The most important evidence in a Michigan car accident claim usually includes medical records, photographs and video, witness statements, police reports, proof of financial loss, and any documentation that connects the injury and its life impact back to the crash. The strongest claims are built on evidence that proves fault, …
A Michigan car accident case can take anywhere from a relatively short insurance claim process to a much longer lawsuit timeline, depending on injury severity, medical treatment, fault disputes, insurance issues, and whether the case resolves in negotiation, mediation, or trial. There is no one standard timeline because every case …
Yes, delays in medical treatment can cause problems for a Grand Rapids injury claim because insurance companies often use gaps in care to argue that the injury was minor, unrelated to the accident, or not serious enough to support additional compensation. A treatment gap does not automatically destroy a claim, …
Yes, gaps in medical treatment can hurt a Michigan injury claim because insurance companies often use them to argue that the injury was not serious, was not caused by the accident, or did not meaningfully affect the injured person’s normal life. Treatment gaps do not automatically destroy a claim, but …
In Grand Rapids, most car accident lawsuits must be filed within three years of the crash, but no‑fault benefit claims, uninsured motorist claims, and claims involving government entities often have much shorter deadlines. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar recovery. After a car accident in Grand Rapids, most injured people …
In Michigan, most car accident lawsuits must be filed within three years of the date of the accident. However, no‑fault claims, claims against governmental entities, and uninsured motorist claims may have much shorter deadlines. After a car accident, many injured people understandably focus on medical treatment and recovery. Legal deadlines …
In Lansing, if you are injured by an uninsured or hit‑and‑run driver, your own no‑fault insurance still applies for medical and wage‑loss benefits. Additional compensation may be available through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, particularly when injuries are serious. Car accidents involving uninsured or hit‑and‑run drivers are an unfortunate reality …
In Michigan, you are generally required to cooperate with your own insurance company, which may include providing a recorded statement, but you are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Statements given too early can be used to dispute injury severity or fault. After …
Insurance companies often reduce Michigan injury claims by disputing injury severity, challenging causation, requesting early recorded statements, shifting fault to the injured driver, and minimizing whether injuries qualify as serious under Michigan law. Recognizing these tactics helps injured people avoid mistakes that can limit compensation. After a car accident in …
To prove “serious impairment of body function” in Michigan, you must show (1) an objectively manifested impairment, (2) of an important body function, that (3) affects your general ability to lead your normal life. Strong proof usually includes medical documentation and testing, records of functional limitations, and clear before‑and‑after life …
When a crash happens in a construction or work zone, most people assume liability rests entirely with the drivers involved. While driver behavior often plays a role, construction zone accidents raise a more complicated – and frequently overlooked – question: Can road construction contractors be held legally responsible for accidents …
After a car accident in Michigan, injured drivers are often told the same thing: “Michigan is a no‑fault state, so you can’t sue the other driver.” This belief is especially common in distracted driving cases, where fault may seem obvious but the rules around compensation are widely misunderstood. In reality, …
Not all car accident injuries are immediate. In Lansing, many drivers leave crash scenes believing they are “fine,” only to develop pain, stiffness, headaches, or neurological symptoms days or even weeks later. These delayed injuries often lead to insurance disputes and denied claims – not because the injuries aren’t real, …
Construction zones can be dangerous, especially with large trucks and shifting lanes. In this video, Katie Tucker explains how Michigan drivers can stay safe, follow traffic patterns, and understand speed camera rules. Watch for practical tips to reduce risks and protect workers. Construction zones in Michigan are high-risk areas, especially …
Keeping kids safe on bikes starts with proper helmet use. In this short video, Katie Tucker from Sinas Dramis demonstrates how to fit helmets correctly and prevent serious injuries. Watch to learn step-by-step tips for Michigan families. Properly fitted bike helmets can prevent up to 85% of serious brain injuries. …
