Practice Areas
Medical Malpractice lawyers in Michigan
What Is Medical Malpractice
When Medical Care Causes Harm, Not Healing
Medical malpractice happens when a healthcare provider’s mistake causes serious harm that harm could have been prevented. You trusted your doctor. But something went wrong. Not just a bad outcome, something preventable. Now you’re left with pain, questions, and no clear way forward.
In Michigan, if a doctor, nurse, or hospital failed to follow the basic standard of care and caused serious harm—you may have a legal case.
We understand how confusing this can feel. Our legal team can review your situation — free of charge — and help you understand your options.
Do I Have a Medical Malpractice Case?
You Don’t Have to Know for Sure — That’s Our Job
One of the most common questions we hear is: “Do I even have a case?” And the honest answer is: it depends. But you don’t have to figure that out on your own.
In Michigan, a successful medical malpractice claim must prove four elements:
- Duty – The provider owed you a professional standard of care.
- Breach – They failed to meet that standard through negligence or error.
- Causation – That failure directly caused injury, illness, or complications.
- Damages – The harm led to measurable loss: physical, emotional, or financial.
The law is complex, and so is medicine. That’s why our firm includes both experienced malpractice attorneys and direct access to medical experts. If your situation meets these criteria, we’ll help you build a strong case.
Types of Medical Malpractice We Handle in West Michigan
Malpractice Isn’t Just One Mistake — It’s a Pattern of Preventable Harm
Medical negligence can take many forms, from a missed diagnosis to a surgical error, a medication mix-up to a birth injury. Each case is unique, but the common thread is this: someone didn’t follow the standard of care, and you paid the price.
We handle a wide range of medical malpractice claims across Michigan. Our legal and outsourced medical teams work together to uncover what went wrong and to help you hold the right people accountable.
Below are some of the most common types of malpractice cases we investigate and pursue.
Medical Malpractice
Anesthesia Injuries
Anesthesia Shouldn’t Leave You With Trauma
Anesthesia errors can turn routine procedures into life-altering events. Too much, too little, or the wrong kind at the wrong time and a patient can suffer brain damage, cardiac arrest, or wake up during surgery.
These injuries are frightening, and the emotional and physical toll can be overwhelming.
If you or a loved one were harmed by an anesthesia mistake, we’ll help you understand your rights and demand accountability.
Brain Hypoxia
Brain hypoxia means the brain isn’t getting enough oxygen, and it can cause lifelong damage in minutes. During childbirth, this can happen if doctors delay a necessary C-section, miss signs of fetal distress, or mishandle anesthesia.
If your child now faces developmental delays, seizures, or cerebral palsy, you deserve to know if a medical mistake played a role.
Birth Injuries
Some Injuries at Birth Should Never Happen
Birth injuries can leave a child with lasting challenges, and many are the result of preventable medical mistakes. A doctor may miss signs of distress, wait too long to intervene, or use too much force during delivery. Resulting injuries aren’t just medical complications, they’re moments when someone failed to act carefully enough.
If something didn’t feel right during delivery, trust that instinct. We’ll help you understand what happened and whether you have a case.
Brachial Plexus Injuries
Nerve Damage at Birth Can Last a Lifetime
The brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves that controls movement in the shoulder, arm, and hand. When too much force is used during delivery, those nerves can tear or stretch, leaving the baby with avoidable injuries that can follow a child for life.
If your child was diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury like Erb’s palsy, we can help determine if medical negligence played a role.
Brain Injuries
Brain injuries caused by medical negligence can be devastating. Whether from a surgical error, failure to treat a stroke, or a mismanaged infection, the results can include memory loss, mobility issues, or permanent disability. These injuries disrupt life and often leave families with more questions than answers.
If your loved one suffered a brain injury after receiving medical care, we can help investigate what went wrong. You deserve clear explanations, not silence.
Burn Injuries
Burns Should Never Be Part of a Medical Procedure
Burn injuries during surgery or hospitalization are rare, but when they happen, they’re almost always the result of negligence. A patient might be burned by faulty equipment, surgical tools, or even chemical exposure during care. These injuries are painful, traumatic, and completely preventable.
