Crashes involving snow plows and city vehicles create confusion because government agencies follow special liability rules that differ from standard accident claims. Strict immunity laws, tight deadlines, and complex legal exceptions determine whether injured victims can pursue compensation. With experienced legal guidance, victims can navigate these challenges, prove negligence, and hold a municipality accountable.
Michigan winters don’t play fair. One moment you’re navigating ice, slush, and near-whiteout conditions… the next, a snow plow or other city vehicle barrels into you, leaving you injured, shaken, and staring at a twisted mess of metal and headlights.
You’re in pain. You’re scared. And as the medical bills start piling up, one question won’t stop spinning in your head:
“Who pays for this?”
If you’ve been hit by a municipal vehicle—especially a snow plow—your situation becomes more complicated than a typical crash. Government agencies follow different rules, different deadlines, and different liability standards. Victims often feel powerless.
At Marko Law, we step in exactly when things feel impossible. We help you cut through the legal fog surrounding city-owned vehicles and governmental immunity. And we know that world well. In fact, attorney Jon Marko has taken on—and beaten—government departments, including securing a $10.4 million verdict against the City of Detroit, as well as multiple other high-impact government-related cases that helped shape Michigan law.
When the government tries to hide behind its rules, we push back—hard.
In Michigan, cities, counties, and many public employees are protected by the Governmental Tort Liability Act. In simple terms, it means:
Most government agencies can’t be sued for negligence.
That doesn’t mean victims are out of luck—but it does mean you must fit your case into one of the statutory exceptions. And if you miss the right exception, or fail to meet a deadline, the government will slam the door on your claim.
Every case is different. Speak with an attorney to understand your rights.
One of the most important exceptions is the Motor Vehicle Exception, found in MCL 691.1405. Here’s the rule in plain language:
If a government employee negligently operates a motor vehicle and causes injury, the government CAN be held liable.
This matters because snow plows, salt trucks, and most road-service vehicles count as “motor vehicles” when operated on Michigan roads.
Negligent operation can include:
These cases are complex—but not impossible. In fact, Michigan courts have examined this issue closely. In West v. Department of Natural Resources, a case involving injuries connected to government-operated vehicles, the court analyzed the scope of the motor-vehicle exception—work that attorneys like Jon Marko have been deeply involved in.
This experience matters when your case depends on navigating this exact legal terrain.
Snow plows aren’t just large vehicles—they’re massive, steel-bladed machines often operating in the worst road conditions imaginable. To hold a city accountable, you must show that the plow operator acted negligently. Examples include:
Municipal agencies often argue that plow drivers get extra leeway because of hazardous conditions. But negligence is negligence—and many serious injuries and deaths happen because rules were not followed.
At Marko Law, we know how to gather the evidence, obtain city records, secure maintenance logs, and expose failures that the government prefers to keep buried.
Regardless of who caused the crash, Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance steps in first. This means you may be entitled to:
Even when a city vehicle is 100% at fault, you must still follow No-Fault rules—and missing a step can cost you thousands. Our team guides clients through the process so nothing gets overlooked.
To pursue a claim beyond No-Fault benefits—like pain and suffering—you must show:
Pain and suffering damages may include:
These damages are often the largest part of a case—but only if handled correctly.
If a snow plow destroys your vehicle, mailbox, or other personal property, you can make a claim against the city. But here’s the catch:
Marko Law helps clients avoid these traps and recover the compensation they’re entitled to.
Move away from traffic if you can. Winter roads are unpredictable, visibility is low, and secondary crashes happen all the time. Turn on your hazard lights and keep warm.
If you’re able, gather details while everything is fresh:
These cases often turn on proof, not assumptions.
Take pictures or videos of:
Winter weather erases evidence fast. Documenting it early gives your attorney the advantage.
Even if you “feel okay,” winter crashes can cause hidden injuries like concussions, internal trauma, or soft-tissue damage. Medical records form the foundation of your injury claim.
A formal police report is crucial—especially when the defendant is a municipality. It verifies key facts and prevents the city from rewriting the story later.
City insurance representatives may seem friendly—but their job is to limit payouts.
Don’t give statements. Don’t sign anything. Don’t agree to recorded calls.
Your words can be twisted against you. Let your attorney handle the conversations.
Government vehicle cases involve strict deadlines, immunity defenses, and legal traps. You need a team that knows how to cut through those barriers and force accountability.
At Marko Law, this is what we do.
You didn’t ask for this.
You didn’t cause this.
And you shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone.
Being hit by a snow plow or city vehicle thrusts you into a world of pain, confusion, and legal red tape—especially when the government hides behind immunity. But these cases can be won, and Marko Law has the record, the reputation, and the relentless drive to fight for you.
