Settlement Claims: How Car Accident Lawyers Maximize Compensation
Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran

Traffic accidents are an unfortunate reality in Michigan. In 2023, there were 287,953 car crashes, many resulting in severe injuries or tragic losses. Survivors often face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering that affect their daily lives.
The road to financial recovery can feel overwhelming for those injured by another driver’s actions. Insurance companies may undervalue claims, and the legal process can be challenging to manage without the right support. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can effectively represent your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., our experienced auto accident lawyers in Michigan are dedicated to helping clients recover maximum compensation. Learn how working with an attorney can help you recover and rebuild your life after a crash.
What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?
A car collision lawyer helps accident victims deal with the legal aftermath of a crash, providing the guidance needed to receive fair compensation. They manage the complex legal and financial aspects of a case, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Car accident lawyers can help with the following:
- Evaluate your claim. They review the details of your accident to determine if you are entitled to compensation. This includes analyzing evidence, medical records, and insurance policies to estimate the potential value of your case.
- Gather crucial evidence. Lawyers collect police reports, medical documentation, witness statements, and accident scene photos. This evidence establishes a solid foundation for your personal injury claim.
- Negotiate with insurance companies. They negotiate with insurers, who often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer advocates for settlements that reflect the full scope of your losses.
- Calculate damages. Lawyers calculate the total financial impact of the accident. Your settlement may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future costs.
- Represent you in court. If a settlement cannot be reached, they prepare and present your case before a judge or jury. Their goal is to secure the best possible outcome on your behalf.
Common Types of Car Accident Cases Attorneys Handle
Car accident attorneys help victims deal with many car accident cases in Michigan. From claims involving disputed liability to tragic wrongful death cases, a qualified auto accident lawyer can represent your interests:
Case Type | Description |
Liability Disputes | Cases where liability is contested or the victim shares a percentage of fault often require evidence like accident reconstruction or witness testimony. |
Personal Injury Claims | Injuries caused by the crash, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, can involve medical expenses and pain and suffering. |
Wrongful Death Claims | Cases where a fatal accident leads families to seek compensation for funeral costs and emotional loss. |
Uninsured Motorist Claims | Situations where the at-fault driver lacks insurance often require the injured party to seek compensation through their own policy. |
Hit-and-Run Accidents | Crashes where the at-fault driver leaves the accident scene, making evidence and witness testimony critical. |
Why Hire an Experienced Car Accident Attorney?
Dealing with the consequences of a car accident can feel overwhelming, especially when legal and financial matters arise. Hiring a car accident attorney in Detroit, Michigan, can help you manage your claim and give you peace of mind. Here are some reasons to work with an experienced lawyer:
- Handling complex tasks. Managing paperwork, insurance claims, and deadlines can quickly become overwhelming after an accident. An attorney takes on these responsibilities so you can concentrate on your physical and emotional recovery.
- Understanding your rights. Michigan’s no-fault laws and insurance rules can be difficult to interpret after an accident. Attorneys clarify how these laws apply to your situation and take the necessary steps to protect your rights.
- Providing unbiased guidance. After an accident, emotions often run high, making it difficult to make decisions, such as when to settle your claim. Attorneys offer clear, objective advice to help you understand your options and make the best choice for your situation.
- Connecting you with community resources. Attorneys have access to local resources, such as support groups, counselors, and rehabilitation services. They can help you find programs and services to assist in your physical, emotional, and financial recovery after the accident.
How a Skilled Attorney Can Help Maximize Your Compensation
Many accident victims do not receive the compensation they deserve after a crash. They may feel pressured to accept a low offer, struggle to understand the fine print in their policy, or even have their claim unfairly denied.
A knowledgeable attorney can help prevent these issues with decisive legal action. Your legal team can use the following strategies to maximize your settlement and get the financial assistance you deserve:
Gather and Preserve Key Evidence
Maximizing your claim depends on protecting critical evidence, which can often be difficult to secure or interpret without legal expertise. Attorneys act quickly to obtain traffic camera footage, black box data, and detailed witness accounts before they become unavailable.
They work with accident reconstruction experts to clarify fault and medical specialists to document the full impact of your car accident injuries. This careful investigation protects essential evidence and establishes your case for the compensation you deserve.
Identify All Liable Parties
Some accidents involve multiple liable parties, which can affect the outcome of your claim. Identifying each party allows you to seek compensation from all responsible sources, covering more of your damages. At-fault parties might include:
- The at-fault driver or drivers
- Employers of commercial drivers, such as trucking companies
- Vehicle manufacturers, in cases of defective parts
- Government entities responsible for poorly maintained roads or hazards
Attorneys investigate every angle to determine who contributed to the accident. They use evidence like accident reports, maintenance logs, and expert analyses to hold each party accountable and strengthen your case.
Document Future Costs
A full settlement addresses not just your immediate expenses but also the financial challenges you may face in the future. Practiced attorneys work with the following experts to calculate costs like future medical treatments, rehabilitation, and lost earning potential, ensuring you’re prepared for what lies ahead:
- Medical professionals to estimate ongoing treatment needs, such as surgeries or physical therapy
- Vocational experts to determine how your injuries may impact your ability to work
- Financial analysts to project the long-term costs of reduced income or future care requirements
Handling Complex Insurance Policies
Michigan’s insurance system can be confusing, especially after a car accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage often provides benefits for medical expenses and lost wages, but it may not be enough to cover all your damages. When PIP falls short, an attorney can evaluate whether you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver under Michigan’s tort laws.
