How to File a Police Report After a Car Accident in Michigan
If you’ve been in a car accident in Michigan, filing a police report isn’t just a good idea—it’s often required by law. Whether the damage looks minor or major, this guide walks you through when you need to report an accident, how to do it, and why it matters for your insurance claim.
🚨 When Do You Legally Need to File a Police Report in Michigan?
Under Michigan law, you must file a police report immediately if the accident involves:
- Injury or death
- Property damage of $1,000 or more
- A hit-and-run or uninsured driver
You must report the accident at the nearest police station or to the closest available officer.
📋 Why Filing a Michigan Police Report Is So Important
1. Supports Insurance Claims
- Mini-Tort Claims (up to $3,000). Most Insurance Companies require a police report to determine fault when paying out a Michigan Mini-Tort Claim.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
- Broadened Collision deductible waivers
2. Establishes Liability
A police report documents facts that may later be disputed. It serves as an official third-party account of the incident.
3. Required for Injury Claims
To file a bodily injury claim against the at-fault driver, insurers typically require the accident to be officially documented.
4. Avoids Claim Denials
Failure to submit a police report when requested by your insurer can lead to a denied claim.
🧾 What You’ll Need to File or Request a Police Report
- Date of the accident
- Driver’s license number
- Driver’s date of birth
- Crash number
- Location of the accident (cross streets or address)
🌐 How to Order a Michigan Traffic Accident Report Online
Options include:
- Traffic Crash Purchasing System (TCPS) – Official state site
- CLEMIS – For metro Detroit departments
- LexisNexis – For Detroit reports
Each report typically costs $10, payable by credit card or money order.
🚗 Additional Tips: What to Do at the Scene
- Take photos of vehicles and the scene
- Get witness names and contact info
- Exchange driver and insurance information
- Request the officer’s badge number
✅ Final Thoughts
Filing a police report after a Michigan car accident isn’t just smart—it’s essential for protecting your legal and financial interests. Whether you’re dealing with vehicle damage or an injury claim, don’t skip this step.
