A West Michigan and Ann Arbor Auto Accident Lawyer Can Help You With Your Personal Injury Case

Auto Accidents in Michigan and the No-Fault Law: What You Need to Know

Michigan roads can be dangerous, and unfortunately, car accidents happen every day. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious crash resulting in life-changing injuries, auto accident victims often face medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about their legal rights.

Aaron Israels is a personal injury attorney that helps auto accident victims in Grand Rapids, West Michigan and the Ann Arbor metro area recover the compensation they deserve.

One of the most unique laws in the State of Michigan is No-Fault Insurance Law, which governs how accident claims are handled and dramatically affects Michigan drivers and accident victims.  If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, here are a few things that you should know about Michigan’s No-Fault system and how an auto-related personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you need.

Understanding Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Law

Michigan is a No-Fault insurance state, which means that after a car accident, your own insurance company pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages—regardless of who caused the accident. This system is designed to provide quicker access to benefits without the need to establish fault.

However, Michigan’s No-Fault law has complex rules and limits, making it essential for accident victims to understand their rights and options.

What Does No-Fault Insurance Cover?

If you are injured in a car accident in Michigan, you can file a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim with your own insurance provider. PIP benefits include:

• Medical Expenses – Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
• Lost Wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, PIP covers up to 85% of your lost income (subject to state limits).
• Attendant Care – If you need assistance with daily tasks due to your injuries, PIP can cover caregiver expenses.
• Replacement Services – Payment for household chores and services you can no longer perform, such as cleaning, lawn care, or childcare.
• Funeral and Death Benefits – If an accident results in death, PIP may provide compensation to your surviving family members.

Changes to Michigan’s No-Fault Law

Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Reform, which took effect in July 2020, introduced major changes, including:

• Choice of PIP Coverage – Drivers can now choose different levels of medical coverage, including unlimited, $500,000, $250,000, or lower amounts for certain qualified individuals.
• Increased Liability for At-Fault Drivers – While No-Fault benefits cover medical expenses, accident victims can sue an at-fault driver for pain and suffering and excess medical expenses if injuries are severe.
• Fee Schedules for Medical Providers – There are new limits on what medical providers can charge for treatment covered by No-Fault insurance.

These changes have significant implications for accident victims, making it more important than ever to consult with a personal injury attorney after a crash.

When Can You Sue the At-Fault Driver?

Although Michigan is a No-Fault state, you can file a lawsuit against an at-fault driver in certain situations, including:

• Serious Injury Threshold – If you suffer a serious impairment of a body function, such as a permanent disability, broken bones, significant scarring, or traumatic brain injury, or other conditions, you may have the right to sue.
• Pain and Suffering – If another driver’s negligence caused your accident, you may be able to pursue a claim for non-economic damages, including emotional distress and pain and suffering.
• Excess Medical Bills – If your medical expenses exceed your chosen PIP coverage limit, you can seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Michigan

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident – A police report can serve as valuable evidence in your claim.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can appear hours or days later.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage. Get witness contact information.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your No-Fault insurer as soon as possible.
5. Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer [LI1] – A Michigan car accident attorney can help you navigate insurance claims and determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit.

Why You Need a West Michigan Car Accident Attorney

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims, leaving accident victims struggling to cover their expenses. Aaron Israels will fight for the rights of injured drivers, passengers and pedestrians in West Michigan. Our legal team can:

• Ensure you receive full No-Fault benefits from your insurance.
• Investigate the accident and gather evidence of negligence.
• File a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional compensation.
• Negotiate with insurance companies for the maximum settlement.

The Michigan State Police Last Published its Crash Statistics in 2023[LI2] , and found:

• Total intersection-related crashes: 94,349
• Fatal crashes at intersections: 271
• Total fatalities at intersections: 284
• Injury crashes at intersections: 22,059
• Total injuries at intersections: 30,648
• Property damage-only crashes at intersections: 72,019​

Common Intersection Crash Causes

1. Failure to Yield Right-of-Way: One of the leading factors in intersection-related crashes.
2. Disregarding Traffic Control Devices: Such as running red lights or stop signs.
3. Distracted Driving: Many crashes at intersections occur due to drivers not paying attention to signals or other vehicles.
4. Speeding: Higher speeds make it harder to react to sudden stops or changing traffic signals.

Crash Severity at Intersections

• Rear-end and angle crashes are the most common types of intersection crashes.
• Left-turn collisions are also a major contributor to intersection-related fatalities.

Get a Free Consultation Today – Get Free Help

If you’ve been injured in an auto accident in Grand Rapids or anywhere in West Michigan, don’t wait to seek legal help. Michigan’s No-Fault law is complex, and having an experienced personal injury lawyer like Aaron Israels on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Aaron Israels offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case!

Call us today at (616) 280-4303

Visit our website at www.AaronUnderstands.com

Serving Grand Rapids, West Michigan and Ann Arbor

Let us help you get the compensation you deserve.