If you are one of the many people in Michigan who enjoy riding motorcycles, you know it’s not without its share of risks. All too often, other vehicle drivers do not see motorcycles until it’s too late to avoid a collision, and many motorcycle accidents occur because a car driver turned in front of a motorcycle or swerved into the motorcycle's lane. Also, other drivers may act recklessly or carelessly behind the wheel, and if they collide with a motorcycle, the results can be catastrophic for the motorcycle rider and their passengers.
Motorcycles are much smaller than other motor vehicles on the road, and they do not offer enclosures to protect motorcyclists and their passengers from injury in a motorcycle accident. Motorcyclists and their passengers can sustain serious injuries even in low-speed accidents that require extensive medical treatment and time off work. Motorcycle riders also face a higher risk of dying from their motorcycle injuries.
If you suffered serious injuries or lost a loved one in a Michigan motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, you could obtain compensation for your financial losses and other areas of your life impacted by the tragedy. However, the process of obtaining compensation can be complex and challenging, and you will need an experienced Michigan motorcycle injury attorney for help.
The experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Michigan Injury Lawyers have extensive knowledge of what evidence needs to be collected and what arguments need to be made in motorcycle accident cases. We are committed to securing full compensation for motorcycle accident victims and their families. If there is no recovery in your case, there is no fee for our services. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation by calling 888-454-0801 or through our online contact form.
Why Choose Us as Your Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Established in 2008 by experienced personal injury attorney Thomas Stroble, Michigan Injury Lawyers has served injured victims and their families throughout our state for more than 15 years. During that time, we have represented thousands of clients who are suffering needlessly due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, and we have recovered millions of dollars in total compensation for those we have served.
Based in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan Injury Lawyers represents clients across Michigan, including:
- Detroit
- Ann Arbor
- Lansing
- Troy
- Sterling Heights
We also have a satellite law office in Mount Clemens, where we accept clients by appointment only, and we serve all of Macomb County, as well as Oakland County, Clinton Township, Warren, St. Clair Shores, Utica, Roseville, Troy, Farmington Hills, Waterford, Southfield, Pontiac, and Birmingham.
Nationally recognized as some of the best personal injury lawyers in the country, our attorneys have received many top rankings and endorsements from legal organizations such as the National Trial Lawyers Association, Super Lawyers, and the American Association for Justice. We have also earned membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum as a result of our success in obtaining substantial awards and settlements for our clients, and our law firm has received dozens of testimonials and referrals from people we have had the pleasure to serve.
You can rely on our lawyers’ extensive legal knowledge to help you make the most informed decisions, and we promise to do all we can to maximize your financial recovery while treating you and your family with the compassion, care, and dignity you deserve.
To speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer about your motorcycle accident injuries and find out how we can help you get the money you need to pay for your medical bills and other related expenses, you can contact Michigan Injury Lawyers at 888-454-0801, or contact us online for a free evaluation of your claim.
Michigan Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Michigan reported 3,175 total motorcycle-involved crashes in 2021. Of those accidents, 166 involved motorcyclist fatalities, which was a 9% increase from the year before. Adult males make up the largest demographic of victims who die in motorcycle accidents, and there is an almost even rate of fatalities between motorcyclists who wear helmets and those who don’t. Motorcycle accidents seem to happen more frequently in Michigan during July, as well as on Saturdays and Sundays. Most motorcycle accidents happen between 3:00 and 9:00 p.m.
While some motorcycle accidents can be attributed to the motorcycle driver's unsafe or impaired driving, a significant number can be caused by other drivers' negligent failure to give motorcycles the same attention and respect as they would other vehicles on the road.
If another motorist injured you or killed a close family member due to their careless, negligent, or reckless driving, you need to reach out to an experienced Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer today to help you file a motorcycle accident injury claim and fight for the compensation you need.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan
Most motorcycle accidents in Michigan occur because of another driver’s negligence, carelessness, or reckless behavior. Far too many drivers simply ignore a motorcycle’s right to be on the road and do not watch out for them while they are driving. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Improper lane changes
- Turning left in front of a motorcycle
- Suddenly stopping in front of a motorcycle
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drug and alcohol impairment
- Crossing the center line and colliding with a motorcycle head-on
- Disregarding traffic lights and stop signs
Other causes include defective road conditions, inclement weather, and debris from other vehicles that strike the motorcycle and cause the operator to lose control.
Another cause of motorcycle accidents in the spring and summer months is when property owners discharge grass clippings into the road while mowing. This can create a slick layer of clippings that can cause a motorcycle to lose control. You may hold property owners and landscape companies liable for your injuries and motorcycle damage if they discharge grass clippings into the road that cause you to crash.
