- October 7, 2025
The hum of an electric motor is quickly becoming a familiar sound on Michigan’s roads. From the busy streets of Southfield to the scenic routes near Grand Rapids, electric vehicles (EVs) are a common sight. This shift toward cleaner, quieter transportation is exciting, but it also brings new questions and concerns, especially when a collision occurs.If you’ve been involved in one of the growing number of electric vehicle accidents in Michigan, you might be facing challenges you never expected, from unique vehicle behaviors to complex questions about what caused the crash.
Key Takeaways for New Challenges with Electric Vehicle Accidents in Michigan
- Electric vehicles (EVs) present unique characteristics that can contribute to accidents, including their quiet operation and rapid acceleration.
- EV battery fires, caused by a process called thermal runaway, pose significant risks and require specialized responses from emergency crews.
- Determining legal responsibility, or liability, in an EV accident can be more complex and may involve the vehicle manufacturer or software developer in addition to the drivers.
- Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws still apply to EV accidents, but the specifics of a claim can be complicated by higher repair costs and unique vehicle damage.
- Preserving evidence, especially electronic data from the vehicle’s advanced systems, is crucial in the investigation of an EV crash.
What Makes Electric Vehicle Accidents in Michigan Different?
At first glance, a car accident is a car accident. But when an EV is involved, the physics and technology at play introduce several new variables. These differences don't just change the driving experience; they can fundamentally alter the nature of a collision and its aftermath. Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists across Sterling Heights and all of Michigan are learning to adapt to these new vehicles on our shared roads.
One of the most discussed differences is how quiet EVs are. While a benefit for reducing noise pollution, this near-silent operation can create risks. Pedestrians, cyclists, and visually impaired individuals often rely on the sound of an approaching engine to be aware of traffic. Without that auditory cue, the risk of an unexpected encounter increases. Newer EVs are required to emit a pedestrian warning sound at low speeds, but older models may not have this feature, and even with it, the sound is very different from what people are used to.
The performance capabilities of EVs also set them apart. Electric motors provide instant torque, meaning they can accelerate from a standstill with surprising speed. This rapid acceleration can catch other drivers by surprise, leading to rear-end collisions or misjudgments when pulling into traffic. Furthermore, EVs are significantly heavier than their gasoline-powered counterparts, primarily due to the large, dense battery pack. In a collision, this extra mass can translate to greater force, potentially leading to more severe damage and injuries.
Here are a few key factors that distinguish EV accidents:
- Vehicle Weight: The heavy battery pack in an EV increases its overall mass, which can affect crash dynamics and the severity of impact on other vehicles.
- Silent Operation: The lack of traditional engine noise can make it harder for pedestrians, children, and cyclists to detect an approaching EV, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Instant Acceleration: The immediate torque from electric motors can lead to unintended rapid acceleration, potentially contributing to loss of control or misjudgment by drivers.
These factors combine to create a new driving environment, and when an accident happens, they can add layers of complexity to understanding how and why it occurred.
The Unique Danger of EV Battery Fires
Perhaps the most serious and unique risk associated with electric vehicle accidents in Michigan is the potential for a battery fire. EV batteries, typically lithium-ion, store an immense amount of energy in a compact space. If the battery pack is damaged or punctured in a crash, it can lead to a dangerous chemical reaction called thermal runaway.
Thermal runaway is a chain reaction where a damaged battery cell heats up uncontrollably, causing neighboring cells to overheat and fail as well. This can result in an extremely hot, fast-spreading fire that is incredibly difficult to extinguish. Unlike a gasoline fire, which can often be put out with traditional foam or water, EV battery fires can burn for hours and even appear to be extinguished only to reignite later.
Firefighters across Michigan are undergoing specialized training to handle these incidents, which often require tens of thousands of gallons of water to cool the battery pack down.
Understanding Thermal Runaway in Electric Vehicle Accidents
The toxic fumes released during an EV battery fire—referred to as thermal runaway—also pose a significant health hazard to anyone nearby, including first responders. The smoke can contain hazardous chemicals like hydrofluoric acid, which is highly corrosive and dangerous if inhaled. Because of these risks, the scene of an electric vehicle accident where the battery is compromised requires a very different approach from a typical car crash.
If you are in an EV accident, and your vehicle is smoking or you suspect battery damage, your safety is the absolute priority.
- If you can do so safely, exit the vehicle immediately and move at least 100 feet away.
- Warn others to stay clear of the vehicle.
- When you call 911, make sure to inform the dispatcher that the accident involves an electric vehicle so that first responders can prepare for the potential of a battery fire.
Even after the initial incident, the danger may not be over. A damaged battery can reignite hours, days, or even weeks after the initial crash. This is why vehicles involved in electric vehicle accidents in Michigan are often stored in an isolated quarantine area at a tow yard to observe them for any signs of a delayed fire.
Navigating Insurance and Liability After a Michigan EV Crash
Michigan operates under a no-fault car insurance system. This means that after most car accidents, your own auto insurance policy pays for certain benefits, regardless of who was at fault. According to the Michigan Legislature, all drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which covers medical expenses and other related costs up to your policy limit. However, the no-fault system does not prevent you from holding a negligent driver accountable for the pain and suffering they caused, especially in cases of serious injury.
When an EV is involved, determining liability, which is the legal term for responsibility, can become much more complicated. While driver error is still a leading cause of accidents on roads like I-75 or the Lodge Freeway, the advanced technology in EVs introduces other possibilities. The investigation may need to look beyond the actions of the drivers involved.
Who Could Be Held Liable in Electric Vehicle Accidents in Michigan?
