At the Accident Scene:

 

While still at the scene, collect as much information as possible.  Get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, license plate number, and vehicle information. Take photos of the vehicles, the roadway, visible injuries, and anything that shows how the crash occurred.  

 

In Michigan, clear documentation matters.  It supports your claim for No-Fault benefits and helps avoid disputes later.

 

Once everyone is safe, report the crash to the police and notify your own auto insurance company promptly.  

 

Michigan is a No-Fault State. That means your own insurance company pays your medical expenses and other Personal Injury Protection (“PIP”) benefits, regardless of who caused the accident.  

 

Fault still matters with respect to a negligence cases or claims, but your first source of recovery is your own policy.

 

How Michigan No-Fault Insurance Covers You:

 

Under Michigan’s No-Fault system, your insurer is responsible for Personal Injury Protection, commonly called “PIP” benefits.  

 

PIP benefits typically can cover the following:

 

• Medical expenses that are causally relate to the motor vehicle accident;
• Medical mileage to and from your medical appointments;
• Wage loss for up to three years if you cannot work (must be prescribed by medical provider),
• Replacement services for household, indoor and outdoor tasks that you cannot perform (must be prescribed by medical provider);
• Attendant care (nursing like services) when medically necessary (must be prescribed by medical provider).

 

Even if the other driver was uninsured, your own PIP coverage still applies.

 

However, property damage works differently in Michigan. Damage to your vehicle is typically handled through your collision coverage.  If you do not carry collision coverage, you may have limited recovery options for vehicle repairs.

 

You may also have Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist coverage on your policy. This is optional in Michigan.  If you purchased it, it can provide compensation for pain and suffering if you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver and meet Michigan’s serious impairment threshold.

 

Pursuing a Claim Beyond No-Fault:

 

Even in a No-Fault state, you may be able to pursue a third-party claim against the at-fault driver in certain situations.  This is typically allowed if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident; and you suffered a serious impairment of body function, permanent serious disfigurement, or death.  These cases seek damages for pain and suffering and other non-economic losses.

 

If the Crash Is a Hit-and-Run:

 

In a hit-and-run, your PIP benefits still apply through your own insurer. If you carry Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist coverage, it may also apply to pain and suffering damages.  Promptly filing a police report is critical.  Failing to report the crash can jeopardize certain claims, especially under Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist provisions, which often require notice within a specific time frame.

 

Act Quickly:

 

Michigan law has strict notice requirements. In most cases, you must file an application for No-Fault benefits with the responsible insurance company within one year of the accident.  Missing that deadline can permanently bar your claim.

 

Accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers create confusion, especially under Michigan’s complex No-Fault system.  Understanding your coverage and acting quickly can protect your rights and reduce financial stress.  Legal guidance can help you coordinate benefits, preserve evidence, and determine whether a third-party, negligence claim is available under Michigan law.