Paul J Tafelski, Michigan Defense Law

What Are Your Legal Rights After a Michigan Hit and Run?

Being involved in a hit and run can be a confusing and stressful experience, especially if you're unsure of your legal rights. What is considered a hit and run in? A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop and provide their contact information or assist anyone who may be injured. This applies to accidents involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or even property. Understanding your legal rights after such an incident is essential to protect yourself and seek the compensation or justice you deserve.

First, it's important to know that you have the right to report the hit and run to law enforcement. Michigan law requires drivers to stay at the scene of an accident, and if the other party flees, you should immediately contact the police. The police will file an official report, which is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal actions. Knowing what is considered a hit and run helps you understand the importance of documenting the incident properly, as it will play a key role in protecting your rights.

In Michigan, victims of hit and run accidents also have the right to seek compensation for damages through their own insurance, thanks to the state's no-fault insurance laws. Regardless of who was at fault for the accident, your insurance can cover medical expenses and damage to your vehicle. This system ensures that even if the fleeing driver is not caught, you can still recover some of your losses. When dealing with your insurance company, make sure to explain what is considered a hit and run in your case and provide them with all necessary documentation, including the police report.

If the hit and run driver is identified, you also have the legal right to pursue further compensation through a civil lawsuit. In such cases, you can sue the driver for additional damages that might not be covered by your no-fault insurance, such as pain and suffering, lost wages, or severe property damage. Understanding what is considered a hit and run ensures that you are prepared to take appropriate legal action if necessary, holding the responsible driver accountable for their actions.

Another important right you have is the ability to consult with a legal professional. A lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of Michigan’s hit and run laws and advise you on the best course of action. They can assist in determining what is considered a hit and run in your specific case and help you build a strong claim or lawsuit if the driver is found. Legal counsel can also negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation.

Finally, as a hit and run victim, you have the right to request a license suspension or other penalties for the responsible driver if they are caught. In Michigan, hit and run offenses can lead to severe legal consequences for the fleeing driver, including jail time, fines, and the suspension or revocation of their driver’s license. Knowing what is considered a hit and run helps reinforce your legal standing, as the law is designed to hold drivers accountable for fleeing the scene of an accident.

In conclusion, after a hit and run in Michigan, you have several important legal rights, from filing a police report to seeking compensation through insurance and potential civil lawsuits. Understanding what is considered a hit and run is crucial in navigating the legal process and protecting your interests. By exercising your rights, you can work towards justice and financial recovery following the incident. 

Consequences of Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Michigan

Leaving the scene of an accident in Michigan can lead to serious legal consequences, whether or not the accident involves injuries. But what is considered a hit and run in Michigan? A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop, provide their contact information, or offer assistance to anyone who may be injured. This definition applies to all types of accidents, including those involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or property damage. Fleeing the scene, regardless of the severity of the accident, can result in both criminal and civil penalties.

The consequences for committing a hit and run in Michigan vary depending on the details of the accident. For example, if the accident only involves property damage, the offense is usually classified as a misdemeanor. In these cases, what is considered a hit and run can lead to up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $100, or both. Even though property damage cases may seem less serious, failing to stop and report the accident can still result in a criminal record and other significant consequences.

However, if the accident results in injury or death, the penalties for leaving the scene are much more severe. In these situations, what is considered a hit and run becomes a felony offense. A hit and run that causes injury can result in up to five years in prison, while a hit and run resulting in death can lead to a prison sentence of up to 15 years. These harsher penalties reflect the gravity of leaving someone injured or dying without offering assistance or notifying the authorities.

In addition to criminal charges, drivers who commit a hit and run may also face civil lawsuits. Victims of hit and run accidents, or their families, can sue for damages, including medical bills, pain and suffering, and property repair costs. Understanding what is considered a hit and run ensures that drivers realize they could be held financially responsible for the aftermath of the accident, even if they are not criminally prosecuted or convicted.

Another important consequence of a hit and run in Michigan is the potential suspension or revocation of the driver’s license. In cases involving serious injury or death, the Michigan Secretary of State may suspend or revoke the fleeing driver’s license. This can last for a year or longer, depending on the severity of the case. Knowing what is considered a hit and run helps drivers understand that fleeing the scene could lead to long-term consequences, including losing the ability to legally drive.

In conclusion, the consequences of leaving the scene of an accident in Michigan are severe and vary based on the nature of the incident. What is considered a hit and run involves any situation where a driver fails to stop and provide necessary information or assistance after an accident. Whether it’s classified as a misdemeanor or felony, a hit and run can result in jail time, fines, civil lawsuits, and license suspension, making it crucial for drivers to remain at the scene of any accident and fulfill their legal obligations. 

Michigan Hit and Run Laws: Protecting Yourself Legally

Understanding Michigan’s hit and run laws is essential for every driver to ensure they protect themselves legally in the event of an accident. But what is considered a hit and run in Michigan? A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop, provide their contact information, or assist anyone who may be injured. This applies to accidents involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or property damage. Knowing your legal obligations and how to handle such situations can prevent severe legal consequences.

Under Michigan law, if you're involved in an accident, you are required to remain at the scene, regardless of how minor it seems. What is considered a hit and run includes failing to stop after causing property damage or injury. As a driver, it is your responsibility to provide your name, address, vehicle registration, and insurance details to the other party or law enforcement. If the accident results in injuries, you are also legally required to offer assistance, which may include calling emergency services. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges.

To protect yourself legally, always stay at the scene of the accident. Even if the damage is minor, leaving without reporting it could turn a simple situation into a legal issue. Knowing what is considered a hit and run can help you avoid unnecessary complications. For example, hitting a parked car and driving off without leaving your contact information could lead to misdemeanor charges. Reporting the accident to the authorities, especially if the other party is not present, is a critical step to take to comply with the law.

If you are the victim of a hit and run, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible. Michigan hit and run laws allow victims to seek compensation through their insurance under the state’s no-fault system. Documenting the scene, taking photos, and obtaining witness statements can strengthen your case when filing a claim. Understanding what is considered a hit and run also means recognizing your right to report the incident to the police, which will result in an official report that you can use for insurance and legal purposes.

Finally, if you’re involved in a hit and run as the responsible driver, seeking legal advice can help you navigate the situation. Legal professionals can clarify what is considered a hit and run in your case and help you address any potential charges or liabilities. The penalties for a hit and run can range from fines and license suspension to imprisonment, depending on whether the accident involved injuries or death.

In conclusion, Michigan’s hit and run laws are designed to ensure that drivers remain accountable for their actions after an accident. What is considered a hit and run includes failing to stop and provide information or assistance, even for minor accidents. By staying at the scene, reporting the incident, and understanding your legal responsibilities, you can protect yourself from the serious consequences that follow a hit and run offense. 

Paul J Tafelski, Michigan Defense Law

Paul J Tafelski, Michigan Defense Law | Criminal Attorney and DUI Lawyer

2525 S Telegraph Rd suite 100, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, United States

(248) 451-2200