If you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle accident in Grand Rapids or anywhere else in the state of Michigan, our attorneys can help. Call today for a free and confidential case evaluation with a Grand Rapids motorcycle accident attorney.
No matter how careful you are on a motorcycle, you cannot control the choices of other vehicle drivers around you. Motorcycles are more dangerous than standard vehicles because they do not have airbags, seatbelts, or other devices to protect riders. Usually, the only protection you have on a motorcycle is the clothing you are wearing when your body hits the pavement. As a result, motorcyclists are much more likely to suffer serious injuries in motor vehicle collisions.
At the Buchanan Firm, we are committed to providing quality legal representation through attorneys who are experienced and knowledgeable about car accident law.
If you have suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle accident, it is recommended that you speak with a Grand Rapids injury attorney.
An attorney has the resources to conduct a full investigation into your accident, allowing you to build a more thorough case. He or she can also help maximize compensation by determining the full extent of damages to you and your motorcycle, and the potential financial repercussions. Ultimately, a Grand Rapids motorcycle crash attorney is there to be an advocate for your needs and safety, giving you support and peace of mind through the claims process.
Seek help from experienced Grand Rapids car accident attorneys who also deal with motorcycles and know the dishonest tactics insurance companies for at-fault drivers employ to defeat claims of injured cyclists or pay less than what is needed or deserved for injuries. Our attorneys ensure injured motorcycle riders receive fair and just compensation for the damages sustained because of an accident caused by someone else.
Crashes into motorcycles cause serious injury or fatality. The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) reports:
If you know someone that lost their lives in a motorcycle accident, please contact our wrongful death attorneys in Grand Rapids.
Common causes of crashes into motorcycles are:
In Michigan, we operate under the no-fault insurance system. The no-fault system means that drivers involved in an accident, whether at fault or not, can collect insurance benefits (PIP benefits) from their respective auto insurance providers. Auto no-fault applies for injuries in accidents involving motorcycles, but many other issues are involved and it is important to seek professional advice regarding additional issues.
Individuals involved in a motorcycle accident in Michigan with the proper insurance may file a first-party claim against their own automobile insurance company. Or, if the motorcyclist has no auto policy, there may be covered by the driver of the automobile.
Under Michigan law, a motorcycle is not considered a motor vehicle. Those injured on a motorcycle are treated the same as a pedestrian hit by a car.
A first-party claim is to recover expenses (also known as no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) benefits) which include:
Besides first-party benefits, those involved in a motorcycle accident may file a third-party claim against the at-fault auto driver or other parties involved in the crash, alleging negligence. A third-party claim may recover damages for pain and suffering. In Michigan, one can pursue pain and suffering damages if injuries of the person meet the statutory injury-minimum threshold of (1) death, (2) permanent serious disfigurement, or (3) serious impairment of body function. An experienced motorcycle crash attorney in Grand Rapids can help you determine if injuries are severe enough under Michigan law.
After a motorcycle crash, there are several important steps immediately and in the weeks after the crash. An attorney protects you and ensures critical information is gathered and evidence preserved.
Immediately after a motorcycle crash, you should:
If you or anyone you know was injured in a motorcycle crash, contact Buchanan Firm for the advice of its experienced motorcycle crash attorneys. We understand your frustration. We will start a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash and who is responsible to reimburse you for the injuries. The Buchanan Firm offers an exclusive no-fee promise. If we don’t win, then you don’t pay.