As a motorist in Michigan, you need to know what to do after a car accident in Michigan, as you never know when you’ll need such information.
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially if you’re unsure of what steps to take afterward.
If you ever find yourself in this situation in Michigan, you need to know what to do next to protect your legal, ensure safety, and obtain the compensation you may be entitled to.
Our guide will provide a clear understanding of what to do after a car accident in Michigan to help you navigate complex and stressful encounters easily and confidently.
What To Do After A Car Accident In Michigan
Step 1: Call the police
The first thing to do in a Michigan car accident is to call 911; don’t assume the other driver has called it in.
The police will document the incident and create an official report, which you can use as evidence. This report will help determine who is at fault and assist with insurance claims.
Step 2: Seek medical help assistance
Your health and well-being are your priority. Even if you believe you are not seriously injured, getting checked by a medical professional is still important.
Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen if left untreated. If someone in your vehicle is badly injured and needs immediate medical intervention, the police can help get an ambulance.
Step 3: Take a photograph of the site
Just after the accident, if possible, get out of your car and take pictures of the scene. Don’t move your car before taking pictures or video evidence of the initial accident scene. Take photographs of the vehicles involved and any visible injuries or property damage.
Additionally, try to capture the overall scene, including road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details. These photographs can help establish fault and provide evidence in case of disputes or legal proceedings.
Step 4: Move the vehicle from the traffic
If it is safe, move your vehicle out of the traffic flow to prevent further accidents and allow the traffic to flow smoothly.
However, before moving the vehicle, take pictures of its original position and any skid marks or debris on the road as evidence.
Step 5: Collect some information
You would want to contact the other driver and collect basic information about them. These may include their name, vehicle description (color, model, make), and insurance details.
Additionally, it is equally important to gather any witness statements as this evidence can be useful in establishing liability and supporting your claim.
Step 6: Inform your insurance company
Now that you have called the police and all the persons, if any, with medical emergencies have been taken care of, what’s next? You must call your insurer even if you believe the accident wasn’t your fault.
Failure to report the accident promptly may result in complications or denial of coverage. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and may require additional information or documentation to process your claim.
Step 7: Get a copy of your police report
If law enforcement responds to the accident scene, they will compile a police report detailing their findings.
This report can serve as an official incident record and provide an objective perspective. Obtain a copy of this report, which can be crucial evidence during insurance claims and legal actions.
Step 8: File a no-fault benefit
Michigan is a no-fault state, meaning your insurance policy will cover certain benefits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
These benefits may include medical expenses, lost wages, and attendant care services. So, you want to make sure that you have filed for a no-fault benefit claim to receive the necessary compensation for your injuries and damages.
Step 9: Get an experienced Michigan car accident attorney
Suppose the accident resulted in severe injuries, substantial property damage, or disputes over fault and compensation. In that case, the best thing to do is to seek legal representation from an experienced auto accident attorney.
They will advocate for you during negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, represent you in court.
What Not To Do After A Car Accident In Michigan
In case of an accident in Michigan, you need to handle the situation cautiously and avoid making certain mistakes that could potentially harm your case. Here are some of the things you should avoid.
Do not speak with the investigators.
In Michigan, anything you say to investigators can be used against you in legal proceedings. You should refrain from talking to the investigators without consulting your attorney.
However, you’ll be required to provide your identification and insurance information, but you don’t have to volunteer additional information or admit anything.
Avoid settlement negotiations
Engaging in settlement negotiations immediately after an accident is not a good idea. Some insurance companies may want to resolve claims swiftly and with minimal payouts.
However, the full extent of injuries and damages may not be immediately apparent. If you rush into settlements, you may receive inadequate compensation for medical bills, property damage, and other losses.
Don’t flee the scene.
You may want to run away after an accident, especially when you are in the wrong. Don’t! If you flee the scene, it will incriminate you, and you will likely be found at fault. Staying on the scene until the police arrive ensures your side of the story is heard.
Don’t admit fault.
Michigan follows a “no-fault” system, where each party’s insurance covers medical expenses and certain economic losses regardless of who caused the accident.
However, if you admit you are at fault, you may complicate matters and undermine your ability to receive compensation.
Don’t lie to your attorney about what happened.
Never lie to your attorney about what happened during the accident, especially if you are at fault. Think of it this way: How would you feel if you were in an accident and the other party (at fault) lied about what transpired? It is not fair.
Remember, your attorney is there to provide you with legal advice and representation, and any lie impacts their ability to effectively advocate for you. Provide your attorney with accurate information about the accident to build a strong case on your behalf.
What Is No-Fault Insurance In Michigan?
No-fault insurance in Michigan is a type of auto insurance coverage that compensates for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, regardless of who is at fault for an accident.
The system was implemented in Michigan to ensure that accident victims receive prompt and fair compensation without lengthy legal battles.
Did you also know that it is against the law to drive your car in Michigan without no-fault insurance? Basic no-fault insurance covers personal injury protection, personal protection, and residual liability insurance.
Residual liability insurance means that no-fault law protects insured persons from lawsuits after an accident except in certain special circumstances.
How Much Is No Fault Compensation In Michigan
The maximum coverage under a no-fault claim in Michigan is up to $1 million. It includes any damages to buildings, fences, or any other property belonging to someone else.
Additionally, if your car happens to cause damage to another person’s properly parked vehicle, the no-fault insurance will also cover the costs. However, the insurance does not extend to cover any other damages sustained by cars involved in an accident.
How Long Does An Accident Stay In Your Record In Michigan?
In Michigan, the time for which an accident remains on your record depends on the nature of the incident.
The accident record will be present for seven years for most at-fault accidents. However, accidents involving fatalities or DUIs will remain on your record permanently.
Conclusion
Knowing what to do after a car accident in Michigan is important and can save you from many legal issues.
Following the steps in this guide can mitigate the potential damages and legal consequences of an accident.
Prioritize your safety and those of others involved by moving to a safe location and calling for medical assistance if necessary.
Next, gather important information about the accident, plus witness statements, for filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Additionally, it is important to report the accident to the police and your insurance company immediately.
