Chain-reaction collisions are common on busy Detroit roads like I-94, I-75, the Lodge Freeway, and I-696, where heavy traffic, sudden stops, and winter weather can cause several vehicles to collide in a single crash. These accidents often cause serious injuries, and they raise difficult questions about who pays for your losses. If you or a family member has fallen victim to a crash, the Detroit car accident attorneys at Schefman & Associates are here to assist you.
Who Is Responsible for a Multi-Vehicle Accident?
More than one driver may share responsibility for a multi-vehicle crash. One motorist might have been speeding, another texting, and a third following too closely. In some cases, a trucking company, a vehicle manufacturer, or a government agency responsible for road maintenance may also share some of the blame.
Determining fault requires a careful review of police reports, witness statements, vehicle damage, and traffic camera footage. Certain claims, such as those involving government agencies, have short notice requirements, so identifying liability early is important.
Does Michigan’s No-Fault Law Still Apply?
Yes, your own auto insurance pays first, no matter how many vehicles were involved or who caused the crash. Under Michigan’s no-fault system, your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits cover medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services up to the coverage level you selected. However, MCL §500.3135 allows you to step outside the no-fault system and sue an at-fault driver for pain and suffering if the crash caused death, serious impairment of body function, or permanent serious disfigurement.
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
You can still recover compensation, but your percentage of fault will reduce your award. Michigan follows a modified comparative fault rule under MCL §600.2959. If you are found more than 50 percent at fault, you cannot recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Insurance companies frequently try to shift blame onto injured victims in multi-car crashes, which is why a strong investigation matters.
How Is Fault Divided Among Several Drivers?
Fault is divided by percentage, and each responsible party generally pays only their share. Under MCL §600.6304, a judge or jury assigns a percentage of fault to every party who contributed to the accident. This means you may need to pursue claims against several drivers and their insurers at once to recover your full damages.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
You generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit against an at-fault driver under MCL §600.5805. Deadlines for no-fault benefits are much shorter. Under MCL §500.3145, you generally must give your insurer written notice of your claim within one year of the accident. Acting quickly protects your rights and preserves valuable evidence.
Thorough Investigation to Determine Liable Parties
A car accident lawyer will handle every part of your claim so you can focus on healing. At Schefman & Associates, our legal team will investigate the crash, obtain police reports and video footage, consult with accident reconstruction experts, and identify all liable parties. Our attorneys will also file your PIP claim, document your medical treatment and financial losses, communicate with each insurance company, negotiate for a fair settlement, and take your case to trial if necessary.
Reach Out to Our Detroit Car Accident Attorneys Today
At Schefman & Associates, we know that you are dealing with more than physical injuries after a collision, with medical bills and lost wages often eating up your financial resources. If you were injured in a multi-vehicle crash, you do not have to sort out the blame alone. Our Detroit car accident attorneys have the experience to untangle complex liability issues to advocate on your behalf. Contact us today online or by phone at (248) 594-2600 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.