Motorcycle Accidents
Dedicated to protecting the rights of motorcyclists harmed by careless and distracted drivers.
Standing Up for Injured Michigan Riders
Motorcyclists face some of the most severe injuries on Michigan roads. Without the protection of a vehicle frame, airbags, or seatbelts, even a minor collision can lead to catastrophic consequences — from broken bones and road rash to traumatic brain and spinal injuries. When a driver’s negligence causes that harm, the victim deserves justice and full financial recovery.
At Muawad PC, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face when dealing with insurance companies and Michigan’s no-fault system. We stand beside riders throughout Metro Detroit and across Michigan, ensuring their rights are protected, their stories are heard, and their recovery is maximized. Whether it was a left-turn collision, lane-change crash, or hit-and-run, our firm fights to hold negligent drivers accountable.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Most motorcycle crashes happen not because of rider error, but because other drivers fail to see or respect them. Common causes include:
Drivers making unsafe left turns across oncoming riders
Following too closely or failing to yield the right of way
Distracted or impaired driving
Unsafe lane changes or blind spot collisions
Poor road maintenance or debris in the roadway
Speeding or aggressive driving
Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible, riders are far more vulnerable in any collision. The injuries they sustain often require extensive medical care, long-term rehabilitation, and ongoing support.
Michigan Motorcycle Accident Laws
Motorcycle accident claims are treated differently from traditional auto claims under Michigan law. Motorcyclists do not automatically receive PIP (Personal Injury Protection) benefits unless another motor vehicle was involved and covered under a no-fault policy.
Key points to understand:
If a car or truck caused the crash, the motorcyclist may be entitled to no-fault benefits through the driver’s insurer or their own household policy.
If the accident involved only the motorcycle, the rider typically must pursue recovery through their own health insurance or a liability claim.
To recover non-economic damages (pain and suffering), the rider must prove that the injuries meet Michigan’s “threshold injury” standard — meaning serious impairment of body function, permanent disfigurement, or death.
Helmet laws: Michigan riders aged 21 or older may ride without a helmet if they carry at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits coverage and have held a motorcycle endorsement for two years (or passed a safety course).
Important Legal Considerations
Comparative negligence may reduce recovery if the motorcyclist is partially at fault, but it does not automatically bar a claim.
Accident reconstruction, eyewitness accounts, and expert medical evaluations often play a key role in proving liability.
A lawsuit for pain and suffering or wrongful death must generally be filed within three years of the crash.
Riders should never assume the police or insurer will fairly document fault — independent legal review is essential.
Helpful Resources
All the answers you're looking for
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Michigan law allows recovery even if you weren’t wearing a helmet, though it may affect the amount of compensation depending on the circumstances and insurance policy involved.
Not automatically. No-fault benefits may apply only if another motor vehicle was involved and insured under Michigan’s no-fault system.
You may recover for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation, and long-term disability or disfigurement.
Typically, you have one year to claim no-fault benefits and three years to file a lawsuit for third-party damages.
That’s one of the most common excuses — but not a defense. Drivers have a legal duty to watch for motorcycles and yield the right of way.
It depends on the situation. If a car caused the crash, the driver’s insurer may pay. If not, your health insurance or optional medical coverage applies.
Yes, if another motor vehicle caused the crash. Passengers may claim benefits through the driver’s or household insurance policy.
Motorcycle cases are often undervalued by insurers and complicated by no-fault exclusions. An experienced attorney ensures your injuries are properly documented and your rights fully protected.
Don't Wait - Get the Justice You Deserve
We offer free, no-obligation consultations for accident victims across Metro Detroit. There are no fees unless we win - let us review your case and options.