Michigan Bicycle Accident Claims: What You Need to Know After a Car Crash

A Michigan bicycle accident can change your life in seconds. You may be left with painful injuries, growing medical bills, and uncertainty about whether you can return to work or care for your family.

These challenges can intensify over time. Medical debt can increase, recovery may stall without the right treatment, and under Michigan law, delaying action could jeopardize your rights.

At Matz Injury Law, our bicycle accident attorneys can handle the entire legal process, gather evidence, and help you stay focused on your recovery while we pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under Michigan’s no-fault system or through a personal injury lawsuit.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Bike Accidents?

Bicycle accidents in Michigan often result from preventable hazards. Both drivers and cyclists have legal duties under the Michigan Vehicle Code. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or using a GPS.
• Speeding or failing to yield at intersections.
• Dooring accidents, when a driver opens a car door into a cyclist’s path.
• Unsafe lane changes or passing too closely.
• Poor road conditions, including potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces.
• Low visibility at night or in poor weather, due to limited lighting or sight lines.

What Types of Injuries Do Bicyclists Commonly Suffer in Accidents?

Because bicyclists lack the protection of a vehicle, accident-related injuries can be severe. Common examples include:

• Head injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries.
• Broken bones, including fractures in the arms, legs, or ribs.
• Spinal cord injuries or other back trauma.
• Cuts, bruises, and road rash.
• Internal organ damage.
• Long-term complications, such as chronic pain, loss of mobility, or impairment of body functions.

Documented medical treatment is critical in these cases. Under Michigan law, only injuries that meet the threshold for a “serious impairment of body function” allow claims for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

At Matz Injury Law, we review medical records, consult with treating doctors, and gather the evidence needed to prove how your injuries have affected your daily life. This helps us pursue the full compensation you may be entitled to under Michigan law.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident?

Taking the right steps after a bicycle accident can protect both your health and your legal rights.

• Call 911 and get medical attention right away. Even minor injuries can worsen without treatment.
• Preserve damaged gear and clothing. Keep copies of bills, treatment notes, and receipts in one file.
• Request police assistance at the accident scene and obtain a copy of the police report.
• Exchange insurance, driver’s license, and contact information with the motorist.
• Collect evidence, including photos or videos of the scene, witness statements, and any available traffic or surveillance footage.
• Do not admit fault, verbally or in writing.
• Notify your insurance company, but avoid giving recorded statements without legal advice.
• Contact Matz Injury Law promptly. We can deal with the insurance company, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

How to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in Michigan

To start a bicycle accident claim in Michigan, you should:

• Report the accident to your insurance company within the required timeframe.
• If a motor vehicle was involved, file a no-fault claim for personal injury protection (PIP) benefits under Michigan law (MCL 500.3101 et seq.).
• Keep copies of medical records, bills, and receipts related to your treatment and expenses.
• Document lost wages and other out-of-pocket costs.
• If your injuries meet the legal threshold of a “serious impairment of body function” under MCL 500.3135, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver to recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering.

At Matz Injury Law, we help clients gather records, file claims, and determine whether their injuries qualify for a lawsuit under Michigan’s legal standards.

Insurance Settlement vs. Personal Injury Lawsuit

If you are struck by a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle in Michigan, your recovery options may include an insurance claim or, in some cases, a lawsuit.

In many situations, your own auto insurance covers medical bills and lost wages through personal injury protection (PIP) benefits. If you do not have auto insurance, coverage may still be available through a relative’s policy or the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan.

If you have severe injuries, such as a broken bone, permanent scarring, or an impairment that changes your daily life, you may also be able to bring a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Michigan law only permits these lawsuits if the injury meets the threshold for a “serious impairment of body function” under Michigan personal injury law.

You may also need to file a lawsuit if:

• The driver’s insurance denies your claim.
• Your losses are not fully reimbursed.
• The driver was uninsured or underinsured.

Matz Injury Law helps injured cyclists determine whether to pursue benefits through insurance, file a lawsuit, or both, depending on the circumstances.

How Should I Deal With Insurance Companies After the Accident in Michigan?

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so it is important to protect yourself when dealing with them:

• Share only factual information and avoid speculation.
• Do not give a recorded statement without legal advice.
• Do not accept a settlement offer until it has been reviewed.
• Keep records of all communications, including dates, names, and details.
• Consult Matz Injury Law before signing or agreeing to any settlement.

What Is the Average Settlement for a Bicycle Accident?

There is no set “average” settlement for bicycle accident cases in Michigan. The value of each personal injury claim depends on factors such as:

• The severity of the injuries and the cost of medical care.
• Lost wages and impact on future earning capacity.
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
• The need for long-term care or permanent disability.
• The degree of liability or comparative fault under Michigan’s modified comparative negligence rules.

Courts and insurance companies evaluate these factors using documented evidence and Michigan law.

Role of Liability and Comparative Fault in Bicycle Accident Claims

Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence system:

• An injured person may recover damages if their share of fault is 50% or less.
• Any recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned.
• Liability is determined using evidence such as driver and cyclist behavior, traffic law violations, and other relevant facts.

What Damages Can I Recover After a Bicycle Accident?

