Your Comprehensive Guide to Reporting Car Accidents in Michigan

Being involved in a car accident, even a minor one, can be a confusing and stressful experience. Understanding your legal obligations and the steps to take afterwards can help alleviate some of that stress. 

Reporting guidelines can be hard to keep up with, especially if you have ever lived in a different state, since each state’s laws are different regarding reporting standards. This guide from the Joseph Dedvukaj Law Firm will explain when and how to report car accidents in Michigan to set your mind at ease and keep you compliant.

When to Report a Car Accident in Michigan

While you are not legally required to report all accidents, there are some circumstances that make reporting mandatory. Michigan law requires drivers to report certain car accidents, regardless of whether law enforcement was called to the scene.

Here are the legal requirements for reporting accidents:

• Injuries: If anyone involved in the accident sustained an injury, no matter how minor it may seem, a report must be filed.
• Property Damage: If the total damage to all vehicles involved exceeds $1,000, a report is required.
• Unattended Vehicles: If you hit a parked car and are unable to locate the owner, you must report the accident to the police within 24 hours.

Benefits of reporting all accidents:

Even if the accident seems minor and there are no apparent injuries, filing a report can protect you in the long run.

• Documentation: A police report serves as an official record of the accident, which can be crucial for insurance claims or resolving any future disputes.
• Protects Your Rights: A report establishes that you fulfilled your legal obligations and helps prevent the other party from potentially filing a false claim.

How to Report a Car Accident in Michigan

There are two primary ways to report a car accident in Michigan:

Filing a Police Report

If the accident involved injuries, extensive property damage, or a hit-and-run, calling the police is the recommended course of action. The responding officer will investigate the scene, interview those involved, and file a police report (UD-10 Traffic Crash Report).

You can also visit your local police station to file a report after the fact if you prefer an in-person interaction.

Online Reporting

For minor accidents with only property damage and no injuries, Michigan allows online reporting through the Secretary of State's website. This is typically a more convenient solution than having to go to the police station and fill out a report. 

Still, the best option is usually to have an officer come and investigate the scene in case you need the evidence for a future legal case or insurance claim. 

What to Do in a Hit-and-Run Accident

All car accidents can be scary but hit-and-runs are often particularly stressful because of all the unknown factors going into your claim. How will you be compensated for any property damage or injuries? Will the police find the party responsible and hold them accountable? Before you worry too much, here are some steps you should take following a hit-and-run accident:

• Call 911: Report the accident immediately and provide details about the hit-and-run vehicle, the location, and any injuries sustained.
• Gather Evidence: If possible, try to take note of the vehicle's description, license plate number, and any witnesses present.
• File a Police Report: Reporting the accident helps establish a record and may be required by your insurance company.

Benefits of Working with a Car Accident Lawyer

While navigating the process of reporting a car accident might seem straightforward, consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer can offer valuable benefits:

• Protecting Your Rights: You don’t always know the in’s and out’s of personal injury law, and why would you? An attorney can ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. 
• Understanding Insurance Claims: It is important to keep in mind that insurance adjusters and employees are always going to be looking out for the insurance company’s best interest, but who is looking out for you? Lawyers can help with insurance claim processes and negotiations.
• Maximizing Compensation: They can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages rather than just taking the first offer your insurance company makes. Remember: you should never be held responsible for mistakes others made. 

If you have been involved in a car accident in Michigan, contact the Joseph Dedvukaj Law Firm at 248-885-6614 for a free consultation. We can answer your questions, guide you through the reporting process, and explore your legal options.