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Lansing and throughout Michigan. On busy roads like Grand River Avenue, I‑496, and near Michigan State University, even a brief moment of inattention can result in devastating consequences. In our experience representing injured motorists, many serious crashes occur …
A car accident can disrupt your life in an instant. Medical bills and vehicle repairs are often the first concerns – but they are rarely the only costs. As a Grand Rapids personal injury lawyer, we’ve seen how quickly the financial and personal impact of a crash grows beyond what …
Construction zones are a constant presence on Michigan roadways. While road improvements are necessary, construction zones introduce hazards that significantly increase the risk of serious accidents. Lane shifts, uneven pavement, reduced visibility, and confusing traffic patterns can turn even a routine drive into a dangerous situation. When an accident happens …
If you were injured in a Michigan car accident, you may hear a phrase that sounds confusing but matters a lot for your case: “serious impairment of body function.” Under Michigan’s No‑Fault system, this legal threshold is a gatekeeper – because it determines whether you may pursue pain and suffering …
Why Winter Accidents Are So Dangerous Winter driving in Grand Rapids can be unpredictable. Snow-covered roads, black ice, and reduced visibility all contribute to an increase in crashes across West Michigan. While some winter accidents are unavoidable, many result from negligent driving – and when injuries occur, legal guidance matters. …
Black Ice: Michigan’s Silent Winter Hazard Drivers across Michigan dread one phrase every winter: black ice. Nearly invisible on the pavement, black ice forms when rain or melted snow freezes into a thin, transparent layer, creating slick, mirror-like surfaces that cause countless crashes each year. Where Black Ice Strikes Most …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce that 12 of our attorneys have been recognized as Michigan Super Lawyers and Rising Stars in the 2025 Michigan Super Lawyers magazine. This reaffirms our firm’s commitment to fighting for justice on behalf of seriously injured individuals and underscores our reputation as …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce that attorneys Bryan J. Waldman and Brian A. McKenna have been named Best Lawyers® 2026 “Lawyer of the Year” in their respective practice areas and geographic regions within Michigan. Best Lawyers® is widely recognized as the oldest and most respected peer-review publication …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to share that eight of its attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, released on August 21, 2025, by Best Lawyers®. This prestigious publication is based entirely on peer review, ensuring that the attorneys included meet the …
Michigan Lawyers Weekly has named Catherine “Katie” Tucker, Partner at Sinas Dramis Law Firm, among its 2025 Influential Women of Law honorees. This esteemed recognition highlights female attorneys and judges for demonstrating exceptional dedication to justice, client advocacy, community service, and the legal profession. Katie, along with the other accomplished members …
We, at Sinas Dramis Law Firm, were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former partner, exemplary attorney, and good friend, Kenneth “Red” G. McIntyre. Red passed away on August 1, 2025, at the age of 87 (obituary). Red joined the Sinas Dramis Law Firm in 1969, after …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is excited to announce the launch of our new television commercials airing in Lansing and Grand Rapids—two of the five cities that are home to our offices. These messages highlight our long-standing mission of serving as Michigan’s advocates for the injured and working to make Michigan …
We are honored to share that the Greater Lansing community voted Sinas Dramis Law Firm as the Best Law Firm in the 2025 Lansing Community’s Choice Awards. This annual program recognizes the top local businesses and organizations throughout the region, as chosen by the community. “This award is especially meaningful …
Much like paying taxes, purchasing auto insurance is something we have to do. Michigan’s auto insurance law requires all drivers to have no-fault automobile insurance. This is a core requirement of our state’s no-fault system. Grand Rapids Car Accident Attorney Tom Sinas recently discussed, on Fox 17’s “Know the Law,” …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to share a significant legal outcome reflecting our commitment to justice, accountability, and helping clients rebuild their lives after tragedy. After a long and hard-fought legal battle, attorneys Stephen Sinas and Steven Weston secured a $3,000,000 settlement on behalf of multiple sexual assault survivors …
