Michigan Truck Accident Lawyers & Commercial Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

Updated May 2026 | Reviewed by Chrissy Hagen, Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer

With over 100 years of collective personal injury representation and millions of dollars recovered for injured Michigan families, our Michigan truck accident practice is headed by Chrissy Hagen, Board Certified in Truck Accident Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, alongside firm founder Jules B. Olsman (40+ years of trial experience), Donna M. MacKenzie (past president of the Michigan Association for Justice and repeat Michigan Top 100 Super Lawyer), and Emily Peacock (2025–2026 Chair of the AAJ Women Trial Lawyers Caucus). Recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Law Firms, Avvo, and dbusiness, our team is well-positioned to vigorously represent victims of 18-wheeler, semi-truck, tractor-trailer, and commercial vehicle crashes throughout Michigan.

Commercial trucks, including 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and delivery vehicles, are much larger and heavier than passenger cars. When these vehicles collide with cars, motorcycles, or pedestrians, the results are often catastrophic. Victims frequently suffer severe injuries, permanent disability, or even death. Law firms and personal injury attorneys with experience in auto accident and car accident cases are not necessarily equipped to handle the unique challenges faced by semi-truck accident victims.

At Olsman MacKenzie Peacock, our Michigan truck accident attorneys have decades of experience holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable. Truck accident cases are more complex than standard car accident cases due to the interplay of federal and state trucking laws. We understand both federal and state trucking regulations, and we use that knowledge to uncover violations, identify fault, and recover full compensation for our clients. Our firm has a proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts in truck accident cases.

It is important to consult a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to help preserve critical evidence, meet filing deadlines, and complete every step in the legal process with confidence.

Call 1-800-366-8653 – Speak with an experienced Truck Accident Attorney

How Are Truck Accidents Different from Car Accidents?

Unlike ordinary car crashes, truck accidents are typically more severe and often involve:

Multiple liable parties – including the truck driver, trucking company, contractors, or maintenance providers.
Federal regulations – such as those enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which govern driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and safety procedures, and play a crucial role in Michigan truck accident cases.
Severe injuries – due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, truck accidents often result in higher medical costs and longer recovery times than auto accidents and are more likely to involve wrongful death claims.
Complex investigations – evidence gathering for truck accidents involves digging into logbooks, black box data, maintenance records, and company policies.

Because of these differences, Michigan truck accident cases are far more complex than standard auto accident cases. Federal and state trucking laws, including FMCSA regulations, significantly impact liability and the claims process. Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries than car accident cases, making experienced legal representation essential for a successful claim. However, it is also critical to work with a Michigan truck accident lawyer who understands both state personal injury law and federal trucking regulations.

FMCSA Violations in Michigan Truck Accident Cases

Commercial trucking companies and drivers must comply with safety regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Many Michigan truck accidents involve FMCSA violations such as hours-of-service breaches, inadequate driver training, falsified electronic logs, improper cargo loading, and failure to maintain commercial vehicles. Our truck accident lawyers investigate every potential violation and preserve the evidence needed to hold negligent carriers accountable.

Hours of Service Violations and Driver Fatigue

Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations limit how long a commercial driver can be on the road without rest, but pressure to meet delivery deadlines often leads to falsified logs and fatigued driving. Our attorneys obtain electronic logging device (ELD) records, GPS data, fuel receipts, and dispatch communications to uncover HOS violations and prove negligence.

Black Box Evidence and Electronic Data

Modern commercial trucks contain electronic control modules (ECMs), event data recorders, dash cameras, and GPS systems that record speed, braking, steering inputs, and driver activity in the moments before a crash. This electronic evidence can disappear within days if the truck continues operating or the trucking company controls the vehicle. We send immediate preservation letters and work with reconstruction experts to secure and analyze black box data before it is lost.

