Understanding Michigan’s no-fault insurance law is key if you’re involved in an auto accident. Let’s break down how it works and how it impacts your personal injury claims.

What Is Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Law?

Michigan’s no-fault system ensures that anyone injured in an auto accident gets prompt medical care and financial support, regardless of fault. All drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which includes medical expenses, lost wages, and related costs.

Key Features of No-Fault Coverage

PIP Benefits: Cover medical bills, rehab, and lost wages regardless of fault.
Property Protection Insurance (PPI): Covers damage to others’ property.
Limited Lawsuits: You can sue only if your injuries meet Michigan's "serious impairment" threshold (death, permanent disfigurement, or severe impairment).

Benefits and Challenges

Benefits:

Immediate Support: PIP ensures fast access to medical treatment and wage compensation.
Replacement Services: Covers costs for tasks you can’t perform due to injuries (e.g., housekeeping).

Challenges:

Restricted Lawsuits: Non-economic damages are limited unless the serious injury threshold is met.
Insurance Disputes: Insurers may challenge the extent of injuries or treatment costs.
Premium Costs: Michigan’s premiums are high, though reforms have allowed lower-cost options by reducing PIP limits.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Steps After an Accident:

Get Medical Attention: Even minor injuries should be evaluated.
File Your Claim: Notify your insurance provider to initiate PIP benefits.
Document Expenses: Keep records of treatments, lost wages, and other costs.

When Can You Sue the At-Fault Driver?

You can pursue additional compensation if your injuries meet the serious impairment threshold or your economic losses exceed PIP limits.

How Harris & Literski Can Help

At Harris & Literski, we understand Michigan’s no-fault system and provide expert guidance to help you:

Maximize Compensation: We work to ensure you receive all available PIP benefits.
Navigate Legal Complexities: If your injuries meet the threshold, we’ll help pursue a claim against the at-fault driver for pain and suffering or economic losses.
Advocate for Your Rights: From filing claims to negotiating with insurers, we’ll handle it all.

Recent Reforms to Michigan’s No-Fault Law

Michigan’s no-fault system underwent changes to make insurance more affordable:

PIP Coverage Options: Drivers can now choose lower PIP limits.
Fee Schedules: Limits how much medical providers can charge for treatments, potentially affecting long-term care.

Final Thoughts

Michigan’s no-fault insurance law aims to protect accident victims, but its complexities can make navigating claims difficult. If you’ve been injured, contact Harris & Literski for professional guidance. We’ll help you understand your rights, secure the benefits you deserve, and, if necessary, pursue additional compensation.

How Michigan's No-Fault Insurance Law Affects Personal Injury Claims