MI SB0354

Increases the damage cap for motor vehicle property damage claims from $500 to $1,000, applicable when damages are not covered by insurance.

Restricts noneconomic loss (pain and suffering) recovery to cases involving death, serious impairment of body function, or permanent serious disfigurement.

Establishes that whether an injured person meets the serious impairment threshold is a question of law for the court, unless a factual dispute exists that is material to the determination or a physician testifies regarding possible serious neurological injury from a closed-head injury.

Applies comparative fault principles to damage awards, barring recovery for parties more than 50% at fault.

Directs property damage claims under $1,000 to be filed in small claims or district court, with cost assessments possible if a party removes the action to a higher court without prevailing.