Nate Harrington | August 11, 2026 | Car accidents
When a Michigan resident is injured in a car crash caused by another driver, they generally have at least two options for pursuing compensation: a third-party claim against the at-fault driver and a claim for no-fault benefits from their own insurance provider.
A claim against the at-fault driver can compensate the victim for pain and suffering damages, including the impact the crash had on the injured person’s quality of life and the physical pain associated with their injuries. A no-fault claim may offer more limited benefits. Keep reading to learn about common examples of no-fault benefits in Michigan.
Wage Loss
Michigan car accident victims may be able to recover 85% of the income they would have earned if not injured during the first three years after a crash. Per Michigan law, the cap varies depending on when the crash occurred and generally increases each year.
For example, the cap is $7,201 per single 30-day period for crashes occurring between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026. For accidents occurring between October 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027, the cap increases to $7,455.
If a person suffers wage loss that extends beyond three years from the crash, they can seek additional compensation from the at-fault driver.
Medical Bills
Most Michigan drivers can recover their medical bills for medical treatment arising out of the crash from their auto insurance company’s personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.
Michigan allows its drivers to select the amount of medical coverage from a list of options, including:
- $50,000 of medical expense coverage
- $250,000 of medical expense coverage
- $500,000 of medical expense coverage
- Unlimited medical expense coverage
- No coverage for medical expenses
Some of these options may only be available if the driver meets certain conditions.
If a crash victim’s medical expenses exceed the amount of medical coverage on their auto policy, they can seek the medical bills over and above their coverage limit from the at-fault driver.
Attendant Care
Attendant care, also called home health services, can include services such as assistance with bathing, dressing, and administering medications. Attendant care can be provided by a business specializing in the services or a family member.
To receive attendant care, a crash victim needs written support for the services from their treating doctor. The doctor should list the services needed and the number of hours per day the person requires them. Attendant care is paid at an hourly rate that depends on the types of services provided.
Michigan law may cap family-provided attendant care at eight hours per day. Alternatively, a person could receive 24/7 attendant care from an outside business if their doctor supports it.
Replacement Services
Replacement services cover the cost of routine household chores—like yard work, cooking, and cleaning—that a crash victim can no longer perform after their accident. Michigan sets the limit for these expenses at $20 per day.
To receive replacement services, you must keep a log of the services provided, the provider’s identity, and the dates they were provided. Like attendant care, replacement services also require a supportive note from a doctor. The note should list the necessary services and indicate they are needed because of the crash.
Medical Mileage
A crash victim is generally entitled to reimbursement for mileage to and from medical appointments. To receive mileage, you should keep a log of travel dates, destinations, and mileage.
Contact the St. Joseph Car Accident Lawyers at Southwest Michigan Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Michigan’s unique car insurance system can make seeking the compensation you’re entitled to after a crash even more challenging. An experienced car accident attorney who is familiar with these state laws and requirements can handle the insurance and claims process while you focus on your recovery.
For more information about how we can help, call a St. Joseph car accident lawyer at (269) 529-9377 to schedule a free consultation with a Southwest Michigan Injury Lawyer about your rights and options.
Southwest Michigan Injury Lawyers
308 Main St, St Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 529-9377
Open 24/7
We proudly serve all of Michigan.
