Hurt in a car accident while visiting Michigan and not sure about what to do next? Here’s what you need to know about how insurance works for out-of-state visitors and whether you can file a car accident lawsuit.
Can I Get No-Fault Benefits If I’m Not from Michigan?
No. Michigan law blocks most out-of-state visitors from getting no-fault benefits after a car accident. For Michiganders, these benefits provide financial support for medical bills, income losses, and household assistance. If you get hurt in a Michigan car accident but don’t live here, you only qualify for these benefits if a Michigan insurance policy covers the vehicle you were in. If no such policy exists, Michigan law says you aren’t entitled to no-fault benefits, even if you weren’t at fault.
What Happens If I Was Driving My Own Out-of-State Vehicle?
If you were driving your own out-of-state vehicle in Michigan when the accident occurred, the law blocks you from getting no-fault benefits. If your vehicle isn’t covered by a Michigan no-fault policy, you can’t collect no-fault benefits, regardless of who caused the crash. This rule applies to anyone driving a vehicle not registered or insured under Michigan law. You could still have the right to sue the other driver, but you won’t get automatic no-fault coverage.
What If I Was a Passenger or Pedestrian?
If you got hurt in a Michigan car accident but weren’t driving, you could still qualify for no-fault benefits because the law treats passengers and pedestrians differently. For example, if you were riding in a car that had Michigan no-fault insurance, that insurance policy could cover your medical bills and other costs. If a Michigan-registered car hit you while you were walking or riding a bicycle, that vehicle’s policy should also cover you. This coverage applies even if you don’t live in Michigan.
Will My Out-of-State Auto Insurance Cover Me in Michigan?
Yes, your out-of-state auto insurance policy will likely cover you after a crash in Michigan. Many out-of-state policies include some coverage for accidents that happen outside your home state. For example, your policy might pay for damage to your car or injuries to others if you caused the crash. If you have medical payments, uninsured motorist, or underinsured motorist coverage, that might also apply. However, if you don’t live in Michigan or own a car that’s registered and insured here, your insurance company does not have to provide coverage matching Michigan’s no-fault requirements.
Can I Sue an At-Fault Driver in Michigan?
If another driver caused your accident and you can’t get no-fault benefits, you could still file a lawsuit. Michigan law lets injured people sue for pain and suffering, but only if the accident caused a serious injury, like a broken bone. You can also sue for up to $3,000 in accident-related property damage under Michigan’s “mini-tort” law.
Talk to a Michigan Car Accident Lawyer Now
Do you still have questions about what to do if you live out of state and have an accident in Michigan? Contact Atnip & Associates, PLLC, today for your free initial consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you figure out what to do next.