If you or a loved one suffered a burn during a medical procedure, you deserve real answers. Our team knows how to investigate these cases and hold providers accountable.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy Is Life-Changing — And Sometimes Preventable
Cerebral palsy (CP) can result when a baby’s brain is damaged before, during, or shortly after birth, often due to lack of oxygen, delayed delivery, or untreated infections. While not every case of CP is caused by malpractice, some are, and families deserve to know the difference.
If your child was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you suspect something went wrong during labor or delivery, our legal team will review the facts with compassion and clarity.
Delayed Fetal Distress Diagnosis
When a Baby’s Distress Goes Unnoticed, the Results Can Be Tragic
During labor, fetal monitoring is critical. It tells the medical team how the baby is handling the stress of delivery. When warning signs like abnormal heart rates or oxygen drops are missed or ignored, the consequences can be severe and can lead to brain damage, permanent disabilities, or even loss of life.
If something felt off during your delivery and no one explained why, we’ll help you understand what happened. You have the right to know if this could have been prevented.
Emergency Room Errors
Mistakes in the ER Can Cost Lives
Emergency rooms are hectic, but that doesn’t excuse dangerous mistakes. When doctors miss a diagnosis, delay treatment, or fail to order critical tests, patients can suffer injuries that should’ve been caught.
If you were sent home from the ER only to end up worse, or if you lost someone after an ER visit, we’ll help uncover what happened.
Erb’s Palsy
A Preventable Injury With a Lifelong Impact
Erb’s palsy happens when the nerves in a baby’s shoulder are stretched or torn during birth, usually from too much force or a delayed response to shoulder dystocia. The result can be weakness, loss of movement, or even permanent paralysis in the arm. Some cases heal, others don’t.
If your child was diagnosed with Erb’s palsy, and you weren’t given clear answers, we can help uncover what went wrong.
Gynecology Surgery
When Routine Surgery Goes Wrong, You Deserve Answers
Gynecological procedures, like hysterectomies, laparoscopies, or fibroid removals are common. But when surgical mistakes happen, they can cause serious complications, from organ damage to internal bleeding and infections. Patients are often left in pain, confused, and without clear explanations.
If something felt wrong after your procedure, or if your recovery was far more difficult than expected, we can help investigate whether negligence played a role.
Hospital Discharge Errors
Sent Home Too Soon — and Left to Suffer
Hospitals have a duty to make sure patients are stable before discharge. But when they rush someone out too early, serious complications can follow. We’ve seen cases where patients were discharged without test results, clear instructions, or even proper medication. These are dangerous mistakes.
If you or a loved one were harmed after being released from the hospital too soon, we’ll review what happened and whether it was malpractice.
Inadequate Monitoring
When No One’s Watching, Patients Get Hurt
Hospitals are supposed to monitor patients closely, especially after surgery, childbirth, or during a medical emergency. When nurses or staff miss changes in vital signs, oxygen levels, or bleeding, the results can be catastrophic — all because no one was paying attention.
If you believe your condition, or a loved one’s, worsened because of poor monitoring, we can help you uncover what was missed and why it matters.
Kidney Injuries
Kidney Damage Is Serious — and Sometimes Avoidable
Kidney injuries can happen when medical teams miss signs of dehydration, give the wrong medications, or fail to manage conditions like sepsis. Left untreated, the damage can become permanent or life-threatening.
If you or a loved one suffered kidney damage after medical treatment, we’ll help investigate what went wrong and whether a mistake was made.
Medication Errors
The Wrong Medication Can Do Serious Harm
Medication errors are one of the most common — and preventable — forms of medical malpractice. Whether it’s the wrong drug, wrong dose, or a dangerous combination, the results can be devastating. We’ve seen patients suffer seizures, allergic reactions, internal bleeding, and worse solely because of a prescription mistake or poor communication between providers.
If you were harmed by a medication error, we’ll help you figure out where the system failed and who should be held responsible.
