Michigan winters bring heavy snow, black ice, and sudden whiteouts that make driving unpredictable. Even cautious drivers can end up in an accident when conditions are dangerous. Knowing what to do after a winter crash can help protect your safety, insurance claim, and legal rights.
Steps to Take After a Winter Crash
Notify the Police
If the police do not arrive, call them as soon as possible. Michigan law requires reporting accidents that involve injury, death, damage to an unattended vehicle, or more than $1,000 in property damage. Many insurance policies also require a written report within 24 hours. Even after a minor crash, filing a report helps prevent insurance issues and creates a record of the weather and road conditions.
Collect Driver Information
Winter crashes can be chaotic, especially if vehicles are moved to avoid traffic or cold weather. Write down the driver's license number and license plate number for each vehicle involved. Getting this information immediately helps ensure accuracy and prevents problems if vehicles need to be moved or visibility worsens.
Take Photos
Snow, ice, and slush can rapidly hide important evidence. Take photos of all vehicle damage, the road surface, skid marks, nearby snowbanks, icy patches, and the weather conditions at the time. These images show what the scene looked like before it changed.
Gather Witnesses Details
Witnesses often leave quickly during cold or dangerous weather, so it is important to get their names and contact information right away. Their statements can help verify poor visibility, slippery roads, or unsafe driving that contributed to the crash.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Michigan’s no-fault insurance system requires drivers to report crashes promptly. Winter crashes typically involve multiple vehicles or weather hazards, so contact your insurer and explain the conditions and any injuries.
Request No-Fault Insurance Benefits
After reporting the crash, ask your insurance agent for an application for No-Fault Benefits. This form must be submitted to receive medical coverage, wage loss, and other benefits. Injuries, such as whiplash or back pain, may appear later, so timely filing protects your access to treatment and benefits.
Speak With a Michigan Car Accident Lawyer
Winter accidents can be difficult to investigate because snow, ice, and low visibility may make it harder to determine what happened. An experienced Michigan car accident lawyer can help preserve evidence, review your insurance coverage, and explain your legal options, especially if injuries are serious or coverage is disputed.
Common Winter Driving Risks
Michigan roads can be extremely hazardous in the winter months. Snow, whiteouts, and ice make it difficult to see and stop. Drivers can reduce their risk by practicing safe winter habits, including:
- Always wear a seatbelt.
- Avoid driving during county snow emergencies.
- Stay calm if your vehicle begins to skid and avoid slamming the brakes.
- Leave extra space between vehicles.
- Ensure wipers, defrosters, and lights work properly.
- Drive slowly and allow extra time to stop.
Conclusion
A winter car accident can be overwhelming, especially when injuries or dangerous road conditions are involved. However, you do not have to handle everything on your own.
If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident, contact our office for a free consultation to learn more about your legal options.
