Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by The Insurance Pros
Michigan Mini Tort Limit Is $3,000: What Drivers Should Know
Michigan’s mini tort law, officially known as Limited Property Damage Liability, lets drivers recover out-of-pocket repair costs when the other driver is at least 50% at fault. Since July 2, 2020, the recovery limit increased from $1,000 to $3,000, giving Michigan drivers more financial relief after not-at-fault crashes.
If you cause a crash and do not carry limited property damage coverage, you could legally owe the other driver up to $3,000 out of pocket.
📈 Why the Mini Tort Limit Increased
Rising auto repair costs pushed Michigan lawmakers to raise the mini-tort limit. The $3,000 cap better reflects modern repair expenses, helping more drivers avoid large out-of-pocket bills after not-at-fault collisions.
👤 Who Qualifies for the $3,000 Limit?
To be eligible for mini-tort reimbursement:
- You must have valid auto insurance at the time of the accident
- You must be less than 50% at fault
- The claim must be filed within Michigan’s legal timeframe
- Uninsured drivers are not eligible
Mini tort applies only when the other driver is 50% or more at fault, not when fault is evenly split.
💡 What the $3,000 Cap Means for You
With the higher limit, Michigan drivers can recover more for vehicle repairs after a not-at-fault crash. But if you are at fault and lack limited property damage coverage, you could owe up to $3,000. Knowing how this works can help you avoid surprises.
🚗 When Mini Tort Doesn’t Apply
- No mini tort if you are 50% or more at fault
- Uninsured drivers are ineligible
- Mini tort covers vehicle damage only, not medical expenses
If mini tort doesn’t apply or you need repairs handled faster, collision coverage may be the better route. Collision insurance can pay for vehicle damage regardless of fault, subject to your deductible. Learn how it works here: Michigan Collision Insurance Options Explained.
⏳ Filing Timeframe & Small Claims Court
You have three years from the accident date to file your mini-tort claim. If the at-fault party or their insurer refuses to pay, you can pursue the case in Michigan’s Small Claims Court (limit $6,500). For damages above that amount, you may need to file in District Court.
Uninsured drivers are not eligible for mini tort claims, no matter how clear the fault may be.
Need the step-by-step process? Read this guide:
How to File a Michigan Mini Tort Claim.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
The simplest protection is making sure your policy includes limited property damage liability. It can help cover up to $3,000 if you are found at fault, which helps prevent unexpected out-of-pocket payments after a collision.
This mini tort is a joke! I was NOT at fault. It happened on “PRIVATE property” a store parking lot. So no police report could be made.I am beyond mad and frustrated this law is bullshit and saves the at fault driver. THis state is ass backwards