Misdiagnosis & Delayed Diagnosis
When Doctors Get It Wrong, the Clock Keeps Ticking
A missed or delayed diagnosis can rob you of precious time. Time to treat, recover, or even survive. We’ve seen serious conditions like strokes, infections, and cancer go undetected until it’s too late. The result: avoidable harm.
If you believe a misdiagnosis or delay made your condition worse, we’ll help you get the answers your doctors didn’t provide.
Paralysis
Losing Movement Changes Everything
Paralysis caused by medical negligence is life-altering. It can happen from surgical errors, missed spinal injuries, anesthesia mistakes, or failure to prevent blood clots or infections. When something this serious happens, you deserve answers.
We work with medical experts to identify exactly what went wrong and hold the responsible providers accountable.
Radiology Errors
Did a Radiologist Miss Something That Cost You?
Radiology mistakes are some of the most devastating forms of medical malpractice, because they often delay life-saving care. If a radiologist failed to detect cancer, internal bleeding, or another serious issue, and it led to harm or death, you deserve to know the truth.
At Buchanan Firm, we help families across Michigan uncover what really happened, and hold the system accountable. Whether your loved one’s diagnosis was missed on an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan, we’ll help you take the next step.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal Injuries Deserve Serious Investigation
Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. When it’s caused by a medical mistake—surgical errors, delayed treatment after trauma, or failures to diagnose spinal infections—the impact is even harder to process.
If a spinal injury changed your life or your loved one’s, and you haven’t gotten a clear answer as to why, we’ll help you get one.
Surgical Errors
Surgery Is Risky — But Some Mistakes Are Unacceptable
When a surgeon operates on the wrong body part, leaves instruments behind, or causes internal damage, those aren’t complications — they’re preventable errors. Surgical mistakes can lead to infection, repeat operations, long-term disability, or even death.
If something went wrong during surgery and you weren’t given clear answers, we’ll investigate what happened and determine whether it was malpractice.
Wrongful Death
When a Life Is Lost, You Deserve to Know Why
Losing someone you love is hard enough. Losing them because of a medical mistake can be unbearable. We represent families who’ve lost a parent, child, or spouse due to errors in diagnosis, surgery, childbirth, medication, or delayed treatment.
If you suspect your loved one’s death could have been prevented, we’ll help you find answers. And if it was malpractice, we’ll fight to hold those responsible accountable.
What to Expect in a Malpractice Lawsuit
1.
Tell us your story
We listen to what happened and help you understand your options.
2.
Let us guide you through this
Our team handles the legal process with you and for you.
3.
Move your life forward
Reclaim your peace of mind with each
guided step.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a claim in Michigan?
In Michigan, you have two years from the date of the medical error, or six months from the date it was discovered to file a medical malpractice claim. However, exceptions exist, especially in cases involving minors or concealed negligence. It’s best to speak with a qualified attorney from Buchanan Firm right away to protect your rights.
How much does it cost to hire a medical malpractice lawyer?
Many Michigan medical malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. Meaning you pay nothing upfront. They only get paid if you win your case. The typical fee is a percentage of your settlement or verdict, often capped by state law. Always confirm fee structure before moving forward.
Will I need to testify?
If your case goes to trial, you may need to testify, but at Buchanan Firm, our goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With the right evidence, many medical malpractice cases settle before trial. When testimony is necessary, we’ll prepare you every step of the way. Rob Buchanan is a seasoned trial lawyer who’s guided hundreds of clients through this process with clarity and confidence. You won’t be alone—we’ll make sure you’re ready.
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What if I signed a consent form?
Signing a consent form does not mean you’ve given up your right to pursue a malpractice claim. Consent forms cover known risks, not negligent actions or substandard care. At Buchanan Firm, we work closely with trusted medical experts to review your records and determine whether your outcome was the result of a preventable error. Our legal team knows how to uncover the truth and build a strong case for accountability.
What’s the average payout in Michigan?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every malpractice case is different, and so is every outcome. In Michigan, settlements can range from tens of thousands to several million dollars, depending on the severity of harm and the strength of the evidence.
At Buchanan Firm, we do the due diligence early, working with experienced medical experts and building a clear case backed by facts. When the evidence speaks for itself, many claims resolve outside of court. The key is having the right team in your corner from the start, fighting to make sure the full value of what you’ve lost is recognized.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a team who does.
