Category: Insurance

If your car is in an accident, you may want to make a claim on your motor insurance. This page tells you what you need to know before you make a claim. And what you can do if the driver is uninsured or won’t give you their details.
Making a claim if you’re in an accident

If you’re in an accident you should:

not admit at the scene that it was your fault

exchange names and other details with the other drivers and get details of any independent witnesses. If someone refuses to give you their details your insurer may be able to trace them through their vehicle registration number

tell your insurer about the accident straightaway, even if you don’t want to make a claim

if someone is injured, show your insurance certificate or cover note to the police. If you can’t do this at the scene take the documents to the police station within seven days

take photographs that you may be able to later use as evidence if you need to make a claim.

If you have comprehensive insurance

If you have a comprehensive policy you should claim from your own insurer, but you may lose your no claims bonus if the insurer can’t recover the money from the other driver’s insurer.

You can still claim from the other driver’s insurer for any injuries or losses not covered by your own policy. These are called uninsured losses and can cover alternative transport while your own vehicle is being repaired, loss of earnings, personal injuries and the excess on your policy.

You should keep any losses to a minimum and keep evidence of them. If you need to hire another vehicle it should normally be similar to your own vehicle.

To make a claim, get a form from your insurer or write to the other driver or their insurer, giving details of the accident and the other driver’s policy number. Tell your insurer about any independent witnesses and send them witness statements if you can. If you used a broker or agent to buy your policy they may be able to help you. Make sure you keep copies of all documents and letters.
If you have third party insurance

You should make a claim against the other driver and allow the insurer to decide who is responsible for the accident. If they say you are responsible you’ll have to pay for repairs to your own vehicle.

To claim from the other driver tell them in writing that you want to claim from them. If they were driving a company vehicle, also let the company know what’s happened. You should tell your own insurer that you have done this. The other driver should report the accident to their own insurer. You can find out if the other driver has insurance by contacting the Motor Insurance Database

If you’ve been in an accident and you receive a letter or claim form from the other driver or their insurer forward this to your own insurer.
If the accident wasn’t your fault

If the accident wasn’t your fault you may be able to use a credit hire company rather than your insurance company.

For more information see Car insurance – if the accident wasn’t your fault

If the driver is uninsured or can’t be identified

You can claim on your own insurance if you have comprehensive cover. The Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB) may also be able to settle your claim if the driver is uninsured. This includes cases where the driver has broken their policy conditions.

You won’t be able to claim if you are an injured passenger of an uninsured driver and you knew, or should have known, that they weren’t insured.
Repairing your vehicle

Your insurer may want to send someone to inspect your vehicle before you get it repaired. They may ask you to use an approved repairer or provide them with estimates before getting repairs done.

You may have to pay some of the repair cost yourself if your vehicle is in a better condition after repairs than it was beforehand.

If your insurer decides that it is not economical to repair your vehicle they should offer you the vehicle’s market value. They normally then take the vehicle from you but you may be able to negotiate to keep it. This is known as an insurance write off.

See information about the different categories of write off at GOV.UK.
If your car is a write-off

If your insurer decides that it is not economical to repair your car they should offer you the car’s market value at the time of the accident. This is known as an insurance write off. They normally then take the car from you but you may be able to negotiate to keep it.

If you don’t agree the amount you’re offered is fair, you’ll need to give the insurer or insurance broker evidence to show your car is worth more. For example, you could give prices of similar cars for sale in the local area. You can also get a valuation from an independent qualified engineer, if you wanted to pay for this.

Once the claim is settled, your insurer will keep the damaged car. If you want to keep it instead, you can negotiate with the insurer. The insurer will only let you keep the car if it’s possible to repair it to make it roadworthy again. In this case, money will be taken off the amount you get, to cover the cost of the salvage value of the car.

Your insurer should get your consent to send your written-off car to the scrapyard for sale or to be broken into parts. If they don’t get your consent, then scrap the car and decide not to settle your claim, you are entitled to claim the salvage value of the car.
Minor damage to older cars

If you have an accident in an older car with minor damage, you may decide not to claim on your insurance in case the car is written off. Then you can get the car repaired yourself and keep it.

If you do claim on your insurance and your car is declared a write off, you could ask the insurance company how they work this out. For example, some insurers will write off a car if the cost of the repairs is as little as 60% of the value of the car. In some cases you may be able to claim on your insurance and avoid the car being written off by negotiating with your insurance company. You can negotiate to get your car valued at a higher price than first offered by the insurance company. You may also be able to find a garage that charges less for the repairs than the insurer’s approved garage. The insurance company will have to give their approval before you go ahead with the repairs from another garage.

We found that Acuity, Auto-Owners, Axis, Federated Insurance, The Hartford, Nationwide and Sentry are the best commercial auto insurance companies. Each scored five out of five stars in our analysis.

We evaluated 28 large business insurance companies based on complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners to help you find the best options.

Our top seven picks all have low complaint ratios and customizable coverage to fit your business needs. If you need a commercial policy, consider these highly rated insurers.

What Is Commercial Auto Insurance?

Commercial auto insurance is a form of small business insurance for vehicles used for work purposes. It provides liability insurance and can also include other coverages for the vehicle, driver and passengers. It’s necessary because personal car insurance typically won’t cover an accident you (or an employee) get into while driving for business.

Commercial auto insurance can cover everything from company cars to food trucks to delivery vans.
What Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cover?

Here’s a look at the types of coverage available with commercial auto insurance:

Property damage liability pays for damages to another person’s property, such as their car, when you are at fault in an accident.
Bodily injury liability pays for the injuries you cause another person when you’re responsible for an accident.
Combined single limit (CSL) offers one limit for property damage claims and bodily injury claims.
Collision insurance pays for damage to your business vehicle when it hits another car or an object, such as a pole.
Comprehensive insurance pays for damage caused by weather, fire, falling objects (such as tree branches) and other problems. It also covers vehicle theft.
Medical payments and personal injury protection (PIP) pay for the cost of medical care for you and your passengers, no matter who was at fault.
Uninsured motorist coverage pays for your and your passengers’ injuries if your vehicle is struck by an uninsured driver.

Do I Need Commercial Auto Insurance?

If you are driving a vehicle for business purposes, you will need commercial auto insurance. Your personal car insurance policy won’t pay a claim if you get into an accident while driving your car for work.

Here are some examples when you need a commercial auto insurance policy:

The vehicle is solely used for work (for example, a company car).
You transport goods or people in your vehicle.
You transport tools or equipment in your vehicle.
Your employees drive your business vehicle.
The vehicle is owned by the company.
You conduct a business service with your vehicle.

Related: How commercial auto insurance works
How Much is Commercial Auto Insurance?

The average cost of commercial auto insurance is $147 per month, according to Insureon. More than a third (37%) of Insureon customers pay less than $100 per month, about a quarter (26%) pay between $100 and $200 per month and 37% pay more than $200 per month for commercial auto insurance.
Factors Impacting the Cost of Commercial Auto Insurance

Here’s a look at the pricing factors for commercial auto insurance.

Company Business

The type of business you run impacts the commercial auto insurance rates that you’ll pay. If you mainly work at your office, you’ll pay less than someone who carries tools and equipment in a work van and makes customer calls all day.

Coverage Choices

Your coverage choices and insurance limits impact your rate.

Driving History

Drivers with good driving records are rewarded with better rates.

Location

If you work in a bigger city, expect to pay more for your commercial auto insurance than a business that operates in a small town. Drivers in areas with low accident frequency and few car thefts pay less.

Mileage

How much you typically drive a commercial vehicle impacts rates.

Vehicle

The type and size of the company vehicle affect the insurance rate.
50 Largest Commercial Auto Insurance Companies by Market Share

Below is a ranking of the largest sellers of commercial auto insurance.
Rank Company Market share
1

Progressive

15.56%
2

Travelers

5.25%
3

Liberty Mutual

3.87%
4

Old Republic Insurance

3.78%
5

Zurich

2.96%
6

Berkshire Hathaway

2.86%
7

Nationwide

2.76%
8

Auto-Owners Insurance

2.65%
9

Allstate

2.17%
10

Chubb

2.16%
Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence, based on 2022 direct written premiums
Methodology

We evaluated 28 companies based on commercial auto insurance complaints made to state regulators in 2021. We used complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Each state’s department of insurance is in charge of logging and monitoring complaints against companies operating in their states.

We found that Acuity, Auto-Owners, Axis, Federated Insurance, The Hartford, Nationwide and Sentry are the best commercial auto insurance companies. Each scored five out of five stars in our analysis.

We evaluated 28 large business insurance companies based on complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners to help you find the best options.

Our top seven picks all have low complaint ratios and customizable coverage to fit your business needs. If you need a commercial policy, consider these highly rated insurers.

What Is Commercial Auto Insurance?

Commercial auto insurance is a form of small business insurance for vehicles used for work purposes. It provides liability insurance and can also include other coverages for the vehicle, driver and passengers. It’s necessary because personal car insurance typically won’t cover an accident you (or an employee) get into while driving for business.

Commercial auto insurance can cover everything from company cars to food trucks to delivery vans.
What Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cover?

Here’s a look at the types of coverage available with commercial auto insurance:

Property damage liability pays for damages to another person’s property, such as their car, when you are at fault in an accident.
Bodily injury liability pays for the injuries you cause another person when you’re responsible for an accident.
Combined single limit (CSL) offers one limit for property damage claims and bodily injury claims.
Collision insurance pays for damage to your business vehicle when it hits another car or an object, such as a pole.
Comprehensive insurance pays for damage caused by weather, fire, falling objects (such as tree branches) and other problems. It also covers vehicle theft.
Medical payments and personal injury protection (PIP) pay for the cost of medical care for you and your passengers, no matter who was at fault.
Uninsured motorist coverage pays for your and your passengers’ injuries if your vehicle is struck by an uninsured driver.

Do I Need Commercial Auto Insurance?

If you are driving a vehicle for business purposes, you will need commercial auto insurance. Your personal car insurance policy won’t pay a claim if you get into an accident while driving your car for work.

Here are some examples when you need a commercial auto insurance policy:

The vehicle is solely used for work (for example, a company car).
You transport goods or people in your vehicle.
You transport tools or equipment in your vehicle.
Your employees drive your business vehicle.
The vehicle is owned by the company.
You conduct a business service with your vehicle.

Related: How commercial auto insurance works
How Much is Commercial Auto Insurance?

The average cost of commercial auto insurance is $147 per month, according to Insureon. More than a third (37%) of Insureon customers pay less than $100 per month, about a quarter (26%) pay between $100 and $200 per month and 37% pay more than $200 per month for commercial auto insurance.
Factors Impacting the Cost of Commercial Auto Insurance

Here’s a look at the pricing factors for commercial auto insurance.

Company Business

The type of business you run impacts the commercial auto insurance rates that you’ll pay. If you mainly work at your office, you’ll pay less than someone who carries tools and equipment in a work van and makes customer calls all day.

Coverage Choices

Your coverage choices and insurance limits impact your rate.

Driving History

Drivers with good driving records are rewarded with better rates.

Location

If you work in a bigger city, expect to pay more for your commercial auto insurance than a business that operates in a small town. Drivers in areas with low accident frequency and few car thefts pay less.

Mileage

How much you typically drive a commercial vehicle impacts rates.

Vehicle

The type and size of the company vehicle affect the insurance rate.
50 Largest Commercial Auto Insurance Companies by Market Share

Below is a ranking of the largest sellers of commercial auto insurance.
Rank Company Market share
1

Progressive

15.56%
2

Travelers

5.25%
3

Liberty Mutual

3.87%
4

Old Republic Insurance

3.78%
5

Zurich

2.96%
6

Berkshire Hathaway

2.86%
7

Nationwide

2.76%
8

Auto-Owners Insurance

2.65%
9

Allstate

2.17%
10

Chubb

2.16%
Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence, based on 2022 direct written premiums
Methodology

We evaluated 28 companies based on commercial auto insurance complaints made to state regulators in 2021. We used complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Each state’s department of insurance is in charge of logging and monitoring complaints against companies operating in their states.

No matter the product or service, we all want to get the best bang for buck, especially considering the financial stress many households are facing. While shopping around for car insurance may not feel like an exciting prospect, it can mean the difference between putting up with the latest premium hike or finding a much better deal.

