room for treatment. Medical treatment and lost income financially overwhelm many households after a car accident.

In addition to meeting your state’s statute of limitations deadline, these guidelines can protect the value of your car accident claim and give you the best chance to recover compensation for economic and noneconomic losses you incurred because of the accident and your injuries.

Follow Your Medical Treatment Plan

At some point after your initial emergency treatment, you probably discussed a treatment plan for your injuries with your primary doctor. If you are still in the hospital for your injuries, it’s easy to follow that plan.

Once you return home, following doctors’ orders is key to protecting the value of your claim. This includes attending all medical appointments with your doctor and other specialists like physical and occupational therapists.

Failure to comply with your treatment plan gives the insurance company grounds to argue that you aren’t healing as fast as possible or that your injuries are worsening because you aren’t engaging in treatment.

Keep Copies of Documents That Prove Economic Loss

The economic losses you incur from a car accident make up much of your claim. However, you cannot simply estimate these numbers. You must prove your economic damages.

Make copies of medical bills, payroll information, vehicle repair receipts, and other relevant receipts showing your losses. Also, document mileage and time to and from all medical appointments. It’s always better to save too much. Your lawyer can advise you on what losses and expenses apply to your claim.

Be Careful What You Say to the Insurance Company

It’s best to let your lawyer handle communications with the insurance company, but you might run into a situation where an adjuster contacts you directly. They will contact you to give a statement about the accident and might even make you an early settlement offer.

As friendly as they may appear, the insurance adjuster is not your friend. They are looking for ways to deny or devalue your claim, so refer them to your personal injury lawyer in Claire, MI. Do not accept any blame for the accident and do not let them record your statement or release your medical records unless your lawyer approves it.

Don’t Speak About Your Car Accident Claim With Others

Well-meaning friends, coworkers, and family might say something to hurt your claim if the insurance adjuster talks to them. Adjusters like to talk to as many people as possible to find evidence to downplay injuries or give them grounds to deny a claim.

If people close to you know nothing about your injuries and claim, they have nothing to share with the insurance company. Also, avoid posting on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms until your case resolves.

Call 989-244-0356 for a Free Case Review.

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Every driver should familiarize themselves with the steps they must take after a car accident. Knowing what to do after a crash can help you fulfill your obligations under state law and protect your legal rights to recover compensation from the at-fault driver. These steps begin at the accident scene and proceed into the following weeks and months as you recover.

Working with a car accident lawyer early in the recovery process may improve the outcome of your case.

Call for your FREE case review today. 989-254-6113.

Steps to Take at the Accident Scene

By their nature, traffic accidents happen suddenly and with little warning, often overwhelming victims and leaving them unsure of what to do next. Knowing how to react after a crash will go a long way to prepare you for the aftermath.

Ensure Everyone’s Safety

First, you should check yourself, your passengers, and the occupants of the other vehicles involved in the accident to see if anyone needs assistance or medical attention. Call 911 if someone asks or appears injured or in distress. Move your car to the shoulder or side of the road if you can safely drive it.

If the accident disabled your car, carefully walk to the side of the road or shoulder. You don’t want to leave your vehicle on the road, which may pose a collision hazard for oncoming traffic. If you must leave your car on the road, do not stay in or near it in case an oncoming vehicle hits it.

Exchange Information

Michigan law requires drivers to exchange information with everyone else involved in the accident. While you should remain polite when talking to the other drivers and passengers, keep your conversations brief. Do not discuss the details of the accident or try to assign blame for the crash, as doing so may negatively affect your legal rights.

Alert the Authorities

State law also requires drivers involved in car accidents to report the crash to law enforcement. You can contact the local police department or state police through their non-emergency line if no one called 911.

Document the Accident Scene

Take photos and videos of the accident scene if you can do so safely. You should document essential details such as the damage to the cars involved in the crash, visible injuries you’ve suffered, skid marks on the road, traffic controls at the scene, each driver’s visual perspective right before the crash, and weather, lighting, road, and traffic conditions if relevant. Try to gather contact information from any eyewitnesses to the crash in case you need their statement for your car accident claim.

Steps to Take After Leaving the Accident Scene

You can continue protecting your health and your legal rights by taking these steps in the days after the wreck.

Seek Medical Attention

You should go to the hospital or see your doctor immediately if you declined medical attention at the accident scene. The shock of a car crash can cause an adrenaline rush that can mask pain and other symptoms of injuries for hours or even days.

