In Michigan, several different kinds of claims can arise after a vehicle accident. Understanding which ones apply to you is the first step toward protecting your rights.
Accidents we can help you evaluate
- Car and SUV collisions
- Truck and commercial vehicle accidents
- School bus and public transit accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian injuries
- Crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers
- Claims involving uninsured or underinsured drivers
- No-fault insurance benefit disputes
First-party (PIP) benefits
Michigan is a no-fault state. The insurer of your own vehicle is typically responsible for claims for economic losses — such as medical expenses, lost wages, household services, attendant care (nursing services), medications and rehabilitation. This is known as a “first-party” or PIP (Personal Injury Protection) claim.
The benefits available to you depend on your policy and the coverage choices made under current Michigan law. Mark can review your policy with you and explain what it provides.
Third-party (bodily injury) claims
A bodily injury claim — also called a “BI” or “third-party” claim — is for your non-economic losses, more commonly known as pain and suffering. It is typically brought against the at-fault driver and/or the owner of the vehicle that driver was operating.
Mini-tort claims for vehicle damage
A claim for damage to your vehicle against the driver who caused the crash is known as a “mini-tort” claim. Michigan law limits the amount that can be recovered and requires that the other driver bear the greater share of fault. Ask us about the current limit and whether a mini-tort claim makes sense in your situation.
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage
Sometimes the at-fault driver has no insurance, or their coverage is not enough to pay for the harm they caused. Many insurers offer optional uninsured (UM) and underinsured (UIM) motorist coverage on your own policy. These coverages can “make up for” a lack of insurance — or insufficient insurance — on the other driver’s part, expanding what is available for your bodily injury claim.
Don’t go it alone
Michigan’s no-fault law is complex and among the most litigated areas of law in our state’s courts. It contains technicalities, deadlines and potential traps for the unwary. Having an experienced advocate guide you through the process can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Practical next steps
- Get medical care and follow your treatment plan.
- Report the accident to your own insurer and keep a record of who you spoke with.
- Keep copies of the police report, medical bills, and proof of lost work.
- Be careful about giving recorded statements to another driver’s insurer before getting advice.
- Contact a lawyer early — claims involve deadlines that can be short.