At Sinas Dramis Law Firm, our mission of being Michigan’s advocates for the injured goes beyond representing negligence victims through settlements and in courtrooms. For decades, our firm has been a leading voice in promoting safety and injury prevention throughout the state. This commitment stems from a deeply held belief: …
After a car crash, one of the first questions that often arises is: Who’s going to pay for this? Ideally, the at-fault driver’s insurance will cover the costs of the injured victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. But what if that driver doesn’t have insurance – or not …
Summer is a special time for vacations, outdoor fun, and making memories with family and friends; but, as personal injury attorneys, we also know this season brings an increase in accidents—many of which could be avoided with a little extra care. Whether you’re hitting the road, swimming at the lake, …
With more than 11,000 inland lakes, boating in Michigan is a favorite summer pastime. Unfortunately, boating accidents happen—many of which are preventable. Understanding Michigan’s boating safety laws can help keep you and your loved ones safe while avoiding costly fines or legal trouble. Katie Tucker, a personal injury attorney at …
As the Fourth of July approaches, the skies of Michigan begin to fill with color and sound—fireworks are a favorite tradition. With excitement also comes responsibility, however. Whether you’re planning to set off your own fireworks or just wondering what your neighbors are legally allowed to do, understanding fireworks safety …
We, at Sinas Dramis Law Firm, are thrilled that our colleague Lauren Kissel, Sinas Dramis Attorney and President of the Ingham County Bar Association Young Lawyers Section (ICBA YLS), is carrying forward the tradition of The Paper Chase 5K—now in its 10th year! Back in 2015, Sinas Dramis attorneys Stephen …
The Sinas Dramis Law Firm is pleased to welcome the addition of Dana Lawrence as Marketing Director and Delaney Morgenstern as Digital Marketing Specialist. Their goal—and ours—is to ensure every Michigander knows Sinas Dramis is here to help them should they ever suffer a serious injury due to a car …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm once again upheld its cherished tradition of providing local children with bicycle helmets by hosting its Lids for Kids events in Lansing and Grand Rapids. Supported by community partners and generous volunteers, these annual helmet giveaways are celebrating over 20 years of bicycle safety promotion. Did …
We are honored that Sinas Dramis Law Firm has been named a finalist in the 2025 Lansing Community’s Choice Awards for Best Law Firm! This recognition is particularly meaningful to us because it comes directly from the community we’ve served for more than 70 years. Lansing’s Leader in Personal Injury Law Since 1951 Since our …
Car crashes are, unfortunately, a daily occurrence. While many are minor, others cause life-changing injuries. If you or a loved one has been seriously hurt in a motor vehicle accident, it is in your best interest to talk to a personal injury lawyer. Tom Sinas, an expert Grand Rapids car …
Every day, thousands of semi-trucks travel Michigan highways, from Grand Rapids and Detroit to Kalamazoo and Traverse City. These large vehicles are essential for transporting goods and supporting the state’s economy. However, due to their size, weight, and limited maneuverability, semi-trucks pose unique hazards on the road. Understanding how to …
Every hour in the United States, nearly 150 children under the age of 19 are treated in emergency departments for injuries sustained in car accidents. What’s more, transportation-related injuries are the leading cause of fatal injury for children ages 1-18 in Michigan. At Sinas Dramis Law Firm, our attorneys are …
We’ve all been there. Your phone buzzes. A song needs skipping. Your coffee spills. Distracted driving happens faster than you think, but the consequences of a Michigan car accident can last forever. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 3,000 lives were lost and an estimated additional …
At Sinas Dramis Law Firm, we understand that losing a loved one in a car crash is an unthinkable tragedy. For over 70 years, our firm has stood beside Michigan families, helping them navigate the emotional and legal challenges that follow. If your loved one died due to someone else’s …
Stephen Sinas, Lansing auto accident attorney and shareholder at Sinas Dramis Law Firm, recently won $950,000 in compensation for losses a client suffered due to injuries in a Lansing auto accident. The auto negligence case, brought before the Ingham County Circuit Court, was against the at-fault driver and vehicle owner. …
The Sinas Dramis Law Firm is well aware of the life-changing dangers that car accidents pose to children. Unfortunately, we’ve witnessed one too many times the increased severity of an injury when a child was not properly secured in a car seat or booster seat. That’s why we applaud Michigan …