There is no doubt that insurance prices have shot up over the past couple of years: according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), insurance prices in Australia rose by 16.4% annually as of March 2024. You may have noticed that your car insurance premium—be it the annual figure or monthly—has risen by double-digits, outpacing the rate of inflation.

Car insurers cite a range of reasons for premium hikes—including supply chain issues and the increase in the cost of parts—but this doesn’t mean you have to wear them. And if you don’t use your car often—or not in peak times—it makes sense to shop around and find an insurer who will reward you with a discount.

Related: Our Pick of the Best Car Insurance Providers
Featured Partners

How Are Car Insurance Premiums Calculated?

If two people approach an insurance company and apply for the same car insurance policy, it’s unlikely they will be quoted the same price for that cover. This is because car insurance premiums, whether they’re for third party policies or comprehensive cover, are based on how risky you appear as a driver.

Insurance providers take numerous factors into account when determining your risk profile, from your personal demographics to details about your car and your driving record. If they expect you’re more likely to make an insurance claim based on this information—and if they anticipate the claim will be more costly—then you’ll likely be charged a higher premium than others.

Every provider has its own methods for calculating premiums and may apply different weighting to certain factors in the risk mix. That’s why it’s important to compare quotes to find the most affordable offer that ticks all of your car insurance boxes.

When it comes to compulsory third party (CTP) car insurance, which every driver is legally required to hold in Australia, the factors that impact price vary based on the state or territory you live in. In some cases, private insurance companies administer this cover, so premiums are calculated in a similar way to optional car insurance policies.

Other states operate on a community model, where CTP prices are set by vehicle classes, not insurance history or demographics. However, these premiums generally have upper and lower limits, with factors like driving infringements and parking location still impacting price.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost? A First-Hand Experiment

The cost of your car insurance depends on a range of factors. Some companies will issue quotes on the spot, while others such as Youi will require customers to enter their details, including driving history and gender, and then will call you back to work through a quote with you in person.

Pro Tip

Every provider has its own methods for calculating premiums and may apply different weighting to certain factors in the risk mix. That’s why it’s important to compare quotes to find the most affordable offer that ticks all of your car insurance boxes.

When Forbes Advisor Australia sought quotes for comprehensive car insurance from five of the most popular insurers in Australia—Budget Direct, Youi, AAMI, NRMA (RACV) and Allianz–we found the process to be slightly different for each. We submitted our details as a 46-year-old female from Victoria who is driving a Fiat Ritmo 2008. She drives fewer than 5,000km per year and has one claim in the last five years, for which she was not at-fault.

The car is garaged at night and insured at market value. No additional drivers were added to the quote. Here is what we found.
1. Allianz Car Insurance

Allianz was by far the easiest and most straight-forward quotation process, offering us a quick quote in minutes.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $114.11 per month.
2. Budget Direct

Budget Direct was similarly simple, but also asked about our driver rating, if we wanted to reduce our premiums by raising our excess (standard excess is $700) and if we wanted to restrict the driving age of other drivers to also lower premiums.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $92.68 AUD per month or $953.49 annually.
3. Youi

Youi prefers to provide comprehensive quotes tailored to each driver and was not able to supply a rough estimate based on online details that we entered. Instead they scheduled a call-back to discuss options.
Comprehensive insurance quote: TBC
4. RACV

Although we initially sought a quote from NRMA, as the car is registered in Victoria we were instead transferred to the state-based motoring body RACV. RACV asked a series of questions via an online form, and applied a minimum excess of $900.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $125.66 per month or $1299.94 if paid up-front. Third party property damage was much cheaper at $51.13 per month.
5. AAMI

By far the cheapest of the online quotes, AAMI asked a series of detailed questions on driving usage and patterns that rewards those who do not drive in peak times or use their car to commute to work. A standard $750 excess applies.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $54.92 per month or $540.87 per year. Third party only was also available for $34.47 per month.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Premiums

While every provider has its own method for calculating premiums, there are a few common factors that will usually be considered. You’ll usually be asked to provide this information when you apply for car insurance:

Age: Insurance providers consider young or inexperienced drivers as more risky (which is reflected in road accident statistics), so those new to the road will usually pay a higher premium.

Gender: Women may be quoted slightly lower premiums, as women are statistically less likely to be involved in accidents or violate road rules. Insurance companies may refer to road crash and casualty statistics showing gender-based trends when weighing this up.

Location: Living in an area with higher levels of crime or road incidents that result in insurance claims will generally increase premiums.

Where you park: Parking on the roadside instead of a secure garage increases chances of vandalism, theft and side-swiping, which could result in an insurance claim.

Driving history: If your road record is tarnished with traffic offences, demerit points and a history of crashes, you may be quoted more costly insurance.

Insurance history: Making insurance claims usually results in a higher premium at renewal time, but if you have a claim-free history, you could score discounts. Holding insurance with the same provider for a certain number of years could also shave money off your premium, but this can also work in reverse, too: the longer you are with an insurer, the more you miss out on the sign-up and introductory offers that lure in new customers. It’s known as the loyalty tax.

Car model, age and modifications: If your insurance covers damages to your own car (i.e. fire and theft or comprehensive), your car’s specs will impact the premium. Providers need to know the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle, and doing so for certain models and modifications will cost more than others.

Car valuation: You and the insurance company must agree on what your car is worth if you’re covering it for damages. You can usually choose between the ‘market value’ (a reasonable selling price at the time you make a claim) or an ‘agreed value’ which you set for the entire policy period. Market value is generally the cheaper option, as it isn’t based on customer preference and can vary alongside the car market.

Excess choices: When you make an insurance claim, you usually pay an agreed fee (the ‘excess’) before the policy covers the remaining costs of the damages. Setting your excess higher will generally decrease your premium, and vice versa.

Policy level: The more your car insurance covers, the more it will cost. Third-party policies are generally the cheapest option, followed by fire and theft cover and then comprehensive car insurance.
8 Ways To Lower The Cost Of Your Car Insurance Premiums

Here are a few ways to cut your car insurance premiums
Purchase New Policies Online

If you are taking out car insurance for the first time or looking to switch providers, apply online. You’ll often be rewarded with a discount for saving the insurance company’s time compared to an application submitted over the phone or in person. These discounts often range from 5% to 20%, but are usually only applied to the first year of your premium.
Pay Annually

Some insurance providers will reward customers who pay their premium in full up-front. Having the option to pay monthly or even weekly may work better in your budget, so be sure to carefully consider each option when signing your insurance contract.
Bundle Your Insurance

If you need home, contents or life insurance, or have other cars in your household that need insuring, you can often bundle these in a multi-policy or multi-car deal with a single provider and earn a discount. Be sure to compare other options and providers for each of these insurance products to ensure the discount makes it the most competitive option for you.
Drive Less

Many car insurance companies now offer or specialise in pay-as-you-drive cover that rewards those who drive less and are therefore are less likely to be involved in an accident. Most of these policies set a limit on the distance you drive each year (usually less than 20,000 km), and as long as you stay below the limit, you receive a premium reduction. This is a great option for people driving infrequently, or those who use public transport for regular commuting. Make sure you stick to the limit, as you won’t be covered if you exceed it and get in an accident. You can usually increase the limit if necessary, but this can come with a fee.
Stay Loyal to Your Insurance Provider

If you hold insurance with the same provider for many years, you may be offered a loyalty discount. This usually increases over time, often starting at 5% or less for a few years’ loyalty, but climbing beyond a 60% discount once you get into the decades territory. You may need to contact your provider to receive this discount.
Don’t Make Claims Unless Necessary

If you’re lucky enough to avoid situations where an insurance claim is required for a number of years, you may receive or request a no-claims discount. Saving the insurance company money in this way could earn you as much as a 70% discount over time, and it’s often transferable if you change providers. Just remember if you do make a claim, this discount will usually be dropped, unless you are deemed to be not at fault.
Don’t Let Everyone Drive Your Car

Do any young or inexperienced drivers use your car? If the answer is ‘no’, then let your insurance company know about it and you could score a restricted driver discount. These types of drivers are statistically more likely to get in a road accident or make an insurance claim, so banning them from sitting behind your wheel is a good way to avoid that risk and keep your premiums down.
Compare the Market and Switch to a Cheaper Option

It’s a good idea to reassess your car insurance in the lead up to your policy renewal each year. If you get a few quotes from other providers and find a better deal, consider switching providers. Be sure to communicate this with your current car insurance company first—they may match or beat the offers you have on the table to retain you as a customer.
Why Do Car Insurance Premiums Go Up Every Year?

In August 2023, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) noted that insurance companies raised premiums over the last quarter “in response to recent higher claims costs”. This increase isn’t tied to a rising number of claims, but rather what it costs insurance providers to fulfil claims. This is often outside of a customer’s control, generally coming down to a combination of four main factors: inflation, taxes, natural disasters and personal circumstances.

Inflation: This will be biting many motorists the hardest at the moment. The consumer price index (CPI) has seen seismic shifts over the last two years. Most recently, it was recorded as rising 4% in the monthly CPI update which is still above the Reserve Bank’s 2% to 3% target. Insurance costs, like most other goods and services, increase as inflation rises, reflecting the higher cost of organising spare parts and repairs, as well as the overall value of insured vehicles.

Taxes: If the governing bodies in your state or territory decide to increase duties and levies related to road users, this will impact your premium (including CTP). States may periodically review these costs and overhaul compulsory insurance requirements if they recognise that costs are unmanageable or coverage isn’t suitable.

Natural disasters: Whether it’s storms, fires, floods or hail, unforeseeable natural events spark insurance claims which drives up premiums. Insurance Australia Group (IAG)—the country’s biggest general insurance company that underwrites brands including NRMA Insurance, CGU, SGIO and many others—notes in its 2024 first earnings report “natural perils” were key drivers of rising insurance premiums.

Changes to Your Circumstances: If over the course of your last coverage period you’ve made a car insurance claim, received road fines or moved somewhere with a higher crime rate, you’ll likely see a premium increase. On paper, changes like these increase the probability that you may be involved in future incidents that could result in an insurance claim. Insurance companies try to mitigate the potential risk of having to pay out claims by charging you more.
How To Negotiate Car Insurance Premiums

You’d be surprised by how flexible insurance companies can be when it comes to price. If you come properly prepared, you may be able to knock a considerable amount off of your premium. Follow the tips below to help you haggle down your car insurance costs.

Do your research: Whether you want to switch providers or stay where you are with a better deal, you need to have an accurate understanding of the current car insurance market and the cards you hold as a driver. All insurance providers must list the product disclosure statement (PDS) for each policy online, and there are numerous online resources for additional insight. Read through all of this information to better understand what is and isn’t commonly covered by your preferred insurance companies. It also costs nothing to get an online quote, so fill out a few and see what kind of premiums you’re offered based on your personal circumstances.
Approach your current insurance provider with quotes: Even if you find a cheaper policy on the market with more features, it’s worth asking your current provider if they can match this price or inclusions. It’s in their best interest to keep you as a customer, but you may also have accrued loyalty discounts or other bonuses with this company that are worth keeping. The ideal time to have this conversation is towards the end of your policy period, as it creates some urgency for the provider to offer a better deal to keep you on.
Reference changes in your circumstances: If you’re driving less or no longer classify as a young or inexperienced driver, make sure your insurance company knows about it. These factors and a stellar driving and claims history make you an appealing insurance customer.
Be ready to bluff, but also to walk away. If your provider knows you’re serious about potentially switching policies, they may be more likely to meet your request. But if they’re not willing to give an inch and there is a superior policy that will be more affordable in the long run, be prepared to make the switch.
Nervous? Haggle online. If you get a little flustered by confrontation over the phone, put all of this information down in writing instead. Most insurance customers are happy to negotiate (to a point) via email or web-chat, so take that route if it’s going to serve you best.

No matter the product or service, we all want to get the best bang for buck, especially considering the financial stress many households are facing. While shopping around for car insurance may not feel like an exciting prospect, it can mean the difference between putting up with the latest premium hike or finding a much better deal.

