Michigan Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Fighting For Bicycle Accident Victims in Michigan
Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation in Michigan, but it can also come with significant risks. Bicycle accidents can lead to serious injuries, costly medical bills, and long-term consequences for victims. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation. At Grewal Law, our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to helping bicycle accident victims seek the justice they deserve.
In Michigan, the State Police report that bicycle accidents often peak during warmer months when more individuals choose to hit the road for both leisure and commuting. This rise coincides with increased traffic on scenic routes, making caution critical for cyclists. Understanding this seasonal trend can help cyclists remain vigilant and prepare accordingly, ensuring they travel safely throughout the state. Our firm prioritizes educating our clients on safety measures and the importance of wearing protective gear, which can significantly reduce injury severity.
Call (888) 211-5798 or contact us online today to request a free case evaluation with our bicycle accident lawyer in Michigan.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, often due to the negligence of other drivers. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Michigan include:
- Distracted Driving: Motorists using their phones or engaging in other distractions while driving are a leading cause of bicycle accidents. A driver not paying attention may fail to notice a cyclist, leading to a serious collision.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers sometimes fail to yield the right of way to bicyclists, especially at intersections or when making turns. This can result in side-impact or head-on collisions.
- Dooring: "Dooring" occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming bicyclist, causing the cyclist to collide with the door. This type of accident can cause severe injuries, especially if the cyclist is thrown into traffic.
- Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers may fail to check their blind spots when changing lanes, resulting in a collision with a bicyclist. This often happens when a motorist is not aware of a nearby cyclist or does not give enough space when passing.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces can pose significant hazards to bicyclists. While these conditions are often beyond a cyclist’s control, a government entity responsible for maintaining the road may be held liable if it failed to address known hazards.
- Drunk or Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a serious risk to everyone on the road, including bicyclists. Impaired drivers may have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and reduced coordination, all of which increase the likelihood of an accident.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident caused by one of these or other factors, you may be entitled to compensation. A Michigan bicycle accident attorney at Grewal Law can help investigate the cause of the accident and determine liability.
Who is Liable for a Bicycle Accident?
Determining liability in a bicycle accident can be complex and depends on the circumstances of the crash. In many cases, the driver of a motor vehicle may be held responsible if their negligence caused the accident. However, liability is not always limited to the motorist. Other parties who may be liable in a bicycle accident include:
- Government Entities: If poor road conditions, such as potholes or defective traffic signals, contributed to the accident, a local or state government agency responsible for maintaining the road may be held liable.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: In some cases, defective vehicle parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, may lead to an accident. If a defect in the driver’s vehicle or the bicyclist’s bike caused the crash, the manufacturer may be liable for damages.
- Other Cyclists or Pedestrians: If another cyclist or pedestrian acts recklessly or violates traffic laws, they may share liability for causing a bicycle accident.
- Bicyclist Negligence: In some instances, the bicyclist's own negligence may contribute to the accident. For example, failing to follow traffic laws or riding under the influence of alcohol could impact the outcome of a claim. However, even if a cyclist is partially at fault, they may still be eligible for compensation under Michigan’s comparative negligence laws, which allow for recovery even if the plaintiff is partially to blame.
At Grewal Law, our Michigan bicycle accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case to identify all liable parties and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
To schedule a free consultation with our Michigan bicycle accident lawyer, contact us today at (888) 211-5798.
Our Settlements & Verdicts
-
$29.75 Million Michigan State University – Campus Shooting Survivors
We represented two survivors of the February 13, 2023 mass shooting at Michigan State University.
-
$495,000 Personal Injury
A 6-year-old disabled boy was left unattended by his caregiver resulting in the young boy suffering extreme mental anguish, fright, and shock.
Client Testimonials
At Grewal Law PLLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
-
"Thank you so much for all of your dedication and assistance!"Grewal Law has been amazingly empathetic and forward-thinking through this very emotional and trying time.- Anonymous
-
"The service from this company is fantastic. It is a team that will represent you well."Grewal Law offers a service to its clients, that is professional and the entire staff makes a personal effort to help each individual.- M.L.O
Bicycle Laws in Michigan
Understanding Michigan’s bicycle laws is essential for both cyclists and motorists to promote safety and reduce the risk of accidents. In Michigan, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles, but there are specific laws that apply to bicyclists, such as:
- Helmet Laws: In Michigan, there is no state law requiring bicyclists over 18 to wear helmets. However, children under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. Although it is not legally required for adults, wearing a helmet is highly recommended to reduce the risk of serious head injuries.