No pressure. No confusion.
Just a clear path forward, backed by a team who’s here to back you.
Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Michigan
If you were hurt in a car crash, truck wreck, or any kind of vehicle accident in Michigan, this page breaks it all down. What to do. What your rights are. How the system works. And what’s actually worth pursuing. It doesn’t matter if you were walking, riding a motorcycle, or sitting in the back of an Uber. If you’ve got injuries and questions, start here.
When Everything Changes in an Instant, You Deserve Answers
A car crash, truck accident, or sudden collision with a distracted driver can leave more than just physical scars. In a moment, your life shifts and now you’re dealing with medical bills, missed work, unanswered questions, and pressure from insurance companies to move on before you’re ready. You didn’t cause this and you shouldn’t have to navigate it alone.
At Buchanan Firm, we help people across Michigan recover after serious vehicle accidents. From high-speed car crashes and pedestrian injuries to motorcycle and truck collisions. Our legal team includes not just experienced trial lawyers, but access to medical professionals who understand what you’re going through physically, financially, and emotionally.
Whether your case involves a rideshare company, a reckless driver, or a hit-and-run, we’re here to investigate what happened and help you move forward.
We’ll listen, give you honest answers, and guide you every step of the way
so you can focus on healing, not fighting.
Vehicle/Car Accidents
Vehicle Accident Overview
What to do after a car accident in Michigan.
Get medical care. Document everything. Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance until you’ve talked to a lawyer.
Do I need a lawyer if it wasn’t my fault?
If you’re injured or the damage is serious, yes. Insurance adjusters try to lowball you. We make sure you don’t get screwed.
Will insurance pay for everything?
Not without a fight. They’ll offer less than what it costs to cover your bills, or deal with what you’ve lost.
What if I’m hurt but didn’t go to the hospital?
You still might have a case. Some injuries take time to show up. We can walk you through the next steps.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Usually three years in Michigan. But some cases have shorter deadlines. It’s better to ask now.
Should I take the settlement they offered?
Probably not. Most first offers are trash. Let us look at it before you sign anything.
You’re not alone. This is what we do every day.
If you’re hurt and it wasn’t your fault, we’ll look at it. If it’s a case, we’ll handle the rest.
Just tell us what happened. That’s all you need to do.
Car Crashes
Who’s at fault in a Michigan car accident?
If the other driver caused it they’re at fault. Michigan’s no-fault law just means your own insurance usually covers your vehicle damage and medical bills. It doesn’t protect the other driver from being held responsible.
Can I sue the other driver if it wasn’t my fault?
Yes. But only if your injuries meet the threshold: serious, long-term, or permanent. If we think you qualify, we’ll build the case and go after them.
Do I need a lawyer for a car crash?
If you’re hurt and an insurance company is involved, yes. Their goal is to settle fast and cheap. Our job is to stop that from happening.
What if I’m still in pain after the accident?
Pain that sticks around is a red flag. Some injuries take time to show up soft tissue damage, nerve problems, even brain trauma. If it’s getting worse, not better, talk to us.
Is Michigan no-fault insurance stopping me from filing a claim?
No. It changes the process, not your rights. If your injuries are bad enough, no-fault doesn’t block you; it opens the door to sue.
Road Construction Accidents
What happens if I crash in a construction zone?
It depends who caused it. Sometimes it’s another driver not slowing down. Sometimes it’s bad signage, confusing lane shifts, or poor lighting from the crew. We figure out what was preventable and who had control.
Can I sue the city or the construction company?
Yes, if the setup was dangerous. Things like if signs were missing or lanes weren’t marked. It might be that workers made the area unsafe and it led to a crash, they can be held responsible. Note that the rules for suing a city are tighter. You have less time to act.
What if I hit a cone or barrier?
If it was marked clearly and you were speeding, it’s on you. But if the layout was careless, or you were forced into a corner with no space, you might still have a case. We’ve seen people get blamed for things the crew messed up.
Who’s responsible in a multi-car pileup in a work zone?
