Michigan Mini Tort Explained: What You Need to Know
Insurance is complicated and if you’re in live in Michigan a No-fault state, auto insurance can be an even bigger pain in the side, especially when it comes to understanding specific terms like “Michigan Mini Tort.”. This article aims to explain what Michigan Mini Tort is and provide you with the information you need to navigate it effectively.
What is Michigan Mini Tort?
In a no-fault auto insurance state like Michigan, you usually can’t sue another driver if you get into an accident. However, there are some exceptions to this rule: like Mini-tort.
Michigan Mini Tort is a legal provision that allows you to recover a limited amount of money for vehicle damage from the at-fault driver in an auto accident. Unlike comprehensive claims, Mini Tort claims are designed to cover only your deductible or vehicle damage not covered by insurance, up to a certain limit.
Who Can Make a Mini Tort Claim?
To file a Mini Tort claim, you can’t be the main one at fault for the accident. You must be less than 50% responsible. The other driver must be more than 50% responsible and you have to have Michigan car insurance.
How To File Mini Tort
1. Gather all the documents you need.
- Police Report: Always get a police report, no matter how small the accident seems. Without it, the other driver’s insurance company might deny your claim. A police report serves as an official record that helps prove you’re not at fault.
- Pictures: Take photos of the damage to your car and, if possible, the other car involved. Pictures provide visual evidence that can strengthen your claim.
- Repair Estimates: Get an estimate of how much it will cost to fix your car. This helps you know how much money you should ask for.
- Insurance Declaration Page: This page shows your coverage details, like your deductible or whether you have collision coverage. It helps prove the amount you’re asking for in your claim.
Make sure you gather all these documents before you start the claim process. Missing any of them can slow things down and make it harder to get your money.
2. Send in the Claim:
Contact the other person’s insurance company, file the Michigan Mini-tort claim and send the paperwork in.
3. Wait for an Answer:
This is the hardest part, most companies have a specific process that they need to follow so it might take a few weeks or so before you get anything back but if you’ve done all of the items on the list you should be good to go.
Common Scenarios Where Mini Tort Applies
Mini Tort is especially relevant for those who either don’t have collision coverage or only have standard collision coverage. This is your avenue for recouping your deductible or getting some financial help for your car repairs, provided you’re not the primary one at fault for the accident.
For instance, if you’re rear-ended, and have a $ 1,000 standard collision deductible, the driver who rear-ended you is at fault, making you eligible to file a Mini Tort claim to recover your deductible, otherwise you’re stuck paying that deductible out of pocket.
FAQs About Michigan Mini Tort
- What is the maximum amount I can claim?
- “In Michigan, the most money you can get from a Mini Tort claim is $3,000. Mini Tort covers the cost to fix your car that your insurance doesn’t pay for. It doesn’t cover medical bills or other things, just car repairs up to $3,000
- Can I file a Mini Tort claim if I don’t have collision coverage?
- Yes, you can file a Mini Tort claim even if you don’t have collision coverage. The Mini Tort claim allows you to recover the cost of vehicle damages up to the Mini Tort limit, which can be especially helpful if you don’t have collision coverage to cover these costs.
Knowing how Michigan Mini Tort works can save you both time and money if you ever find yourself in a car accident. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it can help you get some of your money back. Having a trusted advisor by your side can make the whole process a lot smoother. Need help navigating Mini Tort? Contact us for personalized advice.
