Last Updated on June 22, 2025 by The Insurance Pros
🚗 What to Do After a Michigan Car Accident (Including Uninsured & Hit-and-Run Drivers) 2025 Guide
Car accidents are stressful, but they can be worse if the other driver is uninsured or flees. This 2025 Michigan guide explains exactly what to do if you’re in an accident involving an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, plus how to file claims and protect yourself financially.
⛑️ Immediate Steps After the Accident
- ✅ Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
- 🚨 Turn on hazard lights. If available, place flares or warning triangles.
- 📍 If the crash is minor and no one is injured, move vehicles out of traffic to a safe spot nearby.
📝 Exchange Information (Even If the Other Driver Has No Insurance)
If the other party doesn’t have insurance, gather:
- 📸 Photo of their driver’s license and license plate
- 📞 Name, phone number, and address
- 🚗 Vehicle make, model, and damage photos
If police respond, they will collect this info for you. If not, report the incident to the police as soon as possible. A police report is essential for insurance and court claims.
🧾 Hit-and-Run Accidents in Michigan
Should the at-fault driver leave the scene, please promptly contact the police and file a report. Then notify your insurance company. In most cases, your claim will go through your own uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage.
🏛️ Filing a Claim Against an Uninsured Driver
Option 1: File a Claim Through Your Own Insurance
- ✔ If you’re not at fault, this will be the quickest way to repair your vehicle.
- 💵 If you have standard or limited collision coverage, you may still need to pay your deductible.
- 📞 Contact your Michigan insurance agent to begin the process.
Option 2: Sue in Small Claims Court
Michigan’s small claims court limit is $6,500 in 2025. If your damages exceed that amount, you’ll need to file in district or circuit court with legal help. Be aware that recovering money can be difficult; many uninsured drivers have limited assets to collect from.
💡 What If the Other Driver Had Insurance?
If the other party does have insurance, you can usually file a Michigan mini-tort claim to recover your deductible (up to $3,000). Click here for our full mini tort claim guide.
📎 Outbound Resource
Michigan State Police: Accident Reporting and Insurance Requirements
💬 Final Thoughts
Protect yourself by maintaining proper insurance coverage, which should include uninsured motorist protection and limited property damage coverage. Your best course of action after a hit is to immediately contact a licensed Michigan insurance agent.
