After a car accident, life can change in an instant—and navigating the aftermath can feel overwhelming. At Seva Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial stress you’re facing, and we’re here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. If you need an car accident lawyer in Highland Park, our dedicated team is ready to stand by your side. Call us today at (248) 617-0169 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and rebuilding your future.

Our auto accident services include:

  • Pedestrian Accidents
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Rideshare Accidents
  • Bicycle Accidents
  • Truck Accidents

What Drivers Need to Know About Michigan No-Fault Car Insurance Laws

If you are a driver in Michigan, you have probably heard about the state’s no-fault car insurance system. However, many people are not entirely sure how it works or what it means after an accident. Whether you are new to driving or have been behind the wheel for years, understanding Michigan’s no-fault laws is important for protecting your rights and your finances.

What No-Fault Insurance Means in Michigan

Michigan is one of a handful of states that uses a no-fault car insurance system. Under no-fault laws, your own auto insurance pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and certain other expenses, no matter who caused the accident.

This setup was designed to speed up payments to accident victims and reduce the need for lengthy lawsuits. Instead of battling another driver’s insurance company, you first turn to your own insurer for help.

However, Michigan’s no-fault law has changed in recent years, and the system is now more complex than it used to be.

Major Changes to No-Fault Insurance

In 2019, Michigan made significant reforms to its no-fault insurance rules. These changes gave drivers new choices but also added new responsibilities. Before 2020, every policyholder was required to carry unlimited Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Now, drivers can choose different levels of PIP coverage depending on their needs and budget.

Policy options now include:

  • Unlimited PIP coverage

  • $500,000 in PIP coverage

  • $250,000 in PIP coverage

  • $50,000 in PIP coverage (for certain Medicaid recipients)

  • No PIP coverage (only for people with qualifying health insurance)

While lower PIP options can reduce your monthly premium, they can leave you exposed if you suffer serious injuries in a crash. Medical costs after a car accident can add up quickly, and it is important to carefully consider your choice when buying or renewing a policy.

What Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Covers

Your PIP benefits are designed to cover many of the expenses you might face after an accident. These include:

  • Medical costs for accident-related injuries

  • Up to 85% of lost wages for up to three years

  • Replacement services (such as paying for help with housework)

  • Survivor’s benefits if the accident results in death

  • Funeral and burial expenses

PIP is not about fixing your vehicle or paying for damage to another car. It strictly deals with the costs associated with injuries and the impact on your daily life.

Can You Still Sue the At-Fault Driver?

While the no-fault system reduces the need for lawsuits, there are still situations where you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. In Michigan, you can sue if you suffer what the law defines as a “serious impairment of body function” or if the accident results in death or permanent disfigurement.

You can also pursue a claim against the at-fault driver for damages not covered by PIP, such as pain and suffering. Additionally, if your vehicle is damaged, you might be able to seek recovery for repair costs through a property damage claim, especially if you have limited or no collision coverage.

Having an experienced personal injury lawyer, like the team at Seva Law Firm, can help you determine whether you have grounds for a lawsuit and guide you through the process.

The Role of Mini-Tort Claims

Michigan allows a special type of small claim called a “mini-tort” to cover vehicle damage. Under current law, you can recover up to $3,000 from the at-fault driver’s insurance to help pay for repairs if you were not at fault for the crash.

Mini-tort claims are separate from injury claims. They are designed to help offset out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles. However, they usually do not cover the full cost of major repairs.

How No-Fault Laws Affect Accident Cases

Understanding Michigan’s no-fault system is critical if you are involved in a crash. Here’s how it usually works:

  1. File a Claim With Your Own Insurance – Regardless of fault, you start by notifying your insurance company about the accident and using your PIP benefits.

  2. Seek Medical Treatment Promptly – Delaying medical care can not only harm your health but can also complicate your insurance claim.

  3. Track Your Expenses – Keep all medical bills, receipts for services, and documentation related to lost wages.

  4. Consult an Attorney if Needed – If you suffered serious injuries or believe another driver’s negligence played a major role in the crash, it is wise to seek legal advice.

At Seva Law Firm, we help accident victims in Highland Park navigate the insurance process and, when necessary, fight for compensation beyond their PIP benefits.

Common Misunderstandings About Michigan No-Fault Laws

There are a few myths that often confuse drivers:

  • Myth 1: You cannot sue anyone after a car accident.

    Reality: You can sue if your injuries are severe enough under Michigan’s legal definition.

  • Myth 2: No-fault insurance covers everything automatically.

    Reality: Your coverage is limited to the amount you select when you buy your policy. Lower PIP coverage could leave you paying out of pocket.

  • Myth 3: Fault does not matter at all.

    Reality: While PIP benefits are no-fault, fault can still impact mini-tort claims and liability lawsuits for pain and suffering.

Protecting Yourself After a Crash

If you are in a car accident in Michigan, take the following steps to protect your legal rights:

  • Call 911 and report the crash
  • Seek immediate medical care, even if injuries seem minor
  • Notify your insurance company promptly
  • Do not admit fault at the scene
  • Document everything, including photos, witness names, and accident details
  • Contact a personal injury lawyer for guidance, especially if injuries are serious

The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of recovering the full compensation you are entitled to.

Legal Services for Car Accident Victims in Highland Park

When it comes to protecting your rights after a crash, having the right legal team makes all the difference. At Seva Law Firm, we are committed to delivering trusted legal services to car accident victims throughout Highland Park, providing attention and relentless advocacy you deserve. Don’t face the insurance companies alone—let a car accident lawyer fight for the compensation you need to move forward. Call Seva Law Firm today at (248) 617-0169 to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue the justice you deserve.