Michigan Motorcycle Accident Law
Motorcycle crashes can be devastating, often resulting in serious or catastrophic injuries. Unlike automobile crashes, motorcycle accidents in Michigan involve different insurance rules, different benefit structures, and more complex fault analysis.
JKH Law handles motorcycle-injury claims involving negligent drivers, PIP priority disputes, limited or excluded motorcycle coverage, and UM/UIM litigation. Attorney Jonathon Homa helps riders navigate Michigan’s complex interaction between motorcycle policies, auto insurance, and health-insurance coordination.
Michigan Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
Motorcyclists in Michigan are required to carry liability insurance, including at least:
Motorcycle insurance does not provide automatic Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits like standard auto insurance does. This is a crucial distinction — and why understanding Michigan’s No-Fault priority rules is critical after a crash.
No-Fault Benefits and Priority Rules for Motorcyclists
Although motorcycle insurance itself doesn’t include PIP, injured riders may still be eligible for No-Fault benefits if the crash involved a motor vehicle (such as a car or truck).
Under MCL 500.3114 and MCL 500.3115, the order of priority for PIP benefits after a motorcycle–motor vehicle crash is generally:
This means a motorcyclist can typically claim No-Fault benefits through the insurance of the car involved in the crash — not through their own motorcycle policy. No-Fault PIP benefits can include:
If the crash does not involve a motor vehicle (for example, a single-bike accident), PIP coverage usually does not apply unless the rider has separately purchased optional PIP coverage.
Recoverable Damages in Motorcycle Accident Claims
In addition to No-Fault benefits (when available), injured riders may pursue a third-party negligence claim against the at-fault driver for:
Proving Negligence After a Motorcycle Crash
Many motorcycle collisions occur because a motorist:
We work with accident reconstructionists and medical experts to preserve evidence, establish liability, and maximize recovery for our clients.
Wrongful Death Claims
Because motorcycle crashes are more likely to result in fatal injuries, family members may bring a wrongful death action under MCL 600.2922 to recover damages such as:
Why Motorcycle Accident Cases Are Different
These factors make it essential to work with a lawyer experienced in Michigan motorcycle law.
Speak with a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t navigate Michigan’s complex insurance and liability rules alone. We’ll help identify all available coverage, pursue maximum compensation, and protect your rights every step of the way.
Free consultation. No fee unless we win.
Contact JKH Law at (616) 226-3762 or info@jkhlawfirm.com to get started today.
JKH Law, PLC
312 Fulton Street East
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 226-3762 (office)
(616) 988-6504 (fax)
info@jkhlawfirm.com
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