In a traditional car accident, liability often rests with one of the drivers. But with an EV, the circle of potentially responsible parties can widen considerably, requiring a much deeper investigation to ensure the right parties are held accountable.
Possible liable parties could include:
- The Other Driver: If another driver was speeding, texting, or otherwise acting negligently, they can still be held responsible for the crash.
- The Vehicle Manufacturer: If the accident was caused by a defect in the car itself, such as a faulty battery management system, flawed autonomous driving software, or a mechanical failure, the manufacturer could be liable.
- A Component Part Manufacturer: Sometimes a specific part of the car is defective, like the battery cells or a sensor. In this case, the company that made that specific component could be held responsible.
- A Repair or Maintenance Shop: If the vehicle had recently been serviced and the work was performed incorrectly, such as improper battery maintenance, the shop that did the work could bear some responsibility for the accident.
Identifying the true cause of an EV crash often requires a detailed analysis of the vehicle’s technology and performance data, which is far more complex than in a standard gasoline-powered car.
What to Do After You're Home from an Electric Vehicle Accident
The moments after any car accident are disorienting. Once you have received immediate medical attention and are safely back home, the process of recovery begins. For those involved in electric vehicle accidents in Michigan, there are a few specific considerations to keep in mind as you begin to navigate the aftermath. The steps you take in the days and weeks following the crash can be very important for both your physical recovery and any potential legal claim.
It is crucial to prioritize your well-being while also methodically gathering information. Here is a numbered list of steps to consider:
- Follow All Medical Advice: Your health is the most important thing. Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor, physical therapists, or any other specialists. Following your prescribed treatment plan is not only essential for your recovery but also creates a clear record of your injuries.
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed file of all documents related to the accident. This includes the police report, medical bills, receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses, and any correspondence with insurance companies. It’s also helpful to keep a journal detailing your pain levels, physical limitations, and how the injuries are affecting your daily life.
- Preserve Vehicle Evidence: Do not have your EV repaired or destroyed until it has been thoroughly inspected. The vehicle itself is a critical piece of evidence. Its on-board computer, often called an Event Data Recorder (EDR), stores a wealth of information about the moments leading up to the crash, such as speed, braking, and steering inputs. In an EV, this data can be even more extensive and vital for understanding what happened.
- Be Cautious with Insurance Companies: You will need to report the accident to your own insurance company. However, when speaking to any insurance adjuster, including your own, stick to the basic facts. Avoid giving a recorded statement or accepting any early settlement offer without understanding your rights. An adjuster's goal is to resolve the claim for the lowest possible cost, which may not be what is fair for you.
Taking these organized steps can help bring a sense of control to a chaotic situation and protect your ability to seek fair compensation for your losses.
The Role of Advanced Technology in EV Accidents
Modern electric vehicles are essentially computers on wheels. They are packed with sophisticated software, sensors, and driver-assistance systems that are meant to improve safety. Features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and even semi-autonomous driving modes are becoming standard. While these technologies can prevent accidents, they can also sometimes contribute to them or make it harder to figure out who is at fault when a crash does occur.
For example, if a semi-autonomous feature like Tesla’s Autopilot or Ford’s BlueCruise is engaged, who is responsible if the system fails to detect a hazard? Is it the driver, who is supposed to remain attentive? Or is it the manufacturer, if the software did not perform as advertised? These are new legal questions that are being tested in courtrooms today. A recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) showed hundreds of crashes involving vehicles with these advanced systems engaged, highlighting the complexity of these situations.
Investigating electric vehicle accidents in Michigan often requires someone who understands how to access and interpret the vast amount of electronic data these cars generate. This data can provide a second-by-second account of the vehicle’s operation, revealing whether a system malfunctioned or if a driver’s action led to the collision. This digital evidence is often the key to unlocking the truth of what happened on the road.
Electric Vehicle Accidents in Michigan FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions people have after being involved in an accident with an electric car.
Are EVs more expensive to repair after an accident?
Yes, EVs often have higher repair costs than gasoline-powered cars. This is due to the specialized components like the battery pack, advanced sensors, and unique body materials. Even a minor collision can sometimes damage the high-voltage battery, which can be one of the most expensive parts of the vehicle to replace.
How does the weight of an EV affect other cars in a crash?
Because EVs are significantly heavier, they can cause more damage to a lighter, traditional vehicle in a collision. The laws of physics dictate that in a crash between two vehicles of different masses, the occupants of the lighter vehicle are likely to experience greater forces and, potentially, more severe injuries.
What should I tell first responders about my car being an EV?
If you are able to communicate with first responders, it is very important to tell them you were in an electric vehicle. This information allows them to take specific safety precautions, such as de-energizing the high-voltage system and being on alert for potential battery fires or chemical leaks.
Rely on Trusted Legal Support for the Road Ahead
Being involved in any kind of car accident can be stressful, but when it involves an electric vehicle, it can be even more confusing. You are likely dealing with physical pain, emotional stress, and a growing stack of medical bills and repair estimates. You do not have to face these new and complex challenges alone. Having a dedicated legal team on your side can make all the difference in holding the right people accountable and securing the resources you need to heal and move on.
At Goodman Acker PC, we are a team of compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys serving clients in Southfield, Grand Rapids, Sterling Heights, and throughout Michigan. We understand the unique questions raised by electric vehicle accidents and are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality of legal service. We are good people who truly care about your well-being. If you were injured in an accident, let us help you understand your rights and options.
Contact us today at (248) 831-1507 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We are available 24/7 to listen to your story and explain how we can help you on your journey to recovery.