How to Deal With Insurance Companies After a Car Crash in Michigan

A car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. Between injuries, vehicle damage, and missed time from work, the last thing you need is the added stress of dealing with insurance companies. While insurers may seem helpful at first, their primary goal is often to limit how much they pay out on claims.

If you’ve been involved in a car crash in Ann Arbor or anywhere in Michigan, understanding how to handle insurance companies is critical to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. At Biggs & Gunst P.C., we guide accident victims through every step of this process so they can focus on recovery while we handle the legal side.

Understanding Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance System

Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance company is typically responsible for covering certain expenses after an accident—regardless of who caused it.

These benefits may include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Rehabilitation costs
• Attendant care services
• Transportation to medical appointments

While this system is designed to provide quick access to benefits, insurance companies often scrutinize claims closely and may attempt to reduce or deny payments.

Be Careful What You Say After the Accident

Shortly after a crash, you may receive a call from an insurance adjuster asking for a statement. It’s important to proceed cautiously.

Avoid:

• Admitting fault or speculating about what happened
• Downplaying your injuries
• Providing recorded statements without understanding the implications

Even simple comments can be used later to minimize your claim. Speaking with a legal professional before giving detailed statements can help protect your case.

Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement soon after your accident. While it may be tempting to accept, these initial offers are often lower than what your claim is truly worth.

Once you accept a settlement, you typically cannot pursue additional compensation—even if your injuries worsen or require ongoing treatment. Having Biggs & Gunst P.C. review any offer ensures that your rights are protected before you make a decision.

Keep Detailed Records of Everything

Strong documentation is one of the most important factors in a successful claim. Be sure to keep records of:

• Medical bills and treatment plans
• Lost income and missed work
• Vehicle repair estimates
• Communication with insurance companies

This information helps demonstrate the full impact of the accident and supports your claim for compensation.

Understand When You Can File a Lawsuit

While no-fault insurance covers many expenses, there are situations where you may be able to file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver. This typically applies when injuries meet Michigan’s “serious impairment” threshold.

A claim may allow you to pursue compensation for:

• Pain and suffering
• Excess medical expenses
• Additional financial losses

The legal process can be complex, which is why working with a trusted law firm like Biggs & Gunst P.C. is so important.

Let an Attorney Handle Insurance Negotiations

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. Having a legal team handle negotiations on your behalf can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

At Biggs & Gunst P.C., we:

• Communicate directly with insurance companies
• Gather and present strong evidence
• Advocate for full and fair compensation
• Help ensure your no-fault benefits are properly paid

Our goal is to relieve your stress while protecting your financial future.

Why Choose Biggs & Gunst P.C. After a Car Accident

Accident victims in Ann Arbor trust Biggs & Gunst P.C. because we understand how Michigan’s no-fault system works and how insurance companies operate. We take a proactive approach to every case, ensuring our clients receive the support and guidance they need from start to finish.

Call Today for Trusted Legal Support

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate insurance companies alone. The decisions you make early on can have a lasting impact on your case.

Call Biggs & Gunst P.C. today at 734-263-2320 to schedule your consultation and protect your rights.