A doctor can examine you and perform diagnostic tests to identify any injuries you may have sustained in the accident. By obtaining a diagnosis immediately after a car accident, you can strengthen your argument that your injuries occurred in the accident rather than from pre-existing injuries or degenerative conditions.

Notify Your Auto Insurer

Remember to notify your car insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible after the crash. Your insurance policy may require you to notify the insurer within a certain period, often around 72 hours.

Provide timely notice under the terms of your policy to ensure your eligibility for coverage, including personal injury protection coverage. Your insurance company will want prompt notice of the accident so it can begin investigating before evidence gets lost or people’s memories fade.

What to Do in the Weeks Following a Car Accident

You have important actions to take in the weeks after a car accident. Doing the following can preserve your rights to pursue financial recovery for your injuries and losses.

Follow Your Treatment Plan

Carefully follow your doctor’s treatment plan and instructions. Do not put off treatment or delay procedures, as your long-term health is at stake.

Furthermore, if you do not follow important instructions or medical restrictions, you may give the insurance company grounds to argue that you have failed to mitigate your losses. The insurer may contend that you’ve allowed your injuries to worsen without treatment. If your aggravated injuries require more expensive medical care, the insurance company may argue that you shouldn’t recover full compensation for your medical expenses.

Keep Copies of Records of Your Losses

Remember to keep copies of any records of your expenses from the accident, including:

• Car repair invoices
• Appraisal reports to calculate the value of your car if the insurance company declares it a total loss
• Receipts for car rentals or rideshares
• Medical bills and invoices
• Receipts for out-of-pocket medical expenses, including prescriptions or purchases of durable medical equipment
• Travel expenses from seeking specialist medical care
• Invoices and receipts for home health services, housekeeping, or home maintenance
• Contractor invoices from work to install disability accommodations in your home

If you miss time from work or transfer to a part-time/light-duty position that pays you less than you earned before the car accident, gather copies of your pay stubs or income statements to calculate your lost wages.

Start a Diary or Journal

Keeping a diary or journal during your recovery from a car accident provides important documentary evidence for your claim. You can use your journal to record pain, emotional distress, and physical limitations you experience because of your injuries or medical treatment.

A record of your injuries’ effects on your quality of life will bolster your claim for pain and suffering compensation if you become eligible to file a liability claim against a negligent driver. You can use your diary or journal to push back if the insurance company argues that you’ve fabricated or exaggerated your pain and suffering.

Request Copies of Records To Support Your Claim

You can also begin collecting and organizing other evidence to help support your car accident claim, such as:

• Medical records from your treatment
• Photos or videos you or your passengers took at the accident scene
• The police accident report
• Dashcam footage from your car
• Any surveillance footage of the accident
• Eyewitness statements
• Correspondence with the insurance companies

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

Speak with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the crash. Most car accident lawyers offer free initial consultations where the attorney can explain your legal rights and discuss your options for recovering compensation. In particular, a car accident lawyer can walk you through Michigan’s no-fault insurance system, which may restrict your ability to file a claim against an at-fault driver and instead require you to seek compensation for certain losses from your auto insurance provider.

What Not to Do After a Car Accident

Knowing what not to do after a car accident is just as important as knowing what you should do. These mistakes can jeopardize your right to recover compensation for your injuries and car damage.

Here are some things you should refrain from doing after a traffic collision:

