Your Rights After an Accident in Michigan

Michigan’s auto insurance system is different from most states, and that difference often creates confusion after an accident.

This page explains your core rights after a crash in Michigan, what insurers are expected to do, and what you should understand before repair decisions are made.

Michigan Is a No Fault Insurance State

Michigan operates under a no fault auto insurance system. This means your own insurance company generally pays for vehicle damage and certain benefits regardless of who caused the accident.

Even under no fault rules, insurers must still follow claim handling standards and properly pay for covered repairs.

You Have the Right to Choose the Repair Shop

In Michigan, you are not required to use an insurance recommended repair shop. The choice of where your vehicle is repaired belongs to you.

Selecting your own shop does not cancel coverage, reduce your benefits, or remove your right to proper repairs.

Insurance Cannot Pressure Your Repair Decision

Insurers may recommend preferred repair facilities, but they cannot force you to use them.

Statements suggesting repairs will take longer, be lower quality, or not be covered because of your shop choice reflect insurer preferences, not your legal rights.

What Insurers Are Expected to Do During the Claim

Michigan insurers are expected to investigate claims promptly, communicate clearly, and explain what is covered and why.

If an insurer requests additional information or denies part of a claim, it should be able to explain the decision in understandable terms.

Initial Estimates Are Often Incomplete

Initial insurance estimates are usually written to begin the claim, not to identify every repair step needed to restore the vehicle.

Missing procedures, inspections, and safety related operations are common, especially when estimates are written from photos.

Safety Systems Must Be Considered

Modern vehicles rely on cameras, sensors, radar, and advanced driver assistance systems to operate safely.

These systems can be affected by even minor accidents and may not show warning lights when inspection or calibration is required.

Need Help Reviewing a Michigan Estimate

EstiVerify reviews insurance estimates for missing repairs, underwritten procedures, and safety related items before repairs begin.

Related topics: Michigan Total Loss | Michigan Diminished Value