Last Updated on January 24, 2026 by The Insurance Pros
📄 How to File a Michigan Police Report After a Car Accident
After a car accident in Michigan, many drivers aren’t sure if a police report is required or if they can handle it privately. In some situations, a missing report can lead to claim delays, disputes over what happened, or problems proving damage later. This guide explains when a report is required, how to file it, and how to get a copy when you need it for insurance.
File a police report if the crash involves injury, a hit-and-run, an uninsured driver, or $1,000+ in damage. When in doubt, filing a report helps protect your insurance claim.
🚨 When Must You File a Police Report in Michigan?
Michigan law (see MCL 257.622) requires an immediate report when an accident includes:
- Injury or death
- Property damage of $1,000 or more
- A hit-and-run
- An uninsured motorist
In practice, many “minor” accidents exceed $1,000 once bumpers, sensors, or wheel/tire damage are involved. If you’re unsure, request an officer or file a report through the appropriate agency.
📋 Why the Police Report Matters for Insurance
✅ Supports key Michigan claims
- Often required for mini-tort claims (up to $3,000)
- Helpful for uninsured/underinsured motorist claims
- May be required for broadened collision deductible waivers
✅ Creates a neutral record
A report provides a third-party account of what happened. That’s especially helpful when drivers disagree about fault or details change later.
✅ Prevents claim delays
If a report was legally required but not filed, insurers may delay or dispute parts of a claim because documentation is incomplete.
🚗 What to Do at the Scene Before You Leave
- Take photos of all vehicles, damage, and the overall scene
- Photograph license plates and insurance cards if available
- Get witness contact info
- Ask for the officer’s badge number and report number
If it’s safe, take one wide photo that shows the full scene, then close-ups of damage. This makes it easier to explain what happened later.
🧾 What You’ll Need to File or Request a Michigan Crash Report (UD-10)
- Date and time of the crash
- Exact location (cross streets or address)
- Driver’s license number and date of birth
- Crash/report number (if known)
🌐 How to Order a Michigan Traffic Accident Report Online
Most crash reports are available through:
Most reports cost about $10–$15 and are typically available after processing.
🚓 What If Police Don’t Respond to the Scene?
In some areas, officers may not respond to minor accidents without injuries. If a report is still required, go to the nearest police station or use the local online reporting option (if available). When in doubt, ask the dispatcher what your next step should be and document who you spoke with.
🔗 Related Michigan Guides
❓ FAQs
Do I need a police report for a minor accident in Michigan?
If there’s an injury, a hit-and-run, an uninsured driver, or $1,000+ in damage, yes. If you’re unsure, filing a report is usually the safer choice.
How do I find my crash report number?
If an officer responded, it may be on your paperwork, or you can call the responding agency and ask for the report number using the crash date and location.
✅ Final Thought
A Michigan police report protects your rights, supports your insurance claim, and helps prevent disputes later. It’s a small step that can make the rest of the process much smoother.