After a bicycle accident, you may be able to recover compensation for two main categories of damages:

Economic Damages

• These are financial losses that can be documented with records such as bills, receipts, or pay stubs:
• Medical costs, including hospital care, doctor visits, physical therapy, surgery, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages, including income missed during recovery and future lost earnings if your ability to work is reduced.
• Property damage, such as repair or replacement of your bicycle, helmet, or other gear.
• Out-of-pocket expenses, like transportation to medical appointments or hiring help for household tasks.

Non-Economic Damages

These cover losses that are harder to measure financially but are still recognized under Michigan law:

• Pain and suffering, including ongoing physical pain or discomfort.
• Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Loss of enjoyment of life if injuries prevent you from daily activities, hobbies, or exercise.
• Impact on family relationships, such as loss of companionship or added strain on loved ones.

Who Pays Pain and Suffering Compensation After a Bicycle Accident?

In Michigan, pain and suffering compensation is not covered by personal injury protection (PIP) benefits. Instead, these damages are paid by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. To recover, you must prove:

• The driver was at fault for the accident.
• Your injuries meet the “serious impairment of body function” threshold.

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to seek payment through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

Can I Get Michigan No-Fault (PIP) Benefits if I Was on a Bicycle?

Yes. If a motor vehicle is involved in the crash, Michigan’s no-fault law allows an injured bicyclist to claim personal injury protection (PIP) benefits through applicable auto insurance policies. These benefits may cover:

• Medical expenses related to the accident.
• Lost wages for up to three years.
• Replacement services or attendant care if prescribed by a doctor.

If no motor vehicle is involved, PIP benefits do not apply, and compensation must be pursued through other legal options.

Who Pays for My PIP Benefits?

Under Michigan law (MCL 500.3114), injured bicyclists are covered for PIP benefits when a motor vehicle is involved. The order of priority starts with your own auto insurance policy. If you don’t have one, it moves to a spouse’s or resident relative’s policy. If no applicable policy exists, the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan (MACP) will assign an insurer to provide you with PIP coverage.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a No-Fault Claim or Lawsuit?

Michigan law sets strict deadlines for bicycle accident claims:

• No-fault (PIP) benefits: You must notify your insurer and submit medical bills within one year of the accident or the treatment date.
• Personal injury lawsuit: You generally have three years from the date of the accident to sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering or wrongful death.

Certain exceptions may apply, such as when the injured person is a minor or if a government vehicle is involved.

Missing the statute of limitations can bar your claim. At Matz Injury Law, our experienced attorneys track these timelines, gather the necessary documentation, and take timely action so you don’t lose your right to compensation.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for a Bicycle Accident Claim in Michigan?

You are not legally required to hire legal representation for a bicycle accident claim in Michigan, but having one can be highly valuable. A lawyer can:

• Handle serious injury cases that may involve long-term medical needs.
• Challenge insurance companies that delay, deny, or undervalue claims.
• Pursue pain and suffering compensation when your injuries meet Michigan’s legal threshold.
• Manage complex documentation, including proof of lost wages, future treatment costs, and permanent disability.

At Matz Injury Law, we take on the legal burden so you can focus on recovery. Our team gathers evidence, values your damages, and makes sure your claim is filed properly and on time.

Why Clients Choose the Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Matz Injury Law

Matz Injury Law helps injured cyclists navigate Michigan’s no-fault and liability laws. We listen to your story, collect medical records directly from providers, and manage communications with insurance companies. Our goal is to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under Michigan law.

Contingency Fee Representation

We know legal costs can feel overwhelming after an accident. That’s why our law firm works on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront fees — our fee comes only if we recover compensation for you. Unlike many firms that take 33%, we charge only 22%. This lower fee means more of the recovery stays with you, where it belongs.

Our Client Testimonials

“They was the best very approachable was always available for questions and had answer or either they was able to find them in a timely manner” — Jeff H.

“Steve was communicative, clear, highly competent, efficient and friendly. I have not pursued anything like this before and felt that I was in good hands. I was satisfied with the settlement – and would highly recommend Matz Injury Law to those who are looking for this type of service.” — Jennifer B.

“10/10 Working with Matz injury has been the the best part of a horrible circumstance. Dealing with insurance is never fun, but Steve and everyone made it the best possible situation. Highly, highly recommend!” — Kali B.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Have to Wear a Helmet While Riding a Bicycle in Michigan?

Michigan law does not require bicycle helmets for riders of any age when using traditional (non-motorized) bicycles. However, helmets are strongly recommended for safety. If you’re injured in a crash and weren’t wearing a helmet, you can still pursue compensation — it does not bar you from filing a claim.

What if the Driver Who Hit Me Doesn’t Have Insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Matz Injury Law can review your policy and explain your options.

What Costs Are Covered by Michigan’s No-Fault (PIP) Benefits After a Bicycle Accident?

If a motor vehicle is involved, PIP benefits may cover your medical expenses (up to the medical coverage limit on the applicable policy), lost wages for up to three years (subject to a monthly cap set by law), and replacement services like household help. These no-fault benefits apply regardless of who was at fault in the crash.

Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Matz Injury Law.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to act quickly to protect your rights. At Matz Injury Law, we provide free case evaluations so you can understand your legal options without cost or obligation. Our team offers experienced representation in Michigan bicycle accident claims and carefully investigates each case by reviewing police reports, medical records, and insurance policies to identify all responsible parties.

We focus on pursuing fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Unlike many firms that charge 33%, we take only 22% on contingency, meaning more of your recovery stays with you. Call us at 866-226-6833 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation with a personal injury attorney today.