Have you suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident in Livonia? If the accident was caused by another person's negligence, we can help you get compensation. Contact the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates for a free consultation.
If you’re a motorcyclist, you likely enjoy the easygoing vibe of motorcycling around Livonia. But what happens when someone else's negligence causes you to crash? You're unable to work, your income decreases, and medical bills pile up as you fight through severe injuries. We understand your difficulties, and our legal practice is here to help. Contact a Livonia motorcycle accident lawyer by calling 248-886-8650 today to schedule your free case review.
Help You Need for Your Motorcycle Accident
The Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates are here to help you achieve the resolution you need for your claim. We have been representing victims of motorcycle accidents for many years. Our primary priority is securing the maximum compensation for each person we help.
Getting back what's owed to you involves three main steps:
- First Step: Schedule a free consultation with one of our Livonia motorcycle accident attorneys, who will take the time to hear about the crash's impact on your life.
- Step: We will design a customized legal plan based on your situation to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
- Third Step: Our legal team handles your case for you. We'll take a strong stance against the insurance company (or in court) to get you the most money possible for your losses.
What is the cost of not having legal representation? An insurance adjuster might offer you a settlement that's far less than you deserve if they offer one at all. And once you accept it, you can never go back and try to get more money. Don't make this costly mistake. Let us help you avoid this pitfall.
Imagine beginning a new chapter in your life, free from the debt and legal complications of your motorcycle accident. Together, we can make that a reality. Want to regain your peace of mind? Contact us today.
Motorcycle Accident Types Prevalent in Livonia
2020 saw 129 motorcycle accidents in Livonia. The event is often the result of a car driver failing to see the motorcycle near them. However, there are additional ways in which cars and motorcycles collide. The following crash types are the most common ones:
- Distracted driving results from drivers not focusing on the road, frequently due to phone use or other distractions.
- Drunk driving accidents are collisions involving a motorcycle and a car in which the driver's ability is impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Intersection crashes happen frequently due to a car failing to stop for a motorcycle.
- Single-vehicle incidents include losing control, running into stationary objects, or encountering traffic dangers.
- Lane-change crashes occur when a car shifts lanes without realizing a motorcycle is in its blind spot.
- Rear-end wrecks arise from cars striking motorcycles from behind.
- Head-on impacts come about when a motorcycle is struck head-on by an automobile moving in the opposite direction.
- Left-turn collisions happen when a motorcyclist traveling straight ahead or through the intersection collides with a car turning left.
- Side-swipe run-ins take place when a car sideswipes a motorcycle that is passing or changing lanes.
- T-bones occur when a car sidesnaps a motorcycle, creating a "T" shape.
Research from the National Technical Information Service indicates that almost 75% of motorcycle accidents involve collisions with other vehicles. Sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and 18-wheelers are among these vehicles.
Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Michigan?
Lane splitting is a common traffic tactic for motorcycle riders, allowing them to navigate between two lanes of traffic that are either stationary or moving slowly. This technique enables motorcycles to move swiftly through traffic and around bottlenecks, reducing the likelihood of rear-end collisions and other related incidents.
Despite its potential benefits in congested areas, there are also dangers associated with it, and lane splitting is prohibited in Michigan. State law states that motorcycles have "full use of a lane," explicitly forbidding lane splitting.
The Dangers of Lane Splitting
Michigan has outlawed lane splitting due to the following potential risks:
- Higher Speed Differences: Motorcycles and other vehicles can travel at different speeds when lane splitting. This makes it challenging for motorcyclists to control their bikes or for car drivers to anticipate the motorcyclist’s actions, especially at higher speeds.
- Limited Visibility: Visibility can be impaired by inclement weather, blind spots, and heavy traffic. When motorcyclists split lanes, other drivers are less likely to see them.
- Riding Between Traffic Lanes: Riding between lanes increases the risk of collisions, particularly if other drivers fail to notice or anticipate the presence of motorcycles.
- Reduced Reaction Time: Motorcyclists have less time to react to unexpected road hazards, such as sudden lane changes by other vehicles or debris on the road.
Although some advocates argue that regulated lane splitting can be advantageous and safe, Michigan lawmakers uphold the ban on the practice. The goal is to ensure traffic laws are clear and prioritize road safety.
The Unknown Risks of Speeding
Major motorcycle manufacturers have an informal agreement to cap the top speed of production motorcycles at 186 mph. This decision was made to prioritize safety and prevent dangerous speed competition among brands. Of course, speed limits in Livonia range between 25 and 70 miles per hour, depending on the location. If you feel a "need for speed," consider the following risks you take while enjoying the thrill:
- Limited Protection: Motorcyclists have less protection than occupants of passenger cars. In the event of an accident, they are particularly susceptible to severe injuries in high-speed collisions due to the lack of structural integrity and safety equipment like airbags and seat belts.
- Decreased Maneuverability: High-speed riding makes it more challenging for motorcyclists to navigate safely, especially through traffic or when encountering unforeseen obstacles on the road. This increases the likelihood of losing control and crashing.
