Getting hit by a driver who speeds off can leave you confused, angry, and unsure of what to do next. In Michigan, hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common, especially in busy areas like Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, and throughout Oakland County. Understanding how uninsured motorist (UM) coverage works—and what steps you need to take right after the crash—can make all the difference in protecting your rights and your recovery. Latham Law Group helps Michigan residents navigate these complex cases every day.

What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident in Michigan?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver causes a collision and leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or offer help. Under Michigan law, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, but from the victim’s perspective, it also creates serious insurance challenges—especially when you can’t identify the at-fault driver.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: Your Safety Net
In Michigan, UM coverage is optional, but it’s one of the most important parts of your auto policy. It steps in when the at-fault driver has no insurance—or disappears after a hit-and-run. If you have UM coverage, your insurance company essentially takes the place of the other driver’s insurer, paying for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering up to your policy limits.

Even if the driver isn’t found, you can still recover damages through your UM coverage as long as you meet certain requirements, including prompt reporting to the police and your insurance company.

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Michigan

1. Call 911 Immediately – Always report the crash to law enforcement, even if the damage seems minor. In Michigan, insurers typically require a police report for UM claims.

2. Stay at the Scene Safely – Don’t try to chase the fleeing vehicle. Take photos of your car, debris, skid marks, or any property damage.

3. Gather Witness Information – Get names, contact details, and statements from anyone who saw the crash. Their testimony can help confirm that another vehicle was involved.

4. Document Everything – Write down the time, location, direction of travel, and any description of the other vehicle (color, make, model, or license plate digits).

5. Seek Medical Care – Even if you feel fine, some injuries appear hours later. A medical record also strengthens your insurance claim.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company Quickly – Most policies require you to report a hit-and-run within 24 hours to preserve UM coverage rights.

7. Contact an Experienced Michigan Auto Accident Attorney – Latham Law Group can help you file a comprehensive claim, negotiate with your insurer, and investigate all possible recovery options.

Proving a “Phantom Vehicle” Claim
Michigan insurers often challenge hit-and-run cases without a confirmed license plate or independent witnesses, sometimes calling them “phantom vehicle” claims. A skilled attorney can help collect evidence—like dashcam footage, traffic camera records, or accident reconstruction data—to establish that another driver caused your crash.

Why Work with Latham Law Group
Serving Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, Royal Oak, Southfield, and the surrounding Metro Detroit area, Latham Law Group has extensive experience handling Michigan hit-and-run and uninsured motorist cases. The firm’s attorneys know how to interpret no-fault insurance laws, handle UM claims, and make sure victims aren’t left paying for someone else’s negligence.

If you’ve been hurt in a hit-and-run accident in Michigan, you don’t have to face the process alone. Latham Law Group can help you recover the compensation you deserve.