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Being struck from behind can happen in an instant — but the physical pain, emotional distress, and financial challenges that follow can last a lifetime. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick (LSM), we’ve spent more than 25 years representing auto accident victims throughout Oakland County and Metro Detroit, helping people rebuild their lives after serious rear-end collisions.
A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These accidents are among the most common in Michigan, often happening at intersections, in stop-and-go traffic, or during poor weather conditions. Despite how common they are, the injuries they cause are often severe — from whiplash and spinal trauma to lasting emotional distress and lost income.
Our attorneys understand that being hit from behind isn’t just a “fender-bender.” It can disrupt your life, affect your ability to work, and leave you struggling with medical bills and insurance headaches. That’s why we’re here: to take the burden off your shoulders and help you move forward with confidence.
When you work with LSM, you get more than one lawyer — you get our entire team of skilled attorneys, paralegals, and staff dedicated to your recovery. We’re a small, community-focused firm that treats every client like family, providing the attention, transparency, and compassion you deserve.
Determining Liability in a Rear-End Collision
Establishing who is at fault in a rear-end collision might seem straightforward — but in Michigan, the details matter. Insurance companies often try to shift blame or minimize responsibility, making it essential to have an experienced legal team on your side. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick (LSM), our attorneys conduct a thorough, fact-based investigation to uncover the truth and hold negligent drivers accountable.
Here’s how our team proves liability in rear-end accidents:
- Reviewing Police Reports, Dashcam, or Surveillance Footage
We carefully examine every piece of documentation and footage available, identifying key details that establish how the collision occurred and who was responsible. - Gathering Witness Statements
Testimonies from bystanders, passengers, or other drivers can provide vital context about driver behavior, speed, or distractions at the time of the crash. - Consulting Accident Reconstruction Experts
Our firm works with engineers and crash specialists who can recreate the scene to demonstrate the sequence of events — from braking distances to vehicle speed and reaction times. - Examining Cell Phone and Vehicle Data
In many cases, phone records or vehicle black box data reveal whether the at-fault driver was texting, speeding, or failed to brake in time. This evidence can be crucial in proving negligence.
Understanding Michigan’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Michigan follows a comparative negligence system, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to recover damages. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible for the collision, you could still recover 80% of your total damages. However, determining these percentages requires strong evidence — and that’s where our team’s experience makes all the difference.
Compensation for Rear-End Collision Victims
A serious rear-end collision can turn your life upside down — from hospital stays and physical pain to lost wages and emotional distress. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we believe victims shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of another driver’s negligence. Our attorneys fight tirelessly to recover every dollar you’re entitled to under Michigan law.
Here are the types of compensation available in a rear-end collision case:
- Medical Expenses
Covers all medical costs related to your injuries, including emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, prescriptions, and any long-term or future treatments. - Lost Wages & Future Income
Provides reimbursement for time missed from work and compensation for diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job. - Pain and Suffering
Accounts for the physical pain, emotional anguish, and psychological trauma caused by the crash and its aftermath. - Property Damage
Includes the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the accident. - Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Compensates for the inability to participate in hobbies, activities, or family events that once brought fulfillment and joy. - Wrongful Death Damages
In cases where a rear-end crash results in a fatality, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and future financial support.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we don’t just calculate numbers — we measure the real impact your accident has had on your life. Our goal is to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available, not just what the insurance company is willing to offer.
What To Do After a Rear-End Collision in Oakland County
A rear-end collision can leave you feeling shaken, sore, and unsure about what to do next. The steps you take immediately after an accident can make a major difference in both your physical recovery and your ability to pursue compensation later. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick (LSM), we guide our clients through every stage of the process — starting from the moment the crash occurs.
Here’s a simple checklist of what to do after a rear-end collision in Oakland County:
- Get Medical Help Immediately
Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to see a doctor right away. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not appear until hours or days later. Getting examined creates an official medical record linking your injuries to the crash — critical evidence for your case. - Call the Police
Always contact law enforcement and make sure an official crash report is filed. The police report provides a neutral record of the incident and can be key when determining fault. - Exchange Information
Collect names, phone numbers, addresses, license plate numbers, and insurance details from everyone involved. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too — their statements can support your claim. - Take Photos and Notes
Document everything at the scene. Take pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Write down your recollection of events as soon as possible while details are fresh in your mind. - Report the Accident to Your Insurance
Notify your insurance company promptly, but avoid giving a detailed statement or signing anything before speaking with an attorney. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to minimize payouts or shift blame. - Contact Liss, Shapero & Mitnick
Before you speak to the other driver’s insurance company or accept any settlement, call our team. We’ll handle the paperwork, protect your rights, and manage all communication so you can focus on your recovery.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, our clients always speak with real people who know their cases — never call centers or automated systems. We’re here when you need answers, reassurance, and results.
How LSM Builds Strong Rear-End Collision Cases
When you’ve been hit from behind, you deserve a legal team that knows how to fight — and win. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we combine decades of experience with hands-on, personalized attention to build the strongest possible case for every client we represent.
Here’s how our firm turns careful preparation into powerful results:
- Comprehensive Investigation
We gather and analyze every piece of evidence — from police reports and vehicle data to witness statements and surveillance footage — to clearly establish who was at fault and why. - Medical Coordination
Our attorneys work closely with doctors, physical therapists, and specialists to document your injuries and treatment. This ensures that your medical records fully support the extent of your damages. - Negotiation with Insurers
We know the tactics insurance companies use to deny or undervalue claims. Our lawyers counter with solid evidence and skilled negotiation to secure fair, full settlements. - Trial-Ready Approach
If insurers refuse to offer what’s fair, our team is always ready to take your case to trial. With years of experience in Michigan courts, we are respected by both opposing counsel and local judges for our preparation and professionalism. - Open Communication
You’ll never be left wondering about the status of your case. Our attorneys maintain honest, consistent communication so you always know where things stand and what comes next.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, our goal is simple — to secure justice and fair compensation for every client we represent. We approach every case with the same commitment: integrity, compassion, and relentless advocacy. Because when you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, it’s not just about a case — it’s about your life, your health, and your future.
Reclaim Your Life After a Rear-End Collision
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision in Oakland County, you don’t have to take on the insurance companies alone. The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming — medical bills, vehicle repairs, missed work, and the frustration of dealing with insurance adjusters who don’t have your best interests at heart.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. We’ll fight to protect your rights and secure the full compensation you deserve — with compassion, integrity, and proven results that matter.
For more than 25 years, our firm has been trusted by accident victims across Berkley, Oakland County, and Metro Detroit. We treat every client like family, providing personalized attention and strong, local representation when you need it most.
Your story matters. Your recovery matters. And with Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, you’ll have a team that puts Your Rights First.
📍 Liss, Shapero & Mitnick
2695 Coolidge Highway
Berkley, MI 48072
📞 Call: 248-584-1300
📞 Toll-Free: 1-855-LISS-LAW (547-7529)
🌐 Visit: www.lsmlawyers.com
💬 Free Consultation – No Fee Unless We Win.