It could be the driver who started the chain or the crew that caused the traffic jam. We look at speed, timing, camera footage, police reports, and how the zone was set up. It’s rarely just one factor in these cases.
Is there a time limit to file a claim?
Yes. And if the state or a city is involved, the deadline’s short. You usually have just 120 days to give notice. Most people miss it because no one tells them. Don’t wait.
No-Fault Insurance Law
What is no-fault insurance in Michigan?
It means your own insurance pays for your medical care and some lost wages, even if the other driver caused the crash. That’s the law. It was meant to speed things up, but it doesn’t always work that way.
Does no-fault cover everything?
No. It doesn’t pay for pain and suffering, and most plans now have strict limits. Once the money runs out, you’re on your own unless you file a lawsuit.
Can I still sue the other driver?
Yes — but only if your injuries meet a legal threshold. That means serious, long-term, or permanent damage. We’ll look at the details and tell you if you qualify.
Do I have to use my own insurance even if I wasn’t at fault?
Your own insurance covers vehicle repair/replacement, medical bills, some lost wages, replacement services, and attendant care but suing an at fault driver goes after pain and suffering and potentially wage loss beyond what is covered by no-fault benefits.
Does no-fault insurance stop me from suing?
No. It just changes how the process works. If your case qualifies, you can sue for real compensation — not just what the insurance gives you upfront.
Autonomous Vehicle Collisions
Who’s responsible if a self-driving car hits me?
It depends who was in control and how the car was being used. Some cars are fully autonomous, but most still rely on a human to step in. If the driver wasn’t paying attention, or ignored a warning, they can be held responsible. But if the vehicle acted on its own and failed, it could fall on the manufacturer or tech company. We look at how the vehicle was programmed, whether the system was updated, and what the driver was doing at the time. It’s a different kind of investigation. It’s more digital, more technical.
Can I sue the company that made the self-driving system?
Yes, but it’s much harder. Big tech companies have legal teams built to deflect blame. You’ll need evidence that the system malfunctioned, or that the car made a choice a human never would have made. That might mean pulling black box data, firmware versions, or recall notices.
What if the driver was asleep or distracted during the crash?
That helps your case. Most systems still require the driver to be ready to take control. If they checked out and the car made a bad call, we can hold the driver responsible. But if the system told them everything was fine and it wasn’t then it gets more complicated.
Are these cases harder to prove than regular crashes?
They’re different. With regular crashes, you usually get a police report and two versions of a story. With autonomous vehicles, you get layers. There’s software behavior, sensor logs, automation bias, liability disclaimers. It’s not always obvious who was in charge when the crash happened. But that’s what we figure out.
Is Michigan behind on laws for self-driving cars?
Yes. The law is still catching up. That doesn’t mean you’re stuck but it does mean you need someone who understands how to apply old rules to new tech. These cases won’t be handled the same way in five years, but you don’t have five years. You have now.
Distracted Driving Accidents
What counts as distracted driving in Michigan?
It includes anything that pulls attention off the road. It could be texting, using a GPS, scrolling social, eating, messing with the stereo, arguing with someone in the car, even zoning out. Michigan does have a hands-free law now, but the reality is people still drive with one hand on the wheel and one eye on their phone. And even when it’s technically legal, it might still be negligent.
Can I sue someone for texting and driving?
How do you prove someone was distracted?
We look at the phone. We talk to witnesses. We pull data from the car. A lot of modern vehicles record how fast someone was going, if they braked, what music was playing or even what apps were open. Sometimes it’s simple. Sometimes it takes digging. But the patterns are there.
What if they weren’t texting but were just daydreaming?
If a driver wasn’t paying attention and caused a crash, it’s negligence. Even without a phone. Distraction isn’t just about devices, it’s whether they were actively driving or mentally somewhere else. That can be just as dangerous.
Is distracted driving worse than drunk driving?
Sometimes, yes. Drunk drivers are slow and sloppy while distracted drivers are fast and blind. One is impaired and the other is unaware. Regardless, both cause harm. The difference is one often thinks they’re still in control and that makes them unpredictable.
