In 2014, Michigan hosted 113.4 million visitors[1], many of whom likely drove from surrounding states. With all of those out-of-state drivers, on both business and vacation, there are going to be non-Michigan residents involved in auto accidents.
No-Fault Michigan Insurance
AAA[2] sets forth the insurance laws applicable in all 50 states in order to assist motorists as they travel. The law in Michigan requires that every owner of a car must buy certain basic coverages in order to get license plates, called no-fault insurance[3]. It is against the law to drive or let your car be driven without no-fault insurance even for college students enrolled in Michigan colleges and universities.
Non-Michigan Residents in Auto Accidents
But what happens when a non-Michigan resident is injured in a car accident while in the state of Michigan? A non-resident may be able to make a claim for no-fault insurance benefits, even if they live in a state that does not have no-fault insurance. This is a tremendous benefit for the out-of-state resident because Michigan no-fault insurance benefits pay for lost wages, medical costs, as well as other expenses
A non-resident injured in a Michigan car accident must consider several factors including:
- Driver: Was the individual driving their own car? Is their insurance company certified in Michigan?
- Pedestrian: Was the individual a pedestrian?
- Passenger: Was the individual a passenger in a vehicle registered in Michigan? Did the vehicle have insurance that was certified in Michigan?
Speak to a Michigan Auto Accident Lawyer
It is important to contact a Michigan car accident attorney immediately if you are a non-resident and were injured in a Michigan auto accident or if you are a Michigan resident and the other driver is from out-of-state. There are many different deadlines that must be met in order to avoid negative consequences to your case making it important to speak to attorneys at the Michigan Injury Lawyers as soon as possible after an accident. Please feel free to call our office today at 313-438-4357 for a free consultation with no obligation.
Resource:
[1] http://www.michiganbusiness.org/cm/Files/Reports/Michigan-2014-Tourism-Economic-Impact.pdf
[2] https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/difs/Publication/Auto/FIS-PUB_0202.pdf?rev=7f43969712ec4c269abfc0cbf8a843ef
[3] https://www.michigan.gov/documents/cis_ofis_ip202_25083_7.pdf