There is no doubt that insurance prices have shot up over the past couple of years: according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), insurance prices in Australia rose by 16.4% annually as of March 2024. You may have noticed that your car insurance premium—be it the annual figure or monthly—has risen by double-digits, outpacing the rate of inflation.

Car insurers cite a range of reasons for premium hikes—including supply chain issues and the increase in the cost of parts—but this doesn’t mean you have to wear them. And if you don’t use your car often—or not in peak times—it makes sense to shop around and find an insurer who will reward you with a discount.

Related: Our Pick of the Best Car Insurance Providers
Featured Partners

How Are Car Insurance Premiums Calculated?

If two people approach an insurance company and apply for the same car insurance policy, it’s unlikely they will be quoted the same price for that cover. This is because car insurance premiums, whether they’re for third party policies or comprehensive cover, are based on how risky you appear as a driver.

Insurance providers take numerous factors into account when determining your risk profile, from your personal demographics to details about your car and your driving record. If they expect you’re more likely to make an insurance claim based on this information—and if they anticipate the claim will be more costly—then you’ll likely be charged a higher premium than others.

Every provider has its own methods for calculating premiums and may apply different weighting to certain factors in the risk mix. That’s why it’s important to compare quotes to find the most affordable offer that ticks all of your car insurance boxes.

When it comes to compulsory third party (CTP) car insurance, which every driver is legally required to hold in Australia, the factors that impact price vary based on the state or territory you live in. In some cases, private insurance companies administer this cover, so premiums are calculated in a similar way to optional car insurance policies.

Other states operate on a community model, where CTP prices are set by vehicle classes, not insurance history or demographics. However, these premiums generally have upper and lower limits, with factors like driving infringements and parking location still impacting price.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost? A First-Hand Experiment

The cost of your car insurance depends on a range of factors. Some companies will issue quotes on the spot, while others such as Youi will require customers to enter their details, including driving history and gender, and then will call you back to work through a quote with you in person.

Pro Tip

Every provider has its own methods for calculating premiums and may apply different weighting to certain factors in the risk mix. That’s why it’s important to compare quotes to find the most affordable offer that ticks all of your car insurance boxes.

When Forbes Advisor Australia sought quotes for comprehensive car insurance from five of the most popular insurers in Australia—Budget Direct, Youi, AAMI, NRMA (RACV) and Allianz–we found the process to be slightly different for each. We submitted our details as a 46-year-old female from Victoria who is driving a Fiat Ritmo 2008. She drives fewer than 5,000km per year and has one claim in the last five years, for which she was not at-fault.

The car is garaged at night and insured at market value. No additional drivers were added to the quote. Here is what we found.
1. Allianz Car Insurance

Allianz was by far the easiest and most straight-forward quotation process, offering us a quick quote in minutes.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $114.11 per month.
2. Budget Direct

Budget Direct was similarly simple, but also asked about our driver rating, if we wanted to reduce our premiums by raising our excess (standard excess is $700) and if we wanted to restrict the driving age of other drivers to also lower premiums.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $92.68 AUD per month or $953.49 annually.
3. Youi

Youi prefers to provide comprehensive quotes tailored to each driver and was not able to supply a rough estimate based on online details that we entered. Instead they scheduled a call-back to discuss options.
Comprehensive insurance quote: TBC
4. RACV

Although we initially sought a quote from NRMA, as the car is registered in Victoria we were instead transferred to the state-based motoring body RACV. RACV asked a series of questions via an online form, and applied a minimum excess of $900.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $125.66 per month or $1299.94 if paid up-front. Third party property damage was much cheaper at $51.13 per month.
5. AAMI

By far the cheapest of the online quotes, AAMI asked a series of detailed questions on driving usage and patterns that rewards those who do not drive in peak times or use their car to commute to work. A standard $750 excess applies.
Comprehensive insurance quote: $54.92 per month or $540.87 per year. Third party only was also available for $34.47 per month.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Premiums

While every provider has its own method for calculating premiums, there are a few common factors that will usually be considered. You’ll usually be asked to provide this information when you apply for car insurance:

Age: Insurance providers consider young or inexperienced drivers as more risky (which is reflected in road accident statistics), so those new to the road will usually pay a higher premium.

Gender: Women may be quoted slightly lower premiums, as women are statistically less likely to be involved in accidents or violate road rules. Insurance companies may refer to road crash and casualty statistics showing gender-based trends when weighing this up.

Location: Living in an area with higher levels of crime or road incidents that result in insurance claims will generally increase premiums.

Where you park: Parking on the roadside instead of a secure garage increases chances of vandalism, theft and side-swiping, which could result in an insurance claim.

Driving history: If your road record is tarnished with traffic offences, demerit points and a history of crashes, you may be quoted more costly insurance.

Insurance history: Making insurance claims usually results in a higher premium at renewal time, but if you have a claim-free history, you could score discounts. Holding insurance with the same provider for a certain number of years could also shave money off your premium, but this can also work in reverse, too: the longer you are with an insurer, the more you miss out on the sign-up and introductory offers that lure in new customers. It’s known as the loyalty tax.

Car model, age and modifications: If your insurance covers damages to your own car (i.e. fire and theft or comprehensive), your car’s specs will impact the premium. Providers need to know the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle, and doing so for certain models and modifications will cost more than others.

Car valuation: You and the insurance company must agree on what your car is worth if you’re covering it for damages. You can usually choose between the ‘market value’ (a reasonable selling price at the time you make a claim) or an ‘agreed value’ which you set for the entire policy period. Market value is generally the cheaper option, as it isn’t based on customer preference and can vary alongside the car market.

Excess choices: When you make an insurance claim, you usually pay an agreed fee (the ‘excess’) before the policy covers the remaining costs of the damages. Setting your excess higher will generally decrease your premium, and vice versa.

Policy level: The more your car insurance covers, the more it will cost. Third-party policies are generally the cheapest option, followed by fire and theft cover and then comprehensive car insurance.
8 Ways To Lower The Cost Of Your Car Insurance Premiums

Here are a few ways to cut your car insurance premiums
Purchase New Policies Online

If you are taking out car insurance for the first time or looking to switch providers, apply online. You’ll often be rewarded with a discount for saving the insurance company’s time compared to an application submitted over the phone or in person. These discounts often range from 5% to 20%, but are usually only applied to the first year of your premium.
Pay Annually

Some insurance providers will reward customers who pay their premium in full up-front. Having the option to pay monthly or even weekly may work better in your budget, so be sure to carefully consider each option when signing your insurance contract.
Bundle Your Insurance

If you need home, contents or life insurance, or have other cars in your household that need insuring, you can often bundle these in a multi-policy or multi-car deal with a single provider and earn a discount. Be sure to compare other options and providers for each of these insurance products to ensure the discount makes it the most competitive option for you.
Drive Less

Many car insurance companies now offer or specialise in pay-as-you-drive cover that rewards those who drive less and are therefore are less likely to be involved in an accident. Most of these policies set a limit on the distance you drive each year (usually less than 20,000 km), and as long as you stay below the limit, you receive a premium reduction. This is a great option for people driving infrequently, or those who use public transport for regular commuting. Make sure you stick to the limit, as you won’t be covered if you exceed it and get in an accident. You can usually increase the limit if necessary, but this can come with a fee.
Stay Loyal to Your Insurance Provider

If you hold insurance with the same provider for many years, you may be offered a loyalty discount. This usually increases over time, often starting at 5% or less for a few years’ loyalty, but climbing beyond a 60% discount once you get into the decades territory. You may need to contact your provider to receive this discount.
Don’t Make Claims Unless Necessary

If you’re lucky enough to avoid situations where an insurance claim is required for a number of years, you may receive or request a no-claims discount. Saving the insurance company money in this way could earn you as much as a 70% discount over time, and it’s often transferable if you change providers. Just remember if you do make a claim, this discount will usually be dropped, unless you are deemed to be not at fault.
Don’t Let Everyone Drive Your Car

Do any young or inexperienced drivers use your car? If the answer is ‘no’, then let your insurance company know about it and you could score a restricted driver discount. These types of drivers are statistically more likely to get in a road accident or make an insurance claim, so banning them from sitting behind your wheel is a good way to avoid that risk and keep your premiums down.
Compare the Market and Switch to a Cheaper Option

It’s a good idea to reassess your car insurance in the lead up to your policy renewal each year. If you get a few quotes from other providers and find a better deal, consider switching providers. Be sure to communicate this with your current car insurance company first—they may match or beat the offers you have on the table to retain you as a customer.
Why Do Car Insurance Premiums Go Up Every Year?

In August 2023, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) noted that insurance companies raised premiums over the last quarter “in response to recent higher claims costs”. This increase isn’t tied to a rising number of claims, but rather what it costs insurance providers to fulfil claims. This is often outside of a customer’s control, generally coming down to a combination of four main factors: inflation, taxes, natural disasters and personal circumstances.

Inflation: This will be biting many motorists the hardest at the moment. The consumer price index (CPI) has seen seismic shifts over the last two years. Most recently, it was recorded as rising 4% in the monthly CPI update which is still above the Reserve Bank’s 2% to 3% target. Insurance costs, like most other goods and services, increase as inflation rises, reflecting the higher cost of organising spare parts and repairs, as well as the overall value of insured vehicles.

Taxes: If the governing bodies in your state or territory decide to increase duties and levies related to road users, this will impact your premium (including CTP). States may periodically review these costs and overhaul compulsory insurance requirements if they recognise that costs are unmanageable or coverage isn’t suitable.

Natural disasters: Whether it’s storms, fires, floods or hail, unforeseeable natural events spark insurance claims which drives up premiums. Insurance Australia Group (IAG)—the country’s biggest general insurance company that underwrites brands including NRMA Insurance, CGU, SGIO and many others—notes in its 2024 first earnings report “natural perils” were key drivers of rising insurance premiums.

Changes to Your Circumstances: If over the course of your last coverage period you’ve made a car insurance claim, received road fines or moved somewhere with a higher crime rate, you’ll likely see a premium increase. On paper, changes like these increase the probability that you may be involved in future incidents that could result in an insurance claim. Insurance companies try to mitigate the potential risk of having to pay out claims by charging you more.
How To Negotiate Car Insurance Premiums

You’d be surprised by how flexible insurance companies can be when it comes to price. If you come properly prepared, you may be able to knock a considerable amount off of your premium. Follow the tips below to help you haggle down your car insurance costs.

Do your research: Whether you want to switch providers or stay where you are with a better deal, you need to have an accurate understanding of the current car insurance market and the cards you hold as a driver. All insurance providers must list the product disclosure statement (PDS) for each policy online, and there are numerous online resources for additional insight. Read through all of this information to better understand what is and isn’t commonly covered by your preferred insurance companies. It also costs nothing to get an online quote, so fill out a few and see what kind of premiums you’re offered based on your personal circumstances.
Approach your current insurance provider with quotes: Even if you find a cheaper policy on the market with more features, it’s worth asking your current provider if they can match this price or inclusions. It’s in their best interest to keep you as a customer, but you may also have accrued loyalty discounts or other bonuses with this company that are worth keeping. The ideal time to have this conversation is towards the end of your policy period, as it creates some urgency for the provider to offer a better deal to keep you on.
Reference changes in your circumstances: If you’re driving less or no longer classify as a young or inexperienced driver, make sure your insurance company knows about it. These factors and a stellar driving and claims history make you an appealing insurance customer.
Be ready to bluff, but also to walk away. If your provider knows you’re serious about potentially switching policies, they may be more likely to meet your request. But if they’re not willing to give an inch and there is a superior policy that will be more affordable in the long run, be prepared to make the switch.
Nervous? Haggle online. If you get a little flustered by confrontation over the phone, put all of this information down in writing instead. Most insurance customers are happy to negotiate (to a point) via email or web-chat, so take that route if it’s going to serve you best.

The cost of a liability-only motorcycle insurance policy for the standard bike is $68 per month or $816 per year. The cost of a full coverage policy is $148 per month or $1,776 per year, but your personalized quote varies based on individual factors.

