Michigan’s Road Hazard Law: Your Guide to Vehicle Damage Claims in the Greater Lansing Area

Michigan’s challenging road conditions, particularly in the Greater Lansing Area, including Okemos, Haslett, East Lansing, and Lansing, can lead to unexpected vehicle damage. Understanding Michigan’s road hazard law is crucial for drivers who face the aftermath of these conditions. This blog post aims to guide you through the process of handling vehicle damage due to poor road conditions and what the law says about your rights to compensation.

1. The Reality of Michigan’s Roads and Your Vehicle

The roads in Michigan, especially around East Lansing and Haslett, are notorious for causing vehicle damage. Potholes, cracked pavement, and other hazards can lead to costly repairs, affecting tires, alignment, suspension, and more. Regular vehicle checks are essential for navigating these conditions safely.

2. Michigan’s Road Hazard Law and Your Rights

Under Michigan law, specifically the Governmental Tort Liability Act (Public Act 170 of 1964), governmental agencies are generally immune from tort liability when performing governmental functions.

However, there are exceptions for highway defects. According to the law, governmental agencies may be liable for vehicle damage caused by poor road conditions if:

• The road was in unreasonable disrepair.
• The governmental agency was aware, or by reasonable diligence should have been aware, of the defect.
• The agency failed to repair the defect within a reasonable time after discovering it.

3. Documenting and Reporting Vehicle Damage

If you encounter vehicle damage due to road conditions in areas like Lansing or Okemos, it’s crucial to document everything. Take clear photos of the damage and the road condition, note the location, date, and time, and keep all repair records. This documentation is essential for filing a claim.

4. Filing a Claim for Road Damage in Michigan

To file a claim, determine the agency responsible for the road—be it the city of Lansing, East Lansing, or the Michigan Department of Transportation. Claims typically must be filed within a specific time frame after the damage occurs. Provide all gathered documentation and be prepared for a possible denial, as these claims can be challenging to pursue successfully.

5. Preventative Measures and Expert Assistance at A&D Repair

While understanding your rights for compensation is important, prevention is key. Regular maintenance and inspections at a trusted service center like A&D Repair can help your vehicle withstand Michigan’s harsh road conditions. We offer tire inspections, alignment checks, and suspension maintenance to keep you safe on the roads of Haslett, Okemos, and beyond.