Personal Injury

Bicyclists Under The Michigan Motor Vehicle Code

Bicyclists Under The Michigan Motor Vehicle Code

After Monday's tragic story detailing the death of a 39-year-old Oceola Township man who was killed while riding his bike, we thought it prudent to dedicate a blog post on the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code as it pertains to bicyclists in an effort to spread awareness of the rights and duties of both motor vehicle drivers and bicyclists and in hopes of preventing future tragedies. 

What Is The Difference Between Intentional Torts and Negligence Actions In Michigan?

What Is The Difference Between Intentional Torts and Negligence Actions In Michigan?

The difference between intentional torts and negligence claims centers on the actor's state of mind. The standard for determining whether a person's conduct was negligent is objective - whether the actor's conduct falls below that which we would expect from a reasonable person. This is commonly referred to as the reasonable person standard. For intentional torts, however, the test is more subjective, and asks whether the actor intended the action or result. 

Types Of Damages In Michigan Personal Injury Cases

Types Of Damages In Michigan Personal Injury Cases

In Michigan personal injury cases, there are two types of damages, economic damages and non-economic damages, that an accident victim can recover after they have suffered injuries as a result of someone else's negligence. Achieving a settlement that fairly compensates an accident victim is predicated on precisely determining the amount of economic and non-economic damages her or she has suffered. 

Cell Phone Use And Texting Under Michigan Driving Laws

Cell Phone Use And Texting Under Michigan Driving Laws

Most of us know that we shouldn't use our cell phone while driving. But did you know Michigan law and local ordinances prohibit all or some cell phone use while driving? Learn what you need to know to keep your wallet full and prevent distracted driving accidents. 

Michigan's Dram Shop Act: Liability For Furnishing Alcohol To A Visibly Intoxicated Person

Michigan's Dram Shop Act: Liability For Furnishing Alcohol To A Visibly Intoxicated Person

The Michigan Liquor Control Code of 1998 (Dram Shop Act), provides a cause of action against a retail licensee who unlawfully serves alcoholic beverages to an intoxicated person or minor, and which results in injury, death or property damage to an innocent third party.

Does Michigan No-Fault Law Cover Injuries Sustained When A Vehicle Is Parked?

Does Michigan No-Fault Law Cover Injuries Sustained When A Vehicle Is Parked?

In what circumstances might an injured person be entitled to Michigan No-Fault benefits for injuries sustained when their vehicle is parked?  

Michigan's Open And Obvious Doctrine: A Threat To Premises Liability Cases Everywhere

Michigan's Open And Obvious Doctrine: A Threat To Premises Liability Cases Everywhere

Learn more about Michigan's open and obvious doctrine, which threatens to bar many deserving Michigan slip and fall claims and prevent victims from receiving compensation for their injuries. 

How Michigan’s No-Fault Law Applies To Out-Of-State Drivers

How Michigan’s No-Fault Law Applies To Out-Of-State Drivers

The state of Michigan hosts millions of visitors each year. With so many out-of-state drivers on Michigan roads, car accidents involving non-Michigan residents are bound to occur. But how does Michigan's no-fault law apply to non-Michigan residents? 

What Constitutes Provocation Under Michigan's Dog Bite Statute?

What Constitutes Provocation Under Michigan's Dog Bite Statute?

Dogs are wonderful companions, but the fact is, dog bites occur and can result in serious injuries. Under Michigan's dog bite statute, provocation is the only defense to a dog bite claim. But what conduct constitutes sufficient provocation to relieve an owner of liability for the injuries their dog causes? 

Michigan Motorcycle Deaths Rise 23% In 2015

Michigan Motorcycle Deaths Rise 23% In 2015

A new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) indicates that Michigan motorcycle accident deaths rose 23% from 2014 to 2015. The report based on preliminary data by state highway safety offices, reveals that there were 138 motorcycle fatalities in Michigan 2015, compared to 112 in 2014. 

Memorial Day Michigan Car Accidents 2010-2014

We know everyone is looking forward to a great upcoming Memorial Day Weekend. However, with so many people on the road traveling to family and friends, here is a reminder to put down the phonedon't drink and drivetake your time and drive safe!

What To Expect During Your Michigan Personal Injury Deposition

What To Expect During Your Michigan Personal Injury Deposition

If a lawsuit is filed in your personal injury case, there will likely come a time during the discovery process when the opposing counsel seeks to take your deposition. For our Michigan personal injury clients, the plaintiff’s deposition is often the most difficult part of the case. While being the subject of a deposition will likely never be an enjoyable experience, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help alleviate anxiety, and result in a proceeding that will improve the value of the case.

EMTALA: Knowing Your Rights When You Present To The Hospital

EMTALA: Knowing Your Rights When You Present To The Hospital

It is important to know and understand your rights when you or your loved one is a patient in the hospital. For instance, did you know that hospitals are required to provide appropriate treatment and screening to every patient who presents to the emergency room regardless of insurance coverage, ethnicity, or citizenship?

The Discovery Process In Michigan Personal Injury Cases

The Discovery Process In Michigan Personal Injury Cases

In litigation, a process known as "discovery" allows each party to uncover all the relevant facts of the respective case. The goal is to limit the number of surprises at trial, but how is discovery accomplished? When does discovery begin? What role does  the plaintiff play in the discovery process?

Rights To A Jury Trial: Arbitration Agreements In Hospital Admission Forms

Rights To A Jury Trial: Arbitration Agreements In Hospital Admission Forms

When you or your loved one requires medical care, it is a stressful and emotional time. Even if not an emergency situation, it is not uncommon to experience panic, anxiety and fear. As a patient or representative, part of the process will undoubtedly involve filling out hospital admission forms. But how carefully do you read what you sign? Could you unknowingly sign away your or your loved one’s right to a jury trial in the event that the hospital negligently causes injury?