Insurance in Michigan can be relatively expensive. Even though state lawmakers recently adjusted insurance rules to diminish the requirements for no-fault coverage in many cases, motorists still pay quite a bit for their coverage.
Most people shop around with different insurance providers and adjust the coverage that they carry to keep their costs reasonable. Some drivers choose the much more dangerous route of canceling their policies or letting their coverage lapse because they don’t make their monthly payments.
When uninsured drivers cause major crashes, other people may be left with significant expenses. The possibility of a crash caused by an uninsured driver is a more serious risk in Michigan than in most other jurisdictions.
The percentage of uninsured drivers is shockingly high
Most people expect to file claims against their own policies in the coverage of drivers who cause crashes to cover their medical expenses and other losses after a collision. Unfortunately, a significant percentage of motorists in Michigan learn after a crash that the driver at fault doesn’t have the coverage required by state law.
According to data from claims filed in 2023, Michigan has the fourth-highest rate of uninsured drivers in the country. Roughly 22.3% of drivers may lack coverage at any given time.
What happens after a crash caused by an uninsured driver?
People involved in collisions caused by uninsured drivers often rely on their own policies. Both no-fault coverage and uninsured motorist protection, which many people add to their policies, can help cover crash expenses.
The people affected by serious collisions caused by drivers without insurance may also have the option of filing personal injury lawsuits. Uninsured drivers may be directly responsible for the financial harm they cause others by failing to comply with insurance requirements. In some cases, the party seeking financial relief may even have the option of filing a third-party lawsuit against a business that may have partial liability for the collision.
Those dealing with the aftermath of a major crash may need help preparing for a lawsuit or negotiating for the optimal outcome during a sizable insurance claim. Discussing a serious car crash with a personal injury attorney can help people understand their options.