Detailed Answer: Next steps after you have the crash report in Michigan

This FAQ explains practical steps you can take to advance a Michigan personal injury claim after you obtain the police crash report. This is general information and not legal advice. If your injury is serious or the insurance company disputes your claim, talk with a licensed Michigan attorney as soon as possible.

1. Read and save the crash report carefully

The crash report contains the basics: names and contact information for drivers, insurance carriers, officer observations, diagram, witness names, and the report number. Use the report to confirm what the police observed and to identify witnesses, vehicle damage, and citations. If anything in the report looks wrong, note the inaccuracy and keep a copy of the report with the date you obtained it.

2. Get and document medical care immediately

Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries appear minor. Michigan’s personal protection insurance (PIP) covers reasonable and necessary medical expenses, without regard to fault, under the No-Fault Act. Keep all medical records, test results, prescriptions, bills, and a written timeline of symptoms and treatment. These records are central to proving injury and damages.

3. Notify your auto insurer and the at-fault insurer

Report the crash to your own insurer promptly so you can preserve PIP benefits (medical expenses, attendant care, wage loss benefits). Also notify the at-fault driver’s insurer if you plan to pursue a claim for pain and suffering or other non-PIP damages. When you report, provide the crash report number and basic facts. Save claim numbers and contact names.

4. Preserve evidence

Preserve physical and digital evidence: photos of injuries, the scene, vehicle damage, clothing, contact information for witnesses, and repair estimates. Keep a copy of any text messages, social media posts, and emails related to the crash. Avoid posting about the crash or your recovery on social media—insurers may use those posts against you.

5. Understand Michigan’s No-Fault rules and when you can sue

Michigan’s No-Fault Act provides PIP benefits for medical care and wage loss regardless of fault. To file a tort lawsuit against the at-fault driver for pain and suffering (non-economic losses), Michigan law requires a showing that the injuries meet the “serious impairment of body function” threshold. See MCL 500.3135 for the statutory threshold and related rules: MCL 500.3135. For definitions used by the No-Fault Act, see MCL 500.3101.

6. Track damages and out-of-pocket expenses

Create a damages ledger that lists medical expenses, mileage to treatment, medication costs, lost wages, childcare or household help expenses, and property damage. Attach receipts and bills. This documentation supports demand letters and settlement negotiations.

7. Consider a demand package to the at-fault insurer

When you have a medical record summary, bills, the crash report, and a damages ledger, prepare a written demand to the at-fault insurer explaining your claim and requesting specific compensation. Include copies of key medical records, the crash report, and bills. In many cases, insurers will respond with an offer or a request for more information. For serious injuries or contested claims, an attorney can prepare a stronger demand and negotiate on your behalf.

8. Know the statute of limitations

Michigan’s general time limit to file a civil lawsuit for personal injury is governed by the Michigan Compiled Laws. Most negligence actions must be filed within the time set by statute. For example, see the statute that sets ordinary limitations on civil actions: MCL 600.5805. If you miss the deadline, you usually lose the right to sue, so check deadlines early and consult an attorney if you are unsure.

9. When to hire a Michigan attorney

Consider hiring an attorney if any of the following apply:

• You suffered significant or lasting injuries.
• Insurers deny or underpay your PIP benefits or deny liability.
• You have significant lost wages, long-term care needs, or permanent impairment.
• Multiple insurers, complex liability issues, or disputes about the crash facts exist.

An attorney can evaluate whether you meet the serious-impairment threshold under MCL 500.3135 and can negotiate or litigate on your behalf.

10. Practical timeline and immediate checklist

Immediate (first 24–72 hours): seek medical care; save the crash report; report to your insurer.

Short-term (first 2 weeks): document everything; collect witness contact info; get repair estimates; request medical records and bills.

Within 1–3 months: prepare a demand (or consult an attorney); keep treating and updating records; preserve all evidence.

Key statutory references

• No-Fault Act definitions and provisions: MCL 500.3101 and related sections.
• Tort threshold for non-economic loss (serious impairment): MCL 500.3135.
• Statute of limitations for civil actions: MCL 600.5805 (check the specific subsection that applies to your situation).

How to get the crash report and related public records

Many crash reports are available through local police departments or the Michigan State Police. For information about obtaining Michigan crash reports, see the Michigan State Police crash report page: Michigan State Police – Crash Reports.

Helpful Hints

• Keep an organized folder (paper or digital) with the crash report, medical records, photos, receipts, and all communications with insurers.
• Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer without considering legal advice if your injuries are significant.
• Document symptoms daily for the weeks after the crash—this helps show how injuries affect your life and work.
• Get contact information for witnesses right away; memories fade fast.
• Take lots of photos at the scene and of injuries as they evolve.
• Keep all medical appointment notes and prescriptions; small expenses add up and support your claim.
• Be mindful of social media—insurers often monitor posts and may use them in defense.
• If insurers deny PIP benefits, ask for the denial in writing and note the reason; denials often have appeal timelines.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. For advice tailored to your facts, consult a licensed Michigan attorney.