• Admitting fault or apologizing. Be careful when talking to the other driver or drivers at the crash scene or to the insurance companies following the accident. Do not admit fault or responsibility for the accident or say anything that may serve as evidence of your fault, such as, “I didn’t see the other vehicle.” You should also refrain from apologizing to the other driver. Although you may feel compelled out of a natural desire to offer sympathy to the other people involved in the crash, the police or the insurance company may see an “I’m sorry” as a sign of your guilty conscience. Even if you believe you caused the crash, the evidence may ultimately prove that another driver or party bears responsibility for the car accident. Don’t jeopardize your rights to recovery before you know what they are.
• Blaming others for the accident. You should also avoid assigning blame. The police or insurance company may see that behavior as an effort to deflect liability. Pointing fingers may end up hurting your credibility.
• Failing to report the accident to law enforcement. If you need to pursue a car accident claim, a police accident report can provide key evidence for your case. Insurance companies often rely on police crash reports since officers have training and experience in investigating auto accidents and can provide a neutral perspective of the accident. But if you don’t report the accident to the police, you won’t have a police accident report.
• Failing to notify your insurance company. Your auto insurance policy may require you to notify your insurer that you’ve been in a car accident within a certain number of days following the accident. Failing to timely notify your insurer may jeopardize your coverage or financial recovery.
• Failing to seek medical attention or follow through with treatment. Not getting medical treatment for your injuries may worsen those injuries, which may adversely affect your health and your legal rights to recover compensation after the car accident.
• Posting about the accident or your injuries on social media. Insurance companies sometimes monitor the social media accounts of car accident victims to see if they might post something that contradicts their claims. For example, suppose you’ve claimed to have suffered disabling injuries, but you post photos or videos of yourself participating in physical activities or traveling. In that case, the insurance company may assume you’ve fabricated or exaggerated your injuries.
• Agreeing to provide a written or recorded statement to the insurance company or to sign a medical release. An insurance adjuster may ask you for a written or recorded statement about the accident. These professionals are adept at asking questions designed to get an accident victim to say something the insurance company can use to undercut their claim. Insurers may also ask you to sign a medical release form to get access to your medical history. However, signing a release will allow the insurance company to fish through your medical records for pre-existing injuries or degenerative conditions that the insurance company may cite as the underlying cause of your injuries instead of the car accident.
• Signing documents the insurance company provides without having a lawyer review them. The insurance company may present you with documents to sign. However, you should always have a lawyer look over anything the insurance company gives you before you sign it, as the terms of the document may adversely affect your legal rights.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help You?

Hiring a car accident lawyer can help you recover from a life-changing crash.

While you focus on your treatment and rehabilitation, a car accident lawyer can handle the details of your legal claims, including:

• Investigating the facts and circumstances underlying the accident to recover evidence you may need to pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit
• Identifying applicable insurance coverages and potentially liable parties
• Explaining your legal options to you and preparing you for what to expect at each stage of the legal process
• Recording your injuries and losses to determine how much compensation you need
• Preparing and filing your insurance claims and communicating with adjusters on your behalf
• Filing litigation and advocating for you in court if necessary to pursue a favorable result in your car accident case

Taking the Right Actions After a Car Accident Can Help Preserve Your Right to Financial Compensation

Immediately following a car accident, you should ensure the safety of everyone involved in the crash, collect contact and insurance information, and report the accident to law enforcement. Next, you should seek medical attention for any injuries you’ve suffered and gather evidence to support your insurance or legal claims.

Finally, get in touch with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you recover the money you need to move forward with your life.

Experienced. Local. Lawyers. 989-254-6113

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Michigan law requires all drivers to have car insurance and meet the minimum insurance requirements to operate a vehicle. Police also check if drivers have valid car insurance coverage when they stop motorists. But how do officers know if you have no-fault insurance? Police can run your license plates to get updated information on your insurance status.

Below, Jay Trucks discusses the tools used by police to check a driver’s insurance status, what happens when you provide false information, or police catch you driving without insurance, and how license plate insurance detection benefits both officers and drivers.

If you have been in a car accident and need legal help or are unsure of your coverage limits, one of our licensed attorneys is here to offer assistance. We provide an initial consultation at no cost or risk to you.

No Upfront Fees are Involved. Ph: 989-244-0356

How Do the Police Know I Have Insurance?

The police will know if you have a valid insurance policy by running your license plates through an electronic verification system accessed directly from their in-car computers. These systems and the scanning methods used by the police to capture license plate information vary from state to state.

In Michigan, the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) database is a statewide computerized information system that enables officers to access and/or modify stored information. This system allows them to verify insurance coverage through driver’s license records and vehicle registrations.

The LEIN system helps police quickly identify the following:

• If a driver is operating a vehicle without insurance
• If a driver’s no-fault car insurance policy has expired
• If a driver is carrying an up-to-date insurance card

State law requires car insurance companies to inform the Michigan Secretary of State every 14 days of all insured vehicles. This information is then made available to officers through the LEIN system.

When Do Officers Check for Car Insurance?

Officers often use electronic verification systems to check a driver’s insurance status in real-time before or in the middle of a traffic stop. An officer can also run a license plate while a motorist is driving to determine if the vehicle they are operating is insured. Should any insurance issues be detected in the system, the officer may pull a driver over and check that they have a valid insurance card.

More importantly, the system allows the police to identify uninsured drivers and get them off the roads. An officer who runs a license plate through the system can find out if the driver has been previously cited for driving without a license—in other words, a repeat offender. Insurance checkpoints are also a way for the police to scan every driver passing through for insurance coverage.

