June 30th, 2025

What You Need to Know About No-Fault in Michigan

Michigan’s no-fault insurance law is designed to streamline accident claims, but it also makes the process confusing for many drivers. After a crash, your own insurance pays for your medical expenses, wage loss, and replacement services—regardless of who caused the accident.

This applies whether your accident occurred on a quiet side street in Royal Oak or during rush hour traffic on Van Dyke in Sterling Heights. But what many don’t realize is that no-fault benefits have limits—and in serious cases, they’re simply not enough.

⸻

What Your Insurance Covers (and What It Doesn’t)

Standard no-fault (PIP) coverage typically includes:
• Medical expenses
• Wage loss (up to 3 years)
• Replacement services (e.g., household help)
• Attendant care, when needed

However, this does not include pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life—all of which may apply in cases involving long-term or permanent injuries.

⸻

When You Can File a Lawsuit

Michigan law allows you to pursue additional compensation if your injury qualifies as a serious impairment of body function. This legal threshold must be met to sue the at-fault driver, and it generally applies when your injury:
• Significantly affects your ability to live normally
• Is medically documented
• Has a lasting impact on your day-to-day function

Drivers injured in more severe collisions—such as multi-vehicle crashes near Royal Oak or high-speed freeway accidents in the Troy area—often meet this threshold and can pursue legal action.

⸻

Why You Shouldn’t Trust the Insurance Company to Tell You Your Options

Insurance companies may lead you to believe your only option is no-fault coverage. They often offer quick settlements that don’t take long-term effects into account. A personal injury attorney will:
• Assess your injury based on legal standards
• Ensure you don’t accept less than what you’re entitled to
• Guide you through each step of the legal process
• Handle communications so you can focus on recovery

⸻

Let a Michigan Injury Attorney Fight for You

If you’ve been seriously injured in a crash in Sterling Heights, Royal Oak, Troy, or anywhere in Metro Detroit, don’t try to navigate the no-fault system alone. The right attorney can uncover opportunities for compensation you may not have known were available.

Contact Michigan Injury Attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help you move forward.

Categories: Uncategorized