What Happens If You Get Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Michigan?

Car accidents are stressful, but being hit by a driver without insurance can feel overwhelming. Even though auto insurance is required by law in Michigan, uninsured drivers are still on the road. Knowing how Michigan’s no-fault insurance system and optional coverages work will help you protect yourself if this happens.

Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance System

Michigan is a no-fault state, which means that after most car accidents you turn to your own insurance first, regardless of who was at fault. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and certain replacement services.

If you are hit by an uninsured driver in Michigan, your PIP still covers your medical costs and lost income. The challenge is recovering money for your injuries beyond PIP and for the damage to your car.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Michigan

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) is an optional add-on that protects you when the at-fault driver has no insurance. It helps pay for:

• Medical bills not covered by PIP

• Pain and suffering damages

• Lost wages that exceed your PIP limits

Without UM coverage, you may be left paying out of pocket or trying to sue the uninsured driver, which often results in little to no recovery.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Michigan

Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM) comes into play when the at-fault driver has insurance but not enough to cover your injuries. For example, if your damages total $100,000 but the other driver only has $50,000 in liability coverage, your UIM can help make up the difference.

Vehicle Damage After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver

Michigan’s no-fault law does not automatically cover repairs to your car. To be protected, you need:

• Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle regardless of who caused the accident.

• Limited Property Damage (Mini Tort): Allows you to recover up to $3,000 from the at-fault driver if you only carry liability insurance and your car is damaged. This is helpful for drivers without collision coverage, but if the other driver is uninsured, collecting may be extremely difficult.

  
  

Steps to Take If You Are Hit by an Uninsured Driver

1. Call the police so the accident is officially documented.

2. Collect information from the other driver, including license and vehicle details.

3. Take photos of the scene and any damage.

4. Notify your insurance company right away.

5. Talk with your insurance agent to understand what coverages apply.

   
   

Why Extra Protection Matters

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is not automatically included in every Michigan auto policy. Some drivers decline it to save money, but when an uninsured driver causes serious injuries the financial impact can be devastating. Adding this coverage usually costs just a few extra dollars a month but provides critical peace of mind.

👉 At Corsi Agency, we help Michigan drivers make sure they are fully protected on the road. If you are not sure whether your policy covers uninsured or underinsured drivers, call us today at (269) 359-3380 or email christy@corsiagency.com for a review of your auto insurance.