Ways Electronic Insurance Detection Helps Drivers

Knowing that police can check if a driver has insurance by running their plates helps motivate most drivers to get insured and remain insured. State-mandated car insurance requirements are designed to help drivers in the event they are involved in a car accident. Uninsured drivers are riskier and more likely to cause an accident.

You may have to pay out-of-pocket for your accident-related expenses without no-fault car insurance. If you suffered injuries in an accident in Michigan caused by someone else and you have no insurance, state law dictates that you cannot sue for damages, regardless of the severity of your injuries.

Insurance means not facing criminal and financial penalties that can lead to jail time. With electronic insurance detection, officers can help ensure drivers protect themselves and others on the road by being insured. An accident can be a costly experience if you are not prepared.

Electronic insurance detection also helps drivers return to the road faster after a traffic stop. An officer can quickly access your insurance details and verify your insurance status while approaching your vehicle. It may even drive down insurance rates based on where you reside.

What if False Insurance Information is Provided?

If an officer pulls a driver over, the officer can tell false information is provided as soon as they run the driver’s plates. Carrying a fake insurance card can get you into serious legal trouble. Lying to the police about your car insurance can lead to costly fines and possible jail time.
Not only with the police know your proof of insurance is false, but they can also use the electronic verification system to identify drivers who have previously tried to dupe the police.

What Happens if the Police Learns You Are Uninsured?

The penalties for driving without insurance in Michigan may include:

• A misdemeanor charge
• Fines up to $500
• Jail time of up to one year
• A suspended driver’s license
• Inability to renew vehicle registration

Uninsured drivers may also be unable to sue for pain and suffering damages in addition to no-fault benefits if injured in an accident. They may be held financially responsible for paying any medical bills and lost wages they caused to victims, regardless of their degree of fault.

Reach Out to Our Firm for Trusted Legal Help

Were you injured in a car accident? A licensed vehicle accident attorney in Grand Rapids is ready to review your claim and discuss your available options. The legal team at Jay Trucks & Associates has decades of experience representing accident victims and has been able to recover millions of dollars in compensation on our clients’ behalf.

Our initial consultation is 100 percent free without any legal obligation involved. There are no upfront fees to take a case, and we charge no fees while working on a case. We only get paid if you get paid.

Call 989-244-0356 for a Free Case Review.

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While many people may be hearing about self-driving trucks for the first time, savvy truck accident attorneys have been watching industry changes closely. Autonomous trucks have actually been undergoing road tests in several states since about 2016. Many states, including Michigan, are already permitting autonomous vehicles to be tested and operated on state highways. However, the scope of how these vehicles may currently be used in the state is still very much restricted.

How safe are these driverless vehicles? Are they ready to be on the road without a human backup driver? Learn more, including what new crash risks these autonomous commercial vehicles could add to our roads.

At Jay Trucks, we are deeply committed to helping the injured. If you suffer harm in a collision with a self-driving truck, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your injuries. Contact our law offices to learn if you may have legal options. There is no cost for this meeting and no upfront payments of any kind if you choose our firm to represent you.

What is a Self-Driving Truck?

Self-driving trucks are still part of a young and growing industry. However, they are already known by many names. You may have heard them called automated or autonomous vehicles. Some people simply call them driverless trucks.

Self-driving trucks are armed with artificial intelligence, GPS, and high-tech sensors. This computerized driving system scans the roads for hazards in a way that no human can and without the need for taking a break. The ultimate goal is to allow autonomous trucks to navigate roadways across the U.S. without a human driver.

What Are the Benefits of Driverless Trucking?

Corporations in support of self-driving trucks say that there are many benefits to these vehicles, including:

Less Chance for Human Error Could Mean Fewer Truck Crashes

Using autonomous trucks reduces the risk of human error or negligence. For instance, self-driving trucks may reduce the risk of trucks following vehicles too closely or running red lights. They also lessen the risk of truckers driving while drowsy or impaired.  Additional issues that may be addressed include the significant driver shortages that continue to plague the truck driving industry.

More Efficiency in Transporting Goods and Services

The use of self-driving trucks could increase efficiency in the supply chain. Companies that need to move more cargo in less time will be able to do so, with fewer drivers and fewer casualties. That is a situation that would benefit almost everyone.

Self-Driving Trucks Could Operate during Off-Peak Hours and Reduce Traffic Congestion

Self-driving trucks could be scheduled to operate during off-peak hours once they are cleared to transport cargo without human drivers on board. Using fully automated trucks in this way could help to reduce traffic congestion.