Your attorney will help you determine if your injuries meet certain legal requirements, such as the serious injury threshold, which allows you to seek non-economic damages like pain and suffering. They’ll explain your options and seek all compensation you’re owed under your own policy and the at-fault driver.
Negotiating Settlements Strategically
Effective settlement negotiations require careful planning and a thorough understanding of your case. Hiring an attorney can prevent costly mistakes, such as accidentally admitting fault or accepting a low offer before you know the full extent of your damages.
Attorneys use detailed evidence, like medical records and expert reports, to present a strong case to the insurance company. They challenge tactics to minimize payouts, such as undervaluing injuries or disputing liability, to secure a settlement that fully accounts for your financial and non-economic losses.
Preparing for Litigation When Necessary
When settlement talks fail, your attorney can take your personal injury case before a jury to pursue the full compensation you deserve. A jury reviews the evidence and considers all aspects of your injuries, often leading to higher awards than settlements.
While uncommon, juries may also grant exemplary damages in cases involving reckless behavior, such as DUIs, to acknowledge the emotional toll or humiliation caused by the accident.
Your attorney will gather and present evidence, conduct depositions and question expert witnesses to achieve the maximum damages possible for your physical, financial, and emotional losses.
How To Find Affordable Legal Services for Auto Accidents
Many accident victims feel overwhelmed by the cost of legal help, which can stop them from getting the representation they need to protect their rights. Use the following tips to help you find affordable legal services after an accident so you can seek what you’re owed without added financial stress:
Look for Contingency Fee Arrangements
Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. When searching for affordable legal help, look for firms that offer this arrangement to ease the burden of upfront costs.
- No upfront costs. Contingency agreements mean you won’t pay legal fees out of pocket. Instead, the lawyer receives a pre-agreed percentage of your settlement or award (no more than 33%), making quality representation more accessible.
- Dedicated advocacy. Lawyers working on contingency are motivated to win your case and use all possible resources since their payment depends on achieving a positive outcome for you.
Check Reviews and Testimonials
Reviews and testimonials provide insight into a lawyer’s reputation, track record, and how they handle car accident cases. Look at online feedback to narrow down firms and identify those who meet your needs:
- Search trusted platforms. Visit Google Reviews or the law firm’s website to read client experiences and case outcomes. Local bar associations and community groups can also provide recommendations.
- Ask for referrals. Reach out to family, friends, or colleagues who may have worked with a car accident attorney. Personal recommendations often provide valuable insights into the attorney’s approach and reliability.
- Look for proven results. Focus on reviews that mention successful car accident cases, clear communication, and a client-focused approach. Watch for patterns of negative feedback, such as missed deadlines or poor responsiveness.
When To Seek a Free Consultation for Your Case
Scheduling a free consultation allows you to explore legal options without financial pressure. Use the consultation to discuss the following and determine if the attorney is the right fit for your case:
- Evaluate your case. Share the details of your car accident and get a professional opinion on the strength of your claim. This will help you understand your next steps.
- Assess the lawyer’s expertise. Ask about their experience handling cases similar to yours and their track record in negotiated settlements and court awards.
- Understand potential outcomes. Learn about your claim’s potential value, including damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
How Our Team at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. Can Help Your Case
Choosing the right attorney can impact the outcome of your auto accident claim. At Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., we understand the challenges accident victims face. Our knowledgeable attorneys will work to get you the highest settlement possible based on your damages after a collision. Here’s how we can assist you:
Comprehensive Network of Experts
We collaborate with various professionals, including accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and financial analysts. This collaboration enables us to build a strong case by thoroughly investigating the accident, accurately assessing injuries, and calculating current and future losses.
Extensive Trial Experience
Our firm has decades of trial experience, led by partner attorney Terry L. Cochran. This extensive courtroom background means we are fully prepared to present your case before a jury, giving you the best chance to recover the compensation you deserve when settlement offers fall short.
Medical Expertise
Partner Eileen E. Kroll, a registered nurse and an attorney, uses her medical and legal expertise to build your case. Her experience allows her to analyze medical records thoroughly and assess the full impact of your injuries, creating a well-supported claim.
Proven Track Record
We have a history of securing substantial verdicts and settlements for our auto accident victims in Michigan. These results reflect our commitment to pursuing adequate compensation and holding responsible parties accountable. Past awards include:
- $3.3 million for a motorist who suffered a severe brain injury due to a defective Michigan highway.
- Over $400,000 in no-fault benefits for a paraplegic woman, including funding for a new home and attendant care.
- $80,000 award for a Bay City grandmother who sustained a broken leg in an auto accident, recognized as the largest Michigan award of the year in 2006.
Personalized Approach
We recognize that every client faces different challenges after an accident. Our attorneys take the time to understand your circumstances, develop strategies suited to your case, and keep you informed at every step.
The Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. team prioritizes clear communication and compassionate guidance, addressing your needs and working to achieve the best possible outcome.
Take the First Step Toward Compensation
Car accident injuries can disrupt every aspect of your life, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. When you work with our team at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C., you get committed legal representation who will fight for the compensation you deserve. Speak with us today—we can help you manage your car accident case and recover the compensation you deserve.
Our contingency fee basis means we only get paid if we win your case, so there is no financial risk to you to get started. Call our law firm today at 1-866-MICH-LAW and schedule your no-obligation, free case evaluation.
Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.