From multimillion-dollar verdicts to nationally recognized trial victories, our team has stood up to government agencies—and beat them. Now, we’re ready to stand up for you.
But time is not on your side. Government claims have strict, unforgiving deadlines. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case becomes.
📞 Phone: +1-313-777-7777
📍 Main Office: 220 W. Congress, 4th Floor, Detroit, MI 48226
🌐 Website: https://www.markolaw.com/
We Will Help You!
Get in touch with a real person 24/7/365.
If you’re a law firm owner and want help optimizing your practice for success, please email jon@markolaw.com
Historias reales. Resultados reales. Desde indemnizaciones por lesiones personales hasta victorias en derechos civiles, nuestros clientes confían en Marko Law para obtener justicia cuando más importa. Escuche lo que dicen personas de todo Michigan sobre su experiencia con nuestro equipo legal.
Good evening, gentlemen! Just wanted to pop in and give a big shoutout to the Marko Law squad. Gasper was an absolute assassin in the best possible way — and trust me, that’s a high compliment coming from me. In a world full of soft millennials, this guy is built different. John Eads & Gasper tag-teamed those negotiations like champs, especially with a mediator and attorney who were… let’s just say “extra spicy” with a side of confusion. Either way, I wanted to send some love and let you know I’ll be sending clients your way for the foreseeable future.
Alex Kay is absolutely a hell of a lawyer! He is compassionate and very thorough at his job! This process was a absolute breeze 🙌
I’ve been working with attorney Michael Jones for the past two years and I can honestly say I couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated or determined attorney. He has never given up on my case and continues to fight hard to make sure justice is served. He truly cares about his clients and it shows in everything he does. I’m so grateful for his commitment, integrity, and perseverance. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer who will stand by you every step of the way.
Michael Jones and his team have been nothing but kind courteous and very knowledgeable on any question that I have had this far. They always answer my questions and walk me through this process. I would recommend Marko law and Michael and his assistant Dae to anyone who needs a outstanding law firm
From intake through the entire process to date, Michael Jones and his team have been doing an excellent job representing me, and are a credit to their law firm, Jon Marco Law! The interactions and timely responses to my questions and requests have given me true faith in their ability to represent me during my case. I truly feel I could not be better represented anywhere else. Thank you Jon Marko law and Thank you Michael and Dae for all you are doing. 03/2026
Marko’s law firm truly has a great team ! Kyla in medical records is very comforting and pays great attention to detail!
I just wanted to offer some positive feedback regarding the receptionist who answers the phone. In my interactions with Melody, I found her to be very polite, cheerful and empathetic. She went above and beyond to assist me in navigating your corporate structure to ensure that I could talk directly to the person who could best help me. Due to her assistance, my issue was successfully resolved.
In my opinion, if injured in an auto accident, this is "The Best Ever Law Firm!" Marko Law is excellent! My case was handled very well! I appreciate the time Alex Kay spent with me to ensure I received the maximum payout for my case! His assistant/Paralegal Tracey was also great in handling everything Alex needed to close my case etc. Alex Kay is an awesome attorney and family man! I recommend Alex Kay and Marko Law to everyone who needs a tried and trusted Law Firm! They are the real deal if you need a maximum payout from your case! Special thanks to Jon Marko, Alex Kay, and Tracey! Kudos to everyone on the Marko Law Team!
Working with Marko Law Firm has been a superb experience! Alex Kay has done a phenomenal job handling my case thus far, and his expertise has made a stressful situation feel much less daunting. I've never dealt with a lawsuit before and he's been nothing but attentive and informative throughout the process. I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with him and hopefully things will continue to go smoothly with my suit.
Ariel Kellersohn is the best in business. If you want a lawyer who dedicates herself to your case, you have found the right place. Ariel goes above and beyond all expectations I had. Not only does she uphold herself to the highest standards of professionalism, she is also very personable and easy to talk to and makes you feel confident in your legal team. 10/10 if I could leave more than 5 stars I would!
Having Marko law handle my case was the best decision I made. Alex Kay was excellent he understood what I have been through and fought for me every step of the way. Alex dedication, hard work, and experience guided my case to a successful settlement. I can’t thank Marko Law enough for what they done for me. I would recommend them for any legal support you need.
Reno Arabo. What a fantastic experience I had working with the firm. You were extremely helpful. You made me feel like you cared about me and not about making money. The communication was amazing was amazing. You kept me informed and updated on all aspects of my case. You asked me questions and listened to what I thought instead of telling me what to do. I would 100% recommend you and your fund. 06/2026
They fight for the little guy. The process is generally hard, very hard, and mentally exhausting, but Marko and his phenomenal attorney Cait bring a lot of ease in that process. And WIN! Cait is straight up, honest of the risks and potential outcomes and such and fighter.