Understanding costs before purchasing motorcycle insurance is important for several reasons. First, it allows you to effectively fit this expense into your budget. Second, knowing the standard rates for your profile helps you discover the most competitive rates in the market and save money on insurance. Thirdly, knowing average rates prevent overpaying for insurance based on your risk profile and the coverages you need.
Factors Influencing Motorcycle Insurance Rates

Take a look below for some of the factors affecting motorcycle insurance rates.
Type of Motorcycle

The type of bike you plan to ride also significantly impact how much you’ll pay. The value of your bike, the safety features, the crash rate for that model, and the theft rate are factors considered when determining your premium.
Rider’s Age and Experience

Like auto insurance, motorcycle insurance for young riders and less experience tends to be more expensive. For instance, 18-year-old drivers with one year of experience usually have higher rates than someone in their 30s with ten years.
Location and Riding Habits

Your location and riding habits heavily influence the cost of motorcycle insurance. For example, drivers in urban areas generally experience elevated rates of accidents and crime. As a result, they’ll see increased insurance rates.

Your riding habits also impact your insurance premiums. Those with a history of reckless driving, (i.e., speeding tickets, at fault accidents, and DUI) pay more for insurance than those with a clean driving record.
Coverage Options and Limits

The Insurance Information Institute mentions several coverages that motorcycle insurance providers offer:

Liability insurance: This coverage that pays for damage you do to others’ property or any injuries. Most states require you to carry at least a liability policy to ride on the road.
Collision insurance: This coverage pays for damages to your motorcycle if you collide with another vehicle or object.
Comprehensive coverage: This coverage pays for non-collision-related damages, like theft or vandalism.
Coverage for motorcycle modifications, parts, and accessories: Some insurance policies will cover riding gear (like jackets and helmets), and other types of coverage will pay to repair and replace accessories like trailers, sidecars, or upgraded parts.
Underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage: This policy will reimburse you when an underinsured or uninsured driver damages your bike or injures you.

Deductibles

Your deductible (what you pay before your insurer disburses your claim) directly impacts your premium. A higher deductible results in lower premiums, but you’ll pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

Average Cost of Motorcycle Insurance by State

Comparison of State Rates

As mentioned, the cost of car insurance changes based on your location. The table illustrates the average cost of motorcycle insurance by state.

Source: Insurify

High-Cost vs. Low-Cost States

Some states are more expensive than others for motorcycle insurance coverage. For example, New York has the highest car insurance cost at $305 per month. Meanwhile, Georgia has the lowest at $75 per month. Like car insurance, state laws and risk factors in your area affect how much your motorcycle insurance costs.

How to Save Money on Motorcycle Insurance

Below are some strategies to find the most affordable motorcycle insurance options.

Choosing the Right Coverage

Choosing the right amount of coverage ensures you’re not underinsured. It is also one of the ways to save on motorcycle insurance as it prevents paying for coverages you don’t need.

When choosing the right coverage, start by considering your state’s minimum insurance requirements. You can usually find the most updated information on your state’s DMV or insurance department website. Your insurance agent or broker should also be able to help you with this. Remember, the more coverage your state requires, the higher your insurance cost will be.

Then you’ll want to assess coverage needs. If you frequently ride your bike or own a new or high-valued, consider full-coverage insurance. If you have a modified bike, custom parts coverage insures your modifications.  If you live in an area with all four seasons, consider seasonal motorcycle insurance to lower your premiums during the winter months when you’re not riding.

Check out our guide to the best and cheapest motorcycle insurance providers to find the right coverage for you.

Taking Safety Courses

Even if you’ve been riding for years, brushing up on your riding knowledge is never a bad thing. Many insurers offer a discount for taking a motorcycle safety class within the past five years.

Bundling Insurance Policies

With the multi-policy discount, It’s usually cheaper (though not always) to buy your policy with the same company then buy them separately at different companies. This is because of the multi-policy discount. Policygenius states that policyholders save up to 20% when bundling their car and motorcycle policy. You can also bundle your policy with other products like home or renters insurance.

Maintaining a Clean Riding Record

Insurers offer discounted rates to those with a claims and accident-free record, as you’re less likely to file a claim. If you have a moving infraction, consider taking an approved safety course to lower your premiums and improve motorcycle safety.

Comparing Motorcycle Insurance Quotes

Each company considers calculates and prices your policy differently. So, like any other type of insurance, shop around to find the best rates on the coverage you need. A good practice is to obtain quotes from several motorcycle insurers at least once a year to see which company offers you the most coverage for the lowest premiums and deductibles.

Additional Motorcycle Insurance Factors to Consider 

Seasonal Riding

In some areas, riders may only want coverage for a limited riding season. This does not kick in automatically. However, you can reduce your coverage in the off-season to cover comprehensive, but not necessarily collision among other things. If you’re going to make this move, read your policy carefully as even one ride in the off-season could put you at risk of damages that aren’t covered.

Impact of Customizations and Accessories

Similarly, consider any upgrades or customizations. Brands like Harley Davidson customize your bike to your preferences long before you see it. But your insurance will cover the base model only unless you purchase extra coverage for customizations.

Usage-Based Insurance Programs

Usage-based programs track your driving via your smartphone, GPS, or other technology. There are two types of usage based programs.

Driving-based usage programs monitor your driving habits like how fast your ride, how harshly you brake, and the time of day you ride. You typically receive a higher discount on your policy or rewards at participating brands based on how well you ride.

Pay-per-mile insurance also uses telematics data to track your mileage. This program allows riders who use their bike occasionally to save money on insurance by only paying for coverage when you ride.

If you were injured in a trucking accident, you need the immediate help of an experienced Michigan truck accident lawyer.

The size and weight of trucks, semi-tractor-trailers, and 18-wheelers mean that a crash often results in devastating or even fatal injuries. These cases require a law firm that specializes in large trucking accident litigation because the law is complex and the stakes are very high. Choosing a lawyer without experience in trucking cases can cost you millions of dollars in a settlement.

The best thing you can do is hire an award-winning truck accident lawyer with the knowledge and skill to fight for you. We will represent you under our No Fee Promise, which means there are no legal fees or expenses unless you receive a settlement. And, we pay all of the case expenses and never ask you for any money out of your pocket. We only get paid at the end of the case.

Our skilled and compassionate attorneys will gather evidence surrounding your accident and work tirelessly to build your claim for compensation.

We have personal injury law offices in Southfield, Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Macomb County.

We represent truck accident victims statewide, including Monroe, Lansing, Port Huron, Kalamazoo, Flint, Saginaw, and Traverse City. Many of our clients live in West Michigan and in the Thumb Area. We will come to you.

We will work hard to get you every penny that you deserve for your pain and suffering. We will also deal directly with your insurance company to get all of your medical bills, lost wages, and other no-fault insurance benefits paid.

Do I need to hire a truck lawyer?
What are the main causes of truck accidents?
What steps should I take after an accident?
When should I hire a truck accident lawyer?
What types of injuries can I sue for after an accident?
Who can I sue after a truck accident?
Truck accident settlement example

Get the Best Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer

The truck accident lawyers at Buckfire Law specialize in large truck accident cases. We have won the top awards in the legal profession, including:

The Best Lawyers in America
National Top 100 Trial Lawyers
Best Law Firm by U.S. News & World Reports
10 Best Michigan Personal Injury Law Firms
Super Lawyers
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum

We have earned these awards for our achievements on behalf of our clients since 1969. We will put the same hard work into your case that we have done for truck accident victims for the past 50 years. A truck accident attorney can help you win the maximum settlement if you were injured by a commercial vehicle or semi-truck.
How We Help You after a Michigan Truck Accident

Our truck accident attorneys will begin our work immediately. We will hire the top investigators and accident reconstruction experts, interview witnesses, and preserve all-important evidence.

We will also fully investigate the accident scene and gather evidence to prove the semi truck accident was the fault of the truck driver.

We will also help you with your claims for no-fault insurance benefits. Our paralegals will assist you in preparing the required forms, submit them for you, and deal directly with the insurance adjuster to make sure that your medical bills and lost wages are promptly paid. We will also get you a great personal injury settlement.

If the crash involved a fatality, we will open the probate estate for you and have the necessary paperwork filed at the courthouse.

We will also help you get all bills paid, including funeral and medical expenses, and file a claim for survivors’ loss benefits on your behalf with the insurance company.

We take care of everything from start to finish so you can focus on your road to recovery. Call us now for your free consultation.
Most Common Truck Types Involved in Crashes

When referring to truck accidents, lawyers generally refer to crashes caused by large commercial-type trucks.

Commercial trucks are vehicles used for the transport of commercial goods or property and are driven by professional truck drivers for compensation.

While pickups and large SUVs may be considered trucks by the general public, cases referred to as “truck accidents” are for larger vehicles.

The most common types of trucks driven on Michigan roads and interstate highways are:

Tractor-trailers
18-wheelers
Tow trucks
Garbage & dump trucks
Tanker trucks
Concrete mixers
Construction equipment
Delivery vehicles
Log carriers
Flatbed trailers
Postal trucks, U-Hauls, Fed Ex & UPS trucks
Big rigs

What is the Definition of a Commercial Vehicle?

A commercial vehicle is a motor vehicle that is used to transport passengers for hire, a truck constructed or used to transport goods and merchandise, or one used to pull other vehicles.

The vehicle must have a weight of more than 10,001 pounds of combined weight, which includes the vehicle weight and any cargo or passengers.

If transporting passengers, it must be used for more than eight passengers, including the driver if used for compensation or more than 15 passengers if there is no compensation. Many buses are classified as commercial vehicles.
What Causes Most Truck Accidents?

While mistakes are common on the roadways, the cause of a truck crash is often due to the careless, reckless, or malicious behavior of a truck driver.

For truckers, poor training, fatigue, improper turns, blind spots, and equipment failures — such as faulty reflectors, lights, and malfunctioning brakes — are common reasons for wrecks. Serious injuries are often caused by blown-out tires and other parts falling or flying off the truck while traveling at a high speed.

In other cases, however, a wreck may be the result of improper loading or overloading.

If a semi or tractor-trailer is not properly loaded, the extra weight may cause it to lose balance. Similarly, the weight might affect the truck driver’s ability to stop and control the truck, especially during braking and turns. Because of this, overloaded trucks are at a greater risk for rollovers.

Furthermore, the use of drugs or alcohol, speeding, unnecessary tailgating, neglect to yield, and illegal lane changes by a truck driver are also leading causes of crashes.

Drivers are not allowed to use a handheld cell phone while driving a commercial vehicle but can use hands-free phones. However, distracted driving is a major problem with drivers of large trucks.

No matter the cause, the resulting damages inflicted on an accident victim are severe. Many victims suffer catastrophic injuries, like spinal cord and brain injuries. Other crashes cause deaths.
What Should I Do After a Michigan Truck Accident?

It is frightening to be in any type of motor vehicle accident, but crashes involving a large truck are even more terrifying. It is important to remain at the scene after the crash. Leaving the scene, even if there was only property damage, without filing a report can be a criminal offense.

You should stay for the police to arrive so you can give your version of how the accident happened and to exchange information with the other driver.

Many times, the police officer only speaks to the truck driver and your explanation of the facts does not become part of the official report.

If you were injured, getting prompt medical attention is the most important thing.

It is best to wait for EMS to arrive so you can be treated at the scene before being taken to a hospital. Make sure to describe all of your injuries and pains to emergency medical personnel and the police officers.

If your vehicle has significant damage, you should remove personal property before it is towed away.

You should get the names and phone numbers of any eyewitnesses and take photographs of all of the involved vehicles. This is valuable evidence.

You can even take photos of the driver’s license and insurance card of the other driver to prevent any mistakes if you were to just write down the information.
When Should I Hire a Michigan Truck Accident Attorney?

It is smart to hire a Michigan truck accident lawyer immediately after the crash.

The trucking company will have its team of investigators on the scene gathering evidence within hours. You need your own team of experts at the location to interview witnesses, take photographs, and measure any skid marks or other road markings that were caused by the accident.

In addition, it is very important to have all vehicles inspected as soon as possible.

Our truck accident attorneys hire the top accident reconstruction experts, engineers, and metallurgists to take measurements, photograph property damage, and preserve any evidence that may prove fault for the crash.

We also will have our investigators download the black box or event data recorder from all vehicles. This data provides excellent evidence of driver speeds, braking, and actions before and at the time of the crash. This data is often the best evidence to prove and win your case.

