Ann Arbor Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Experienced and Seasoned Ann Arbor Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

We Help Motorcycle Accident Victims Get Financial Compensation

Motorcycle accidents in Ann Arbor are often catastrophic, as motorcyclists have little protection when their bodies hit the ground. Motorcyclists suffer severe injuries, and in worst-case scenarios, they die. If you suffered a motorcycle accident caused by the carelessness of a vehicle driver or other road users, you might be eligible to receive financial compensation.

However, the road to a settlement is often fraught with complications as insurance companies like to blame motorcyclists for their accidents. The reason for this blame is predicated on the belief that motorcycle riders are thrill seekers who want to ride at top speed and disobey traffic rules. But this is only sometimes the case, as careful motorcyclists still find themselves in collisions they did not cause.

Why Choose Our Ann Arbor Motorcycle Accident Lawyer to Represent You?

At Goodman Acker, P.C., we understand the devastating impacts of motorcycle accidents and the complexity of the insurance laws on such collisions. Therefore, we always patiently answer our client’s questions and guide them in making the best decision for their case. We will also ensure that the at-fault party does not get away with their actions and will strive to secure a favorable outcome.

We have successfully represented several motorcycle accident victims in Ann Arbor, and our clients’ testimonials are a testament to our commitment and dedication to each case. Our attorneys are experienced negotiators and trial lawyers, so we can negotiate a fair settlement or represent your interests during trial. Our initial consultations are free, so call us now at 248-286-8100 to schedule one.

Motorcycle Accidents Are Prevalent in Michigan

Motorcycle accidents happen more often than not in Michigan, and Ann Arbor is not excluded. This is the case even though government campaigns warn vehicle drivers to look twice on the road to avoid a collision with a motorcyclist. According to the Michigan Secretary of State, over 7,648 motorcycle-vehicle crashes occurred in Michigan from 2017 to 2021, and 84% of these crashes happened on city streets, not highways.

In 2021, there were 3,175 motorcycle-involved crashes in which 166 motorcyclists were killed and 2,526 were injured. Also, the death rate for motorcyclists was 21.6 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled compared to the overall mileage death rate of 1.1 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. These collisions are easily avoidable if motorcycle riders and vehicle drivers avoid negligent behaviors.

These behaviors include the following:

• Illegal lane splitting
• Cutting off motorcycles when changing lanes
• Suddenly opening car doors
• Driving drunk or distracted
• Turning left into the path of a motorcycle
• Tailgating or aggressive driving
• Running a red light or stop sign.

Anyone who engages in any of these behaviors would be considered liable for a motorcycle collision and held accountable for their actions.

How Does Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Law Apply to Motorcycle Accident Cases?

In Michigan, motorcycles are not classified as ‘motor vehicles,’ so motorcycle riders are not required to have a no-fault insurance policy. No-fault coverage is compulsory only for cars and trucks as they qualify as ‘motor vehicles.’ However, even though a motorcyclist is not required to have no-fault insurance, they can receive no-fault benefits when involved in a crash with a car or truck.

In such an instance, the no-fault coverage will pay for the motorcyclist’s medical care, lost wages, and attendant care. Also, the motorcyclist must file a “Written Notice of Injury” with the at-fault driver’s insurance company within one year of the accident. In cases where the responsible driver does not have no-fault insurance or a hit-and-run accident, the motorcycle rider can file a claim for benefits under the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan.

Also, there are limits on the amount an injured motorcyclist can receive as a no-fault benefit. Under MCL 500.3107c(5), “An injured motorcyclist’s no-fault medical benefits are limited by whatever no-fault coverage level exists in the auto insurance policy from which they are seeking benefits — which could be $50,000 (for drivers on Medicaid), $250,000, $500,000 or unlimited.”

The motorcyclist’s no-fault PIP medical benefits will be limited to $250,000 if seeking no-fault benefits through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan. Understanding these laws and how they affect your case can be challenging and overwhelming, so it is always advisable to get legal representation.

What Compensation Will Our Ann Arbor Motorcycle Accident Attorney Recover?

Motorcycle accidents often lead to injuries requiring long-term hospital stay and rehabilitation. As such, our attorney will ensure your compensation covers your economic and noneconomic damages. This way, your financial stability is not threatened, and you can get your life back on track once you fully recover.

Our motorcycle accident lawyer will ensure your compensation covers the following:

• Medical expenses
• Cost of ambulance transportation and emergency medical services
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Loss of income and benefit
• Loss of earning capacity
• Extended nursing and life care
• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental anguish/emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement or scarring.

In cases where the motorcyclist dies, their loved ones can use the compensation to pay for any outstanding medical bills, funeral and burial arrangements, and cover some of the decedent’s financial responsibilities towards them before their demise. At Goodman Acker, P.C., we will identify all you are entitled to and fight to hold the at-fault party accountable.

Ann Arbor Motorcycle Accident Lawyer FAQs

Having questions after a horrifying event like a motorcycle accident is not uncommon, and below, we answer some of the ones we encounter frequently:

How much is the worth of my motorcycle accident case?

The worth of your case depends on the facts and factors like the cost of repairing your motorcycle, medical bills, and the cost of future medical care. It is also influenced by pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disfigurement, cost of therapy, trauma, and lost wages from the inability to work.

How do I increase my chances of a successful motorcycle accident claim outcome?

Ensure you file an accident report after the crash and get medical treatment. Follow all your doctor’s instructions and keep track of your medical record and other evidence needed to prove the at-fault party’s liability. Do not post anything about your case on social media or admit fault, then hire a motorcycle accident attorney.

When should I hire a motorcycle accident Lawyer in Ann Arbor?

Get legal representation as soon as you can. Delaying can harm your case as it gives the at-fault party’s insurance adjuster time to look for loopholes they can use to deny your claim or bully you into taking less than the settlement your case is worth.

What is the cost of getting legal representation?

Motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t have to worry about paying us upfront; we get paid when we win your case and only take a percentage of the settlement or verdict awarded. The portion is usually between 33% and 40% and must be agreed upon in the contingency fee agreement.

These may not be your only questions; our attorneys will discuss your specific concerns in your initial consult.

How Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Ann Arbor Can Help You

The catastrophic nature of motorcycle accidents makes it hard for the motorcyclist to gather evidence at the scene or take steps needed to protect their rights. Therefore, when you retain our services, our Goodman Acker, P.C., team will handle everything about your case from start to finish.

We will do the following on your behalf:

• Get a copy of the police report and evidence from the crash scene.
• Identify and interview eyewitnesses.
• Examine the driving record of the at-fault party and history.
• Get an accident reconstructionist to reconstruct the accident scene and create a report based on their findings.
• Obtain a copy of your medical records and review it.
• Notify the at-fault party’s insurer of the accident and demand for compensation.
• Negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurer on your behalf and file a lawsuit if the insurer refuses to make a fair settlement offer.

We are invested in the welfare of our clients and will do all we can within the law to minimize your burden and maximize your financial awards.

Get Help from Our Experienced Legal Team

You have legal options after a motorcycle accident, and at Goodman Acker, P.C., we will explain what they are and guide you in deciding what’s best for you. We are available 24/7 to attend to you, so don’t delay contacting us. Call us at 248-286-8100 to schedule a free case evaluation.

LEGALLY REVIEWED BY BARRY J. GOODMAN

Barry J. Goodman has devoted his professional life to keeping courthouse doors open for victims seeking justice. Always a tireless advocate for his own clients, Goodman sees his responsibility as a Detroit personal injury attorney in a broader sense as well. [ Attorney Bio ]