- Severe Personal Injuries: Motorcycle accidents caused by speeding typically result in more severe injuries or fatalities compared to accidents at slower speeds. The impact force in high-speed crashes is significantly higher, causing more substantial damage to the rider and the motorcycle.
- Enhanced Risk of Accidents: Faster riding impairs a rider's reaction time to potential dangers, lengthens stopping distances, and makes controlling the motorcycle more difficult, especially in windy or curvy terrain.
- Factors in Fatal Crashes: Speeding is a significant contributing factor in many motorcycle fatalities. High-speed riding increases the likelihood of collisions, and the severity of injuries riders sustain.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 33% of motorcycle fatalities in 2021 were caused by speeding. The link between speeding and motorcycle accidents is undeniable. Encouraging respect for speed limits and safe riding techniques is essential to reduce motorcycle accidents and improve road safety for everyone.
What Are the Most Serious Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Crashes?
Motorcycle crashes happen rapidly. Victims of some injuries may experience lifelong effects. Motorcycle accident injuries typically cause the following kinds of physical and mental harm:
- Psychological trauma: This injury includes anxiety associated with the accident and its aftermath, emotional anguish, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Contusions and bruises: Damage to tissue and discoloration of the skin brought on by collisions with surfaces or objects.
- Soft tissue injuries: Tears, sprains, and other damage to tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
- Fractures: Bone breaks, such as wrists, ribs, arms, and legs.
- Dislocations: When a joint is pushed out of its natural position, it usually happens from an impact or a quick movement.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage resulting in paralysis or loss of feeling in the spinal cord.
- Head injuries: Often brought on by collisions or falls, these include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, and skull fractures.
- Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma causing damage to the kidneys, liver, spleen, or lungs, among other organs.
- Road rash: Cuts and abrasions from a slide's contact with the road surface.
- Burns: Thermal burns caused by contact with hot objects, flames, or chemicals; these can occasionally be made worse by road friction from slipping.
Have you been involved in a motorcycle accident and sustained any of these common injuries? It's time to consult with an experienced Livonia motorcycle accident attorney. We can manage every facet of your claim, ensuring you get paid for the treatment you need.
Fatal Motorcycle Accidents
The Michigan State Police reports that between 2019 and 2020, there was a 22% rise in motorcycle fatalities. On our highways, fatal motor vehicle accidents are a sad fact. The fatality emphasizes the inherent risks that motorcycle riders must deal with. It also reveals the continuous requirement for all-encompassing safety precautions.
Reasons for Motorcycle Deaths in Accidents
Several circumstances cause motorcycle fatalities, the main one being speeding. Fast speeds make it harder for riders to respond to dangers and make collisions more severe. Other frequent causes include:
Losing control due to excessive speeds or road hazards is a common cause of single-vehicle crashes. Another common situation where other vehicles fail to yield to motorcycles is intersection crashes, particularly when the bike turns left.
What Can a Family Do After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash?
The National Safety Council reports that 14% of all traffic fatalities include motorcycles. Furthermore, between 2020 and 2021, the number of motorcycle rider and passenger fatalities increased by 8%.
In situations where an individual's carelessness leads to death, Michigan law offers some options to the surviving family members. The negligent party may be held liable in a wrongful death case. The negligent parties could be any of the following:
- An additional driver
- A producer of parts
- An organization of government
We know that no amount of money can ever make up for the loss of a loved one. Compensation, however, can seriously lessen the financial strain. A Livonia motorcycle accident attorney should be consulted if you want more information about how to file a claim.
Preventing Fatal Motorcycle Accidents
There are many concerted efforts that the community can take to reduce fatal motorcycle accidents in Livonia. They are as follows:
- Reducing collision risks can be achieved by educating drivers and motorcyclists on cautious driving and safe road sharing.
- Improving intersection visibility and road infrastructure, such as erecting barriers, can increase motorcycle safety.
- Motorcyclists and other road users may refrain from dangerous behavior by having traffic laws enforced.
- Improving licensing standards that promote protective gear, such as armored clothes and helmets, to lower the number of fatal and nonfatal injuries. Wayne County Community College District provides a motorcycle safety education program. Course participants have access to online and hands-on training.
Public awareness campaigns can change beliefs and practices regarding motorcycle safety. For instance, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has designated May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. These initiatives help all road users by fostering a culture of safety and respect.
What Is the Helmet Law in MI?
Here's an interesting fact: Motorcycle helmets were invented by neurosurgeon Sir Hugh Cairns, who treated Lawrence of Arabia after his fatal crash. This innovation has since become a common safety feature for all riders.
Today, in Michigan, motorcycle riders and passengers must wear certified helmets. The approved headgear manufactured after 2013 must have a DOT, FMVSS No. 218, and a CERTIFIED label on the back.
If a motorcycle operator doesn't wear a helmet, they risk fines and having their motorcycle seized. According to Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety, helmets minimize the chance of brain injuries by around 69% and the danger of death by approximately 50%. These numbers show the undeniable advantages of wearing a helmet for rider safety.
What Steps Should You Take After a Motorcycle Auto Accident?
Here are some guidelines for how to properly handle the aftermath of a motorcycle crash. Taking these steps will help ensure your wellbeing as well as protect your right to file a personal injury claim should it become necessary.
