Introduction:
Have you experienced a denied or delayed auto insurance claim in Michigan?
You’re not alone. For many policyholders, these claims bring financial stress, emotional frustration, and uncertainty about their rights. Juggling medical appointments, financial challenges, and family responsibilities is hard enough – dealing with an uncooperative insurance company only adds to the burden.
What No-Fault Auto Insurance Means:
Michigan’s no-fault system was designed to simplify claim processes, requiring insurance companies to pay for auto accident claims regardless of fault. However, it has also allowed insurers more leeway to deny or delay claims without sufficient accountability.
According to Harvey Rosenfield, Founder of FTCR and author of California’s insurance reform initiative Proposition 103, “No-fault has failed to live up to insurers’ promises of lower insurance rates. Lower premiums can be achieved by repealing failed no-fault laws and instituting strict rate regulation.”
“Michigan has historically been one of the more expensive states in which to buy insurance. This is because the state requires far more coverage than others.”1
The breadth of Michigan’s no-fault coverage is what makes it so effective in helping people who have been injured in a car crash.
In Michigan, it is the vehicle owner or registrant’s responsibility to ensure the vehicle is properly insured – not the driver’s. However, as a driver, it’s wise to do your due diligence and confirm that any vehicle you operate is adequately insured and complies with the state’s no-fault insurance requirements.
2020 Insurance Reform: Pros and Cons:
In 2020, Governor Whitmer signed the no-fault auto insurance reform legislation aimed at providing “insurance coverage options, lower rates for Michigan drivers while maintaining the highest benefits in the country and strengthening consumer protections.”2
Although the 2020 reform was intended to lower premiums, it also introduced unintended challenges. Many policyholders faced confusion when selecting coverage and, in some cases, found themselves underinsured.
The Problems with Michigan’s Auto Insurance Practices:
Insurance laws and claims can be highly complex and confusing. Insurance companies are taking advantage of a state that does not adequately protect consumer rights.
Unfortunately, Michigan’s lack of consumer protection has created an environment where insurers can engage in bad faith practices without accountability. Unlike in other states, Michigan law does not include provisions to discipline or punish insurance companies for acting in bad faith, allowing these behaviors to persist unchecked. Many policyholders don’t fully understand their rights or how to challenge auto insurance companies.
While insurers often advertise strategies to help you find cheaper coverage, these options can leave gaps in your protection when an accident occurs.
Michigan’s lack of consumer protection has enabled insurers to engage in bad faith practices that leave policyholders at a disadvantage. Common examples include:
- Delaying the claims process.
- Denying claims without a valid reason.
- Misinterpreting policy language to avoid payouts.
- Undervaluing settlements.
- Failing to conduct proper investigations.
The Case for No-Fault Reform:
In 2020, when Governor Whitmer signed no-fault auto insurance reform into law, it promised Michigan drivers more coverage options, reduced premiums, and stronger consumer protections. While the reform aimed to address longstanding issues, it introduced new challenges. Many policyholders now face confusion when selecting coverage levels, often resulting in insufficient protection. The law’s haphazard implementation left gaps that need to be addressed to ensure all Michigan drivers benefit from affordable, comprehensive coverage without sacrificing clarity or peace of mind.
How JuneLaw Can Help:If you’ve filed an insurance claim before, you know how overwhelming and unfair the process can feel. Insurance companies often have the upper hand, leaving policyholders to face financial and emotional hardships alone.
If you’ve encountered delays, denials, or intimidation tactics in your claim process, it’s time to get a lawyer. JuneLaw is here to help.
For over 30 years, we’ve successfully overturned countless claim denials and fought tirelessly for our clients – recovering millions of dollars in insurance claims, even in the most challenging cases.
We’ll guide you through the complicated claims process, analyze your situation to identify the best path forward, and minimize your stress every step of the way.
Dealing with insurance companies can be a heavy load, but JuneLaw is here to take that load off your shoulders and manage the process for you.
What Our Clients Say About JuneLaw:
“Contacted the Law Offices of Robert June to assist me with an appeal. They conducted themselves in a very professional manner even when the other parties did not. All timelines were met, and I was very satisfied with the result. Will contact them again if I find myself in a similar situation.”
“They made everything so easy for me and handled everything so I didn’t have to worry. And we won my case!”
Relief is just around the corner. Hire us. Get the best result. And find peace of mind.
Don’t wait – take the first step today:
- Call us at 734-481-1000 or visit www.junelaw.com to speak with someone about your case.
- Check out our article,What To Do When Your Insurance Claim is First Denied, and explore our FAQ section here.
Have questions or want to share your experience with an insurance claim in Michigan? Comment below—we’d love to help.
References:
- The Zebra: https://www.thezebra.com/auto-insurance/michigan-car-insurance/state-laws-mi/
- Michigan.gov: https://www.michigan.gov/autoinsurance/frequently-asked-questions
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice or assistance with a specific legal matter, we encourage you to contact JuneLaw for professional legal services.