While you may be able to settle a small car accident case without an attorney, you definitely need one for a big truck accident case.

The trucking lawyers and insurance adjusters are very sophisticated and begin denying fault and defending the case within a short time after the crash. You do not stand a chance against their team unless you have an experienced truck accident lawyer in your corner. Call us for a free consultation so you can win the maximum compensation.
Serious Injuries Caused in a Truck Accident

While the injuries sustained in any motor vehicle collision can be severe, accidents involving trucks tend to lead to a serious personal injury. While some damages may be minor — such as scrapes, bruises, and sprains — others may be catastrophic and life-changing. The most serious pain and suffering injuries suffered in a Michigan truck accident include:

Traumatic brain injuries, closed head injuries, and concussions
Spinal cord injures, including quadriplegia and paraplegia
Back and neck injuries, like herniated discs and bulging discs
Broken bones and fractures
Knee and shoulder injuries, such as a torn meniscus or a rotator cuff tear
Nerve damage in the arms, legs, and hands
Burns to the face and body
Permanent scars and disfigurements
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Death

Along with the physical suffered by a collision with a semi-truck or 18-wheeler, an injured person will likely have significant psychological and emotional trauma. This occurs from the physical pain and suffering associated with the injuries and the effects on a person due to life-altering injuries. These emotional injuries affect the victim, spouses, partners, and children.

The pie chart below shows the injury severity frequency of people involved in large truck accidents in Michigan in 2018. Approximately 25% of all truck accidents end in minor injuries, while more than 10% of injuries are deemed as serious. However, minor injuries do not mean no harm was done but rather the level did not require surgery or lengthy hospitalization.

Michigan truck accident lawyer injury severity graph – Buckfire Law

Killed: 3.06%
Possible Injuries: 60.7%
Suspected Minor Injuries: 25.6%
Suspected Serious Injuries: 10.6%

Who Can I Sue if I Was Hit by a Truck?

You can sue the truck driver if you were hit by a truck.

A woman stands next to the text “ASK A LAWYER” with the Buckfire Law Firm logo above.

To win your case against the driver, the evidence must prove the truck driver drove negligently, carelessly, or violated the rules of the road and caused the accident. Essentially, you must show the trucker was at fault. You can also sue the trucking company for the crash.

Under Michigan law, the trucking company is automatically liable for the negligence of its employees. In addition, you can sue the company on other grounds such as for mechanical defects, poor training, or falsifying logbooks. The investigation may also prove that the company allowed the truck driver too much driving time without a break or sleep.

Many times, you can sue the owner of the trailer in addition to the company that employed the driver and owned the cab.

A Michigan truck accident lawyer on our law firm will identify all potential parties to include in your lawsuit. This is the best way to maximize your personal injury settlement.
Mechanical Defects and Poor Truck Maintenance

Sometimes, a crash involving a truck is not the direct fault of the driver. This is often the case when parts of a truck are faulty or defective and cause a crash.

For example, a truck driver may hit the brakes with plenty of time to stop for traffic, but if the brakes are defective or have not been properly maintained, it may cause an accident.

When this is the case and a defective truck is involved in an accident, it might further complicate an injury claim. This is largely because, when determining liability for a crash, it is more difficult to identify who is to blame when the root cause is a defective part.

Once the fault is determined, however, a truck crash claim might involve multiple responsible parties, including the trucking company — for not maintaining the truck or failing to get an inspection — as well as the manufacturer of the defective part. Furthermore, if the trucker was responsible for maintaining their rig, they might also be held accountable.
Trucking Company Liability Claims

When a truck driver works for a trucking company or other employer, that company is legally responsible for them while they are on the road. Therefore, if a mistake happens, or if a driver’s error causes an accident, the company is liable.

While any company is supposed to ensure that its drivers are properly trained and can safely handle trucks on the road, companies often fail to provide proper training and supervision.

Many times, the drivers are forced to be behind the wheel for too many hours without a break and have trouble focusing on the road due to fatigue. Other times, they are driving too fast to meet delivery time requirements.

When any of these acts cause a crash, both the driver and company are liable and should be pursued for compensation.

Under Michigan law, the vehicle owner has the same legal responsibility as the trucker involved in the accident. As a result, both are responsible for compensating victims.
Hazardous Material Spills are a Danger

Large commercial trucks often carry hazardous material. Oil, gas, chemicals, and more are shipped around Michigan every day.

When these trucks are on the road, it is important that they are loaded properly, so that these dangerous materials do not spill and pose a risk to others on the road.

Therefore, anyone responsible for loading and unloading cargo onto a truck has an obligation to do so with safety. This duty often falls on the truck driver, or another person working for the trucking company.

As a result, when any of these individuals fail to properly handle hazardous material and a spill occurs, anyone injured might be able to pursue a claim against them.
Cargo and Items Falling from Trucks Cause Serious Injuries

You have likely seen large objects in the middle of the highway that has fallen out of a truck or off a flatbed. Cargo, construction materials, logs, and other items travel at high speeds when they fall from a moving vehicle. The weight of those objects traveling at high speeds causes deadly accidents.

In addition, fallen objects laying in the middle of the road are a substantial danger for other drivers.

Many motorists cannot react fast enough to avoid those objects and hit them at high speeds. Other vehicle drivers swerve to avoid an object and either strike another vehicle or leave the roadway.

A trucking company and driver are liable in these circumstances to an injured person. They are required to safely secure all cargo in the vehicle or to the flatbed before entering the roadway.

Motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians are especially vulnerable in these situations.
Do Truck Drivers have Limits on Hours they can Legally Drive?

Yes. There are very specific requirements that set forth the number of hours that a truck driver can drive in a given day and week, as well as the number of hours of rest required between shifts. These hours can vary based upon whether the driver is operating a truck interstate or intrastate.

The purposes of these requirements are to reduce truck driver fatigue and to make sure that the roads and highways are safe for other motorists.

Drivers and truck companies are supposed to log every minute of both drive time and rest, but many times these logs are forged or not kept at all.

An experienced truck accident lawyer will get all of the driving logs to determine whether the driver was on the road too long and without rest as a part of the investigation of your case.

We will closely examine the records to determine if they are accurate or if they have been altered in any way.
Michigan Truck Speed Accident Statistics

Under Public Act 455 of 2016 enacted into law on Jan. 5, 2017, a truck, a truck-tractor, or a truck-tractor with a semi-trailer or trailer can operate at a speed not to exceed 65 mph on a freeway, where the posted speed limit is greater than 65 miles per hour.

Many serious truck accidents are caused by truckers driving in excess of 65 miles per hour which makes it very difficult to control and stop the truck.

A truck, truck-tractor with trailer, or a combination of these vehicles, with a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or more, cannot exceed a speed of 55 mph on freeways or 60 mph if the speed limit is 70 mph.

Excessive truck speed is a major cause of highway deaths in the United States. The bar chart below shows the number of fatalities in 2017 for crashes at different speed limits involving large trucks in the United States. The denser the red color of the bar, the higher the speed limit is.

The most fatalities happen in the 50-55 mph speed limits, more than double the 40-55 mph speed limit and more than all of the previous speed limits combined.

Truck accidents speed limit fatal crash graph by Michigan Accident Lawyer

Speed Limit: Deaths

25 mph or less: 122
30-35 mph: 281
40-45 mph: 599
50-55 mph: 1,401
60-65 mph: 875
70-75 mph: 787
80-85 mph: 30
No statutory limit: 49

What are Michigan No-Fault Insurance Benefits?

No-Fault insurance benefits are benefits you are entitled to receive under Michigan law, regardless of fault, if you were injured in an accident that arose out of the ownership, operation, maintenance, or use of an automobile as an automobile, such as a car or truck.

An insurance company cannot deny your benefits if the accident was your fault.

These benefits include wage loss benefits for the first three years after the accident, assistance with household chores for the first three years after the accident, medical expense coverage, mileage to and from doctor appointments, attendant care, and other benefits such as home and vehicle modifications.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Michigan Truck Accident Lawsuit?

Under Michigan law, the time limit to sue the truck driver and company for a truck crash is three years from the date of the accident. This is known as the Statute of Limitations.

The period is extended longer if the injured person was a minor at the time of the crash. The deadline for filing no-fault claims for benefits not paid by the insurance company is just one year from the date the expense was incurred.

However, you should not wait long before hiring a lawyer to start your case. If you miss a deadline, your claim to a settlement and your rights to sue will be lost forever.
How Much Are Michigan Truck Accident Settlements?

In determining the proper amount for a settlement, several factors are considered by the lawyers and insurance companies.

There is no schedule or guideline for determining the amount, but rather the skill and experience of your attorney are what will get you the best settlement. Because every case is completely different, there is no real “average” or “typical” settlement amount for truck accidents.

The factors include the:

Degree of the negligence of all parties in the crash.
The seriousness of the personal injury, such as a brain injury, spinal cord injury, or bone fractures.
The level of pain and suffering caused by the truck accident, past, present, and future.
The manner in which the injuries have affected the person’s normal life and activities.
Psychological and emotional trauma resulting from the crash and injuries.
The permanence of any scars and disfigurements.
Type of medical treatments, surgeries, and rehabilitation resulting from the collision.
Loss of income, wages, and earning capacity suffered by the victim.
Insurance policy limits for the trucking company and truck driver.

Wrongful Death Lawsuits For Fatal Truck Accidents

When a truck accident results in the death of another motorist, passenger, bicyclist, or pedestrian, surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit. These cases seek damages for conscious pain and suffering from the time of accident until death, the loss of society and companionship of surviving family members, loss of income and support, and other economic damages.

The lawsuit can be brought by a family member of the decedent and is filed on behalf of the entire family. The person bringing the suit is appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate for the purposes of filing the case, but all family members have rights in the suit. The parties need a judge to approve the settlement and the amount of the settlement shares for each family member. If the family cannot agree on how the settlement funds are shared among them, the judge makes the final decision.
Do Trucks have Large Liability Insurance Policies?

Federal law requires commercial trucks traveling in interstate commerce to carry $750,000 of insurance for bodily injury and property damage.

Michigan has adopted the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules and regulations to govern its commercial trucks, so the insurance standard applies in Michigan. One of the rules requires trucks to keep logbooks of the hours they drive to avoid crashes due to fatigue. Many trucking companies have much larger policies or additional policies as well.
Examples of Settlements in Michigan Truck Accident Cases

$11,900,000 fatal truck accident settlement for multiple passengers by a speeding truck.
$8,000,000 truck accident settlement for two-car passengers who suffered brain injuries.
$7,000,000 Lansing area settlement in a semi-truck crash with multiple victims
$4,950,000 settlement for a car driver with a closed head injury and orthopedic injuries.
$4,900,000 settlement for a tractor-trailer rear-end accident in Michigan.
$3,035,000 wrongful death settlement against a truck driver and trucking company in the Detroit area
$2,000,000 personal injury settlement for a man in a jackknife accident with a tractor-trailer in West Michigan
$1,800,000 pain and suffering settlement for a client who was struck by a semi-truck on I-94 near Detroit.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Truck Accident Attorney?

It does not cost anything to hire a Michigan truck accident lawyer at the Buckfire Law Firm. Our truck accident attorneys do not charge any fees to start your case and we only get paid when you receive your settlement check at the end of the case. This is called a contingency fee agreement.

Under this arrangement, we also pay all of the case expenses and get a percentage of the settlement at the very end of the case when your check is received.
Do you Have to Pay your Lawyer if you Lose your Case?

No. Under our contingent fee agreement, there are no legal fees if the case is unsuccessful and you do not receive a settlement. You owe us nothing.
Contact a Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer

To find out what your case is worth, call our award-winning truck accident attorneys right now.

We will listen to your story and begin our investigation immediately. Once we get a full picture of the accident, we will give you our best opinion on what your case is worth.

We will then work hard to win you the highest possible settlement or verdict.

By working with a dedicated Michigan truck accident lawyer, you can assess your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries.

Call now to speak with a truck accident lawyer. We will start working on your case immediately.

If you were injured in a trucking accident, you need the immediate help of an experienced Michigan truck accident lawyer.

