Motorcyclist seriously injured in U.S. 131
A 78-year-old Rockford man was seriously injured Wednesday when an SUV hit his motorcycle at an intersection just off U.S. 131.
Michigan State Police Grand Rapids Post troopers said he was driving on the U.S. 131 exit ramp toward 14 Mile Road. The motorcycle entered the intersection and went into the westbound lanes of 14 Mile Road, where a Jeep Cherokee driven by a 30-year-old Rockford woman hit its side.
Rockford Ambulance took him to Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. Troopers said they found no signs that alcohol or excessive speed played a role in the crash, and the investigation continues.
Michigan no-fault benefits and injury claims after a motorcycle crash
Michigan's no-fault law doesn't treat a motorcycle as a motor vehicle, so a rider hurt in a crash with a car, truck or SUV usually turns first to that vehicle's insurance. Under MCL 500.3114, personal injury protection (PIP) benefits come first from the insurer of the motor vehicle's owner. Next is the insurer of its driver, then the rider's own auto insurer and then the auto insurer of the motorcycle's owner. Michigan Legal Center explains the full priority order and how reduced PIP medical limits can affect a rider in Michigan motorcycle accident claims and no-fault benefits.
A separate claim against an at-fault driver can seek pain and suffering, but only when the injury causes death, permanent serious disfigurement or a serious impairment of body function. Under MCL 500.3135, a serious impairment is an objectively visible impairment of an important body function that affects a person's general ability to lead a normal life.
Get help from Michigan Legal Center
Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles motorcycle accident, no-fault benefit and serious injury claims for riders and families across Michigan. If you or a family member was hurt in a motorcycle crash, contact Michigan Legal Center to ask whether your situation falls within its practice areas.
There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.
Riders dealing with unpaid medical bills can also review Michigan PIP medical bills and priority.