Is It Important to Obtain a Police Report After a Michigan Car Accident?
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A car accident is an unexpected and often traumatic event. While a crash occurs in seconds, the consequences typically last far longer. Most people call for emergency medical assistance if anyone is injured, but knowing what to do next can be confusing. Is it necessary to call the police if no one is seriously hurt? Why does a police report matter?
Here is a guide to reporting a Michigan car crash and why hiring an experienced car accident attorney is the best way to protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve.
Do You Have a Case?ARE MICHIGAN DRIVERS REQUIRED TO CALL POLICE AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT?
According to Michigan law, certain motor vehicle accidents must be reported to police immediately. The statute does not define “immediately,” but it is better to report an accident as soon as possible, preferably from the scene, when one or more of the following applies:
- Someone is injured or killed. Calling 911 for emergency medical assistance should be the first priority if anyone is hurt.
- Damage to an attended vehicle or other property is $1,000 or more. The $1,000 minimum applies to property, such as another vehicle, belonging to someone who was present. Call police when the cost of the damage is unknown or likely to meet that threshold.
- Unattended property, such as a parked car or mailbox, is damaged. Damage to unattended property must be reported to police, regardless of the estimated cost. The Michigan Vehicle Code also requires drivers to try to find the owner and exchange information. If the owner cannot be located, leaving a note is not enough; the driver must report the incident to the nearest police station.
WHY SHOULD DRIVERS OBTAIN A POLICE REPORT AFTER A MICHIGAN CAR ACCIDENT?
There are several reasons to obtain a police report after a car accident:
- To comply with Michigan law, which requires reporting crashes involving injury or death, property damage of $1,000 or more, or damage to unattended property
- To support a claim for No-Fault benefits or vehicle repair authorization from your auto insurer
- To help qualify for uninsured motorist coverage after a hit-and-run
- To document the crash if you later pursue the at-fault driver for noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering, or for medical bills and expenses that exceed No-Fault coverage
IS IT NECESSARY TO CALL POLICE AFTER A MINOR ACCIDENT?
Unless one of the conditions above exists (injury or death, property damage of $1,000 or more, or damage to unattended property), drivers are not legally required to call police to the scene.
It is still advisable to call the police even if your injuries appear minor. A crash can cause soft-tissue injuries or other conditions that may not be discovered for days, weeks or even months. A report from the scene can strengthen your case if you later file a claim.
Michigan law also requires drivers, and others involved in the accident (including pedestrians and bicyclists), to exchange names, addresses, contact information and auto insurance information, including the company name and policy numbers.
WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR LEAVING THE SCENE OF A CRASH WITHOUT CALLING POLICE OR EXCHANGING DRIVER INFORMATION?
Michigan law imposes strict penalties for leaving the scene of an accident without stopping, exchanging information or reporting the crash when required.
If someone suffered a serious impairment of body function or was killed, a driver who leaves the scene may be charged with a felony. Penalties can include a fine of up to $10,000 and up to 15 years in prison when the crash caused a death.
If no one was injured but the accident caused property damage, leaving the scene can result in a misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $100 and/or up to 90 days in jail.
WHERE CAN I OBTAIN A POLICE REPORT FROM MY CAR ACCIDENT?
Police reports can be obtained through the Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Purchasing System (TCPS) for a fee. Requests typically require the date of the accident and the name of at least one driver. An incident number, usually provided by police at the scene, may also be required.
A credit card is required, and reports are downloaded from the site. The system does not email or mail copies.
A printed police report can also be requested from the local police department in the jurisdiction where the crash occurred.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD DRIVERS OR OTHER VICTIMS DO IMMEDIATELY AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT?
After emergency medical assistance has been requested for anyone who is injured, there are other steps drivers can take to protect a claim:
- If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved and anything else that may help determine fault
- Get names and contact information for witnesses
- Call a reputable car accident attorney as soon as possible
- Avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident with the other driver or passengers
- Do not speak to an insurance adjuster or sign papers without consulting your lawyer
OUR EXPERIENCED CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS WILL FIGHT TO WIN THE COMPENSATION YOU DESERVE
We understand how a car accident can upend your life, especially when you are seriously hurt. When you hire us, we take care of the details of your case so you can focus on recovering. Most importantly, we have the experience and resources to pursue the compensation you and your family deserve.
Car accident law is complicated, but finding the right car accident attorney is simple.
Start your case today by filling out the brief form below or contacting us for a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.
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