What You Should Know About Michigan Parking Lot Accident Laws

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A PARKING LOT ACCIDENT?

Because there are numerous types of parking lot accidents, determining liability is often a challenge. In most cases, the laws and insurance coverage vary according to the circumstances. Generally, if you are injured, you are covered under your Michigan No-Fault policy. Injury accidents are treated differently than those involving only vehicle damage. In addition, many parking lots are on private property. If a crash occurs because of poor maintenance or unsafe conditions, the parking lot owner and the at-fault driver could be responsible.

Michigan has a mini-tort law that provides up to $3,000 for vehicle damage in certain situations. Furthermore, even with Michigan No-Fault insurance, recovering medical expenses and other damages is complicated. For example, victims with lower levels of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) medical coverage may be able to sue the at-fault driver for excess medical costs as well as intangible damages such as pain and suffering. 

However, Michigan No-Fault is a complicated system, with many rules and exceptions. Therefore, if you are injured, you should contact an experienced Michigan car accident attorney to explain and protect your rights.

TYPES OF PARKING LOT ACCIDENTS

These are some of the most common types of parking lot accidents: 

YOUR CAR WAS IN A “HIT-AND-RUN” WHILE YOU WERE INSIDE A STORE OR BUILDING

Many parking lot accidents are “hit-and-runs,” where someone damages your car and drives away without leaving a note. If this happens, this is what you should do:

• If anyone is in the area, ask if they saw the incident.
• Find out if the building or store has surveillance cameras that might have recorded the accident.
• Take photos of the damage to your car.
• Record the location of the parking lot, the time you arrived, and the time you discovered the damage.
• If your Michigan No-Fault policy includes collision coverage, call your insurance company and report the accident if you plan to file a claim

Michigan’s No-Fault law requires drivers to have basic No-Fault coverage, but it doesn’t cover damage to your own vehicle unless you have collision coverage. Unfortunately, if you don’t have collision coverage and can’t identify the driver, you are responsible for the repair costs under Michigan accident laws.

YOU KNOW WHO HIT YOUR CAR IN A MICHIGAN PARKING LOT

If you saw the accident, or the driver waited for you to return to the vehicle, obtain the following information:

• Full name
• Address
• Phone
• Email address
• License plate number
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company name and policy number
• If the driver left a note, call or email and ask for the above information.
• If witnesses are present, get their names and contact information.
• Take photos of your car and the other vehicle, including close-ups of any damage.

You may be able to file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver vehicle for Property Protection Insurance (PPI) benefits, which is part of every Michigan No-Fault insurance policy. Coverage includes repair costs and expenses resulting from being unable to use your car, such as a rental.

YOU DAMAGE AN UNOCCUPIED CAR IN A PARKING LOT

• Don’t leave the scene of the accident, even if the other driver is not present.
• If the lot is outside a single store, go inside and try to locate the owner of the car.
• In parking lots outside large office buildings or shopping malls, leave a note on the vehicle’s windshield. Include your name and contact information.
• Take photos of the damage and document the location and exact time of the incident. 

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE INJURED IN A PARKING LOT ACCIDENT

Unlike parking lot accidents where a driver hits an unoccupied vehicle, the rules are different when someone hits a car when the driver and/or passengers are inside. Typically, those situations follow the same Michigan No-Fault laws that apply to motor vehicle accidents on streets or highways.

• Call for an ambulance if emergency medical treatment is needed.
• Call the police if anyone is injured or there is vehicle or property damage. 
• Exchange information with the other driver, including:
  • Names and contact information (phone, address and email)
  • Drivers’ license numbers
  • Vehicle makes, models and license plate numbers
  • Insurance information
• Get statements and/or contact information from witnesses.
• Record the date, time and location of the accident.
• Take photos of both vehicles.
• Do not discuss the accident with the other driver
• Do not discuss your injuries or say you are fine. Some conditions don’t become apparent for days or weeks. If asked, say you will have to see your doctor before you can determine the extent of your injuries.
• Do not sign any insurance papers.
• Never admit fault, even if you think you caused the accident.
• Contact a Michigan car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

WILL MY CAR INSURANCE RATES INCREASE AFTER A DETROIT PARKING LOT ACCIDENT?

Insurance companies often raise premium rates after an accident, even when the insured driver is not at fault. Therefore, it may be better to pay for minor repairs yourself or request reimbursement from the at-fault driver.

PUT OUR EXPERIENCED PARKING LOT ACCIDENT LAWYERS TO WORK FOR YOU TODAY

If you or a loved one is injured in a parking lot accident, we can help. Our knowledgeable legal team knows what it takes to win your case, and we have the expertise and resources to win the compensation you deserve.

Car accident law is complicated, but finding the right car accident lawyer is simple.

Don’t let the legal clock run out. Get your case started today by filling out the brief form below or calling 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation remote consultation from the safety and comfort of your home.