Portage, Michigan, is a beautiful city known for its scenic lakes, vibrant parks, and close-knit community. It’s also home to the largest retail center in Southwest Michigan and just minutes from downtown Kalamazoo, resulting in an appealing blend of natural and urban amenities.
However, like anywhere else, accidents happen in Portage. You could be driving through the busy intersection at Centre Avenue and Oakland Drive when a distracted motorist runs a red light and hits you. Alternatively, you could be shopping at The Crossroads Mall when you trip over some discarded merchandise and shatter your leg. If this happens to you or someone you love, let your next call be to Conybeare Law Office, one of Michigan’s most trusted personal injury law firms.
Why Hire Conybeare Law Office for Your Accident Claim in Portage?
When you’ve suffered catastrophic injuries, it can feel like your life has turned upside down. You’re in constant pain, facing months of medical care, and unable to work to pay your bills. At Conybeare Law Office, we make it our mission to help people and families in your position. When you hire us for your accident claim in Portage, you benefit from the following:
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully represented thousands of clients in personal injury cases. Our history of settlements and verdicts shows our ability to aggressively advocate on behalf of accident victims.
- You’re Not Just a Number: Unlike some large firms, we do not treat clients like numbers. We take the time to understand your situation and provide legal guidance tailored to your case.
- No Upfront Costs: Legal expenses shouldn’t be a barrier to seeking justice. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. This arrangement makes quality legal representation accessible to all.
- Strong Negotiation Skills: Most personal injury cases are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies. Our accident attorneys are skilled negotiators who are prepared to fight for a fair settlement. We will make sure you aren’t pressured into accepting a lowball offer that doesn’t meet your needs.
- Trial-Ready Lawyers: While most cases settle, we are always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. This readiness often leads to better accident settlement offers, as insurers know we won’t back down if your case requires litigation.
Compensation in an Accident Claim
Knowing what kind of compensation you may be entitled to after an accident can provide some peace of mind. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to claim financial losses like those below:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for medical expenses is one of the most important aspects of any personal injury claim. This can include costs for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical care you may need as a result of your injuries. We will make sure that all your medical bills—both current and future—are accounted for in your claim.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may seek compensation for loss of income. This includes not only the income you have already lost but also any future earnings you may lose if your injuries impact your ability to work long-term.
- Pain and Suffering: Accidents cause physical pain and emotional distress that often prevent you from living a normal life. While these damages are harder to quantify, they are just as important as medical bills or lost wages.
- Loss of Consortium: In cases where the accident has affected your relationship with your spouse, you could receive damages for loss of consortium. This type of compensation is intended to address the loss of companionship, affection, and support that often results from serious injuries.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you can sue for wrongful death. Compensation can include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional pain and suffering caused by the loss of a family member.
Each accident claim is different, and the personal injury settlement you receive will depend on the specifics of your case. At Conybeare Law Office, we are committed to helping our clients understand their rights and pursue the maximum compensation available. Our experienced car accident lawyers will carefully evaluate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong claim that reflects the full extent of your damages.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Not all accident cases require a personal injury lawyer, but having one can improve your chances of getting the compensation you need. Insurance adjusters are focused on minimizing payouts, and without legal representation, you may be left with a settlement that doesn’t cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced attorney can gather evidence, handle negotiations, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
If you only suffered a minor injury and liability is clear, you might be able to handle the legal claim on your own. However, if your accident injuries are more serious or the circumstances are complicated, having an experienced lawyer by your side can make a difference in the outcome of your case.
How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing an accident lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years to initiate legal action to seek maximum compensation for your injuries. Some exceptions can affect this timeline, so it’s important to consult with a skilled lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.
There are instances where the statute of limitations may be different, such as cases involving medical malpractice or claims against government entities, which have shorter deadlines. To avoid jeopardizing your right to pursue compensation, it’s best to speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
Will My Case Go to Trial?
Most personal injury cases are resolved through settlements, which means they don’t end up going to trial. However, if a fair settlement proves impossible, your case may go to court. We prepare every case with trial in mind so that we are ready to fight for you in court if needed. Our trial readiness often encourages insurance companies to make fair offers earlier in the process.
If your case does go to trial, having an attorney who is comfortable and experienced in the courtroom can make a huge difference. A trial can be a lengthy process, but it can also be the best way to secure fair compensation when negotiations fall short. Our team will explain what to expect if your case heads to court.
How Much Does a Portage, MI Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
At Conybeare Law Office, there are no upfront legal fees. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if we recover compensation for you. This arrangement allows accident victims to access quality legal representation without the worry of legal bills piling up before a settlement or verdict is reached.
The contingency fee structure makes legal services accessible to those who might otherwise not be able to afford them. Rest assured that our lawyers are committed to delivering the representation our clients need without added financial stress.
Our Areas of Expertise
At Conybeare Law Office, we handle a wide range of accident cases in Portage, including:
- Car Accidents: Motor vehicle accidents on Michigan roads are all too common. If you’ve been injured due to distracted driving, speeding, or any other type of negligent driving, we can help you get financial compensation. Our Kalamazoo car wreck lawyers know how to deal with insurance providers and will strive to make the process as stress-free as possible for you.
- Truck Accidents: Truck accidents can be especially devastating due to the size and weight of the commercial vehicles involved. These cases also tend to involve multiple liable parties, including trucking firms, truck drivers, and insurance companies. We understand the regulations that govern the trucking industry and will use that knowledge to help you recover the damages you deserve.
- Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcycle riders are relatively unprotected in traffic accidents, leaving them vulnerable to injuries. We know that biases against motorcyclists can sometimes affect insurance claims, so we work hard to present a strong case on your behalf. Our team will handle everything from gathering police reports and other evidence to negotiating with insurers, so you can rest and recover.
- Slip and Fall Accidents: Property owners have to keep their premises safe. If you were injured due to unsafe conditions, we can help hold the negligent parties accountable. We will thoroughly investigate your accident, gather evidence, and seek to prove that the owner’s negligence led to your injuries.
- Medical Malpractice: When healthcare providers fail to provide appropriate care, it can result in severe injury or even death. We are experienced in holding medical professionals accountable for their errors. Medical malpractice cases can be complicated, but our legal team has the knowledge and resources to take on these challenging claims and fight for you.
- Wrongful Death: We provide compassionate representation to families pursuing wrongful death claims. While we understand that no amount of money can replace your loved one, we aim to ease the financial burden that often comes with such a loss. We will fight to ensure you receive compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.
- Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents: Cyclists and pedestrians are vulnerable on the road, which is why they often suffer injuries like fractures, head injuries, and spinal cord damage. Our team will work to establish liability, whether it involves a negligent driver, poorly maintained roadways, or other factors, and help you recover the compensation you need.
- Workplace Accidents: Accidents can happen on the job, leading to painful injuries and financial stress. We can help with workers’ compensation claims and explore other avenues for financial compensation if third-party negligence was involved.
Call Now for a Free Consultation From a Portage, MI Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident in Portage, Michigan, call Conybeare Law Office today. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or standing up for you in court, our experienced accident lawyers are ready to support you. To schedule your free initial consultation, call 269-769-BEAR or fill out this contact form. Remember: if it’s not fair, call the Bear!