Hit‑and‑Run in Michigan (2025): A Downriver Driver’s Step‑by‑Step Guide

First steps if the other driver flees

1. Call 911 immediately and request medical help if needed.

2. Stay safe and document: photos/video, plate fragments, vehicle description, direction of travel, and witness contacts.

3. Make a police report promptly. Many policies require a written police report within 24 hours to preserve uninsured motorist (UM) claims in hit‑and‑run cases (check your policy).

4. Notify your insurer promptly (ideally within 24–48 hours) to meet the policy notice terms.

Michigan law in plain English

• Leaving the scene is illegal. Drivers must stop, render aid, share information, or promptly report to police if remaining is unsafe.

• PIP (No-Fault) timeline: To claim No-Fault benefits (medical bills, wage loss, replacement services), strict one-year timing rules apply under MCL 500.3145. Waiting risks losing benefits (“one‑year‑back rule”).

• Pain-and-suffering/tort claims: Generally, three years from the date of injury for negligence claims under MCL 600.5805 (with some exceptions).

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage: UM is contractual; policies often require prompt notice and a timely police report after hit‑and‑runs. The policy sets deadlines; missing them can bar recovery. (Check your declarations page and endorsements.)

How benefits typically work after a hit‑and‑run

• No‑Fault (PIP): Covers reasonable medical expenses, wage loss, and replacement services up to your chosen limits, regardless of fault. Timely application to the proper insurer is critical.

• UM (if purchased): May compensate for pain and suffering and other losses when the at‑fault driver can’t be identified or is uninsured — subject to policy terms and proof requirements.

• Vehicle damage: Collision/comprehensive claims may have their own reporting requirements; please check your policy for details.

Downriver‑specific tips

• Intersections + ramps: If the hit‑and‑run happens near I‑75 interchanges or along Fort, Eureka, Telegraph, Allen, or Northline, note the approach lane (east/westbound, inner/outer lane) and any construction or signal anomalies. This helps with reconstruction and claim proof later.

• Video sources: Ask nearby gas stations, plazas, or city cameras along Fort/Eureka/Telegraph for footage quickly; many systems overwrite within days.

What we do for you

We secure police reports and video, preserve policy deadlines (PIP + UM), coordinate medical documentation, and handle insurers so you can focus on recovery.

CTA

Were you injured in a hit‑and‑run in Downriver? Speak with a Downriver Injury & Automotive Law attorney today. We’ll guide you step‑by‑step and protect your timelines.