Great hard working firm that fights hard for their clients. Jon and his team are knowledgeable, dedicated and great people all around. Their results speak for themselves! Hire Marko!
Thank you Jonathan Marko! You took my case and never let me down from day one! I recommend Marko Law; you will not regret it! Jonathan Marko is the most amazing Lawyer ever! The law firm is honest, fair, consistent, hard working and very nice! Thank you again! 1/18/2022
I've know Jon Marko for years and he is simply the best. He has helped friends and family through tough times and I would trust him with any legal issue, considering that everyone I know that has hired him has had extremely favorable outcomes.
The Ernst and Marko Law firm has an amazing group of attorneys and staff that will make sure they give each and every client the personalized legal advice they need! They will fight for their clients to make justice is served! I highly recommend this firm! 4/02/2017
Marko Law is a breath of fresh air. They're responsive, they care and they get the job done. They have great communication which means you never feel out of the loop. Most of all they work hard until they get the outcome necessary. Love Marko and his team! 1/19/2022
Attorney Jon Marko is one of the finest attorneys I have ever had the opportunity to work with. His experience and calm courtroom demeanor leaves him unmatched, and makes him a truly aggressive advocate for his clients. 5/12/2016
The world needs more protectors like Jon Marko from police brutality. He was kind, generous, and reassuring when I spoke to him. Thank you for being a defender of the every man because it's the right thing to do.
He was my attorney and couldn't of asked for a more aggressive and down to earth eager ATTORNEY! If you want a lawyer that will WIN then Jon Marko is the Man to call! I highly recommend him and we spoke whenever needed! Thank you again MARKO u were awesome:) 5/27/2020
I've been working here for three years and I can honestly say Jon Marko is a very passionate attorney with whom I'd trust a case with. He is honest, hard working and one of the smartest men I know. Wish I could give more than five stars! 8/12/2020
Ernst and Marko is a firm that fights for the people. I have known Jon Marko for ten years and worked with him in civil litigation and an excessive force case. He is an aggressive and tireless advocate who fights for his clients to get them justice. 5/12/2016
John Marko handled my son's case wonderfully. He worked for us for 6 years to get my son the best settlement outcome. I highly recommend Marko Law.
Jon Marko represented me in a lawsuit. He is extremely smart, hardworking, and dedicated to his clients. I'm an attorney myself so I understand what is required of an exceptional attorney. You will not be disappointed if you hire him and his firm to represent you!
Marko Law exemplifies professionalism and diligence even when taking on the most laborious cases. Their impressive performance is reassuring when handling such significant and critical issues. You truly feel protected and secure when handing Marko law your vulnerability. They will always fight to protect your rights. 5/12/2021
Good evening, gentlemen! Just wanted to pop in and give a big shoutout to the Marko Law squad. Gasper was an absolute assassin in the best possible way — and trust me, that’s a high compliment coming from me. In a world full of soft millennials, this guy is built different. John Eads & Gasper tag-teamed those negotiations like champs, especially with a mediator and attorney who were… let’s just say “extra spicy” with a side of confusion. Either way, I wanted to send some love and let you know I’ll be sending clients your way for the foreseeable future.
Alex Kay is absolutely a hell of a lawyer! He is compassionate and very thorough at his job! This process was a absolute breeze 🙌
I’ve been working with attorney Michael Jones for the past two years and I can honestly say I couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated or determined attorney. He has never given up on my case and continues to fight hard to make sure justice is served. He truly cares about his clients and it shows in everything he does. I’m so grateful for his commitment, integrity, and perseverance. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer who will stand by you every step of the way.
Michael Jones and his team have been nothing but kind courteous and very knowledgeable on any question that I have had this far. They always answer my questions and walk me through this process. I would recommend Marko law and Michael and his assistant Dae to anyone who needs a outstanding law firm
From intake through the entire process to date, Michael Jones and his team have been doing an excellent job representing me, and are a credit to their law firm, Jon Marco Law! The interactions and timely responses to my questions and requests have given me true faith in their ability to represent me during my case. I truly feel I could not be better represented anywhere else. Thank you Jon Marko law and Thank you Michael and Dae for all you are doing. 03/2026
Marko’s law firm truly has a great team ! Kyla in medical records is very comforting and pays great attention to detail!
I just wanted to offer some positive feedback regarding the receptionist who answers the phone. In my interactions with Melody, I found her to be very polite, cheerful and empathetic. She went above and beyond to assist me in navigating your corporate structure to ensure that I could talk directly to the person who could best help me. Due to her assistance, my issue was successfully resolved.