Potential Trucking Company Liability and Insurance Claims

It is not only drivers who may be at fault. Trucking companies can also be held liable for negligence, including:

Negligent hiring – employing drivers with suspended licenses, DUIs, or poor safety records.
Improper training – failing to train drivers on safety rules and defensive driving.
Unreasonable schedules – pressuring drivers to meet impossible delivery times that encourage speeding or skipping rest.
Maintenance failures – neglecting required inspections or repairs on brakes, tires, and steering systems.
Cargo violations – overloading trailers or failing to secure cargo properly.

Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, insurance companies, and insurance adjusters, which adds complexity to determining liability and negotiating settlements. Insurance coverage can be complicated, and uncovering all relevant insurance policies is essential for maximizing compensation.

Building a strong case frequently requires hiring experts such as accident reconstructionists and medical economists, which can be costly but are critical for proving damages. Truck accident settlements are typically larger than those for ordinary auto accidents due to the severity of injuries and the higher insurance policy limits associated with commercial vehicles. To maximize compensation, it is important to have an experienced truck accident lawyer willing to go to trial, especially when insurance companies know that some attorneys always settle.

Our truck accident attorneys thoroughly investigate every potential area of company negligence and insurance claims to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable and all avenues of compensation are pursued.

What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Michigan?

Some of the most frequent causes of truck accidents, including truck crashes and Michigan truck crashes, include:

Driver fatigue or drowsy driving
Distracted driving, including cell phone use
Speeding or aggressive driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Improper lane changes or wide turns
Mechanical failures such as brake or tire blowouts
Jackknife accidents from improper braking
Rollovers caused by shifting or unsecured loads

Many truck crashes occur due to driver error, unsafe trucking practices, and hazardous road conditions. In 2024, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recorded 5,118 crashes involving heavy trucks and buses. Understanding local road networks and court procedures can be a significant advantage when investigating how and why a crash occurred.

What Types of Injuries Are Commonly Caused By Michigan Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents often result in some of the most severe and life-altering injuries seen in motor vehicle accidents. Due to the massive force involved in a Michigan truck accident, victims may suffer:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Amputations and loss of limbs
Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
Severe burns and lacerations
Multiple fractures and orthopedic injuries

These catastrophic injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including emergency care, surgeries, long-term hospitalization, and ongoing rehabilitation. Many truck accident victims face permanent disabilities that impact their ability to work, care for themselves, or enjoy life as they once did.

Navigating the legal process after a serious truck accident can be overwhelming, especially while coping with life changing injuries. As Michigan truck accident attorneys with decades of legal experience, we know how to build a compelling case for accident victims with catastrophic injuries. We are committed to helping secure maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care needs. If you or a loved one has suffered catastrophic injuries in a Michigan truck accident, contact an experienced truck accident attorney to protect your rights and guide you through every step of your recovery.

Contact OMP Today if You Have Been Involved in a Truck Accident | Call 1-800-366-8653

What Compensation Can a Truck Accident Attorney Recover?

Truck accidents often result in devastating injuries that can affect every aspect of a victim’s life. As Michigan truck accident lawyers with decades of experience, we understand that auto insurance policies in Michigan provide limited coverage for vehicle damage, property damage, and physical and emotional injuries, making it crucial for truck accident victims to understand their insurance coverage options. We can help you recover compensation not only for immediate medical bills, but also for the long-term financial, physical, and emotional consequences of a crash.

Under Michigan’s no-fault law, clients typically seek medical and wage loss benefits from their own insurance regardless of fault, and individuals in a passenger vehicle involved in a truck accident may be entitled to specific no-fault benefits. Additionally, under Michigan’s No-Fault insurance laws, victims are entitled to collect No-Fault PIP benefits, which cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. If you are injured in a truck accident in Michigan, you must file an application for No-Fault benefits within one year of the accident to avoid denial of your claim. Truck accident settlements are typically larger than those for ordinary auto accidents due to the severity of injuries and the higher insurance policy limits associated with commercial vehicles.

Depending on your case, compensation may include:

Medical Expenses and Future Care Needs -This includes emergency room treatment, hospital bills, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care. In severe cases, it may also cover home health aides, medical equipment, or modifications to your home or vehicle to accommodate permanent injuries. Truck accidents often involve catastrophic injuries, which can significantly increase the value of your claim.
Lost Wages and Loss of Future Earning Capacity – Many truck accident victims are unable to work for weeks or months after the crash. In catastrophic injury cases, victims may never return to their previous job. Compensation may include wages lost during recovery as well as the loss of future earning ability if the injury permanently limits your career options.
Pain and Suffering – Beyond financial losses, the law recognizes the immense physical pain and emotional trauma caused by a serious truck accident. Compensation for pain and suffering is meant to account for daily physical discomfort, anxiety, depression, loss of enjoyment of life, and other hardships caused by the crash.
Permanent Disability or Disfigurement –Truck accidents often leave victims with life-altering injuries such as spinal cord damage, amputations, paralysis, or severe burns. Compensation may be awarded for the long-term physical limitations, scarring, or disfigurement that impact quality of life.
Loss of Consortium and Companionship – Families may also be entitled to damages for the loss of companionship, guidance, and support when a spouse, parent, or child is seriously injured. This type of compensation recognizes the effect of the accident on family relationships and emotional well-being.
Wrongful Death Damages – If a loved one was killed in a truck accident, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and damages for the emotional suffering of those left behind.

Victims of truck accidents in Michigan can recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Every case is unique, and the value of a claim depends on the severity of the injuries, the long-term effects on the victim’s life, and the degree of negligence involved. At Olsman MacKenzie Peacock, our truck accident attorneys work with medical experts, financial professionals, and accident reconstruction specialists to build strong cases, uncover all relevant insurance coverage, and seek maximum recovery for our clients.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Michigan?

In most cases, Michigan law gives injured individuals three years from the date of the truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver, trucking company, or other responsible parties. Wrongful death claims are also generally subject to a three-year statute of limitations, although the calculation may run from the date of death rather than the date of the crash in certain situations. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar recovery, regardless of how serious the injuries may be.

Truck accident cases often involve multiple overlapping claims, each with different deadlines and procedural requirements. In addition to any lawsuit against the negligent parties, Michigan’s No-Fault system requires injured individuals to submit an application for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits within one year of the crash. Failing to timely apply for No-Fault benefits can result in denial of medical expense and wage loss coverage even if the injured person would otherwise qualify.

There are also important exceptions and complications that can affect the statute of limitations in Michigan truck accident litigation. Some examples include:

Claims involving minors may be tolled or extended under certain circumstances until the child reaches adulthood.
Claims involving individuals who are legally incapacitated may qualify for additional time depending on the nature and duration of the incapacity.
If a governmental entity contributed to the crash, such as through defective roadway design, poor maintenance, missing signage, or dangerous construction zones, special notice requirements and shorter deadlines may apply. Claims against municipalities and government agencies can become barred far earlier than the standard three-year period.
In some situations, the discovery rule or fraudulent concealment principles may affect when certain claims accrue, particularly if critical facts were intentionally hidden or could not reasonably have been discovered immediately.
Interstate trucking cases may also involve additional jurisdictional and procedural issues if the trucking company, driver, cargo broker, or maintenance provider is located outside Michigan.

Because truck accident cases frequently involve catastrophic injuries, commercial insurance carriers, federal trucking regulations, and complex liability issues, it is important to investigate the case as early as possible. An experienced Michigan truck accident attorney can identify applicable filing deadlines, preserve evidence, evaluate potential exceptions to the statute of limitations, and help ensure that important claims are not lost due to procedural mistakes.

Who can be held liable in a commercial truck accident?

One of the biggest differences between car accidents and truck accidents is the number of potential parties that may be legally responsible. Michigan truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, insurance company, and insurance adjuster, each with their own interests and responsibilities.

