A West Michigan auto accident was settled in 2019 for 2.7 million dollars by personal injury attorney David P. Shafer. Mr. Shafer is a long-standing personal injury attorney in Muskegon, MI, and previously secured the largest auto accident injury verdict in Muskegon County history. He has obtained up to fifteen million dollars on behalf of his clients.
Mr. Shafer represents those who have been seriously injured or killed in car, motorcycle, and trucking accidents, as well as those who have been injured or killed due to bus accidents, dog bites, general negligence, slip and falls, boating accidents, medical malpractice, and civil rights/police misconduct.
Understanding Auto Accident Settlements
Navigating the aftermath of an auto accident can be daunting, especially when it comes to legal matters. In Michigan, the settlement process typically begins with the evaluation of the accident, which includes gathering evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records. These pieces of information are crucial in establishing the facts of the case and the extent of injuries sustained.
Once the evidence is compiled, the next step involves filing a claim with the insurance company. Michigan follows a no-fault insurance system, which means each party must file a claim with their own insurance company, regardless of who is at fault. However, for damages or injuries that exceed a certain threshold, the injured party may pursue a claim against the insurance company of the at-fault driver.
Negotiations with insurance companies are an integral part of the settlement process. It’s during these negotiations that the amount of compensation is discussed. If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, the case may proceed to litigation, where a court will decide the outcome.
The Role of Legal Representation
The complexities of auto accident settlements underscore the importance of having experienced legal counsel. A skilled personal injury attorney in Muskegon, MI, can help you with the following:
- Understanding Legal Nuances. Michigan auto accident laws are intricate. Personal injury attorneys have a deep understanding of these laws, including the latest changes and how they apply to your case.
- Evaluating Claims. A seasoned lawyer can accurately assess the value of a claim, ensuring that all damages – from medical expenses to lost wages and pain and suffering – are accounted for.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies. Insurance companies are adept at minimizing payouts. An attorney with a strong background in auto accident cases can effectively negotiate with these companies to ensure a fair settlement.
- Litigation. If negotiations fail, an attorney can represent your interests in court, arguing your case and presenting the gathered evidence to secure the compensation you deserve.
Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts
Auto accidents remain a significant concern in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 36,560 people lost their lives in traffic crashes in 2018 alone, while an estimated 2,710,000 people sustained injuries. These numbers emphasize the risks associated with driving and the importance of understanding the potential aftermath of an accident.
The settlement amounts for auto accidents can vary widely, depending on several factors. More severe cases involving significant injuries or fatalities can reach settlements in the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. The key factors influencing these amounts include:
- Severity of Injuries. The more severe your injury, the higher the potential settlement.
- Impact on Quality of Life. Settlements consider how your injuries have affected your daily life, including your ability to work and engage in personal activities.
- Fault and Liability. The settlement can be influenced by the degree of fault assigned to each party involved in the accident. Clear evidence of the other party’s fault increases the likelihood of a higher settlement.
Hiring a local personal injury attorney in Muskegon, MI, can dramatically impact the outcome of your auto accident claim. According to a study by the Insurance Research Council, individuals who hire legal representation receive settlements 3.5 times larger than those who negotiate with insurance companies on their own.
Get the Settlement You Deserve with Shafer Swartz PLC
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident alone. Allow Shafer Swartz PLC to guide you through every step, ensuring that your rights are protected and your settlement reflects the true impact of the incident on your life. With a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients, our seasoned personal injury attorneys in Muskegon, MI, guarantee that your journey towards recovery and justice is as smooth and successful as possible. Contact us today at (231) 722-2444 or here to schedule a consultation. Together, we can make it right.