What Disadvantages May Result From a Self-Driving Truck Industry?

With new technology, there are always some drawbacks, and introducing fully automated semi-trucks does have some disadvantages.

The most obvious drawback is that hundreds of thousands of truck drivers could find themselves without jobs. This is a hotly contested subject, mostly by analysts who believe the self-driving truck industry will create more trucking jobs, not less.

There may truth to this as, at least initially, there may still be a need for professional truck drivers. For instance, companies may need experienced truckers to help monitor and handle more complicated routes. For the near future, at least, it may also be necessary to have human truck drivers on board in case something goes wrong.

Another drawback is that, unlike the current trucking industry, self-driving trucks are still only regulated at the state level. This means, among other things, there are no federal regulations to help ensure driverless trucks are properly maintained.

What About Liability if a Self-Driving Truck is Involved in a Crash?

Currently, victims of a serious truck crash may seek compensation from multiple parties, including the liability insurance of the truck driver and trucking company.

There will still be insurance policies to cover these vehicles and the trucking companies. However, determining who the liable party is if a crash occurs will likely become even more complex.

This process of how to handle liability will continue to evolve, especially because self-driving trucks crash uncommon forms of negligence, such as:

• Driverless trucks that are not properly maintained could malfunction
• Data systems, lasers, and other computer parts could be defective
• A truck’s computer system could be hacked

Are Autonomous Semi-Trucks Safer or Do They Add More Crash Risks?

Whether or not self-driving trucks are safer remains to be seen. In theory, these vehicles could help to eliminate thousands of truck crashes each year, or more.

As with any type of technology, however, these vehicles and the computer systems that run them are bound to have vulnerabilities and flaws. One big concern many people have is how easy it would be for a hacker to illegally gain access to an autonomous truck’s computer system. If this were to happen, it could result in catastrophic damages.

Injured in a Crash With a Semi-Truck? Our Firm is Ready to Help

Whether you are injured by the negligence of a truck driver or a failed computer system, we are ready to help.

Our qualified truck accident lawyers in Michigan are knowledgeable and always prepared to fight for the maximum possible compensation for your damages.

Call our firm today at (989) 254-6113 to set up your free case review and get answers to your legal questions. We have recovered over $500 million for our clients, and we are ready to help you.

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It is possible to seek compensation if you were the victim of a staged car crash. However, staged car crashes make a case much more complicated, so you will likely need help from an experienced attorney. Proving a car crash was staged is extremely difficult to do on your own.

At Jay Trucks, we understand the shock and confusion drivers often experience after a crash. We also understand how this can be compounded by the suspicion victims may have about whether their crash was staged.

We are ready to take your call to learn more about your crash and tell you how we may be able to help you take legal action. If you hire our firm, there are no upfront fees or legal obligations. You do not need to concern yourself with the cost of our services. There are no fees unless we obtain compensation.

Request your FREE case review: 9892546113

What is a Staged Car Crash?

Staged car crashes are collisions deliberately set up to make it look like someone else is at fault. In truth, however, those who staged the crash are to blame. These scams often involve two or more drivers. They may also involve others who are in either of the two cars used in the scam. Sometimes these scams involve three vehicles.

Those involved in staging a car crash will lie to police and the insurance company about what happened. They are also likely to fake injuries to try to seek compensation from the victim’s liability insurance. The scam may even involve witnesses who give an account of the crash in support of the scam.

If something seems strange about your car crash or how it happened, you should contact an experienced lawyer right away. Staged crashes are becoming more common. Seeking legal help immediately and having your crash thoroughly investigated may help to ensure you are compensated for your damages.

What Are the Different Types of Staged Car Crashes?

It is a good idea to learn more about the different types of staged car crashes. That way, if you are ever involved in one, you may be more likely to recognize it.

Swoop and Squat

One of the most common car crash scams is the swoop and squat, also known as the swoop and stop. This is a staged rear-end crash in which the victim crashes into the back of another car.

This scam involves a minimum of two vehicles, but sometimes three are used. In a two-car scam, there is one vehicle in front of you and one behind. The driver of the one in front of you will slam on the brakes for no good reason. The driver in the car behind you is there to prevent you from slowing down enough to avoid a collision.

Sometimes this scam involves a third vehicle that is in the lane to the left or right of yours, preventing you from swerving to avoid a collision with the lead driver.

