Quick Answer:⚡
Yes. You can still recover compensation after a Michigan truck accident even if you were not wearing a seatbelt. Michigan’s no-fault insurance system pays medical expenses regardless of fault, though your failure to wear a seatbelt may reduce non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Insurance companies often try to use the lack of a seat belt to argue that your injuries were partly your fault. However, under Michigan law, this does not bar you from receiving benefits. Your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage still pays for medical care, rehabilitation, and lost wages, even if you were unbelted.
Where it can matter is in claims for pain and suffering or other non-economic losses. In these cases, the court may reduce your award if evidence shows that not wearing a seat belt significantly worsened your injuries. This is known as the “seat belt defense.” Still, skilled attorneys can counter this argument by showing that the crash itself, not the seat belt, was the main cause of your injuries.
If you are unsure how this rule might affect your case, visit who pays medical bills after a truck accident to learn how PIP coverage and liability insurance apply after a crash.
- You can still claim PIP benefits for medical bills and lost wages even without a seatbelt.
- The “seatbelt defense” only affects non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Insurance adjusters often exaggerate the impact of not wearing a seatbelt — legal representation can help set the record straight.
A knowledgeable truck accident lawyer can evaluate your injuries, insurance coverage, and potential reductions in damages to ensure you recover everything you’re entitled to under Michigan law.
âś… This answer was written and reviewed by Attorney Matthew R. Clark, managing partner at The Clark Law Office. He has helped Michigan crash victims recover full compensation despite insurance attempts to reduce claims under the seatbelt defense.
Next Step
If you were hurt in a truck crash while not wearing a seatbelt, don’t assume your case is lost. Our attorneys can explain your rights and fight to secure the full benefits you deserve. 💬 Injured drivers can always reach out to The Clark Law Office for personal attention and honest answers.
Can I Still Recover Compensation if I Was Not Wearing a Seatbelt?
Yes. You can still recover compensation after a Michigan truck accident even if you were not wearing a seatbelt. Michigan’s no-fault insurance system pays medical expenses regardless of fault, though your failure to wear a seatbelt may reduce non-economic damages like pain and suffering.