If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Michigan, you may still be able to recover compensation – even though motorcyclists are treated differently under Michigan’s No-Fault law. An experienced Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue No-Fault benefits in certain situations and file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
How Motorcycle Accident Claims Work in Michigan
Motorcycle accident cases in Michigan are not handled the same as car accident claims.
Michigan’s No-Fault system provides broad benefits for people injured in car crashes – but motorcyclists are not automatically entitled to those benefits. Instead, your ability to recover compensation depends on:
- Whether a motor vehicle (car, truck, etc.) was involved
- The insurance policies available
- Who was at fault for the crash
That’s why motorcycle accident cases are often more complex and higher risk than standard auto accidents.
For a deeper explanation explore our motorcycle accident liability claim guide.
Can Motorcyclists Get No-Fault Benefits in Michigan?
Short Answer: Yes – but only in certain situations
When No-Fault Benefits Apply
Motorcyclists may qualify for No-Fault (PIP) benefits if:
- A motor vehicle was involved in the crash, AND
- The motorcyclist is not excluded under priority rules
If eligible, benefits may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Replacement services
When No-Fault Does NOT Apply
You may not qualify for No-Fault benefits if:
- No motor vehicle was involved (e.g., single-motorcycle crash)
- You were struck by another motorcycle
- No applicable insurance policy is available
Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
Short Answer: You can sue if the other driver was negligent and caused your injuries.
What You Can Recover
A motorcycle accident lawsuit may include compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Excess medical bills
- Lost income beyond No-Fault limits
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
Serious Impairment Requirement
Michigan law requires proof of a serious impairment of body function to recover pain and suffering damages.
This legal threshold is often contested, making experienced legal representation critical.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Michigan
Get medical care, report the crash, and speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
1. Call 911 and seek medical care immediately, even if injuries are not obvious.
2. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters.
3. Document the scene, gather photos, witness names, and vehicle information.
4. Notify your auto insurance company to protect no‑fault benefits
5. Contact a Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer
Timing is critical – especially for No-Fault claims, which must be filed within one year.
The Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Michigan Has Trusted for 75 Years
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan
Motorcycle crashes are often caused by driver negligence, not rider error.
Common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield to motorcycles
- Left-turn collisions at intersections
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Unsafe lane changes (“looked but didn’t see”)
- Following too closely
Because motorcycles are less visible, these crashes are frequently severe and result in catastrophic injuries.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcyclists have little physical protection, which increases the risk of serious harm.
Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and amputations
- Road rash and soft tissue injuries
- Internal organ damage
$2,900,000
Motorcycle Accident Settlement
A woman motorcyclist sustained serious orthopedic injuries after being struck by a commercial vehicle. The case involved significant liability and resulted in substantial compensation for her injuries and losses.
$2,770,000
Motorcycle Accident Settlement
A motorcyclist was rendered quadriplegic due to a roadway defect. The case involved complex liability issues and resulted in a $2.77 million recovery.
Why Choose Sinas Dramis Law Firm
At Sinas Dramis Law Firm, we have decades of experience handling complex Michigan accident cases, including motorcycle crashes.
- More than 75 years representing injured Michiganders
- Recognized leaders in Michigan auto and no‑fault law
- Personalized, client-focused representation
- No fee unless we win your case
We don’t treat motorcycle cases like standard claims – we understand the unique legal challenges riders face.
With offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor, and Metro Detroit, we advocate for all of Michigan.
Michigan Motorcycle Accident FAQs
These are answers to common questions we receive from injured motorcyclists in Michigan. Each case is different, and your legal options will depend on the specific facts of your crash and available insurance coverage.
Can a motorcyclist sue an at-fault driver?
Short Answer: Yes – if the driver’s negligence caused your injuries.
Motorcyclists can file a third-party claim against an at-fault driver. To recover compensation for pain and suffering, you must show that your injuries meet Michigan’s serious impairment of body function standard.
Can injured motorcyclists receive No-Fault benefits?
Short Answer: Sometimes – if a motor vehicle was involved.
Motorcyclists are not automatically entitled to No-Fault (PIP) benefits. If a car or truck caused the crash, you may be eligible for benefits such as medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services.
Who pays a motorcyclist’s No-Fault benefits in Michigan?
Short Answer: It depends on Michigan’s insurance priority rules.
Coverage is typically provided by the insurer of the motor vehicle involved in the crash or another applicable policy. Determining which insurer is responsible can be complex.
Does health insurance apply after a motorcycle accident?
Short Answer: Yes – if No-Fault is unavailable or limited.
If you do not qualify for No-Fault benefits or your coverage is exhausted, your health insurance may help pay for treatment. Coordination and reimbursement rules may apply.
Who pays for damage to a motorcycle?
Short Answer: Usually the at-fault driver’s insurance or your own coverage.
Motorcycle damage is not covered by No-Fault property protection insurance. Instead, recovery typically comes from the at-fault driver’s liability insurance or your own collision coverage, if you carry it.
What insurance should Michigan motorcyclists carry?
Short Answer: Liability is required, but additional coverage is strongly recommended.
Motorcyclists must carry liability insurance. Many riders also choose uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, medical payments coverage, and collision coverage for added protection.
Do benefits apply if a motorcycle crash happens out of state?
Short Answer: Possibly – depending on the policies involved.
Coverage may still be available based on where the crash occurred and the insurance policies in place. Michigan coordination rules can impact what benefits apply.
Do you have to wear a motorcycle helmet in Michigan?
Short Answer: Not always – but strict requirements apply.
Michigan allows some riders to operate without a helmet if they meet age, insurance, and safety course requirements. Helmet use may still affect injury severity and legal claims.
Speak With a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, don’t wait to understand your rights. Contact Sinas Dramis Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation.