Car - Motorcycle Accidents

Most Michigan motorcyclists use every possible safety precaution.

But a motorcyclist hit by a passenger car or SUV may not stand a chance. In these motor vehicle accidents, the motorcyclist is at grave risk of severe injury, permanent disability, or even death.

In fact, over 4,000 motorcyclists died in motor vehicle crashes in 2004, according to the National Highway Safety Administration. Another 76,000 motorcyclists were injured in traffic accidents in that year alone.

The motorcyclists who survive crashes often suffer serious injuries that require hospitalization, surgery, and long-term medical treatment. Some motorcycle accident victims never regain their ability to work or resume normal family life.

Even if a motorcyclist makes a relatively good recovery, the motorcycle accident takes its toll. The individual may lose time and income from work, need help with household chores, and have to live with lingering pain from motorcycle accident injuries. In short, the accident can significantly change a motorcyclist’s life -- temporarily or even permanently.

That is why; if you or a family member is involved in a Michigan motorcycle accident, consult an experienced Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer immediately. Please click here to make out a simple, free, and confidential consultation form about your Michigan motorcycle accident claim now.

Protect your legal rights. Get the Bernstein Advantage today.

Special Legal Issues in Michigan Car - Motorcycle Accident Cases

A motorcyclist injured in a Michigan motorcycle accident has a special need for help from a highly-qualified Michigan motorcycle accident attorney. In important ways, the legal claims of a motorcyclist are different -- and more complicated -- than the claims of an automobile driver, because Michigan law does not consider a motorcycle to be a “motor vehicle.”

Therefore, the most important legal claim available to a motorcyclist who is seriously injured in a Michigan motorcycle accident may be a “third-party” lawsuit against the careless driver and the owner of the motor vehicle involved in the crash. Under Michigan law, the injured motorcyclist may be able to recover damages from them for non-economic losses, including pain and suffering.

The Michigan motorcycle accident victim also may have a “first-party” claim for No-Fault insurance benefits, which cover economic damages, including medical costs, wage loss, attendant care, and replacement services. These No-Fault insurance benefits may be crucial to the economic survival of a motorcyclist injured in a Michigan motorcycle accident. The motorcyclist only has one year to claim these benefits. However, an individual who held legal title to the motorcycle on which he or she was injured, and did not carry the basic liability insurance required by Michigan law, cannot get these first-party No-Fault benefits.

As you can see, the legal claims of a Michigan motorcycle accident victim are complicated. If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a Michigan motorcycle accident, you need to contact an experienced Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer immediately. Please click here to make out a simple, free, and confidential consultation form about your Michigan motorcycle accident claim now.

Protect your rights. Get the Bernstein Advantage today.