Trucking operations often involve multiple companies and individuals, ranging from the driver behind the wheel to the corporations that own, load, or service the vehicle. Because of this, determining liability can be complex, especially when insurance coverage is involved. Uncovering all relevant insurance policies is essential for maximizing compensation, as insurance coverage can be layered and complicated in these cases. Additionally, expert connections, such as accident reconstructionists and medical economists, can significantly strengthen a truck accident case by providing critical evidence and analysis. It’s important to note that truck accident cases are more complex than standard car accidents due to the interplay of federal and state trucking laws, which add further layers of regulation and liability.

A thorough investigation by an experienced Michigan truck accident attorney is critical to identifying all sources of responsibility. Potential defendants may include:

The Truck Driver. A truck driver may be liable if they caused the crash through reckless or negligent behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, ignoring rest requirements, or failing to properly secure their load.
The Trucking Company. Trucking companies can often be held legally responsible for their drivers’ actions. They may also be independently liable if they failed to properly vet drivers during the hiring process, provide adequate training, enforce safe scheduling, or perform required inspections and maintenance.
Parts or Vehicle Manufacturers. A defective truck part can contribute to a crash. Faulty brakes, defective tires, or steering system failures are common examples. In such cases, the manufacturer or distributor of the defective product may be held liable under product liability law.
Maintenance Contractors. Many trucking companies outsource maintenance to third-party contractors. If a repair shop or maintenance company failed to identify or fix mechanical issues such as worn brakes or unsafe tires, they may share responsibility for the accident.
Cargo Loaders and Shippers. Cargo must be properly loaded and balanced to prevent rollovers, jackknifes, or shifting loads. If a shipper or loading company overloaded the trailer, failed to secure cargo, or ignored federal securement regulations, they may be held liable for a crash.
Other Third Parties. In some cases, liability may extend to government entities that failed to maintain safe roads or to contractors who created dangerous construction zones without proper signage.

Because multiple parties may share fault, truck accident litigation requires extensive investigation into records, contracts, and safety practices. At Olsman MacKenzie Peacock, our truck crash attorneys work with accident reconstruction specialists, industry experts, and investigators to uncover every layer of responsibility. This approach helps ensure that victims and families can pursue the maximum compensation available under Michigan law.

What should I do after a truck accident?

Seek immediate medical attention.
Call the police and request an accident report.
Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and injuries if possible.
Collect witness information.
Preserve evidence as soon as possible after the accident happened; critical data like black box information, driver logs, and maintenance records can be lost or destroyed if not secured promptly. Trucking companies often send investigators to the scene within hours after a crash occurred, so early legal representation is essential to ensure all evidence is collected and preserved.
Contact a Michigan truck accident lawyer before speaking with the trucking company or insurer.

Were you or a loved on injured in a truck accident? Call for a free consultation: 1-800-366-8653 |No Fee Unless We Win

Truck Accident Settlements and Verdicts

The outcome of a truck accident case can vary widely based on the severity of injuries, the extent of damages, and the liability of the parties involved. Truck accident victims may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical bills for emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing treatment
Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
Pain and suffering resulting from severe injuries
Other damages such as property loss and emotional distress

As experienced truck accident attorneys, we can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Our firm has a proven track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for truck accident victims. The following settlements are examples of results achieved by our experienced Michigan truck accident attorneys in truck accident and commercial vehicle negligence cases. Please note that each settlement reflects the individual circumstances of the case and does not necessarily guarantee similar results.

$1,500,000
“Settlement for wrongful death in a rollover tractor-trailer crash”

$1,100,000
“Settlement for a child injured in a rear-end truck accident in a construction zone”

$1,100,000
“Settlement for a client injured in a construction zone when a commercial tractor-trailer made an improper turn and struck the vehicle. The case established liability against both the commercial driver and the motor carrier for failure to safely navigate a known and marked construction zone hazard. The combined negligence of the driver and the carrier’s failure to adequately train and supervise the driver on construction zone protocols supported claims against both defendants.”