Let’s be honest about it: no one likes written discovery in civil cases. Practitioners and judges are too familiar with the months-long effort that amounts to stacks of paper full of objections and little substantive information. Thus, it is easy to lump all written discovery into one unsavory group. But …
Car accidents are stressful and traumatic enough—but what happens if the at-fault driver has no insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage to fully compensate you for your injuries? Unfortunately, this is a common problem in Michigan. That’s why uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage are critical protections that …
Key Takeaways: Understanding your Michigan car accident legal rights is vital if you’re injured in a crash. This blog authored by Lansing car accident lawyer and Sinas Dramis Law Firm partner Stephen Sinas, will explain some of the most important things Michigan motorists need to understand, in the unfortunate event …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce the relocation of our Grand Rapids personal injury office to a new, modernized facility at 435 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids MI. This move underscores our continued dedication to providing unparalleled legal services to those wrongfully injured in West Michigan, while reinforcing …
Advocating for the rights of Michigan’s seriously injured and ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve has been a cornerstone of Sinas Dramis Partner and Metro-Detroit Personal Injury Attorney Brian McKenna’s career. We are excited to announce that Brian’s unwavering dedication has once again been recognized, as he appears in …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is thrilled to announce its recognition in the 2025 Best Law Firm rankings by Best Lawyers in America. This honor underscores our unwavering commitment to advocating for individuals wrongfully injured throughout Michigan. We are proud to have been acknowledged across three of our five Michigan offices …
Otherwise stated, when medical benefits are paid and a lien is asserted, the defendant is liable for the full amount of the medical bills. Insurers would be wise to remember this the next time they force a case to trial. …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce that Shareholder Catherine “Katie” Tucker has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Ingham County Bar Association (ICBA). This prestigious appointment reflects Katie’s dedication to the legal community and her commitment to advancing the practice of law in the greater …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm proudly announces that attorney Lauren Kissel has been elected as the President of the Ingham County Bar Association (ICBA) Young Lawyers Section for the 2024-2025 term. This appointment is a testament to Lauren’s dedication, skill, and passion for law. Her leadership comes at a crucial time …
inas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce that shareholder Tom Sinas has once again been honored by Michigan Lawyers Weekly as a "Go-To Lawyer" in Negligence Law. …
Does a large jury verdict guarantee full payment in a personal injury case? A large jury verdict does not guarantee full payment. …
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer? For personal injury cases, most attorneys work under a contingency fee agreement. …
So to be clear, when answering the question, "Can I file a lawsuit after I was injured in a motor vehicle crash?" the answer is it depends on your situation, and you should explore your options. …
What is the state-mandated minimum amount of auto liability insurance coverage? This is a common question across the country that should be easy to answer. And before July 2020, the answer for Michigan was relatively straightforward: $20,000 per person/$40,000 per person. The answer to this question matters not only to …
Key Takeaways Statute of Limitations: In Michigan, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of injury. Exceptions: Special circumstances, such as cases involving minors may alter the timeframe. Motor Vehicle Crashes: Personal injury claims resulting from motor vehicle crashes while adhering to …
We are proud to announce that George Sinas, Managing Partner at Sinas Dramis Law Firm, has been named the 2025 “Lawyer of the Year” in the specialty of Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, for the Lansing, Michigan region by Best Lawyers. This marks another significant achievement in George’s distinguished career. …
In recent years, West Michigan cities like Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo have been taking significant steps to enhance cyclist safety. With growing concerns over the dangers that cyclists face in busy downtown areas, these cities are introducing bike traffic lights as a crucial measure to protect riders and encourage more …
