Immediately After the Accident
The moments after a car accident in Detroit determine the strength of your injury claim. What you do — and don't do — in the first hours and days matters enormously. Here is the step-by-step guide Koussan Law gives every client.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your health is the priority. Call 911 immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Adrenaline masks pain — many serious injuries including concussions, internal bleeding, and herniated discs don't produce obvious symptoms for hours or days. A police report is also critical evidence for your claim. Michigan law under MCL § 257.619 requires reporting accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
Step 2: Document Everything at the Scene
If you are physically able, use your phone to photograph vehicle damage from multiple angles, the intersection or road conditions, traffic signals or signs, skid marks, debris, weather conditions, and all license plates. Get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Do not admit fault or apologize — even saying "I'm sorry" can be used against you.
Step 3: Seek Medical Treatment Within 24-48 Hours
See a doctor within one to two days of the accident, even if you feel okay. This creates a medical record connecting your injuries to the accident. Gaps in treatment give insurance companies ammunition to argue your injuries aren't serious or weren't caused by the crash. Emergency rooms, urgent care, or your primary care physician are all appropriate starting points.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Under Michigan's no-fault system, you file your PIP claim with your own insurance company, not the at-fault driver's. You have one year from the date of the accident to file your PIP application under MCL § 500.3145. Report the accident promptly but do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first.
Step 5: Do Not Sign Anything or Accept Early Settlement Offers
Insurance adjusters contact accident victims quickly with lowball settlement offers — often before the full extent of injuries is known. Once you sign a release, you cannot pursue additional compensation even if your injuries worsen. Let an attorney evaluate the full value of your claim before accepting anything.
Step 6: Call Koussan Law
Contact Koussan Law at (313) 800-0000 for a free consultation. We handle the insurance companies, gather evidence, and build your case while you focus on recovery. There is no fee unless we win.
For help with your auto accident claim, use our free Case Calculator to estimate what your case may be worth.