Another cause of motorcycle accidents is a manufacturer defect with one of the motorcycle's major components. Defective vehicle parts cause many accidents annually, and you may hold the manufacturer accountable along with other parties responsible for bringing the product to market by having your lawyer file suit against them.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Since motorcycles are smaller and lighter than other vehicles and offer no enclosures for protection, motorcyclists and their passengers can suffer very serious injuries in a crash, including:
- Broken bones
- Deep cuts and road rash
- Extensive bruising
- Neck, shoulder, and back injuries
- Knee injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe soft tissue injuries
- Major head injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Traumatic brain injury
Motorcyclists involved in accidents often have injuries to their legs and feet. Those injuries may not be life-threatening, but they can cause permanent disabilities and cost thousands of dollars to treat. Some motorcyclists must have their limbs amputated because of the severity of their injuries, and in the worst cases, motorcyclists die upon impact with the other vehicle or the road surface.
Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance
All drivers in Michigan must obtain no-fault automobile insurance to register and drive their cars legally in the state. No-fault insurance benefits cover injuries and death-related expenses to victims in a motor vehicle accident, and Michigan law requires drivers to have the following basic liability coverage on their policies:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) to pay for reasonable and necessary medical expenses with no maximum limit.
- Property Protection Insurance (PPI) to cover up to $1 million in damages to other vehicles, property, or buildings.
- Residual Liability Insurance for Bodily Injury and Property Damage (BI/PD) with the following minimum coverage requirements:
- $20,000 per person for injuries or death
- $40,000 for each accident if more than one person was hurt or killed
- $10,000 for property damage
Drivers can purchase higher coverage limits along with additional protection, such as collision insurance, uninsured motorist coverage, comprehensive insurance, and others.
If another driver caused the accident that injured you or someone you love, your attorney will first file a motorcycle accident injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If the accident killed your spouse or another close family member, your lawyer can file for death benefits through a wrongful death claim with the insurance company that will pay you or your dependents a monthly amount, based on the decedent’s salary and benefits, for up to three years.
Getting Compensation for Your Michigan Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Following a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, you can work with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to pursue the compensation you need. When they submit your motorcycle accident claim to the at-fault driver’s insurance company, your lawyer will include a letter that describes your injuries and how the other driver was responsible. The letter will also include a total dollar amount the insurance company can pay to settle your claim.
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to reduce what they will pay on a claim, and they will try every method to place as much blame on you as possible. They may also refuse to cover certain injuries, and they will likely respond with a settlement offer that is much lower than what you asked for.
Keep in mind that you do not have to accept any settlement the insurance company offers you. If you do accept a settlement, however, you will not be able to file another claim or sue to get any more compensation. Therefore, you will need to work with your attorney to determine the costs of your injuries both now and in the future so you can determine how much you will need.
If the insurance company offers a low settlement, your attorney can negotiate to get a higher amount. Your lawyers will understand the tactics insurance companies use to reduce or deny claims and fight to help you get everything you deserve.
You should never accept an initial claim from the insurance company without first discussing it with your lawyer, and your lawyer cannot accept a settlement without your approval.
Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
Although most injury claims settle outside of court, you may need to take the other party to court and sue for compensation. Some reasons you may need to have your attorney file an injury lawsuit in Michigan civil court include:
- The insurance company denied your claim and refuses to negotiate a settlement.
- The insurance company acted in bad faith by not honoring the settlement agreement or not honoring the insurance policy.
- The other driver did not have the state-required liability insurance.
Even if the other driver had liability insurance, their coverage limits may not be enough to pay all your medical bills and the other financial losses you incurred, and will continue to incur, because of your injuries. You may also have to make accommodations to your home and vehicle if your injuries result in a disability. Therefore, you may have to take the party to court to get the extra money to cover these sorts of damages.
Another benefit of filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit is that it will show the insurance company you have a strong enough case for trial. The insurer may be more likely to accept your claim and pay the money you ask for to avoid going to court.
Michigan’s Statute of Limitations
Michigan allows you three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in civil court to recover damages. The three-year statute of limitations also applies to wrongful death lawsuits. While that may seem like enough time, it’s not. Your attorney will have to gather a lot of evidence and documentation to support your claim, and you have no time to lose in getting the process started.
If your attorney does not file your lawsuit within the statute of limitations, the court will dismiss your case, and you will have no other legal recourse to obtain the compensation you need.