The size and weight of trucks, semi-tractor-trailers, and 18-wheelers mean that a crash often results in devastating or even fatal injuries. These cases require a law firm that specializes in large trucking accident litigation because the law is complex and the stakes are very high. Choosing a lawyer without experience in trucking cases can cost you millions of dollars in a settlement.

The best thing you can do is hire an award-winning truck accident lawyer with the knowledge and skill to fight for you. We will represent you under our No Fee Promise, which means there are no legal fees or expenses unless you receive a settlement. And, we pay all of the case expenses and never ask you for any money out of your pocket. We only get paid at the end of the case.

Our skilled and compassionate attorneys will gather evidence surrounding your accident and work tirelessly to build your claim for compensation.

We have personal injury law offices in Southfield, Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Macomb County.

We represent truck accident victims statewide, including Monroe, Lansing, Port Huron, Kalamazoo, Flint, Saginaw, and Traverse City. Many of our clients live in West Michigan and in the Thumb Area. We will come to you.

We will work hard to get you every penny that you deserve for your pain and suffering. We will also deal directly with your insurance company to get all of your medical bills, lost wages, and other no-fault insurance benefits paid.

Do I need to hire a truck lawyer?
What are the main causes of truck accidents?
What steps should I take after an accident?
When should I hire a truck accident lawyer?
What types of injuries can I sue for after an accident?
Who can I sue after a truck accident?
Truck accident settlement example

Get the Best Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer

The truck accident lawyers at Buckfire Law specialize in large truck accident cases. We have won the top awards in the legal profession, including:

The Best Lawyers in America
National Top 100 Trial Lawyers
Best Law Firm by U.S. News & World Reports
10 Best Michigan Personal Injury Law Firms
Super Lawyers
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum

We have earned these awards for our achievements on behalf of our clients since 1969. We will put the same hard work into your case that we have done for truck accident victims for the past 50 years. A truck accident attorney can help you win the maximum settlement if you were injured by a commercial vehicle or semi-truck.
How We Help You after a Michigan Truck Accident

Our truck accident attorneys will begin our work immediately. We will hire the top investigators and accident reconstruction experts, interview witnesses, and preserve all-important evidence.

We will also fully investigate the accident scene and gather evidence to prove the semi truck accident was the fault of the truck driver.

We will also help you with your claims for no-fault insurance benefits. Our paralegals will assist you in preparing the required forms, submit them for you, and deal directly with the insurance adjuster to make sure that your medical bills and lost wages are promptly paid. We will also get you a great personal injury settlement.

If the crash involved a fatality, we will open the probate estate for you and have the necessary paperwork filed at the courthouse.

We will also help you get all bills paid, including funeral and medical expenses, and file a claim for survivors’ loss benefits on your behalf with the insurance company.

We take care of everything from start to finish so you can focus on your road to recovery. Call us now for your free consultation.
Most Common Truck Types Involved in Crashes

When referring to truck accidents, lawyers generally refer to crashes caused by large commercial-type trucks.

Commercial trucks are vehicles used for the transport of commercial goods or property and are driven by professional truck drivers for compensation.

While pickups and large SUVs may be considered trucks by the general public, cases referred to as “truck accidents” are for larger vehicles.

The most common types of trucks driven on Michigan roads and interstate highways are:

Tractor-trailers
18-wheelers
Tow trucks
Garbage & dump trucks
Tanker trucks
Concrete mixers
Construction equipment
Delivery vehicles
Log carriers
Flatbed trailers
Postal trucks, U-Hauls, Fed Ex & UPS trucks
Big rigs

What is the Definition of a Commercial Vehicle?

A commercial vehicle is a motor vehicle that is used to transport passengers for hire, a truck constructed or used to transport goods and merchandise, or one used to pull other vehicles.

The vehicle must have a weight of more than 10,001 pounds of combined weight, which includes the vehicle weight and any cargo or passengers.

If transporting passengers, it must be used for more than eight passengers, including the driver if used for compensation or more than 15 passengers if there is no compensation. Many buses are classified as commercial vehicles.
What Causes Most Truck Accidents?

While mistakes are common on the roadways, the cause of a truck crash is often due to the careless, reckless, or malicious behavior of a truck driver.

For truckers, poor training, fatigue, improper turns, blind spots, and equipment failures — such as faulty reflectors, lights, and malfunctioning brakes — are common reasons for wrecks. Serious injuries are often caused by blown-out tires and other parts falling or flying off the truck while traveling at a high speed.

In other cases, however, a wreck may be the result of improper loading or overloading.

If a semi or tractor-trailer is not properly loaded, the extra weight may cause it to lose balance. Similarly, the weight might affect the truck driver’s ability to stop and control the truck, especially during braking and turns. Because of this, overloaded trucks are at a greater risk for rollovers.

Furthermore, the use of drugs or alcohol, speeding, unnecessary tailgating, neglect to yield, and illegal lane changes by a truck driver are also leading causes of crashes.

Drivers are not allowed to use a handheld cell phone while driving a commercial vehicle but can use hands-free phones. However, distracted driving is a major problem with drivers of large trucks.

No matter the cause, the resulting damages inflicted on an accident victim are severe. Many victims suffer catastrophic injuries, like spinal cord and brain injuries. Other crashes cause deaths.
What Should I Do After a Michigan Truck Accident?

It is frightening to be in any type of motor vehicle accident, but crashes involving a large truck are even more terrifying. It is important to remain at the scene after the crash. Leaving the scene, even if there was only property damage, without filing a report can be a criminal offense.

You should stay for the police to arrive so you can give your version of how the accident happened and to exchange information with the other driver.

Many times, the police officer only speaks to the truck driver and your explanation of the facts does not become part of the official report.

If you were injured, getting prompt medical attention is the most important thing.

It is best to wait for EMS to arrive so you can be treated at the scene before being taken to a hospital. Make sure to describe all of your injuries and pains to emergency medical personnel and the police officers.

If your vehicle has significant damage, you should remove personal property before it is towed away.

You should get the names and phone numbers of any eyewitnesses and take photographs of all of the involved vehicles. This is valuable evidence.

You can even take photos of the driver’s license and insurance card of the other driver to prevent any mistakes if you were to just write down the information.
When Should I Hire a Michigan Truck Accident Attorney?

It is smart to hire a Michigan truck accident lawyer immediately after the crash.

The trucking company will have its team of investigators on the scene gathering evidence within hours. You need your own team of experts at the location to interview witnesses, take photographs, and measure any skid marks or other road markings that were caused by the accident.

In addition, it is very important to have all vehicles inspected as soon as possible.

Our truck accident attorneys hire the top accident reconstruction experts, engineers, and metallurgists to take measurements, photograph property damage, and preserve any evidence that may prove fault for the crash.

We also will have our investigators download the black box or event data recorder from all vehicles. This data provides excellent evidence of driver speeds, braking, and actions before and at the time of the crash. This data is often the best evidence to prove and win your case.

While you may be able to settle a small car accident case without an attorney, you definitely need one for a big truck accident case.

The trucking lawyers and insurance adjusters are very sophisticated and begin denying fault and defending the case within a short time after the crash. You do not stand a chance against their team unless you have an experienced truck accident lawyer in your corner. Call us for a free consultation so you can win the maximum compensation.
Serious Injuries Caused in a Truck Accident

While the injuries sustained in any motor vehicle collision can be severe, accidents involving trucks tend to lead to a serious personal injury. While some damages may be minor — such as scrapes, bruises, and sprains — others may be catastrophic and life-changing. The most serious pain and suffering injuries suffered in a Michigan truck accident include:

Traumatic brain injuries, closed head injuries, and concussions
Spinal cord injures, including quadriplegia and paraplegia
Back and neck injuries, like herniated discs and bulging discs
Broken bones and fractures
Knee and shoulder injuries, such as a torn meniscus or a rotator cuff tear
Nerve damage in the arms, legs, and hands
Burns to the face and body
Permanent scars and disfigurements
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Death

Along with the physical suffered by a collision with a semi-truck or 18-wheeler, an injured person will likely have significant psychological and emotional trauma. This occurs from the physical pain and suffering associated with the injuries and the effects on a person due to life-altering injuries. These emotional injuries affect the victim, spouses, partners, and children.

The pie chart below shows the injury severity frequency of people involved in large truck accidents in Michigan in 2018. Approximately 25% of all truck accidents end in minor injuries, while more than 10% of injuries are deemed as serious. However, minor injuries do not mean no harm was done but rather the level did not require surgery or lengthy hospitalization.

Michigan truck accident lawyer injury severity graph – Buckfire Law

Killed: 3.06%
Possible Injuries: 60.7%
Suspected Minor Injuries: 25.6%
Suspected Serious Injuries: 10.6%

Who Can I Sue if I Was Hit by a Truck?

You can sue the truck driver if you were hit by a truck.

A woman stands next to the text “ASK A LAWYER” with the Buckfire Law Firm logo above.

To win your case against the driver, the evidence must prove the truck driver drove negligently, carelessly, or violated the rules of the road and caused the accident. Essentially, you must show the trucker was at fault. You can also sue the trucking company for the crash.

Under Michigan law, the trucking company is automatically liable for the negligence of its employees. In addition, you can sue the company on other grounds such as for mechanical defects, poor training, or falsifying logbooks. The investigation may also prove that the company allowed the truck driver too much driving time without a break or sleep.

Many times, you can sue the owner of the trailer in addition to the company that employed the driver and owned the cab.

A Michigan truck accident lawyer on our law firm will identify all potential parties to include in your lawsuit. This is the best way to maximize your personal injury settlement.
Mechanical Defects and Poor Truck Maintenance

Sometimes, a crash involving a truck is not the direct fault of the driver. This is often the case when parts of a truck are faulty or defective and cause a crash.

For example, a truck driver may hit the brakes with plenty of time to stop for traffic, but if the brakes are defective or have not been properly maintained, it may cause an accident.

When this is the case and a defective truck is involved in an accident, it might further complicate an injury claim. This is largely because, when determining liability for a crash, it is more difficult to identify who is to blame when the root cause is a defective part.

Once the fault is determined, however, a truck crash claim might involve multiple responsible parties, including the trucking company — for not maintaining the truck or failing to get an inspection — as well as the manufacturer of the defective part. Furthermore, if the trucker was responsible for maintaining their rig, they might also be held accountable.
Trucking Company Liability Claims

When a truck driver works for a trucking company or other employer, that company is legally responsible for them while they are on the road. Therefore, if a mistake happens, or if a driver’s error causes an accident, the company is liable.

While any company is supposed to ensure that its drivers are properly trained and can safely handle trucks on the road, companies often fail to provide proper training and supervision.

Many times, the drivers are forced to be behind the wheel for too many hours without a break and have trouble focusing on the road due to fatigue. Other times, they are driving too fast to meet delivery time requirements.

When any of these acts cause a crash, both the driver and company are liable and should be pursued for compensation.

Under Michigan law, the vehicle owner has the same legal responsibility as the trucker involved in the accident. As a result, both are responsible for compensating victims.
Hazardous Material Spills are a Danger

Large commercial trucks often carry hazardous material. Oil, gas, chemicals, and more are shipped around Michigan every day.

When these trucks are on the road, it is important that they are loaded properly, so that these dangerous materials do not spill and pose a risk to others on the road.

Therefore, anyone responsible for loading and unloading cargo onto a truck has an obligation to do so with safety. This duty often falls on the truck driver, or another person working for the trucking company.

As a result, when any of these individuals fail to properly handle hazardous material and a spill occurs, anyone injured might be able to pursue a claim against them.
Cargo and Items Falling from Trucks Cause Serious Injuries

You have likely seen large objects in the middle of the highway that has fallen out of a truck or off a flatbed. Cargo, construction materials, logs, and other items travel at high speeds when they fall from a moving vehicle. The weight of those objects traveling at high speeds causes deadly accidents.

In addition, fallen objects laying in the middle of the road are a substantial danger for other drivers.

Many motorists cannot react fast enough to avoid those objects and hit them at high speeds. Other vehicle drivers swerve to avoid an object and either strike another vehicle or leave the roadway.

A trucking company and driver are liable in these circumstances to an injured person. They are required to safely secure all cargo in the vehicle or to the flatbed before entering the roadway.

Motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians are especially vulnerable in these situations.
Do Truck Drivers have Limits on Hours they can Legally Drive?

