A car accident can turn your world upside down in seconds. Shock, confusion, and adrenaline make it hard to think clearly — but what you do in the first 24 hours can make or break your legal and financial recovery.

Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious crash, here’s your step-by-step guide to protect your health, your rights, and your potential injury claim in the state of Michigan.

✅ Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your first priority is safety.

• Call 911 immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Police documentation is crucial for any insurance or legal claim.
• Get medical attention for yourself and anyone else involved. Don’t assume you’re fine — symptoms like whiplash or internal injuries often appear hours or days later.

🚨 Important: In Michigan, failing to report an accident involving injury or over $1,000 in damage is illegal.

✅ Step 2: Document the Scene

While you wait for emergency responders:

• Take photos and video of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
• Exchange information with the other driver:
  • Name, phone number
  • Driver’s license number
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Vehicle plate number and make/model

Avoid small talk or apologies. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.

✅ Step 3: File an Official Police Report

When law enforcement arrives:

• Be factual and concise.
• Request the police report number or a way to obtain the final report.
• Don’t speculate on fault. Simply describe what happened.

📝 Pro Tip: A police report is one of the strongest tools for proving fault, injuries, and liability to insurance companies and in court.

✅ Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company

Michigan is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance company pays for your initial medical bills, lost wages, and damage — no matter who caused the crash.

• Contact your insurer as soon as possible.
• Stick to the facts and avoid providing a recorded statement until you’ve consulted an attorney.
• Ask for a copy of your PIP (Personal Injury Protection) benefits.

⚠️ Warning: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Don’t assume they’re on your side — especially if you’re seriously injured.

✅ Step 5: Call an Attorney Before Speaking to Anyone Else

Before you speak to the other driver’s insurance company — or accept any settlement — talk to a personal injury lawyer.

At Greenfelder Copes Law Office, we help car accident victims:

• Maximize compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages
• Navigate Michigan’s complex auto no-fault laws
• Fight back when insurance companies try to lowball or delay claims

✅ Step 6: Track All Medical Care and Expenses

Start a folder immediately and include:

• All ER or urgent care visits
• Doctor’s notes, prescriptions, X-rays, etc.
• Receipts for vehicle repairs, transportation, or out-of-pocket expenses
• A daily journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injury is affecting your life

This documentation is critical to proving your damages and building a strong case.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait to Take Action

Michigan’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically three years, but certain auto no-fault benefits must be claimed within one year — and the sooner you act, the better your chances.

📞 Injured in a Crash? We’re Ready.

Greenfelder Copes Law Office has over 30 years of experience helping Michigan drivers recover what they’re owed. You don’t pay us a dime unless we win.

📍 Visit our office in Chesaning at 233 W. Broad Street
📞 Call 989-845-4333 today
💬 Or message us now to schedule your consultation

Don’t let one crash ruin your future. Let us fight for the outcome you deserve.