- Roadway Riding: Cyclists in Michigan are allowed to ride on roadways, and they must follow the same rules of the road as motor vehicles. Cyclists should ride as close to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway as practicable, except when passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding hazardous conditions.
- Sidewalk Riding: While some cities in Michigan allow bicyclists to ride on sidewalks, others may prohibit it. Local ordinances often dictate whether sidewalk riding is permitted. Cyclists should always check local laws before riding on sidewalks.
- Safe Passing Law: Michigan law requires drivers to leave at least three feet of space when passing a bicyclist. If it is not possible to provide this distance, the driver must wait until it is safe to pass.
- Night Riding: Bicyclists riding between sunset and sunrise must have a white light on the front of their bike visible from 500 feet and a red reflector or light on the rear visible from 600 feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Michigan?
In the unfortunate event of a bicycle accident in Michigan, your immediate priority is safety and medical attention. Assess your condition and move to a safe area to avoid further injury if possible. Even if you feel fine initially, it is advisable to seek medical attention because some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Call emergency services to report the accident. Once help is on the way, if you are able, collect evidence at the scene. Take photographs of the location, any damages, and injuries sustained. Gather contact information from witnesses, as their testimonies could prove vital. It's crucial to file a police report to formally document the incident.
Once these steps are complete, contacting a lawyer should be a priority. At Grewal Law, we offer free consultations to help you understand your legal rights and options. Our guidance can make a significant difference in navigating the complexities of Michigan’s no-fault insurance and liability laws, ensuring you receive fair compensation.
How Does No-Fault Insurance Impact Bicycle Accident Claims in Michigan?
Michigan's no-fault insurance system mandates that your own insurance provider covers your accident-related medical expenses, wage loss benefits, and rehabilitation costs, regardless of who was at fault. This system aims to ensure prompt coverage without the need to prove fault. For cyclists without personal auto insurance, other avenues might be available, such as the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan, which provides a method for securing benefits. However, if serious injuries occur, you may have the right to seek additional compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance policy.
Can I Be Held Partially Liable for a Bicycle Accident?
In Michigan, the comparative negligence law allows for the possibility that more than one party can share liability in a bicycle accident. If a cyclist is found to be partially at fault—perhaps due to failing to observe traffic signals or riding without lights during nighttime conditions—this does not necessarily bar recovery. Instead, any compensation awarded will be adjusted by the percentage of fault attributed to the cyclist. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation could be reduced by that amount. Understanding how these laws apply to your case is where a seasoned legal team comes into play.
Contact Our Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Michigan Today
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you deserve experienced legal support that puts your recovery first. Our Michigan bicycle accident lawyer is here to provide the guidance, compassion, and strong advocacy you need during this difficult time. We understand how devastating a collision with a motor vehicle can be and how quickly medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain can overwhelm you and your family. Let us handle the insurance companies, investigate the crash, gather evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Whether your accident occurred on a busy city street or a quiet neighborhood road, we are prepared to stand by your side every step of the way. Don’t wait to protect your rights. Contact us today for a consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
Contact us today to get started with our Michigan bicycle accident attorney.
Meet Our Team
A Relentless Firm That Doesn't Take No For An Answer
-
Manvir (Mick) S. Grewal Sr. Founder and Managing Partner -
Scott Weidenfeller Attorney; Medical Malpractice & Personal Injury Team Leader
-
Ayanna D. Neal Attorney; Sexual Assault & Civil Rights Team Leader
-
Nolan L. Erickson Attorney & New Client Intake Coordinator
-
Rico D. Neal Attorney; Criminal Team Leader
-
David S. Mittleman Litigating Attorney
-
Gurrajan Gill Attorney
-
Michael Szparaga Attorney
-
Micaela Dalrymple Attorney
.2504251221568.png "National Association of Distinguished Counsel")
Why Choose Grewal Law PLLC?
-
Family-owned and nationally recognized
-
Proven track record of success
-
Client-focused approach
-
Our team is accessible 24/7
-
Serving the Michigan area for decades
-
100+ years of combined legal experience
