Michigan Personal Injury Laws
Michigan uses a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar and applies a unique 'one-bite rule' for dog bite cases rather than strict liability. The state's no-fault auto insurance system means most car accident claims are handled through PIP benefits, with tort lawsuits limited to cases involving serious impairment of a body function. Michigan has no cap on non-economic damages in general personal injury cases.
Statute of Limitations
3 years
Fault Rule
Modified Comparative Fault (50% Bar)
Non-Economic Damages Cap
No Cap
Fault Rule: Modified Comparative Fault (50% Bar)
You can recover damages only if you are less than 50% at fault. Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Average Settlement Amounts in Michigan
Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity, liability, and other factors. Below are estimated average settlements for common injury types in Michigan.
| Injury Type | Average Settlement |
|---|---|
| Car Accident | $22,000 |
| Slip and Fall | $18,000 |
| Dog Bite | $34,000 |
Key Michigan Personal Injury Statutes
- •Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5805 (statute of limitations)
- •Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.2959 (modified comparative fault, 51% bar)
- •Mich. Comp. Laws § 500.3135 (no-fault tort threshold)
Damage Caps in Michigan
Michigan does not impose a general cap on non-economic damages in personal injury cases. This means there is no statutory limit on pain and suffering awards in most cases.
Michigan does not have a specific medical malpractice damages cap.
Injury Claims in Michigan
Learn more about specific injury types and how Michigan law applies to each.
Major Cities in Michigan
Personal injury attorneys in Michigan serve clients in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor, and surrounding areas. If you have been injured in any of these cities, the same state laws described above apply to your claim.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your state.