What to Do After a Michigan Car Accident: Grand Rapids Guide 2025
A car crash can turn your life upside down in seconds. From serious injuries to mounting medical bills and confusing insurance paperwork, the aftermath can be overwhelming. In Michigan, where No-Fault insurance laws add unique steps to the process, knowing what to do immediately after an accident can make a huge difference in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
Whether you were rear-ended at a stoplight in Grand Rapids or injured in a major highway collision, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next.
Immediate Steps at the Scene
Ensure Safety and Call 911
Your first priority is safety. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911. Even if the crash seems minor, it’s important to create an official police report. Emergency responders can also provide medical evaluation on scene.
Exchange Information
Get names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers for all involved drivers. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information too — witness statements can be critical later.
Document the Scene
Take photos or videos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks or debris
- Street signs, traffic lights, or intersections
- Visible injuries
These details can be powerful evidence in your claim.
For more help with your legal options, visit our Grand Rapids auto accident page.
Michigan No-Fault Basics
What PIP Covers
Michigan’s No-Fault system means your own insurance typically covers medical bills, wage loss, and related expenses through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits — regardless of who caused the crash.
PIP may cover:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost wages up to policy limits
- Replacement services if you can’t perform daily tasks
- Mileage reimbursement for medical travel
Keep Medical Records Organized
Seek medical attention even if you “feel fine.” Many injuries, especially concussions or soft-tissue injuries, appear later. Keep copies of every medical record and receipt. This documentation is crucial to your claim.
Reporting the Crash & Key Deadlines
Notify Your Insurance Company
You should notify your insurance company of the crash promptly — typically within a few days. This is typically required in certain types of auto insurance, such as undinsured and undersinured motorist coverage.
Provide basic facts only; avoid making recorded statements without legal advice.
File Your PIP Application on Time
Michigan law requires filing an Application for No-Fault Benefits within one year of the crash. However, this should be done without delay. Missing this deadline can bar your claim.
PIP One-Year-Back Rule
Under Michigan’s “one-year-back rule,” an injured person can only recover No-Fault (PIP) benefits for losses incurred within one year before the date a lawsuit is filed, even if the loss itself happened earlier. The one-year-back rule applies to all No-Fault (PIP) benefits: (1) Allowable expenses, such as medical expenses, attendant care, and medical milage; (2) Wage loss; and (3) Replacement services.
Third-Party Lawsuits
If your injuries meet Michigan’s “serious impairment” threshold, you may also bring a claim against the at-fault driver for pain and suffering or excess wage loss. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Grand Rapids can guide you through this process.
Common Mistakes That May Hurt Your Claim
- Giving recorded statements without legal counsel
- Posting on social media about the crash or injuries
- Delaying medical treatment
- Failing to document expenses or time off work
- Missing critical deadlines
These mistakes may weaken or even destroy a valid claim. Therefore, it is important to protect your rights early and get guidance before talking to insurers.
When to Talk to a Lawyer
If you’ve suffered serious injuries or your claim is being delayed or denied, hiring an attorney can make a significant difference. A skilled Grand Rapids personal injury lawyer – JKH Law can:
- Handle insurance adjusters so you don’t have to
- Gather and preserve key evidence
- Maximize your claim value under Michigan law
- Ensure deadlines are met and your rights protected
Initial consultations are typically free, and most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you don’t pay unless they recover compensation for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the other driver didn’t have insurance?
Even if the at-fault driver is uninsured, Michigan No-Fault laws may still provide coverage. An attorney can help explore uninsured motorist coverage or other options.
What if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
Not wearing a seatbelt can affect your claim, but it does not automatically bar recovery. Your lawyer can help address this issue strategically.
Do I need a lawyer if my injuries seem minor?
Even “minor” injuries can lead to long-term issues or lost wages. A consultation helps ensure your claim is valued fairly before accepting any settlement.
Talk to a Grand Rapids Car Accident Lawyer
Car crashes are stressful — but protecting your rights doesn’t have to be. At JKH Law, PLC, we help clients across West Michigan navigate the complexities of Michigan’s No-Fault system, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Contact JKH Law, PLC today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