In the latest 2024 edition of Michigan Super Lawyers magazine, Sinas Dramis Law Firm shines and has once again solidified its standing as a legal powerhouse in Michigan. …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm attorneys, Stephen Sinas and Kevin Komar obtained a jury verdict leading to a $2.8 million judgment against a no-fault insurance company, that wrongfully denied no-fault benefits to a person who sustained severe and ultimately fatal injuries in a motor vehicle accident. The verdict was rendered in …
Sinas Dramis is proud to congratulate Grand Rapids personal injury attorney Brian Lawson on his election to the Grand Rapids Bar Association Board of Trustees. Brian was elected in April of 2024, and it will be his second tenure serving on the association board as a trustee. Brian, who joined …
A team at Sinas Dramis Law Firm, led by shareholder Tom Sinas secured a historic $4.6 million wrongful death jury verdict in St. Joseph County after taking a case all the way to trial – an outcome that reflects not only the devastating loss suffered by the family, but also …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to recognize firm shareholder Katie Tucker, for her recognition as a “Top Women Attorney” selected by Michigan Super Lawyers in 2023. Super Lawyers published the list in March 2024, highlighting all selected. Katie is the only plaintiff’s personal Injury lawyer from Lansing to be …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm recently reported about US-127 Corridor Improvements: Enhancing Road Safety and Efficiency detailing the timeline of the major project, and some of the key things the project is aimed at accomplishing. In our effort to keep Lansing motorists and those who may visit informed, we’re providing an …
As a personal injury law firm deeply concerned about the impact of impaired driving in Michigan, we at Sinas Dramis Law Firm are compelled to address the alarming statistics recently reported by MLive. According to the annual drunk driving audit completed by Michigan State Police in 2023, in 2022, the …
Sinas Dramis is pleased to announce legal assistant Stacy Harkness has been recognized as a 2023 “Unsung Legal Hero” by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. The “Unsung Legal Hero” award is given to Michigan’s most talented and dedicated legal support professionals. Stacy is one of 33 recognized in this year’s class. It …
Michigan’s legal landscape is rich with talented, dedicated attorneys who strive to uphold the law and advocate for justice. Among these distinguished professionals, George Sinas stands out as a luminary. The Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce that Michigan Lawyers Weekly is recognizing George Sinas as their first-ever …
In the legal world, recognition is often hard-earned and well-deserved. Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce that multiple organizations recently recognized firm shareholder Tom Sinas for his work and dedication to his clients. Those recognitions include Tom’s inclusion in the inaugural “Michigan’s Go-To Lawyers Power List” by Michigan Lawyers …
If you’ve spent time driving around Lansing, you’ve likely seen construction underway on the US-127 / I-496 Corridor. In a major infrastructure push, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) kicked off the US-127 Corridor Improvement project in the Spring of 2023. This initiative, running through Spring 2026, aims to significantly …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is pleased to announce its rankings in the 2024“Best Law Firm” List by Best Lawyers in America. These rankings signify our commitment to advocating for those wrongfully injured in Michigan. Sinas Dramis is proud to receive recognition in three of our five Michigan locations for Plaintiff’s …
We're thrilled to share that Brian's steadfast efforts have once again been acknowledged, as he features in Detroit Business Magazine’s 2024 “Top Lawyers” List. This is the third consecutive year Brian has received this honor. …
In the legal world, ascending to the role of President within a bar association is an achievement that carries tremendous honor and responsibility. For Stephen Sinas, becoming the President of the Ingham County Bar Association (ICBA) marks not only a high point in his legal career but also a deeply …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is delighted to share that shareholder Tom Sinas has been recognized as a “Michigan Go-To Lawyer” in the field of negligence law by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. This prestigious honor acknowledges Tom’s expertise, dedication, and contributions to the legal profession, particularly in the field of personal injury …
As a dedicated Grand Rapids Car Accident Law Firm, our commitment to road safety is unwavering. Distracted driving is a pressing issue that affects countless lives every year. Recent data reported from MLive.com based on statistics by Michigan State Police, sheds light on the concerning statistics surrounding distracted-driving crashes in …
The Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce that firm president and partner Bryan Waldman has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. The induction ceremony at which Bryan became a Fellow took place on September 23, 2023, in San Diego, California. Bryan is the first …
We are thrilled to announce that firm partner and President Bryan Waldman has been designated by the publication Best Lawyers as the 2024 "Lawyer of the Year" in the specialty area of Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, in the Lansing, Michigan region. This is the fifth time Bryan has obtained …
In the latest 2023 edition of Michigan Super Lawyers magazine, Sinas Dramis Law Firm has once again secured its position as a powerhouse in the legal field. A remarkable achievement, this year's listing of "Michigan Super Lawyers" features 10 of our attorneys. …
When Summer begins in Michigan, and the popularity of bicycling is on the rise, unfortunately so does the number of accidents involving motor vehicles and cyclists in Michigan. When a bike is involved in a crash with a motor vehicle, it often results in severe injuries or death. This tragic …
After years of debate throughout the Michigan Government, on June 7, 2023, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bills 4250, 4251, and 4252 into law, which amend the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code in regard to distracted driving. The bills crack down on the use of hand-held devices while driving motor …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm Attorneys Bryan Waldman and Lauren Kissel are pleased to report their recent settlement of $2,600,000 on behalf of their client who was catastrophically injured during a motorcycle crash in Ingham County. Explanation of Motorcycle Case and Settlement This case involves the issue of entitlement to no-fault …
Losing a loved one is an incredibly painful experience regardless of how it happens, and it's even more difficult when the negligence of another family member is involved. In these types of situations, the family might ask themselves, do we have any legal recourse? It's a sensitive and challenging topic …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to continue our commitment to serving all of those injured in Michigan, with the opening of our office in Ann Arbor. …
Sinas Dramis Law Firm is proud to announce the election of firm shareholder Tom Sinas to the International Society of Barristers (ISOB). Formed in 1965, the society aims to bring together some of the best legal minds in the country in support of several goals. Some of those goals include …
On March 9th, the Ingham County Bar Association (ICBA) recognized Sinas Dramis Law Firm Attorney Lauren Kissel by giving her the bar’s “Top 5 Under 35” award. The announcement was made at the ICBA 14th Annual Barrister Night. Lauren was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2018, and …
An injured pedestrian may have the right to pursue uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. It's going to depend on their auto insurance policy, whether it provides coverage for the facts and circumstances of where they're injured. There can also be the issue of a person living in a household where …
For more than 70 years, Sinas Dramis Law Firm has provided legal counsel for those wrongfully injured in Michigan. Unfortunately, the firm has also represented many families, whose loved ones died because of the negligence of another. Depending on the circumstances, the surviving family may have rights to claims under …
No one wants to imagine getting into a car crash, but unfortunately crashes happen every day. It’s important to know what to do in the days and weeks following the crash, especially if you’re seriously injured. In the content below, Sinas Dramis Law Firm provides answers to some of the …
Commercial vehicle crashes in Michigan are often more complex than ordinary car accidents because they may involve multiple liable parties, higher insurance limits, company ownership issues, employer responsibility, additional evidence, and state or federal regulations that do not apply in the same way to typical passenger vehicle crashes. When a …
Winter in Michigan is unpredictable, and road conditions can turn on a dime, making travel dangerous at times. For drivers, it can be scary, especially when sharing the space with much larger vehicles like semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles. What might come as a surprise are some of the specific …
While it is perfectly legal to serve alcohol to of-age adults at a party in your home; before you do, you should make sure you understand laws pertaining to social host liability, and what you need to know about serving alcohol to visitors in your home. …
In Michigan, there’s no telling when the first storm will cover the state in Snow and Ice, but as temperatures drop in October and November, it’s only a matter of time. Unfortunately, it’s not until that first bout of winter weather that people often wonder about snow removal laws, and …
