How do you go about filing a mini tort in the State of Michigan?

Question

I don't know where to begin. I do have a copy of the accident report but other than that, I have never had to do this. Please help/

Answer 1

Michigan has a "mini tort" system that allows accident victims to recover part or all of their collision repair deductible, up to a maximum of $500. (Compensation for injuries, etc., is not allowed in the mini tort process.) The other driver must be more than 50% at fault for the accident and the amount you can ask for is the repair amount times the percentage of fault of the other driver (up to $500).

The above assumes you have collision insurance. If not, you can only sue for $500 towards your repair bill.

To start out, you will need:

1. Police report

2. Estimate of repairs

3. Declaration sheet (stating the facts and claiming an amount)

See the first link for a sample letter to attempt to get immediate compensation, either from the other driver's insurance company (if they have purchased the optional limited property damage liability coverage) or from the other driver. If that doesn't work, you will have to file a claim in small claims court; see the second link.