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Michigan’s Comparative Fault Rule and Why It Changes Every Grand Rapids Car Accident Case

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Last Modified on Oct 06, 2026

Many car collisions in Grand Rapids involve disputes over fault. When a complex claim involves multiple parties sharing fault, the potential financial recovery can be substantially affected. Understanding Michigan’s comparative fault rule and why it changes in every Grand Rapids car crash case is a crucial first step for anyone seeking financial recovery following a collision.

Understanding Michigan’s Modified Comparative Fault Laws

Michigan’s modified comparative fault rules can directly affect the outcome of a car crash case when more than one driver contributed to the collision. Under Michigan law, someone injured on 28th Street, US-131, or elsewhere in Grand Rapids could be found to be partially at fault.

Even so, they may still be able to pursue a recovery. The amount awarded can be reduced according to their percentage of fault. Michigan law also places additional limits on recovery when an injured person is found to be more than 50% at fault.

michigan comparative fault car accident

After a Grand Rapids car crash, drivers and insurance carriers may disagree on what happened. One driver might say the other was speeding, for example, or following too closely, was distracted, or otherwise contributed to the collision.

Being assigned a percentage of fault could jeopardize the amount of your final recovery when you file a claim against another party. That makes Michigan’s comparative fault rules especially important in cases where responsibility for the collision is disputed.

How You Can Protect Your Injury Claim

After a serious collision, medical bills could leave you facing unexpected financial hardships and long-term challenges. Comparative fault rules can make the evidence surrounding your crash particularly important when fault is disputed. You can protect your claim by working with an experienced Grand Rapids personal injury attorney who can manage your case with a focus on protecting your ability to pursue a fair recovery.

comparative fault in michigan car accidents

Why You Should Hire a Car Collision Attorney

Car collisions are an unfortunate reality of life in Michigan. According to the Michigan State Police, 290,221 crashes occurred statewide in 2025, marking an increase of 0.5% from 288,880 in 2024. Disputes between parties in the collision and involvement by insurers can potentially jeopardize your financial recovery.

When you hire a car collision attorney, you gain support from an advocate who can protect you from false accusations that could jeopardize your car crash case. Michigan’s car collision laws are complex and require claimants to present evidence supporting their respective arguments. When you partner with a trusted Grand Rapids car accident attorney, you gain steadfast support from an attorney who prioritizes your goals and interests.

Protect Your Eligibility to Pursue Financial Recovery

Michigan recorded 70,591 injuries from vehicle crashes in 2025. If you have experienced injuries resulting from a crash, reach out to Goethel Engelhardt, PLLC for trusted guidance and advocacy. We routinely secure a positive result for the clients we represent, and those outcomes have greatly helped our clients rebuild with confidence.

Michigan’s comparative fault rule can limit the recovery that you are able to pursue. Without strong legal representation, you may fail to secure any financial recovery from another party, even if you suffered a significant injury due to a negligent driver. Our law firm brings more than four decades of experience to these matters and is here to help. Contact our office to schedule your consultation with our dedicated team of injury attorneys.

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3049 Miller Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
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