In Michigan, if your properly parked car is hit by another vehicle, the at-fault driver's no-fault insurance policy typically covers the damage.
Understanding Michigan's No-Fault Law for Parked Cars
Michigan operates under a unique no-fault auto insurance system, which includes specific provisions for property damage to parked vehicles. When your car is stationary and legally parked, and it is struck by a moving vehicle, the responsibility for paying for the damage generally falls on the driver who hit your car.
Specifically, the other driver's no-fault coverage is designed to pay for the repairs to your properly parked car. This is a key distinction in Michigan's insurance laws, as in most other scenarios, your own insurance would cover damages to your vehicle, regardless of who was at fault.
When Does This Apply?
For the other driver's no-fault coverage to pay for the damage to your parked vehicle:
- Your car must be properly parked, meaning it was legally parked and not obstructing traffic.
- Another moving vehicle must have struck your stationary, parked car.
What if My Car Isn't Parked or is Involved in a Moving Accident?
The rules for vehicle damage coverage differ when your car is not parked or is involved in a moving accident. In most other situations where your own vehicle sustains damage, the repairs are covered by your own insurance policies, if you have them:
- Collision Coverage: This coverage pays for damages to your car resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of who was at fault in the accident.
- Comprehensive Coverage: This coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, or damage caused by hitting an animal.
Summary of Who Pays for Vehicle Damage in Michigan
To help clarify the different scenarios, here's a quick overview:
| Scenario | Who Pays for Your Vehicle Damage in Michigan | Relevant Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Your properly parked car is hit | The at-fault driver's no-fault insurance | Other driver's Property Protection Insurance (PPI) |
| Your car is in a moving accident | Your own collision coverage (if you have it) | Your collision insurance |
| Damage from non-collision events | Your own comprehensive coverage (if you have it) | Your comprehensive insurance |
Steps to Take if Your Parked Car is Hit
If your parked car is hit, taking the right steps can streamline the claims process:
- Assess the Scene and Ensure Safety: First, check for any injuries and, if possible and safe, move your car to a secure location.
- Gather Information:
- Obtain the striking driver's name, contact information, and insurance details.
- Note their vehicle's make, model, and license plate number.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Take clear photos and videos of the accident scene, the damage to both vehicles (if possible), and the surrounding area.
- Contact Law Enforcement: File a police report, especially if the damage is significant, or if the at-fault driver left the scene without providing their information.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the incident to your own insurance provider as soon as possible. Even though the other driver's insurance will pay, your insurer can guide you through the claims process and help you understand your rights.
