Motorcycle vs. Motor Vehicle
Operating a motorcycle requires precision, your full attention, and an understanding of the most common risks a motorcyclist faces. While passenger vehicle drivers share an equally important responsibility and must share the road with motorcyclists, they often fail to look out for motorcycles or take risks that especially endanger a motorcyclist.
The old adage "loud pipes save lives" is true; it alerts other drivers to your presence near their vehicle. When drivers or motorcyclists fail to anticipate, serious injuries follow. This is especially true as we enter the spring riding season, when drivers are not used to seeing or even looking for bikes on the road.
At Schefman & Associates, PC, our attorneys understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face on Michigan's roads. Because of our personal experience riding and representing injured riders, our firm is dedicated to helping motorcyclists injured in accidents.
Located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, we serve clients throughout Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, and Washtenaw Counties. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are often preventable. Understanding these risks creates safer roads for everyone. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
Distracted driving: Whether it’s a driver texting, adjusting the radio, or engaging with passengers, distractions delay reaction times and make it harder to notice motorcyclists on the road.
Failure to yield: Drivers may fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections, often because they don’t see the motorcycle or they misjudge its speed and distance. Intersection collisions, a driver turning left in front of the rider, are especially dangerous for motorcyclists.
Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time, making it difficult to avoid hazards. Both motorcyclists and drivers contribute to accidents when they exceed the limits of their abilities or the conditions. Riding side by side rather than staggered, not anticipating the need to come to a sudden stop, or the actions of a driver ahead are all significant risks to riders.
Unsafe lane changes: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making them more vulnerable when drivers fail to check their blind spots or signal before switching lanes.
Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drug impairment significantly impacts a driver’s ability to make sound decisions and react promptly, endangering everyone on the road, including motorcyclists. And no motorcyclist should drink and ride; the risks are too great.
Road hazards: Debris, potholes, uneven pavement, or poor road maintenance create significant risks for motorcyclists, as their cycles are more affected by these obstacles than cars or trucks. And the reaction of any driver encountering these hazards ahead of the rider can present many dangers.
At Schefman & Associates, PC, we have extensive experience representing motorcyclists injured in accidents caused by a variety of factors. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and explore your best options and legal rights.
Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage. While there is a no-helmet law in place, and you are within your rights not to wear a helmet, you should consider using one - your family will thank you.
Even with proper safety gear such as helmets and protective clothing, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of serious injury in a collision. Seeing riders in the summer wearing shorts and sandals just makes me cringe; road rash, caused by sliding on pavement, is incredibly painful and frequently leads to permanent scarring. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care, imposing significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens on the victims and their families.
New Michigan No-Fault Motorcycle Laws Impact your Risks as a Rider
Michigan's new no-fault motorcycle law has brought significant changes for motorcyclists in the state. Motorcyclists involved in an accident now must seek compensation for medical expenses through the insurance of the vehicle involved in the crash, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the coverage the rider has obtained. And there must have been physical contact with the at-fault vehicle to be eligible for no-fault benefits. And if that driver has limited coverage, your own benefits may also be limited by that coverage. Even if you have your own coverage for no-fault benefits, your eligibility for those benefits has not been resolved by the Courts in Michigan.
It’s important for motorcyclists to understand the implications of this law and to seek guidance from an experienced attorney when navigating their insurance coverage.
Why You Should Hire Our Experienced Attorneys at Schefman & Associates, PC
From medical bills to lost wages and pain and suffering, motorcycle accident victims often face significant challenges during their recovery. If you've suffered an injury following a motorcycle accident, our experienced attorneys at Schefman & Associates, PC, can help.
Motorcycle accident cases can be especially complicated due to Michigan's unique no-fault insurance laws. And motorcycle injuries can be extensive and life-changing.
We help gather critical evidence to prove fault, force insurance companies to live up to their obligations, and litigate your case against the at-fault driver. Call us for a free consultation and a risk-free discussion on how we can assist you with your case.
Located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, we are proud to serve clients throughout Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, and Washtenaw Counties. Call us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward justice.