Start and Quick Stop

Similar to the swoop and squat, the lead driver accelerates, causing the rear driver to accelerate as well. To help ensure the collision, the lead driver quickly hits the brakes as the rear driver accelerates. This can easily lead to a rear-end crash. Start and quick-stop scams usually happen in heavy traffic.

Drive Down

Many of us have had another driver wave at us to let us know we can merge in front of them. Most of the time, one driver waves, and the other driver waves back to acknowledge it. Then both drivers proceed to go on their way.

In a scam, however, the first driver who waved may wait until the victim’s car starts to merge. The driver in on the scam would then speed up and crash into the rear end of the victim’s merging vehicle. The driver who first waved at the victim would then typically deny they ever waved.

T-Bone Collision

This type of staged car crash occurs when a driver collides with the side of a vehicle as it is moving through an intersection. The driver in on the scam will try to say you ran a red light or blew through a stop sign. Others involved in the scam may act as witnesses to the crash, supporting the scamming driver’s version of what happened.

While some types of staged crashes may seem legitimate, this one may not. You would likely know for sure whether or not you ran a red light or stop sign.

How Will I Know if My Car Crash Was Staged?

You may not know for sure. However, there are various red flags that may indicate a staged car crash. One glaring red flag, for instance, is if there are multiple witnesses who all back up the other driver’s account of the crash. In most collisions, witnesses have varying accounts about a crash. It is unlikely everyone would give the same account.

Another red flag that your crash might have been staged is if the vehicle you hit has several passengers and they all complain about injuries after the collision.

Be aware also that after a staged car crash, scammers may try to get cash from the victim at the scene. One way they do this is by offering not to call the police if you pay them cash to help cover their medical bills.

If aspects of your collision seem like one of the types of staged crashes mentioned above, you may have been the victim of a scam. Take note of what the other driver, passengers and witnesses say about the crash. If it seems like their statements were coordinated, it could be a sign of a scam.

Sometimes those in the other vehicle will tell you they are not injured before the police arrive, only to change their story when the police show up.

Steps for Victims of Staged Crashes

Whether or not you suspect a scam, you should call the police right away so they can complete a report on the collision. If you think this was a staged crash, inform the responding officer. Make sure you explain exactly why you think the crash was staged. Police officers are experienced at spotting lies and they may agree with you.

Avoid a Confrontation With the Other Driver

Try to avoid a confrontation with the other driver, passengers or witnesses. They may try to badger you with statements about how you are at fault and demand that you pay for their medical care and other damages.

Gather Evidence From the Scene

While waiting for the police to arrive, be sure to take pictures of the crash scene. Try to capture:

• The crash scene, including any debris in the road
• Where the vehicles landed (include both vehicles in the picture)
• The damage to both vehicles
• Any visible injuries you sustained

Get Contact Details From Other Witnesses

If there are other witnesses who support your account of the crash, make sure you get their contact information. Your lawyer can follow up with them in the future.

Seek Medical Care Immediately

You also need to get medical treatment as soon as possible to stabilize your injuries. Additionally, your medical records will help to link your injuries to the crash.

Call a Lawyer Right Away

After a traffic crash, especially one you suspect was staged, we strongly recommend you contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can ensure your crash is thoroughly investigated. If you can prove the crash was set up, the scammers who staged it may be held liable for your damages. Your lawyer may be able to help you file a claim against their liability insurance.

If, after speaking with a knowledgeable attorney, he or she agrees your crash may have been staged, we also recommend that you consider reporting the crash to the authorities. You can report a potential insurance fraud case to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

How Can I Avoid Being a Victim of a Staged Car Crash?

Sometimes it may not be possible to avoid a staged car crash. For example, say you have the right of way through an intersection. If the scamming driver fails to yield the right of way, it may not be possible to avoid a staged T-bone crash.

However, you can help to avoid a staged rear-end crash by making sure you leave an appropriate amount of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

Additionally, use caution when merging. Make sure you have enough space to merge in front of another vehicle. Even though the other driver may wave you in, you need to be sure you have enough space to do so safely.

Call Jay Trucks. We Help Michigan Car Crash Victims

Victims of staged car crashes may feel overwhelmed with the thought of filing an insurance claim.

The good news is that if you have a case, you can get help throughout the legal process from an experienced advocate for crash victims. Our car crash lawyers in Grand Rapids have extensive experience helping injured victims. We have a history of proven results, recovering more than $500 million for our clients. We are prepared to fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

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