Pedestrian Accidents
What are my rights if I was hit by a car while walking?
If the driver caused it, they’re responsible no matter how it happened. Even if you weren’t in a crosswalk, drivers still have a duty to avoid hitting people. If they were speeding, distracted, or didn’t yield, we can build a case.
Do pedestrians always have the right of way in Michigan?
No, not always. But drivers still can’t just hit someone and blame them for being in the road. If you were in a crosswalk or near an intersection, the law leans in your favor. If you weren’t, we look at visibility, speed, and how much time the driver had to react.
Can I sue a driver if I was walking and got hit?
Yes if your injuries are serious enough. That includes broken bones, head trauma, surgeries, or anything long-term.
What if I don’t have car insurance?
There still can be coverage and priority rules apply. We figure out where to file most people don’t know what they’re entitled to until someone explains it.
What if the driver fled the scene?
We look for uninsured. The key is reporting fast and getting medical care documented.
Truck Accidents
What should I do after being hit by a semi-truck in Michigan?
Get medical care first. Then call a lawyer. Truck crashes aren’t like regular accidents; the companies involved move fast, and their insurance teams know how to protect themselves. If you wait too long, evidence disappears. We secure the black box, driver logs, and camera footage before they go missing.
Can I sue the trucking company, not just the driver?
Yes. If the driver was on the clock, we go after the company under Michigan’s employer liability rules. If the company hired someone unfit to drive or pushed them to ignore safety rules we use that. It’s not just about the crash. It’s how it happened, and why
What are the most common causes of truck crashes?
Fatigue, speeding, distracted driving, overloaded trailers, bad equipment, blind spots. A lot of it comes down to pressure. Drivers rushing to meet deadlines, skipping rest breaks, or cutting corners. We’ve seen crashes caused by bald tires and missing brake pads. These aren’t accidents. They’re failures.
Is there a difference between car and truck accident cases?
Yes. Truck cases are heavier literally and legally. The injuries are worse and the legal process is more complex. There are more parties involved and more layers of insurance. Unlike cars, you’re not just dealing with a driver. You’re up against a company with lawyers and systems built to reduce their payout. That’s why you need someone who knows how to handle these cases from day one.
How much time do I have to file a truck accident claim?
Same as most car accident cases. Three years in Michigan, but waiting is a mistake. Some of the most important evidence like dash cams, driver logs, or cargo records gets deleted or lost in weeks. The sooner we get in, the better your case holds up.
Boat Accidents
Can I sue someone if I was injured in a boating accident?
Yes. If another boat operator caused the crash, or if you were a passenger and the driver was reckless, you can file a claim. Michigan law treats boating accidents like any other personal injury case. If someone acted carelessly and it led to harm, they’re responsible.
Who’s at fault in a boating accident?
It depends how it happened. Crashing into another boat, running aground, going too fast near a dock, failing to watch for swimmers. All of those can put blame on the driver. If alcohol was involved, or if someone ignored safety rules, it gets easier to prove. We look at witness statements, damage angles, and what the law says should have been done differently.
Does boating under the influence count like a DUI?
Yes. Michigan has laws against boating under the influence. If alcohol was involved in your crash, it makes the case stronger. It doesn’t matter if it was a fishing boat or a jet ski. Impaired is impaired.
What if I was hurt while tubing or riding a jet ski?
You can still file a claim even if you signed a waiver. If the driver went too fast, ignored safety rules, or wasn’t paying attention, we may still be able to hold them responsible. Injuries on lakes and rivers happen fast, and they’re often preventable.
How long do I have to file a boating injury claim?
Three years in most cases. But if it happened on a commercial vessel or tour boat, different rules might apply. The sooner we hear about it, the more we can preserve.
Motorcycle Crashes
What if I was hit while riding my motorcycle in Michigan?
You may still qualify for no-fault benefits. Even though motorcycles aren’t treated the same as cars under Michigan law, if a vehicle hit you, coverage might apply. The rules are different, but we know how to navigate them.
What insurance actually covers a motorcycle crash?