$915,000
“Settlement for the family of a man who died after a vehicle equipped with a modified hand-control apparatus accelerated into Lake St. Clair. The case involved the negligent installation of aftermarket hand controls that failed to meet applicable safety standards, establishing product liability against the installer alongside the motor vehicle negligence claim. Commercial vehicle modification cases introduce product liability defendants and product liability insurance coverage pools in addition to the vehicle owner’s liability coverage.”

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Schedule a free consultation with a tenacious truck accident lawyer today. We are dedicated to helping accident victims recover the compensation they need to rebuild their lives after a devastating crash.

Why Choose Olsman MacKenzie Peacock?

For decades, families across Michigan have trusted Olsman MacKenzie Peacock to fight for justice in serious injury, wrongful death, and catastrophic accident cases. Our team of nationally recognized trial attorneys combines compassion with relentless advocacy, giving clients the strength and resources needed to take on trucking companies, insurers, and corporations.

As with most reputable law firms handling truck accident cases, we work on a contingency fee basis, so clients do not pay unless we win. To maximize compensation, it’s crucial to choose a Michigan truck accident lawyer who is willing to go to trial, as insurers often offer better settlements when they know your attorney is prepared to litigate. If a full and fair settlement cannot be reached, we will not hesitate to take a case to trial.

Jules B. Olsman – Founder of the firm with more than 40 years of experience, Jules is a pioneer in personal injury and nursing home litigation. He has dedicated his career to protecting vulnerable individuals and securing millions in recoveries for Michigan families.
Donna M. MacKenzie – Past president of the Michigan Association for Justice and a leader in safety advocacy, Donna has been repeatedly recognized as one of Michigan’s Top 100 Super Lawyers. She is a national authority on personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Emily Peacock – Serving as the 2025–2026 Chair of the American Association for Justice Women Trial Lawyers Caucus, Emily is known for her energy and dedication to clients in cases involving catastrophic injuries, nursing home abuse, and wrongful death.
Ronda Little – Advocates for individuals and families harmed by medical malpractice and personal injury, bringing compassion and persistence to every case.
Lauren Walson – Represents victims of wrongful death and nursing home abuse with determination and a client-focused approach.
Chrissy Hagen – Experienced in complex litigation, Chrissy is committed to holding negligent parties accountable and securing justice for Michigan families.
Michael C. Dennis – Skilled trial lawyer with extensive courtroom experience, Michael represents clients across Michigan in serious injury and wrongful death claims.
Michaelene Sowinski – Dedicated to exposing neglect and advocating for victims of abuse and catastrophic injuries with compassion and skill.

Together, our accident attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for clients injured in truck accidents, motor vehicle crashes, medical malpractice, and other catastrophic cases. Beyond financial compensation, we are dedicated to raising safety standards and preventing future tragedies across Michigan.

Client Review Highlights

“Chrissy Hagen is an amazing personal injury attorney. She is someone I would trust completely if one of my friends or family members is injured as a result of a truck accident.”

“Christina Hagen at Olsman MacKenzie Peacock is truly exceptional. She fought tirelessly for our family and was always available to answer questions and guide us through the process.”

“The attorneys and staff genuinely cared about what our family was going through. We always felt supported and informed.”

“Professional, compassionate, and incredibly thorough. They treated us like family from beginning to end.”

“Olsman MacKenzie Peacock helped us through one of the most difficult times in our lives. Their experience and dedication made all the difference.”

Our attorneys and staff are committed to helping injury victims recover while aggressively pursuing accountability against negligent trucking companies, drivers, and insurers. From the initial investigation through litigation and resolution, we focus on protecting our clients and helping them move forward after devastating injuries and losses.

Schedule A Free Consultation With An Experienced Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At Olsman MacKenzie Peacock, we handle every stage of your truck accident lawsuit and help you recover compensation. Further, we represent truck accident victims on a contingency fee basis so injury victims pay nothing unless we win.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident, call us at 1-800-366-8653 or contact us online for a free consultation. Our Michigan truck accident attorneys will review your case, explain your legal options, and aggressively fight for the recovery you deserve.

Contact Free Consultation | No Fee Unless We Win | Call 1-800-366-8653

Truck Accidents