Filing a Claim Against a City or Government
If a city vehicle caused your motorcycle accident, or you feel a city or government was responsible for the crash and your injuries, you may file a claim against them. However, municipalities and governments usually have strict rules and guidelines for submitting injury claims, along with very short deadlines. You will certainly need an attorney to advise you and help you through the process in order to have any chance of success.
Establishing Liability in a Michigan Motorcycle Accident
Whether they file an insurance claim or lawsuit, your attorney must establish the other driver caused the accident and is liable for your injuries. Your motorcycle accident attorney will need to collect a lot of information and evidence to support your claim, which can include:
- The official police report or accident report
- Your medical records and diagnostic test results
- Your hospital bills and other medical expenses
- Witness statements
- Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
- Any other information pertinent to your case
If your case goes to court, your attorney will have to show that the other driver had a duty of care to protect you and your passengers and that they breached that duty through their negligence or wrongdoing. That breach caused the accident and your injuries, and you experienced damages as a result. Otherwise, the court will likely determine your case has no merit and dismiss it.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at Michigan Injury Lawyers have successfully negotiated many substantial settlements for our clients. We have also obtained a long record of winning at trial. We are aggressive negotiators and litigators who have your best interests at heart. You can trust us to arm you with the information you need to make informed decisions, and we will fully prepare your claim as if it were to go to trial so we will be ready if the time comes. We will show the insurance companies we mean business to help you get the compensation you need quicker.
What Types of Compensation You Can Get for Your Michigan Motorcycle Accident Injuries
If you suffered severe injuries in a motorcycle accident, you want to ensure you get the full amount of compensation you need to cover all costs of your injuries and losses. In Michigan, you can receive economic damages for the tangible, financial losses you incurred, such as:
- Medical bills
- Treatment and therapy costs
- Prescription medication
- Disability accommodations and prosthetics, if applicable
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Other related out-of-pocket expenses
Along with economic damages, you may also get non-economic damages to pay for things such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
Non-economic damages are typically more challenging to quantify and calculate because they do not have a specific dollar amount, but your motorcycle accident attorney can evaluate your case and help you determine the types and amounts of compensation you can pursue.
In cases involving egregious misconduct, wanton recklessness, or unlawful actions on the part of the other driver, you may also receive punitive damages on top of other damages. Punitive damages are awarded by the court and are meant to punish the wrongdoer for their action and send a message to others not to engage in that sort of behavior. If your case goes to trial and qualifies for punitive damages, your attorney can advocate for you to help you get an award.
How Can a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help Me?
Seeking compensation for your injuries and losses after a Michigan motorcycle accident is a complex legal process that requires in-depth legal knowledge and an understanding of how insurance companies operate. Since your case may go to court, you also need a lawyer who knows civil court processes and procedures and can file your suit for you. You also want an attorney with experience with both settlement negotiations and jury trials to fight for the maximum amount of compensation.
At your first consultation, your attorney will review your case and determine whether you have a viable claim. If so, they should offer an objective and realistic opinion as to how much compensation you can get.
Your lawyer will gather all evidence to support your claim and put it all together to build a strong case. They can deal with any insurance companies and other parties involved in your case so you can focus on your physical recovery and try to return to a normal life.
How Much Will a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Cost?
When dealing with your injuries, your medical bills, and the other bills you have to pay, the last thing you want to worry about is how to pay for an attorney to help you get the compensation you deserve.
The attorneys at Michigan Injury Lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means we won’t charge you anything upfront to represent you, and we will only accept a fee if we recover compensation for you. Also, our fee will come from the settlement or jury award, not from your back pocket. In other words, the at-fault driver’s insurance or the at-fault driver themselves will pay our fee, not you.
In addition, our law firm offers free consultations, so you won’t have to pay anything for us to evaluate your claim and advise you of your rights and options.
Contact Us Today
The Michigan motorcycle accident lawyers at Michigan Injury Lawyers are here for you. Our legal team has decades of combined experience handling motorcycle accident claims throughout the state, and we are fully prepared to do all we can to help you get the largest recoveries possible for your injuries resulting from a negligent driver.
We have in-depth knowledge of Michigan law, and we will fully analyze your motorcycle accident claim and offer the trustworthy advice you need to make the most informed decisions. Our lawyers have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies after Michigan motorcycle crashes, and we are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to get you a full and fair settlement.
If your motorcycle accident case goes to court, you can rely on us to fight aggressively for you throughout all legal proceedings to increase your chances of getting the maximum financial recovery possible.
Contact our law firm today at 888-454-0801 to schedule a free consultation. You can also complete our online contact form to have an experienced Michigan motorcycle accident attorney get back to you and discuss your motorcycle accident case.
Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer