Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents can occur due to various factors and causes. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Michigan include:

1. Motorist Negligence: Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers on the road. This can include cases where motorists fail to see motorcycles or misjudge their speed, leading to collisions. Common examples include drivers making unsafe lane changes, failing to yield right-of-way to motorcycles, or not maintaining a safe following distance.
2. Left-Turn Accidents: A significant number of motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle making a left turn collides with an oncoming motorcycle. This often happens when a driver fails to notice an approaching motorcycle or misjudges its speed, leading to a dangerous intersection collision.
3. Lane Splitting: Lane splitting refers to the practice of riding between lanes of traffic, often in congested areas. While lane splitting is not legal in Michigan, some motorcyclists still engage in this behavior. It can be risky as it increases the likelihood of accidents due to reduced space, limited visibility, and drivers not expecting motorcycles to be passing between lanes.
4. Distracted Driving: Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting vehicle controls contribute to a significant number of motorcycle accidents. When drivers are distracted, their attention is diverted from the road, making it more likely for them to collide with a motorcycle.
5. Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed and reckless driving behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic or tailgating, can increase the risk of motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles are more vulnerable to accidents at high speeds due to their smaller size and reduced stability compared to other vehicles.
6. Impaired Driving: Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it dangerous for both motorcyclists and other road users.
7. Road Hazards: Motorcyclists are particularly susceptible to accidents caused by road hazards such as potholes, uneven pavement, debris, or slippery surfaces. These hazards can lead to loss of control, skidding, or collisions if the motorcyclist is unable to navigate them safely.

Many of these types of accidents could be prevented if motorists and motorcyclists alike exercised caution and maintained awareness of their surroundings while sharing the road. Unfortunately, acts of negligence still occur every day, resulting in serious injury.

How Motorcyclists Can Protect Themselves

Motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 16 and 33 in the United States, and motorcycle accidents account for approximately 3,000 deaths each year. Many others are seriously injured and undergo major life changes and disabilities due to motorcycle accidents. Injuries from motorcycle accidents are not the same as those in an enclosed passenger car with seat belts and airbags. Even pads and helmets do little to protect the motorcycle riders in a crash. This can leave the rider with a ruptured disc, a serious brain injury, or even result in wrongful death.