Unfortunately, dozens of people are injured daily in auto accidents throughout Michigan. One of the more common kinds of crashes involves being sideswiped. If you were sideswiped, you are probably left wondering who was at fault for a sideswipe accident in Michigan.
Well, there are several things to consider and to help to determine who was at fault for such a crash. The officers will look at the point of impact, the location of the vehicles, the speed of the vehicles, and the damages and injuries that result.
All these things together can help with the investigation and help investigators see why the accident occurred and what were the contributing causes of the crash.
When law enforcement is called, they will do a preliminary investigation and complete an accident report.
You need to get and keep a copy of this report.
How Negligence Impacts A Michigan Sideswipe Accident
If a driver is negligent, he or she ignores traffic laws. Negligence can be something such as speeding or it can be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If a driver has been negligent and caused a crash, you can pursue a personal injury claim for damages.
As a modified comparative negligence state, Michigan allows you to file a personal injury claim against the other driver if you were no more than 51% at fault for the accident. You can prove this with an accident report, photos of the crash scene, photos of any damages, and medical reports.
Statements from any eyewitnesses can also be very beneficial in proving a personal injury case against the other driver.
Damages That Might Result From a Michigan Sideswipe Accident
You can suffer various damages from a sideswipe accident in Michigan. Your vehicle will be damaged, so you can ask to be compensated for your property damages. To show these damages, you should take photos of the damages and get a written estimate for repairing your vehicle.
Also, you will have medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, mental trauma, and other damages.
You should maintain documentation and evidence that shows the damages you suffered. Your attorney will help you file a Michigan personal injury claim and prove your damages.
Consult With A Michigan Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been sideswiped, you should consult with a Michigan personal injury attorney so you can recover compensation for your damages. Your attorney will investigate the accident, talk with any eyewitnesses, go over the accident report, look at any photographs, and check your medical records.
By gathering evidence and documentation, your attorney will work to build a strong case for you so you can get the compensation that you are entitled to receive after such an accident.
Working on a contingency basis, your lawyer will not be paid until you get compensation for your damages.
Schedule a free case evaluation today so you can file your personal injury claim against the other party.