- Dial 911: Tell the operator where you are, what kind of car is involved, and whether there are any injuries. First responders will be dispatched to the scene.
- Speak with Law Enforcement: An official report of the collision will be filled out by an officer of the Livonia Police Department. The document will be vital evidence in any insurance claims or lawsuits that result from the crash.
- Information Exchange: You should give your name, phone number, insurance details, and license plate number to the other driver and get their information as well. You will need these details to file an insurance claim or take legal action.
- Obtain Photos: Use your phone to snap images of the accident scene, your injuries, and the damage to the motorcycle.
- Seek Medical Attention: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one serious injury from motorcycle accidents that may take some time to manifest symptoms. Seek emergency medical treatment even if everything appears to be fine.
- Compile Relevant Paperwork: Gather documentation, such as insurance policies, police reports, and medical records. The insurance adjuster evaluates your claim and determines liability based on this documentation.
- Speak With Your Insurance Company: Inform them about the collision. You might be eligible to get paid for your injuries and bike repairs by filing a claim for a motorcycle accident.
- Speak With a Livonia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Make an appointment for a free legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer. A skilled attorney can represent you in court, bargain with your insurance provider, and obtain the best settlement.
How Does Insurance Impact Livonia, MI, Motorcycle Accident Cases?
Insurance, known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), pays for medical bills, lost income, and other associated costs resulting from auto accidents, regardless of who is at blame.
PIP coverage is required by Michigan law for all motor vehicles, including motorcycles. Here is some more information about how these benefits apply to motorcycle accidents under the state's distinctive no-fault insurance system:
- PIP benefits for motorcyclists: PIP benefits are provided by motorcycle insurance policies to motorcyclists. These benefits include replacement services, medical costs, lost wages, and other necessary services for being hurt in a motorcycle accident.
- Exclusion of some benefits: Under Michigan's No-Fault Law, motorcycle riders are not eligible to collect PIP benefits for an unlimited amount of medical expenses, in contrast to motor vehicle occupants. Alternatively, customers can choose to buy varying levels of coverage.
- Motorcycle passenger exclusion: Under Michigan's No-Fault Law, PIP coverage is not required for passengers hurt in motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle owners can obtain PIP coverage to guarantee that their passengers are compensated for medical costs and other damages resulting from injuries experienced in an accident.
- Benefits coordination: If a motorcyclist has coverage, PIP benefits may work with their health insurance to pay for medical costs. Until the PIP coverage limits are reached, PIP compensation may be the main source of coverage for injuries sustained in an accident in certain situations.
Motorcyclists must know their coverage alternatives according to the state's insurance rules and regulations. Getting advice from an insurance representative or a Livonia motorcycle accident lawyer can assist you in selecting the right policy.
Establishing Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
The law holds at least one party accountable for incidents involving personal injuries. You will need to be able to show that party’s liability in order to collect damages from their insurance company. You stand a good chance of winning a lawsuit if you show that the defendant meets all four requirements for negligence. The following criteria determine liability:
- Duty of care: You are responsible for proving that the accused owed you a reasonable obligation. In this situation, all motorists are required to drive safely and legally.
- Breach of duty: It is necessary to provide evidence that the duty of care was broken. For instance, a truck driver breaches their obligations when they run a red light.
- Causation: You have to demonstrate that the duty violation caused your injury. For example, were the biker's injuries caused by the trucker's failure to stop at the red light?
- Damages: You have to show that the accident resulted in losses. You must submit documentation, such as medical bills, pay stubs, and related expenses.
How Much Is a Motorcycle Accident Claim Worth?
Motorcyclists in Livonia who are hurt in collisions brought on by another person's carelessness may be entitled to compensation. These financial payments cover the expenses related to the accident. You have the right to pursue both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
These damages encompass the following:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages
Non-economic Damages
These damages center on the non-tangible costs listed below:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental distress
- Loss of companionship
This list is by no means exhaustive. It is an example of the most common types of economic and non-econonic damages that can be claimed in a motorcycle accident claim.
Punitive Damages
The courts in rare cases grant punitive damages to the injured party in cases where a defendant's heinous or careless actions injure motorcyclists. Punitive damages could be awarded by the judge, for example, if an intoxicated driver runs over a biker and paralyzes them from the neck down. Keep in mind it is rare for plaintiffs to receive punitive judgments.
Let a Top Law Firm Help You Win Your Motorcycle Accident Case
You were involved in a horrific motorcycle collision. The last thing you should be concerned about is how you will pay your high medical bills. The good news is that you may qualify for benefits to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for your injuries.
Experienced negotiators make up the legal team of the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates. We will do everything possible to hold the liable party accountable for their actions, making sure you do not face financial fallout as a result of their negligent behavior. You deserve to be fairly compensated for your injuries, lost wages, and emotional anguish, and our Livonia motorcycle accident lawyer will fight for that.
Are you ready to hold the guilty party accountable for hurting you? We most definitely are! If you would like to schedule a free initial consultation, please email us or call us at 248-886-8650.