Yes. There are very specific requirements that set forth the number of hours that a truck driver can drive in a given day and week, as well as the number of hours of rest required between shifts. These hours can vary based upon whether the driver is operating a truck interstate or intrastate.

The purposes of these requirements are to reduce truck driver fatigue and to make sure that the roads and highways are safe for other motorists.

Drivers and truck companies are supposed to log every minute of both drive time and rest, but many times these logs are forged or not kept at all.

An experienced truck accident lawyer will get all of the driving logs to determine whether the driver was on the road too long and without rest as a part of the investigation of your case.

We will closely examine the records to determine if they are accurate or if they have been altered in any way.
Michigan Truck Speed Accident Statistics

Under Public Act 455 of 2016 enacted into law on Jan. 5, 2017, a truck, a truck-tractor, or a truck-tractor with a semi-trailer or trailer can operate at a speed not to exceed 65 mph on a freeway, where the posted speed limit is greater than 65 miles per hour.

Many serious truck accidents are caused by truckers driving in excess of 65 miles per hour which makes it very difficult to control and stop the truck.

A truck, truck-tractor with trailer, or a combination of these vehicles, with a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or more, cannot exceed a speed of 55 mph on freeways or 60 mph if the speed limit is 70 mph.

Excessive truck speed is a major cause of highway deaths in the United States. The bar chart below shows the number of fatalities in 2017 for crashes at different speed limits involving large trucks in the United States. The denser the red color of the bar, the higher the speed limit is.

The most fatalities happen in the 50-55 mph speed limits, more than double the 40-55 mph speed limit and more than all of the previous speed limits combined.

Truck accidents speed limit fatal crash graph by Michigan Accident Lawyer

Speed Limit: Deaths

25 mph or less: 122
30-35 mph: 281
40-45 mph: 599
50-55 mph: 1,401
60-65 mph: 875
70-75 mph: 787
80-85 mph: 30
No statutory limit: 49

What are Michigan No-Fault Insurance Benefits?

No-Fault insurance benefits are benefits you are entitled to receive under Michigan law, regardless of fault, if you were injured in an accident that arose out of the ownership, operation, maintenance, or use of an automobile as an automobile, such as a car or truck.

An insurance company cannot deny your benefits if the accident was your fault.

These benefits include wage loss benefits for the first three years after the accident, assistance with household chores for the first three years after the accident, medical expense coverage, mileage to and from doctor appointments, attendant care, and other benefits such as home and vehicle modifications.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Michigan Truck Accident Lawsuit?

Under Michigan law, the time limit to sue the truck driver and company for a truck crash is three years from the date of the accident. This is known as the Statute of Limitations.

The period is extended longer if the injured person was a minor at the time of the crash. The deadline for filing no-fault claims for benefits not paid by the insurance company is just one year from the date the expense was incurred.

However, you should not wait long before hiring a lawyer to start your case. If you miss a deadline, your claim to a settlement and your rights to sue will be lost forever.
How Much Are Michigan Truck Accident Settlements?

In determining the proper amount for a settlement, several factors are considered by the lawyers and insurance companies.

There is no schedule or guideline for determining the amount, but rather the skill and experience of your attorney are what will get you the best settlement. Because every case is completely different, there is no real “average” or “typical” settlement amount for truck accidents.

The factors include the:

Degree of the negligence of all parties in the crash.
The seriousness of the personal injury, such as a brain injury, spinal cord injury, or bone fractures.
The level of pain and suffering caused by the truck accident, past, present, and future.
The manner in which the injuries have affected the person’s normal life and activities.
Psychological and emotional trauma resulting from the crash and injuries.
The permanence of any scars and disfigurements.
Type of medical treatments, surgeries, and rehabilitation resulting from the collision.
Loss of income, wages, and earning capacity suffered by the victim.
Insurance policy limits for the trucking company and truck driver.

Wrongful Death Lawsuits For Fatal Truck Accidents

When a truck accident results in the death of another motorist, passenger, bicyclist, or pedestrian, surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit. These cases seek damages for conscious pain and suffering from the time of accident until death, the loss of society and companionship of surviving family members, loss of income and support, and other economic damages.

The lawsuit can be brought by a family member of the decedent and is filed on behalf of the entire family. The person bringing the suit is appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate for the purposes of filing the case, but all family members have rights in the suit. The parties need a judge to approve the settlement and the amount of the settlement shares for each family member. If the family cannot agree on how the settlement funds are shared among them, the judge makes the final decision.
Do Trucks have Large Liability Insurance Policies?

Federal law requires commercial trucks traveling in interstate commerce to carry $750,000 of insurance for bodily injury and property damage.

Michigan has adopted the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules and regulations to govern its commercial trucks, so the insurance standard applies in Michigan. One of the rules requires trucks to keep logbooks of the hours they drive to avoid crashes due to fatigue. Many trucking companies have much larger policies or additional policies as well.
Examples of Settlements in Michigan Truck Accident Cases

$11,900,000 fatal truck accident settlement for multiple passengers by a speeding truck.
$8,000,000 truck accident settlement for two-car passengers who suffered brain injuries.
$7,000,000 Lansing area settlement in a semi-truck crash with multiple victims
$4,950,000 settlement for a car driver with a closed head injury and orthopedic injuries.
$4,900,000 settlement for a tractor-trailer rear-end accident in Michigan.
$3,035,000 wrongful death settlement against a truck driver and trucking company in the Detroit area
$2,000,000 personal injury settlement for a man in a jackknife accident with a tractor-trailer in West Michigan
$1,800,000 pain and suffering settlement for a client who was struck by a semi-truck on I-94 near Detroit.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Truck Accident Attorney?

It does not cost anything to hire a Michigan truck accident lawyer at the Buckfire Law Firm. Our truck accident attorneys do not charge any fees to start your case and we only get paid when you receive your settlement check at the end of the case. This is called a contingency fee agreement.

Under this arrangement, we also pay all of the case expenses and get a percentage of the settlement at the very end of the case when your check is received.
Do you Have to Pay your Lawyer if you Lose your Case?

No. Under our contingent fee agreement, there are no legal fees if the case is unsuccessful and you do not receive a settlement. You owe us nothing.
Contact a Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer

To find out what your case is worth, call our award-winning truck accident attorneys right now.

We will listen to your story and begin our investigation immediately. Once we get a full picture of the accident, we will give you our best opinion on what your case is worth.

We will then work hard to win you the highest possible settlement or verdict.

By working with a dedicated Michigan truck accident lawyer, you can assess your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries.

Call now to speak with a truck accident lawyer. We will start working on your case immediately.

In North Carolina, our roads are filled with tractor-trailers that haul goods across the state and commercial trucks that deliver locally. While these trucks are essential to our state’s economy, they are also very dangerous because of their size and weight. When you have an accident with a tractor-trailer, they usually cause serious, disabling, or fatal injuries that have life-altering consequences. We care about making sure that, after a truck wreck, our clients get the compensation they deserve to put their lives back together.

Because commercial trucks and tractor-trailers are massive machines that pose risks to public safety, the trucking industry is subject to numerous regulations (Title 49, Parts 350-399) and driver qualifications. Trucking operators and others involved in commercial trucking also have legal obligations to take reasonable measures to ensure the safety of people on the road.

Despite these precautionary measures, not everyone complies with traffic laws, trucking regulations, or their duty of care – all of which can result in a truck accident with major consequences when they involve cargo carriers. Fortunately, victims injured by the negligent or wrongful acts of others, and families who lose loved ones in preventable truck wrecks, have the right to seek compensation for their damages by holding at-fault parties financially responsible.

Determining who can be held liable for a semi-truck accident is a fact-specific matter that varies from case to case. Even if truck wrecks are caused by negligent truckers – which they often are – truck drivers may not be the only party to bear financial responsibility for damages. That’s because trucking operators are often responsible for their employees, and because they may have been negligent as well.

While investigations into fault and liability are crucial to these cases, there are a number of common causes, violations, and negligent acts Raleigh truck accident attorneys look for to determine who can be held responsible. Examples include:

Truck drivers who were too tired or were otherwise negligent when operating their vehicles.
Trucking companies that negligently hired unfit drivers, violated Hours-of-Service rules, or committed other regulatory violations.
Vehicle maintenance companies responsible for inadequate truck maintenance.
Third party companies or distributors that overloaded delivery trucks / big rigs, or loaded unsecured cargo.
Truck or auto part manufacturers that made defective products.

Because there may be multiple potentially liable parties – and because the stakes are often elevated when victims suffer serious injuries or wrongful death – truck accident claims can be complex. If you’re in need of a reputable North Carolina truck accident law firm, our truck wreck lawyers have the experience and resources to help.
Is It Worth Getting a Truck Wreck Lawyer After a Truck Accident?

The value of your truck accident case depends on the facts of your case – including the nature and severity of your injuries, the extent of resulting damages, and the ability of the at fault parties to pay.

At Edwards Kirby, our experienced Raleigh truck accident attorneys can review the facts of your truck accident along with the damages you incurred to arrive at an estimated value range for your case. This estimate is vital to negotiating a full and fair settlement, and when pursuing litigation, if necessary.

Examples of our Raleigh truck and car accident case results:

$10.75M recovery over a fatal truck wreck that resulted in the deaths of two children, and brain injury to a third.
$9.45M settlement over a fatal tanker truck wreck alleged to have been caused by a company that improperly allowed traffic to back up while performing work on I-95.
$5.35M recovery for the family of a law enforcement officer killed in a tractor-trailer wreck.
$4.6M recovery for a woman who was struck by a tow truck returning from a repossession.

To help clients maximize compensation, our Raleigh truck accident attorneys work meticulously to determine an underlying cause and explore all available insurance coverage, including commercial insurance policies, and underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage. We also work closely with reconstruction, medical, and financial experts to assess fault and liability, the long-term impact of injuries, and projected future damages.
Record Setting Results
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How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, like any state, there are time limitations placed upon civil claims (also known as “torts”).

Typically, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in North Carolina is 3 years from the date of the accident (N.C. Gen. Stat. section 1-52).

For wrongful death lawsuits, the statute of limitations is generally 2 years from the date of a decedent’s death (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 28A-18-2).

While victims in most negligence cases have three years to file an injury suit, and two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit, it’s widely advised to seek legal help as soon as possible. That’s not only because victims are barred from recovering damages when the statute of limitations expires, but also because early action and investigation can make a difference in a case.

Additionally, some factors may alter the statute of limitations, giving victims less (or in some cases more) time to protect their rights. This includes claims involving public / government defendants, minor children of deceased parents, latent “discoveries,” and defective products that cause death, among others. Our Raleigh tractor-trailer accident attorneys can help you address any unique circumstances that may impact your case.
How Much is My Truck Accident Case Worth?

The value of any commercial vehicle or semi-truck accident is dependent on the unique facts of a case, including:

The extent of injuries, medical expenses, and other economic losses;
Victims’ non-economic damages, including pain and suffering;
Whether a crash resulted in wrongful death;
Liability and available insurance coverage

These and other factors can vary from case to case; some victims may incur only minimal medical bills, while others with serious injuries can quickly see medical costs stack up, especially when they require multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, or are left with permanent disabilities and the need for future medical care or assistance.

As trucking collisions often result in considerable damages for victims and their loved ones, trucking companies carry large commercial insurance policies to account for potential payouts (often $1 million or more). However, insurance coverage varies, and there may be more or less coverage from which victims can recover compensation. Additionally, there may be multiple policies and arrangements that affect how much insurance money is available.

Because insurance issues are complex and case-specific, the best way to assess your potential recovery is to speak personally with attorneys who are familiar with trucking operators, insurance carriers, and litigating truck accident cases. Without the insight of proven advocates, you may risk leaving much-needed money on the table.
What Damages Can I Recover From a Truck Accident Lawsuit?

Like many other aspects of a trucking claim, damages can vary. For many victims, crashes involving delivery trucks, box trucks, or 18-wheelers can have devastating consequences, and result in a lifetime of physical, financial, and emotional burdens.

