Michigan Motorcycle Insurance Laws

Michigan’s motorcycle insurance laws can be confusing because they do not work the same way as standard auto insurance rules. A rider may carry the coverage required to register a motorcycle but still lack the same protection that applies to drivers and passengers in cars.

That difference can matter after a motorcycle accident. Medical bills, wage loss, and injury claims may depend on the type of coverage available, whether another motor vehicle was involved, and how Michigan’s no-fault priority rules apply. Without a clear understanding of those rules, it can be difficult to know which insurer should pay or what compensation may still be available.

At Matz Injury Law, we handle motor vehicle accident cases across Michigan. We can walk you through the requirements for motorcycle insurance, explain your legal options, and pursue benefits or compensation.

What Are the Mandatory Requirements for Motorcycle Insurance in Michigan?

Every motorcycle owner must carry liability coverage, per Michigan law, which protects other people from injuries you cause. It does not pay your medical bills if you get hurt, though. Michigan sets default minimums for that coverage:

• $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $10,000 for property damage

Riders may elect lower limits of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident, but they must do so in writing.

If you are 21 or older and ride without a helmet, the law requires at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits coverage on the policy. You also must hold a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years or have completed an approved safety course. Helmeted riders are not required to carry that coverage, though many choose to include it.

Optional Coverage Worth Considering in Michigan

Michigan law sets the minimum insurance required to ride a motorcycle, but minimum coverage may not be enough after a serious crash. Riders should understand which optional coverages can protect the bike, the rider, or both.

Optional motorcycle coverage may include:

• Collision coverage: Pays for damage to your motorcycle after a crash, including situations where you caused the accident or cannot recover from another driver.
• Comprehensive coverage: Covers non-crash damage, such as theft, fire, vandalism, weather damage, or falling objects.
• Medical payments coverage: Helps pay medical bills regardless of fault, depending on the terms of the policy.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM): Protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your losses.
• First-party medical benefits: Provides medical coverage through your motorcycle policy. Michigan helmet-exempt riders must carry at least $20,000 in this coverage, but higher limits may be available.

For many riders, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is especially important. If a driver with little or no insurance causes a serious crash, your own UM/UIM coverage may help cover losses that the driver’s policy cannot pay.

What PIP Benefits Mean (and Don’t Mean) for Motorcycle Riders

One of the most important things for Michigan riders to understand is that motorcycles do not automatically come with personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. As a result, motorcyclists often have fewer options for covering medical expenses and lost income after a crash than many people realize.

The difference becomes most apparent after a single-bike accident. If no motor vehicle is involved, a rider generally cannot rely on Michigan’s no-fault system for medical bills or wage loss benefits. Instead, recovery may depend on:

• Optional first-party medical benefits purchased with the motorcycle policy
• Health insurance
• Out-of-pocket payment

A rider’s options may have access to additional benefits when a car or truck is involved in the collision. In those situations, Michigan’s no-fault priority rules may allow the injured motorcyclist to access PIP benefits through the applicable insurer. However, eligibility depends on the circumstances of the crash and the available coverage.

What Happens If You Don’t Have the Required Coverage

Because Michigan law requires motorcycle owners to maintain liability insurance, riding without the required coverage can create serious legal and financial consequences, especially after an accident. Potential consequences include:

• Personal responsibility for injuries or property damage you cause in a crash
• Difficulty accessing certain insurance benefits after an accident
• Fines ranging from $200 to $500
• A misdemeanor charge punishable by up to one year in jail
• Additional penalties for riders who qualify for a helmet exemption but fail to carry the required first-party medical benefits coverage

The exact consequences depend on the circumstances of the accident, the insurance available, and whether other vehicles were involved. If you were injured in a crash while uninsured, speak with a Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to understand your legal options.

Why Matz Injury Law for Michigan Motorcycle Accident Cases

Matz Injury Law has represented injured Michigan residents since 1977. For almost 50 years, our attorneys have helped riders with the state’s unique motorcycle insurance rules. We also work to preserve critical evidence, communicate with insurers, and pursue the compensation available under Michigan law.

We stay personally involved in every case and remain available to answer questions throughout the process. Our approach has produced real results, bringing in over $300 million in recovery for our clients.

At Matz Injury Law, we also believe injured people should keep more of their recovery. That’s why our contingency fee is 22%, not 33⅓%. With no upfront costs and free consultations, riders across Michigan can get experienced legal guidance without adding to the financial stress that often follows a serious crash.

Client Testimonials

“I was struck by an SUV while riding my HD motorcycle. When I was released from the hospital, I contacted Lawyer Steven Matz, who came to our home and assisted us with all the paperwork. Steve also got us top Dollar for my totaled bike, and the maximum amount allowed in our financial settlement. Steve was always available to help with questions, and gave answers that contained compassion. He was always upbeat and energetic! I highly recommend his services to anyone that may need them.” — Dan F.

“I had an amazing experience working with Steve and his practice. Whenever I needed any help, he was right there to help. He even came to my house to discuss my case with me when I was bedridden! His dedication and professionalism truly made a difference. One of the best parts is he takes 22% not 33%!! I would highly recommend Matz Injury Law to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thanks again to Steve and his practice. You truly made this process simple and stress free for me!” — Grant B.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Motorcycle Insurance

Does No-Fault Insurance Cover Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan?

Not automatically. When a car or truck causes the crash, you may be able to make a PIP claim through Michigan’s no-fault priority system. When no motor vehicle is involved, your options come down to first-party medical benefits coverage you elected, health insurance, or out-of-pocket payments.

What Happens If a Motorcyclist Hits Me and Has No Insurance?

You may have several paths to recovery. PIP from your own auto policy can cover medical bills and lost wages even though the at-fault party was on a motorcycle. Your uninsured motorist coverage may also apply, and a lawsuit against the rider remains an option. A motorcycle accident lawyer can identify which sources of coverage fit your situation.

Can I Sue for Pain and Suffering After a Michigan Motorcycle Accident?

Yes, in many cases. If you were 50% or less at fault and your injuries meet one of Michigan’s three thresholds (death, serious permanent disfigurement, or serious impairment of an important body function), you may have a third-party claim against the at-fault driver. The threshold rules apply the same way to motorcyclists as to car accident victims.

Get a Free Consultation About Your Michigan Motorcycle Crash

If you’re trying to understand what comes next after a motorcycle accident or what your coverage actually covers, we can help. Our Michigan motorcycle lawyers at Matz Injury Law can walk you through your legal options and help you pursue the compensation available under state law.

The consultation is FREE, and we don’t charge a fee unless we recover for you. Call 866-226-6833 or fill out our online contact form to get started.