Being in an automobile accident can be very stressful for any motorist. Learning that the other driver involved in the accident was at fault but did not have insurance adds even more unnecessary stress, as there is additional concern regarding how your injury-related losses will be covered.
Michigan Insurance Law
Michigan law requires1 that all drivers have both a registered vehicle and no-fault insurance. In fact, a driver is unable to obtain his or her license plates without demonstrating that he or she has basic coverage. However, sometimes drivers will cancel their insurance policy or allow it to lapse after registering their vehicle and obtaining license plates. An uninsured Michigan driver involved in an accident may be held legally liable for damages and medical wages while also being found guilty of a misdemeanor.
Get the other Driver’s contact information if you are hit by an uninsured driver
It is important to not assume that every driver has insurance. In fact, statistics show that states such as Michigan can have upwards of 20% of drivers who are uninsured at any one time.2 In some cities, the number of uninsured drivers can be even higher.
Your first step following an accident should be to request insurance information from the other party and you can determine at this time whether they are uninsured. It is important to obtain all of the driver’s information so that you may file a claim as well as any legal action to which you are entitled under Michigan law. You should obtain the following information:
- Names, phone numbers, addresses and email addresses of all occupants and witnesses
- Location where the accident occurred
- Photos of the accident scene and all vehicles involved
- If emergency services respond: police report number, phone number, officer name and badge number, etc.
Contact the Emergency Services
As with any accident, it is important to contact the emergency services. Police will be able to help prepare official reports and to take statements from the parties involved as well as witnesses. This will preserve a record of the incident and could help in filing a claim with the insurance company. If anyone is injured, emergency services will be critical in helping address any injuries in a timely manner.
Contact a Michigan car accident attorney today
Being in an automobile accident that involves an uninsured driver is always stressful. If you are an uninsured driver, you may feel added stress as a result. In any instance, you always want to seek assistance from a lawyer who understands this particular type of automobile accident case. At Michigan Injury Lawyers, our team of motor vehicle accident lawyers understand the legal issues that may arise in all type of car crash cases and will always strive to ensure you receive the maximum possible compensation for your related injuries. If you would like to discuss your situation for free, please call our office today at 313-438-4357.
References:
1https://www.michigan.gov/documents/cis_ofis_noflt_gd_25094_7.pdf
2http://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/uninsured-motorists
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
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