Michigan drivers are entitled to no-fault benefits after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. That means personal injury protection (PIP) benefits are available following an accident with a parked car in Michigan.
Also, depending on where the car was parked and whether another driver was involved, you may have options for pursuing a third-party claim.
In this guide, we explain the steps you should take after an accident with a parked car, the compensation that may be available through your own auto insurance policy, and your options for pursuing additional compensation in Michigan.
What Should I Do If I Hit a Parked Car in Michigan?
If you hit a parked car, the steps you take after the accident are the same as any other type of car accident in Michigan.
First, check yourself and your passengers for injuries, if you suffered any serious injuries as a result of the collision, it is important to get medical attention right away. Even if your injuries do not seem serious, it is still important to get an examination after the accident. Underlying injuries can go unnoticed for days before they present symptoms.
Next, you need to exchange insurance and contact information with the owner (or driver) of the parked car. If the owner (or driver) of the parked car is not present, you need to make a reasonable effort to try and identify them.
If you are unable to identify the owner, (or driver) of the vehicle, you should:
- Take down the damaged vehicle’s license plate number
- Leave a written note including your name, contact information, vehicle registration number, and insurance information.
Failing to do so can result in criminal hit-and-run charges.
Once you identify an owner and leave a note. You should report the accident to police. A police report can be a crucial piece of evidence, should you choose to pursue an injury claim later on.
After a police report is filed, you should thoroughly document the accident scene. Take photos and videos of:
- The vehicles involved in the accident
- The damage that happened as a result of the accident
- The note that you left (if the vehicle was unattended and you were unable to identify the owner or driver)
- Any road conditions that might have contributed to the accident
- The injuries you sustained as a result of the accident
- Any other details you think are relevant
Following your documentation of the accident scene, you should make an effort to identify any witnesses to the accident. Witnesses can be extremely beneficial, especially if you think another driver contributed to the accident.
Next, report the accident to your auto insurance company, as you may be entitled to no-fault benefits depending on the specifics of your policy.
Finally, consider speaking with an experienced Michigan car accident attorney. They can help you review the circumstances of the accident and determine whether it may be possible to pursue a third-party injury claim.
Are No-Fault Benefits Available After an Accident with a Parked Car in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan drivers are entitled to no-fault PIP benefits regardless of their fault for causing an accident. These benefits include compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Home care attendant and replacement services costs
Could Someone Else Be Liable for Your Injuries?
Yes, another driver could potentially be liable for your injuries after a parked-car accident in Michigan.
If the car that you collided with was illegally parked, then the driver of that car may be liable for the accident. If their illegal parking job made a collision unavoidable or created a direct hazard, there is a good chance they will be found at least partially at fault.
Additionally, other drivers can be held liable if their actions led to your collision with a parked vehicle. For example, if a distracted driver veers into your lane and you swerve to avoid hitting them, but end up hitting a parked car, then that driver may be liable for the accident, assuming you are able to identify them.
If you suspect that another driver’s negligence led to your accident, it is crucial that you consult with an experienced Michigan car accident attorney as soon as possible. They will be able to review the circumstances of your accident and advise you on whether it may be possible to pursue a third party injury claim against another driver.
Talk to an Experienced Michigan Car Accident Attorney
If you were injured in an accident with a parked vehicle, you have multiple options for compensation, including a potential third-party injury claim if another driver’s negligence contributed to the accident.
It is important to consult with an experienced Michigan car accident attorney to review the facts of your parked-car accident and understand your options for compensation.
At Femminineo Law, we have been helping Michigan car accident victims pursue compensation for over thirty years. The Femminineo Law Accident Response Team can help you preserve critical evidence, negotiate with insurance, and ultimately get the most out of your claims for compensation.
Give us a call at 855-65CRASH or schedule a free consultation with Femminineo Law today.
Get David. Get Paid.