It depends on who was involved and what coverage you had. We start with the vehicle that hit you, then work through your own policy if needed. If no one qualifies, we can look to the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan. Most riders have no idea what they’re covered for until we show them.
Can I still file a case if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes. If you’re over 21 and meet Michigan’s insurance requirements, riding without a helmet doesn’t stop you from recovering damages. What matters most is who caused the crash and how serious the injuries are.
Can I sue the driver who hit me?
If you were seriously hurt, yes. You may be eligible to file a lawsuit for pain and suffering, especially if you have broken bones, head trauma, disfigurement, or anything that affects your ability to live normally.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim?
Three years to sue the at-fault driver. If the crash involved a government vehicle or city-owned road hazard, your window might be shorter. It’s always better to ask early.
What causes most motorcycle crashes in Michigan?
Often it’s speed, alcohol, and drivers not paying attention. Many crashes happen because a driver looked but didn’t see. Sadly this is the most common reason. We’ve helped riders who were doing everything right, but still ended up in the hospital because someone else wasn’t.
Rideshare Accidents
What happens if I get hurt in an Uber or Lyft?
We look at who was at fault, what stage of the ride it was in, and whose insurance applies. Rideshare cases are layered. There’s your driver, the other driver, the app’s insurance, and sometimes your own. You’re not just dealing with one policy anymore. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck.
Does Uber or Lyft cover injuries?
Yes, but only in certain windows. If the app was on and the driver was actively picking someone up or in a ride, the company’s insurance usually applies. If not, it may fall back to the driver’s personal policy. This is where a lot of people get stuck. If the app says it’s not their problem, the driver’s insurance says they weren’t “on the job,” and meanwhile you’re in the middle trying to get your bills paid. We cut through that.
Can I sue the rideshare driver directly?
Yes. If the driver caused the crash and wasn’t protected by the app’s coverage for some reason, we go after them directly. Same with the other driver, if someone else hit you. Just because it was a rideshare ride doesn’t mean the rules disappear — it just means there are more steps.
What if I was hit by an Uber while walking or in my own car?
Same process. If the Uber driver was at fault and logged into the app, we push for their commercial coverage. If not, we look to their personal insurance. We also look at Uber’s own conduct — how they trained the driver, whether they should’ve been allowed on the app in the first place.
Is there anything different I should do after a rideshare crash?
Yes. Take screenshots. Save ride details. Get the driver’s info and the app trip data right away — once the ride ends, some of that data disappears or gets locked behind support walls. The more you capture early, the easier it is to move fast.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
What happens if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?
You still have options. If you carry uninsured motorist coverage on your own policy, we look through that. A lot of people don’t even know they have it — or they’re told it won’t apply when it actually does. It’s meant for exactly this situation: someone causes damage and can’t pay.
What if the other driver has insurance but not enough to cover my injuries?
That’s underinsured coverage. Same process, if their policy limit runs out — and your injuries go beyond it — your policy may fill the gap. But insurance companies don’t offer that up. We have to prove it, document the losses, and push the claim the right way.
Can I sue a driver with no money or insurance?
Technically, yes — but most of the time, it’s not worth it. If they have no assets, no income, and nothing to take, a judgment doesn’t help you. That’s why your own coverage matters. The fallback plan is usually in your own policy.
How do I know if I have UM or UIM coverage?
You won’t find out from a blog post. You have to look at the declarations page of your auto policy or call your agent. We check it for clients. Most people don’t know what they’re paying for every month — and the agent won’t bring it up unless you ask.
Can I still make a claim if the crash was a hit-and-run?
Yes — that’s what uninsured motorist coverage is for. Hit-and-run is legally the same as being hit by someone with no insurance. But the deadlines are shorter. You usually have to notify your insurer fast, sometimes within 30 days. That’s the first thing we do in those cases.
Yes, if your injury meets the threshold. If they hit you while using their phone, that can be used as evidence. We check their call logs, message timestamps, app usage. Whatever proves their eyes weren’t wh ere they were supposed to be. Sometimes they admit it. Sometimes we find it anyway. Distracted driving has a pattern. Usually it’s late braking, drifting, no reaction. You can feel it in the impact.