In my opinion, if injured in an auto accident, this is "The Best Ever Law Firm!" Marko Law is excellent! My case was handled very well! I appreciate the time Alex Kay spent with me to ensure I received the maximum payout for my case! His assistant/Paralegal Tracey was also great in handling everything Alex needed to close my case etc. Alex Kay is an awesome attorney and family man! I recommend Alex Kay and Marko Law to everyone who needs a tried and trusted Law Firm! They are the real deal if you need a maximum payout from your case! Special thanks to Jon Marko, Alex Kay, and Tracey! Kudos to everyone on the Marko Law Team!
Working with Marko Law Firm has been a superb experience! Alex Kay has done a phenomenal job handling my case thus far, and his expertise has made a stressful situation feel much less daunting. I've never dealt with a lawsuit before and he's been nothing but attentive and informative throughout the process. I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with him and hopefully things will continue to go smoothly with my suit.
Ariel Kellersohn is the best in business. If you want a lawyer who dedicates herself to your case, you have found the right place. Ariel goes above and beyond all expectations I had. Not only does she uphold herself to the highest standards of professionalism, she is also very personable and easy to talk to and makes you feel confident in your legal team. 10/10 if I could leave more than 5 stars I would!
Having Marko law handle my case was the best decision I made. Alex Kay was excellent he understood what I have been through and fought for me every step of the way. Alex dedication, hard work, and experience guided my case to a successful settlement. I can’t thank Marko Law enough for what they done for me. I would recommend them for any legal support you need.
Reno Arabo. What a fantastic experience I had working with the firm. You were extremely helpful. You made me feel like you cared about me and not about making money. The communication was amazing was amazing. You kept me informed and updated on all aspects of my case. You asked me questions and listened to what I thought instead of telling me what to do. I would 100% recommend you and your fund. 06/2026
They fight for the little guy. The process is generally hard, very hard, and mentally exhausting, but Marko and his phenomenal attorney Cait bring a lot of ease in that process. And WIN! Cait is straight up, honest of the risks and potential outcomes and such and fighter.
Great hard working firm that fights hard for their clients. Jon and his team are knowledgeable, dedicated and great people all around. Their results speak for themselves! Hire Marko!
Thank you Jonathan Marko! You took my case and never let me down from day one! I recommend Marko Law; you will not regret it! Jonathan Marko is the most amazing Lawyer ever! The law firm is honest, fair, consistent, hard working and very nice! Thank you again! 1/18/2022
I've know Jon Marko for years and he is simply the best. He has helped friends and family through tough times and I would trust him with any legal issue, considering that everyone I know that has hired him has had extremely favorable outcomes.
The Ernst and Marko Law firm has an amazing group of attorneys and staff that will make sure they give each and every client the personalized legal advice they need! They will fight for their clients to make justice is served! I highly recommend this firm! 4/02/2017
Marko Law is a breath of fresh air. They're responsive, they care and they get the job done. They have great communication which means you never feel out of the loop. Most of all they work hard until they get the outcome necessary. Love Marko and his team! 1/19/2022
Attorney Jon Marko is one of the finest attorneys I have ever had the opportunity to work with. His experience and calm courtroom demeanor leaves him unmatched, and makes him a truly aggressive advocate for his clients. 5/12/2016
The world needs more protectors like Jon Marko from police brutality. He was kind, generous, and reassuring when I spoke to him. Thank you for being a defender of the every man because it's the right thing to do.
He was my attorney and couldn't of asked for a more aggressive and down to earth eager ATTORNEY! If you want a lawyer that will WIN then Jon Marko is the Man to call! I highly recommend him and we spoke whenever needed! Thank you again MARKO u were awesome:) 5/27/2020
I've been working here for three years and I can honestly say Jon Marko is a very passionate attorney with whom I'd trust a case with. He is honest, hard working and one of the smartest men I know. Wish I could give more than five stars! 8/12/2020
Ernst and Marko is a firm that fights for the people. I have known Jon Marko for ten years and worked with him in civil litigation and an excessive force case. He is an aggressive and tireless advocate who fights for his clients to get them justice. 5/12/2016
John Marko handled my son's case wonderfully. He worked for us for 6 years to get my son the best settlement outcome. I highly recommend Marko Law.
Jon Marko represented me in a lawsuit. He is extremely smart, hardworking, and dedicated to his clients. I'm an attorney myself so I understand what is required of an exceptional attorney. You will not be disappointed if you hire him and his firm to represent you!
Marko Law exemplifies professionalism and diligence even when taking on the most laborious cases. Their impressive performance is reassuring when handling such significant and critical issues. You truly feel protected and secure when handing Marko law your vulnerability. They will always fight to protect your rights. 5/12/2021
En Marko Law, no solo tomamos casos, tomamos partido. Ya sea que enfrentes una lesión, una injusticia o una negligencia evidente, nuestro equipo lucha como si fuera personal, porque para ti, lo es.
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