Whether or not you’ve been in an auto accident, it’s crucial to understand how you’re covered in Michigan. If you have been a victim of a Michigan car crash (as a driver, passenger, bicyclist, or pedestrian), it’s also important to know there are resources available to help.

1. Make sure your insurance has you covered (especially when other drivers are not).

Many people don’t fully understand their auto insurance and what coverages they have (or don’t have, but should). To find out what insurance coverage you have, you can check the declaration page of your insurance policy or call your agent to go over your coverages with you.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car crash, contact us for a free consultation at any time at (231) 929-0500.

Our Traverse City personal injury attorneys at Dingeman & Dancer are here to help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and maximize your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We can help you navigate insurance coverages, claim filing, settlements, and, if needed, representation in court.

And with our contingency fee structure, you pay nothing unless we win your case. We win, when you win.

2. Michigan is a no-fault state.

In Michigan, we are fortunate to live in a no-fault state. This means that, regardless of who causes a car crash, each driver’s own insurance company pays for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. As a Michigan-insured driver, this is automatically provided to you.

3. Understanding UM and UIM coverage is KEY.

One of the first things you can do to protect yourself is understanding your uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. These coverages are designed to protect you when you’re involved in accidents with someone who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance.

In 2022, 1 in 7 people didn’t have automotive insurance.¹

With UM coverage, your policy will provide coverage in the event that the at-fault driver who caused an accident did not have any insurance coverage.

With UIM, if the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover the full extent of your injuries and damages, UIM coverage can help make up the difference.

And many people don’t know it may not cost much to increase those coverage limits. The increase may range from insurance to insurance.

4. It’s “hip” to have unlimited PIP.

In addition to being a no-fault state, Michigan is also one of the few states that offers unlimited personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. PIP covers things like medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, household chore services and attendant care if you’re injured in a car crash. Having unlimited PIP ensures that you have comprehensive medical coverage for life, protects you from financial strain, and provides peace of mind, especially in the case of severe, long-term injuries.

While it ranges policy-to-policy like UM/UIM, switching to unlimited PIP may not cost much extra but may save you a lot of financial anguish in the future.

If you’ve been injured in a car crash or want to ensure you’re properly covered, you don’t have to navigate the complexities of insurance and legal claims alone. Contact us at Dingeman & Dancer for a free consultation at (231) 929-0500 or send us an email and let our experienced personal injury attorneys help you understand your rights and get the compensation you deserve.

¹ Uninsured Motorists Statistics and Facts for 2024. Martin.

https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/uninsured-motorist-statistics/