What to Do After an Accident in Lansing: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide
If you’re searching for what to do after an accident in Lansing, chances are you or someone you care about was just injured.
Whether the accident happened on I-496, near downtown, or in a neighborhood on the west side of Lansing, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your health, your finances, and your legal rights.
This guide explains what to do, what to avoid, and when to contact a personal injury lawyer in Lansing.
Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first.
Even if you feel “fine,” adrenaline can mask serious injuries such as:
- Concussions
- Internal bleeding
- Soft tissue damage
- Spinal injuries
Prompt treatment does two critical things:
- Protects your physical recovery
- Creates medical documentation linking the injury to the accident
Insurance companies often argue that delayed treatment means the injury wasn’t serious. Early records help protect your claim.
Step 2: Report the Accident
Reporting creates official documentation that can become key evidence.
- Car accidents → Call law enforcement
- Slip and falls → Notify the property owner/manager
- Workplace injuries → Report to your employer immediately
In Lansing, accident reports are typically handled by the Lansing Police Department.
Always request a copy of the report once it becomes available.
Step 3: Document Everything
If you’re physically able, gather:
- Photos of vehicles or hazardous conditions
- Road signs, traffic signals, weather conditions
- Visible injuries
- Witness names and contact information
If your accident occurred on major routes like I-496 or US-127, documenting traffic flow and signage can be especially important.
Evidence disappears quickly. Surveillance footage may be erased within days.
Step 4: Be Extremely Careful With Insurance Companies
After an accident in Lansing, you may receive calls from:
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company
- Your own no-fault insurer
Adjusters are trained to:
- Minimize payouts
- Obtain recorded statements
- Get you to settle quickly
Avoid:
- Admitting fault
- Guessing about your injuries
- Providing recorded statements without legal advice
Before speaking extensively with an insurer, many injured victims choose to consult a personal injury lawyer in Lansing to protect their rights.
Step 5: Understand Michigan’s Unique Injury Laws
Michigan has specific laws that affect accident victims.
After a car accident:
- Your own insurance covers medical bills and wage loss (PIP benefits)
- You must meet the “serious impairment of body function” threshold to pursue pain and suffering damages
Determining whether your injury meets this threshold can be legally complex.
Statute of Limitations
In most personal injury cases, you generally have three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit.
However:
- Claims involving government entities may have shorter notice deadlines
- Certain no-fault benefits may have a one-year limitation period
Missing deadlines can permanently bar your claim.
Step 6: Avoid Social Media Activity
Insurance companies routinely monitor public profiles.
Even a harmless photo or check-in could be used to argue:
- You’re not as injured as claimed
- Your injuries aren’t limiting your daily life
After an accident in Lansing, it’s safest to limit social media until your case is resolved.
Step 7: Know What Compensation May Be Available
A personal injury claim may include compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future treatment
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
The value of a claim depends on:
- Severity of injury
- Long-term impact
- Available insurance coverage
- Strength of evidence
There is no universal “average settlement” that applies to every case.
When Should You Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Lansing?
You should strongly consider speaking with a lawyer if:
- Your injuries are serious
- Fault is disputed
- The insurance company denies liability
- You’re being pressured to accept a quick settlement
- A loved one was seriously injured or killed
An experienced attorney can:
- Conduct a full investigation
- Preserve evidence
- Handle all insurance negotiations
- Calculate long-term damages
- File a lawsuit if necessary
If you would like to understand your options, visit our Lansing Personal Injury Lawyer page to learn how we help injured victims pursue compensation.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Time is not on your side after an accident.
- Witness memories fade
- Surveillance footage is erased
- Physical evidence disappears
- Insurance companies begin building their defense immediately
The sooner you take action, the stronger your position may be.
Final Thoughts
If you’re researching what to do after an accident in Lansing, the most important priorities are:
- Protect your health
- Preserve evidence
- Understand your legal rights
- Avoid common insurance pitfalls
Navigating Michigan’s injury laws alone can be overwhelming – especially while recovering physically. Knowing your options early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
FAQs: What to Do After an Accident in Lansing
- What should I do immediately after an accident in Lansing?
Seek medical attention, report the accident, document the scene, and avoid discussing fault with insurance companies before understanding your legal rights.
- How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Lansing?
In most cases, Michigan law allows three years from the date of injury. However, certain claims may have shorter deadlines.
- Do I need a personal injury lawyer in Lansing for a minor accident?
Not every accident requires legal representation. However, if injuries worsen, liability is disputed, or insurance delays payment, consulting an attorney can help protect your interests.
- How much does a personal injury lawyer in Lansing cost?
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront fees and payment is only made if compensation is recovered.