While motorcycles may offer us the freedom of the open road, they are also the riskiest vehicles to drive. Michigan saw just under 3,000 motorcycle accidents in 2018 alone, with 192 deaths and more than 2,000 injuries. But what may be truly frightening about those numbers is the fact that 44.6% of those accidents involved drunk drivers or those on drugs.
While many motorcycle accidents are caused by drivers of other vehicles who fail to see motorcycles coming out of side roads or overtaking, many more are caused by reckless driving, driving at high speed, or driving under the influence. But motorcycle riders are often wrongly assumed to be at fault when they are not. If you are involved in an Ann Arbor motorcycle accident, you want an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer representing you.
While Michigan is a no-fault state when it comes to accidents involving motor vehicles, motorcycles are not included in this as they are not viewed as a motor vehicles under Michigan’s insurance laws. This in turn means that they cannot buy a no-fault insurance policy and are only required to hold a minimal liability insurance policy. This sort of policy covers them for liability when it comes to damage to property or injury or wrongful death to someone.
As a motorcyclist, you can add to that policy on $5,000 blocks which can include medical benefits. Michigan also allows riders over the age of 21 to ride without a helmet. But if you choose not to use a helmet, then you must have a minimum of $20,000 in medical benefits coverage and the same amount for any passenger without a helmet.
And, of course, a motorcycle does not offer the same protection as other vehicles, so the potential for a catastrophic injury is far greater than in a car. While a helmet may protect you from a traumatic brain injury, there is far greater risk of serious injuries when injured in a motorcycle accident than in an auto accident. When you have suffered a motorcycle accident injury, then you want a law firm working on your behalf to ensure the best possible outcome.
If you have been involved in a Michigan motorcycle accident, then you want accident attorneys who know how to handle motorcycle accidents and any necessary negotiations with insurance companies or indeed court actions. Cochran, Kroll & Associates are one of the leading motorcycle accident attorneys in the state. We have been representing victims of motorcycle crashes for many years and can help win your case. We offer a free consultation to evaluate your circumstances and you can book one today by calling (866)-779-7331.