Though cases are unique, victims of truck accidents generally have a right to recover:

Economic Damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and other expenses arising from a truck accident. This also includes any future medical expenses, lost future wages, and projected future costs victims and families are likely to incur after their truck accident case is resolved. Calculating future damages may require the use of experts (including doctors, financial experts, rehabilitation specialists, and occupational therapists) who can testify to what victims will face in their futures, and how much their needs will cost.
Non-Economic Damages, such as pain and suffering, lost quality or enjoyment of life, mental anguish, and other “intangible” damages victims suffer as a result of their truck accidents (both past and future). Surviving relatives of deceased or catastrophically injured victims may also recover compensation for their grief and emotional suffering. Though these types of injuries are difficult to equate into monetary sums, they are important to take into account, and should be clearly evaluated and presented when seeking compensation in a truck accident case.

In some cases, there may also be potential for victims to recover punitive damages (NC 1D-1). A type of “exemplary” damage, punitive damages are not awarded in every case; victims may only recover punitive awards when the defendant’s conduct was so egregious it warrants further punishment, and the need to deter similar acts in the future.
Examples of Our Truck Accident Recovery Results

$10.75M: Truck wreck resulting in deaths of two children and brain injury to a third
$9.45M: Tanker truck wreck
$6.5M: Minister and wife killed in trucking accident
$5.35M: Law enforcement officer killed in tractor-trailer crash
$4.6M: Death of 3-year-old, and injuries to mother and father, from tractor-trailer crash.
$3.75M: Man injured when struck by truck that ran a red light

Edwards Kirby: Passionate Truck Accident Attorney Advocates & Proven Results

At Edwards Kirby, our team has become known for being talented trial lawyers who are passionate about guiding victims and families through complex and emotionally turbulent cases. If you have questions about our firm, your potential case, and how we can help, please contact us to request a free and confidential consultation.
Our attorneys serve truck accident victims throughout Raleigh and the state of North Carolina, and routinely counsel fellow lawyers with complex claims. Call today to speak with a member of our team.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hear From An Expert Truck Accident Lawyer
What are common causes of truck accidents?

Common causes include driver fatigue, aggressive driving, failure to inspect and maintain the truck, and impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs. Understanding these causes is vital for determining liability and pursuing a claim.
What qualifies as a commercial truck, and why is it important in truck accident cases?

A commercial truck is any vehicle used for business purposes or to transport goods. This includes tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and tanker trucks. Identifying the vehicle as a commercial truck is crucial as it implicates specific federal and state regulations and can affect liability and compensation in accident cases.
How do truck accident claims differ from regular car accident claims?

Truck accident claims are often more complex than car accident claims due to the size of the trucks, potential severity of injuries, and the involvement of commercial entities. These factors can lead to more complicated legal and insurance issues, making it essential to have experienced legal representation.
What should I do immediately following a truck accident?

Immediately following a truck accident, ensure your safety and seek medical attention. Avoid discussing fault at the scene and don’t negotiate with trucking or insurance representatives without legal advice. Document the scene and contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible.
If You or A Loved One Has Been Injured Call Edwards Kirby Today!
919-780-5400
OUR COMMITMENT TO RALEIGH VICTIMS

Raleigh, often associated with its status as the “City of Oaks,” is a hub of technological innovation and progress. If you’ve been in a truck accident in Raleigh, our Raleigh truck accident lawyers are ready to support you. We understand the complexities of such accidents and will fight tirelessly for your rights and compensation. Let us handle the legal aspects while you recover in this growing and vibrant city.

In North Carolina, our roads are filled with tractor-trailers that haul goods across the state and commercial trucks that deliver locally. While these trucks are essential to our state’s economy, they are also very dangerous because of their size and weight. When you have an accident with a tractor-trailer, they usually cause serious, disabling, or fatal injuries that have life-altering consequences. We care about making sure that, after a truck wreck, our clients get the compensation they deserve to put their lives back together.

Because commercial trucks and tractor-trailers are massive machines that pose risks to public safety, the trucking industry is subject to numerous regulations (Title 49, Parts 350-399) and driver qualifications. Trucking operators and others involved in commercial trucking also have legal obligations to take reasonable measures to ensure the safety of people on the road.

Despite these precautionary measures, not everyone complies with traffic laws, trucking regulations, or their duty of care – all of which can result in a truck accident with major consequences when they involve cargo carriers. Fortunately, victims injured by the negligent or wrongful acts of others, and families who lose loved ones in preventable truck wrecks, have the right to seek compensation for their damages by holding at-fault parties financially responsible.

Determining who can be held liable for a semi-truck accident is a fact-specific matter that varies from case to case. Even if truck wrecks are caused by negligent truckers – which they often are – truck drivers may not be the only party to bear financial responsibility for damages. That’s because trucking operators are often responsible for their employees, and because they may have been negligent as well.

While investigations into fault and liability are crucial to these cases, there are a number of common causes, violations, and negligent acts Raleigh truck accident attorneys look for to determine who can be held responsible. Examples include:

Truck drivers who were too tired or were otherwise negligent when operating their vehicles.
Trucking companies that negligently hired unfit drivers, violated Hours-of-Service rules, or committed other regulatory violations.
Vehicle maintenance companies responsible for inadequate truck maintenance.
Third party companies or distributors that overloaded delivery trucks / big rigs, or loaded unsecured cargo.
Truck or auto part manufacturers that made defective products.

Because there may be multiple potentially liable parties – and because the stakes are often elevated when victims suffer serious injuries or wrongful death – truck accident claims can be complex. If you’re in need of a reputable North Carolina truck accident law firm, our truck wreck lawyers have the experience and resources to help.
Is It Worth Getting a Truck Wreck Lawyer After a Truck Accident?

The value of your truck accident case depends on the facts of your case – including the nature and severity of your injuries, the extent of resulting damages, and the ability of the at fault parties to pay.

At Edwards Kirby, our experienced Raleigh truck accident attorneys can review the facts of your truck accident along with the damages you incurred to arrive at an estimated value range for your case. This estimate is vital to negotiating a full and fair settlement, and when pursuing litigation, if necessary.

Examples of our Raleigh truck and car accident case results:

$10.75M recovery over a fatal truck wreck that resulted in the deaths of two children, and brain injury to a third.
$9.45M settlement over a fatal tanker truck wreck alleged to have been caused by a company that improperly allowed traffic to back up while performing work on I-95.
$5.35M recovery for the family of a law enforcement officer killed in a tractor-trailer wreck.
$4.6M recovery for a woman who was struck by a tow truck returning from a repossession.

To help clients maximize compensation, our Raleigh truck accident attorneys work meticulously to determine an underlying cause and explore all available insurance coverage, including commercial insurance policies, and underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage. We also work closely with reconstruction, medical, and financial experts to assess fault and liability, the long-term impact of injuries, and projected future damages.
Record Setting Results
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How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, like any state, there are time limitations placed upon civil claims (also known as “torts”).

Typically, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in North Carolina is 3 years from the date of the accident (N.C. Gen. Stat. section 1-52).

For wrongful death lawsuits, the statute of limitations is generally 2 years from the date of a decedent’s death (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 28A-18-2).

While victims in most negligence cases have three years to file an injury suit, and two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit, it’s widely advised to seek legal help as soon as possible. That’s not only because victims are barred from recovering damages when the statute of limitations expires, but also because early action and investigation can make a difference in a case.

Additionally, some factors may alter the statute of limitations, giving victims less (or in some cases more) time to protect their rights. This includes claims involving public / government defendants, minor children of deceased parents, latent “discoveries,” and defective products that cause death, among others. Our Raleigh tractor-trailer accident attorneys can help you address any unique circumstances that may impact your case.
How Much is My Truck Accident Case Worth?

The value of any commercial vehicle or semi-truck accident is dependent on the unique facts of a case, including:

The extent of injuries, medical expenses, and other economic losses;
Victims’ non-economic damages, including pain and suffering;
Whether a crash resulted in wrongful death;
Liability and available insurance coverage

These and other factors can vary from case to case; some victims may incur only minimal medical bills, while others with serious injuries can quickly see medical costs stack up, especially when they require multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, or are left with permanent disabilities and the need for future medical care or assistance.

As trucking collisions often result in considerable damages for victims and their loved ones, trucking companies carry large commercial insurance policies to account for potential payouts (often $1 million or more). However, insurance coverage varies, and there may be more or less coverage from which victims can recover compensation. Additionally, there may be multiple policies and arrangements that affect how much insurance money is available.

Because insurance issues are complex and case-specific, the best way to assess your potential recovery is to speak personally with attorneys who are familiar with trucking operators, insurance carriers, and litigating truck accident cases. Without the insight of proven advocates, you may risk leaving much-needed money on the table.
What Damages Can I Recover From a Truck Accident Lawsuit?

Like many other aspects of a trucking claim, damages can vary. For many victims, crashes involving delivery trucks, box trucks, or 18-wheelers can have devastating consequences, and result in a lifetime of physical, financial, and emotional burdens.

Though cases are unique, victims of truck accidents generally have a right to recover:

Economic Damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and other expenses arising from a truck accident. This also includes any future medical expenses, lost future wages, and projected future costs victims and families are likely to incur after their truck accident case is resolved. Calculating future damages may require the use of experts (including doctors, financial experts, rehabilitation specialists, and occupational therapists) who can testify to what victims will face in their futures, and how much their needs will cost.
Non-Economic Damages, such as pain and suffering, lost quality or enjoyment of life, mental anguish, and other “intangible” damages victims suffer as a result of their truck accidents (both past and future). Surviving relatives of deceased or catastrophically injured victims may also recover compensation for their grief and emotional suffering. Though these types of injuries are difficult to equate into monetary sums, they are important to take into account, and should be clearly evaluated and presented when seeking compensation in a truck accident case.

In some cases, there may also be potential for victims to recover punitive damages (NC 1D-1). A type of “exemplary” damage, punitive damages are not awarded in every case; victims may only recover punitive awards when the defendant’s conduct was so egregious it warrants further punishment, and the need to deter similar acts in the future.
Examples of Our Truck Accident Recovery Results

$10.75M: Truck wreck resulting in deaths of two children and brain injury to a third
$9.45M: Tanker truck wreck
$6.5M: Minister and wife killed in trucking accident
$5.35M: Law enforcement officer killed in tractor-trailer crash
$4.6M: Death of 3-year-old, and injuries to mother and father, from tractor-trailer crash.
$3.75M: Man injured when struck by truck that ran a red light

Edwards Kirby: Passionate Truck Accident Attorney Advocates & Proven Results

At Edwards Kirby, our team has become known for being talented trial lawyers who are passionate about guiding victims and families through complex and emotionally turbulent cases. If you have questions about our firm, your potential case, and how we can help, please contact us to request a free and confidential consultation.
Our attorneys serve truck accident victims throughout Raleigh and the state of North Carolina, and routinely counsel fellow lawyers with complex claims. Call today to speak with a member of our team.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hear From An Expert Truck Accident Lawyer
What are common causes of truck accidents?

Common causes include driver fatigue, aggressive driving, failure to inspect and maintain the truck, and impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs. Understanding these causes is vital for determining liability and pursuing a claim.
What qualifies as a commercial truck, and why is it important in truck accident cases?

A commercial truck is any vehicle used for business purposes or to transport goods. This includes tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and tanker trucks. Identifying the vehicle as a commercial truck is crucial as it implicates specific federal and state regulations and can affect liability and compensation in accident cases.
How do truck accident claims differ from regular car accident claims?

Truck accident claims are often more complex than car accident claims due to the size of the trucks, potential severity of injuries, and the involvement of commercial entities. These factors can lead to more complicated legal and insurance issues, making it essential to have experienced legal representation.
What should I do immediately following a truck accident?

Immediately following a truck accident, ensure your safety and seek medical attention. Avoid discussing fault at the scene and don’t negotiate with trucking or insurance representatives without legal advice. Document the scene and contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible.
If You or A Loved One Has Been Injured Call Edwards Kirby Today!
919-780-5400
OUR COMMITMENT TO RALEIGH VICTIMS

Raleigh, often associated with its status as the “City of Oaks,” is a hub of technological innovation and progress. If you’ve been in a truck accident in Raleigh, our Raleigh truck accident lawyers are ready to support you. We understand the complexities of such accidents and will fight tirelessly for your rights and compensation. Let us handle the legal aspects while you recover in this growing and vibrant city.