Federal & State Lawfederalstatelaw.com
Back to Questions
personal-injuryMI

What should I do after a car accident in Michigan?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-04-30

Michigan operates one of the country's most distinctive no-fault systems, reformed by PA 21 of 2019 effective July 2, 2020.

1. Immediate Steps at the Scene

  • Stop and exchange information (MCL 257.617-617a). Felony if leaving an injury scene.
  • Render reasonable aid.
  • Call 911 for any injury.

    • 2. Mandatory Reporting

  • Police: Required for injury, death, or apparent damage of $1,000 or more (MCL 257.622).
  • The officer files the UD-10 crash report; drivers can request a copy within 10 days.
  • Notify your insurer immediately to preserve PIP.

    • 3. PIP Medical Choice (MCL 500.3107c) — Post-2019 Reform

    Drivers choose one of the following PIP medical limits:

  • Unlimited (the historical default)
  • $500,000
  • $250,000
  • $50,000 (only if enrolled in Medicaid)
  • Opt out completely (only if covered by Medicare AND household members have qualified health coverage)

    • 4. Minimum Liability

    50/100/10 ($50,000 BI per person / $100,000 per accident / $10,000 property) under MCL 257.520.

    5. Threshold to Sue (MCL 500.3135)

    You may sue the at-fault driver for non-economic damages (pain and suffering) only if you suffered:

  • Death, OR
  • Serious impairment of body function, OR
  • Permanent serious disfigurement.

    • The "serious impairment" test was clarified in McCormick v. Carrier, 487 Mich. 180 (2010): an objectively manifested impairment of an important body function affecting general ability to lead normal life.

    6. Modified Comparative Negligence — Non-Economic Only

    Under MCL 600.2959, a plaintiff who is more than 50% at fault cannot recover non-economic damages, but may still recover economic damages (subject to comparative reduction).

    7. Statute of Limitations

  • Personal injury (tort): 3 years (MCL 600.5805(2)).
  • No-fault PIP claim: 1 year from date of accident or 1 year from a missed payment (MCL 500.3145).
  • Property damage: 3 years (MCL 600.5805).

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • You missed or are nearing the 1-year PIP claim deadline
    • Your injuries may meet the 'serious impairment' threshold
    • Your PIP choice affects coverage and you face large medical bills
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • MCL 257.520
    • MCL 257.617
    • MCL 500.3107c
    • MCL 500.3135
    • MCL 500.3145
    • MCL 600.2959
    • MCL 600.5805

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.