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The leading causes of fatal car crashes in Michigan and how Michigan’s Fatal Car Crash Law can protect you.

Although it is commonly known that alcohol, drugs, and speeding are major contributors to fatal car accidents, many people are unaware of the steps they should take if they lose a loved one in such an incident in Michigan.

The first step is to seek the help of a skilled wrongful death attorney who can help protect you and your family’s legal rights to compensation, No-Fault survivor’s loss benefits, and other economic damages.

Deadly Crashes on the Rise in Michigan

According to the Michigan State Police’s 2021 Annual Report, out of the 282,640 reported motor vehicle crashes, 1,068 of them involved fatal crashes. This represents an increase from 2019’s 985 deaths.

Alcohol Continues to be a Leading Cause of Traffic Deaths

There were 336 alcohol-involved deadly crashes in Michigan in 2021, making alcohol the leading cause of fatal car crashes in the state. In fact, one-third of all deadly auto accidents (336 of 1,068) were caused by one or more persons who had been drinking.

Drug-related deadly automobile accidents were the 2nd leading cause of traffic deaths in Michigan in 2021. Approximately 24% of traffic deaths were a result of a drugged driver.
Excessive speed was involved in 21% of deadly crashes, while distracted driving, cell phone use while driving, and running red lights contributed to 10% of deaths.

Look Both Ways

We were all taught to check both ways before you turn at Drivers Education and for good reason. More than thirty-one percent (31.3%) of Michigan fatal car crashes in 2021 occurred at intersections.

What Should I Do If I’m Affected By A Fatal Car Crash?

As soon as it is possible, you should talk with an experienced Michigan wrongful death law firm. Taking this step will ensure that your legal right to compensation, economic damages and No-Fault survivor’s loss benefits can be acted upon.

In addition to assisting with No-Fault survivor’s loss benefits, your lawyer can make sure a possible defendant is on notice so that critical evidence is not intentionally destroyed or notice periods are not missed that would result in the dismissal of a lawsuit.

What insurance claims can I file after a fatal car crash in Michigan?

When you and your family have lost a loved one in a deadly crash in Michigan, you may be able to file an insurance claim for the following:

– Wrongful death against the at-fault driver.

– No-Fault survivor’s loss benefits.

– Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

Suing for wrongful death after a fatal car crash in Michigan

You and your family may be able to sue the at-fault driver for the deadly crash that took your loved one’s life. This is called a wrongful death lawsuit. Under Michigan’s Wrongful Death Act, it allows you to seek damages for pain and suffering, loss of financial support and loss of society and companionship.

In Need of Legal Help?

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car crash in Michigan and you would like to talk with a lawyer, you can call us anytime 24/7 at (313) 444-8348 for a free consultation with one of our dedicated and experienced lawyers.

We will answer any questions you have about your legal rights to pain and suffering compensation, economic damages, auto No-Fault insurance survivor’s loss benefits, and settlements in cases like yours.

There is never a fee or obligation when you contact our law firm. Our accident attorneys are here to serve you and help you get the justice you deserve.

 

 

(Source: Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, “2021 Quick Facts”; Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, Fact Sheets, 2021, “Alcohol,” “Speeding,” “Cell Phone Use,” “Driver Distraction,” “Drugs,” “Red-Light Running”, Michigan Auto Law, “Michigan Fatal Car Crash Law: What You Need To Know”, “Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, Statewide, 2021, Crash, “Highway Class”)