Direct answer: For qualifying Michigan accidents after July 1, 2020, the mini-tort limit is up to $3,000. DIFS explains that a driver who is 50% or more at fault can be responsible for qualifying vehicle damage not otherwise covered by insurance, subject to the claimant’s collision coverage and the facts.

Michigan’s mini-tort rule is a narrow property-damage remedy. It is not the same as an injury claim, and it does not replace collision insurance.

What is the current mini-tort limit?

DIFS states that Public Acts 21 and 22 of 2019 increased the maximum limited-property-damage amount to $3,000 for accidents occurring after July 1, 2020.

How does fault affect mini-tort?

DIFS explains that if a driver is 50% or more at fault, that driver can be sued for up to $3,000 in qualifying damages caused to the other vehicle that are not otherwise covered by insurance.

What if the damaged vehicle has collision coverage?

The available mini-tort recovery can depend on the type of collision coverage and deductible. DIFS explains that a driver with optional collision coverage may be limited to the uninsured portion such as the deductible, while a driver without collision may seek qualifying damage up to the statutory cap.

What documents help support a mini-tort claim?

  • Police report and fault information.
  • Photos of the damage and crash scene.
  • Repair estimates or paid invoices.
  • Collision coverage declarations and deductible information.
  • Insurance information for the other driver.

Mini-tort does not decide an injury case

A property-damage mini-tort claim and a personal-injury claim involve different damages and legal requirements. Resolving a small property claim should not be confused with resolving all rights arising from the crash.

Primary source: Michigan DIFS — Auto Insurance Frequently Asked Questions.