Hit by a Tourist Driver? Understanding Seasonal Accident Cases in Traverse City

Traverse City’s natural beauty, vineyards, and waterfront attractions welcome visitors in waves, especially during the summer months. According to Pure Michigan’s 2023 visitor reports, 14.2 million travelers visited Michigan’s Northwest Region in 2023. While that influx supports our area’s businesses, it also means more vehicles are on the road, increasing the risk of tourist accidents in Traverse City.

If you’ve been hit by a tourist, you may be dealing with more than just vehicle damage. These seasonal crash cases often come with added complexity. The experienced accident attorneys at Dingeman & Dancer understand the unique legal challenges locals face when injured by a visitor.

Why Tourist-Related Accidents Are More Complicated

Car accidents involving out-of-state or out-of-country drivers can quickly become complex. Here’s why:

• Unfamiliarity with Local Roads: Tourists may miss signage, make sudden stops, or drive erratically while navigating unfamiliar areas.
• Rental Cars and Third-Party Insurance: Many tourist drivers are behind the wheel of rental cars (which may be unfamiliar to them), and it may be difficult to determine which insurance company is providing coverage.
• Out-of-State Legal Hurdles: Tourists may carry policies from states with different minimum coverage levels and/or claim processes.
• Driver Departure: The at-fault driver may leave the area quickly after the crash, making follow-up and settling matters more challenging.

Common Tourist Crash Hotspots in Northern Michigan

During Northern Michigan’s busy summer months, certain areas in and around the Traverse City area require extra attention from drivers due to increased tourist traffic. From scenic distractions to unfamiliar road layouts, these are some areas where tourist-related crashes often occur:

• Scenic routes like M-22 and U.S. 31 – Tourists frequently slow down, make sudden stops, or pull over unexpectedly to take in the view or follow GPS directions.
• Downtown Traverse City during events – Festivals like the National Cherry Festival bring crowds, limited parking, and heavy foot and vehicle traffic that increase the risk of collisions.
• Rural intersections and roundabouts – Unfamiliar drivers often misjudge traffic flow or fail to yield, leading to preventable crashes.
• Distracted driving – Many out-of-town drivers are focused on GPS directions, sightseeing, or even taking photos while driving, which contributes to delayed reactions and poor judgment.

What to Do After an Accident with a Tourist Driver

If you or a loved one has been injured in a tourist accident in Traverse City (whether in a vehicle, on a bike, or on foot), take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 immediately and report the accident.
2. Get medical care, even for minor injuries.
3. Document everything if you are able, take photographs, gather witness information, including the other driver’s contact and insurance details.
4. Preserve all paperwork, including police reports, medical bills, and insurance correspondence.
5. Speak to a personal injury attorney familiar with both Michigan’s no-fault laws and interstate legal issues.

How Dingeman & Dancer Can Help

At Dingeman & Dancer, PLC, we’ve handled countless cases involving out-of-town and out-of-state drivers. Our team knows how to:

• Investigate crashes thoroughly and collect vital documentation
• Coordinate with multiple insurance carriers, including rental car companies
• Ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
• Navigate Michigan’s complex no-fault insurance rules with confidence

Tourism may boost our economy, but that doesn’t mean locals should bear the burden when accidents happen. If you’ve been injured in one of the many tourist accidents in Traverse City, let us help you navigate the legal road ahead.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys at Dingeman & Dancer, PLC in Traverse City are always ready to help. We offer free consultations and can answer any questions about your rights, Michigan’s no-fault system, and statute of limitations.

Call us today at (231) 929-0500, or contact us here, to schedule your consultation.

Read on to learn more: How long do you have to File a Michigan Personal Injury Lawsuit? Understanding Your Rights After a Bike Accident in Michigan Accidentally Prepared: How to Protect You and Yours in Case of a Michigan Car Crash Top Mistakes to Avoid After a Personal Injury Accident