Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan

Motorcycle accidents can occur due to various factors and causes. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Michigan include:

1. Motorist Negligence: Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers on the road. This can include cases where motorists fail to see motorcycles or misjudge their speed, leading to collisions. Common examples include drivers making unsafe lane changes, failing to yield the right-of-way to motorcycles, or not maintaining a safe following distance.
2. Left-Turn Accidents: A significant number of motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle making a left turn collides with an oncoming motorcycle. This often happens when a driver fails to notice an approaching motorcycle or misjudges its speed, leading to a dangerous intersection collision.
3. Lane Splitting: Lane splitting refers to the practice of riding between lanes of traffic, often in congested areas. While lane splitting is illegal in Michigan, some motorcyclists still engage in this behavior. It can be risky as it increases the likelihood of accidents due to reduced space, limited visibility, and drivers not expecting motorcycles to pass between lanes.
4. Distracted Driving: Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting vehicle controls contribute to a significant number of motorcycle accidents. When drivers are distracted, their attention is diverted from the road, making it more likely for them to collide with a motorcycle.
5. Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed and reckless driving behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic or tailgating, can increase the risk of motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles are more vulnerable to high-traffic accidents due to their smaller size and reduced stability than other vehicles.
6. Impaired Driving: Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it dangerous for both motorcyclists and other road users.
7. Road Hazards: Motorcyclists are particularly susceptible to accidents caused by road hazards such as potholes, uneven pavement, debris, or slippery surfaces. These hazards can lead to loss of control, skidding, or collisions if the motorcyclist cannot navigate them safely.

Many of these types of accidents could be prevented if motorists and motorcyclists exercised caution and maintained awareness of their surroundings while sharing the road. Unfortunately, negligence still occurs every day, resulting in serious injury.

Motorcycle riders should also be mindful of weather conditions. Rain, fog, and snow can significantly affect visibility and road traction, heightening the risk of accidents. Motorcyclists should ensure their bike is equipped with appropriate tires for various weather conditions and always stay informed about weather forecasts before embarking on a ride.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists lack the physical protection that car occupants have, making them vulnerable to severe and often life-altering injuries. Common injuries may include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with helmets, motorcyclists are at risk for head injuries that could result in memory loss, cognitive problems, and long-term disability.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Harm to the spine can cause partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the quality of life and demanding ongoing medical care.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Motorcyclists often suffer fractures in the legs, arms, ribs, and other bones during accidents, which can lead to prolonged recovery periods and impact mobility.
• Road Rash: When motorcyclists are thrown from their bikes and slide along the pavement, they may suffer painful abrasions known as road rash, which can lead to severe infections and permanent scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, which include damage to organs, can emerge from blunt force trauma and are often life-threatening if not treated promptly.
• Amputations: In extreme cases, the severity of impact injuries can lead to limb amputations, dramatically altering the victim’s lifestyle and ability to work.
• Psychological Trauma: The emotional impact of a motorcycle accident can be substantial, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Psychological injuries can require extensive therapy and affect relationships, work, and everyday life.

How Motorcyclists Can Protect Themselves

Motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 16 and 33 in the United States, and motorcycle accidents account for approximately 3,000 deaths each year. Many others are seriously injured and undergo significant life changes and disabilities due to motorcycle accidents. Injuries from motorcycle accidents are not the same as those in an enclosed passenger car with seat belts and airbags. Even pads and helmets do little to protect motorcycle riders in a crash. This can leave the rider with a ruptured disc, a severe brain injury, or even result in wrongful death.

Here are a few motorcycle safety tips bikers can follow to help protect themselves on the road:

• Wear a helmet to reduce the risk of death by almost 40% and the risk of injury by over 70%.
• Never drive a motorcycle after you have been drinking.
• Don’t let friends and family drive after they have been drinking.
• Wear protective clothing, which can help protect from potential injury.
• Maintain a safe driving speed, especially on gravel or slippery surfaces.

Unfortunately, many motorcycle accidents occur because the biker is not at fault. Even when motorcyclists take proper safety precautions, they may be hit by a distracted or drunk driver, sideswiped by a motorist illegally changing lanes, or injured by a car or truck driver who is acting carelessly, recklessly, or negligently in some way.

Advanced riding courses can equip motorcyclists with skills to handle their bikes better and react appropriately to challenging situations on the road. Understanding defensive driving techniques, such as maintaining superior situational awareness and positioning for visibility, can reduce the likelihood of an accident and enhance rider safety.

Understanding Michigan Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

Michigan's no-fault insurance law requires motorcyclists to have specific insurance to operate legally on the road. Unlike car insurance, motorcycle insurance provides unique coverage requirements.

Key aspects of Michigan's motorcycle insurance regulations include:

• Liability Coverage: This is essential to cover injuries or damage you may cause to others in an accident. The state sets minimum requirements, but higher coverage is recommended for broader protection.
• Property Protection: Covers damage to other’s property caused by your motorcycle. In Michigan, a minimum of $1 million in PPI is required.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Provides compensation if you're involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance.

Reviewing and understanding the amount of insurance coverage you opt for is important. Discuss options with your insurance agent to ensure comprehensive protection that covers a range of potential scenarios, from minor traffic incidents to major accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan