What Happens if You Are Hit by a Motorcyclist?

Imagine crossing the street or driving home when a motorcycle suddenly crashes into you. In that moment, everything changes. Victims often suffer serious injuries like broken bones, road rash, internal bleeding, or traumatic brain injuries.

The scene is often chaotic. Without the right legal help, filing an injury claim can feel overwhelming. You may be facing mounting medical bills, missed work, or mourning the loss of a loved one. Whether the motorcycle crash happened at low or high speed, insurance companies may try to minimize your compensation.

“Mayz injury law was the best decision I have made. Steve has been so helpful through this whole process and always there for me and my husband. He made everything quick and easy! I would highly recommend Matz Injury Law.” — Linda N.

The motorcycle accident lawyers at Matz Injury Law understand how complex these cases can be. Our legal team works diligently to pursue compensation for pain and suffering, medical care, and property damage. We offer free consultations to help you feel supported and not alone during this difficult time.

What Happens if You Get Hit by a Motorcycle?

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle collision, you may be dealing with serious injuries, emotional shock, and questions about what to do next. Even though motorcycles are smaller than cars, they can cause devastating harm, especially when speed is involved. Victims often suffer broken bones, concussions, spinal injuries, or lasting pain.

Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws may not automatically cover your injuries if a motorcycle was the only vehicle involved. These benefits typically apply when a motor vehicle, like a car or truck, is part of the crash. However, some motorcycle insurance policies include optional first-party medical coverage, which is mandatory if the rider opts out of wearing a helmet. This coverage may help pay for injuries even if no car was involved.

Matz Injury Law can guide you through this process. We know how to gather evidence, evaluate liability, and fight for your right to recover the compensation you need to heal and move forward.

What Happens if You Accidentally Hit a Motorcyclist?

If you were involved in a crash with a motorcyclist, it’s important to stay calm, call 911, and remain at the scene as required under Michigan law (MCL 257.617 for injury crashes and MCL 257.618 for property damage). Failing to do so can lead to serious criminal penalties.

Do not admit fault at the scene. Fault is determined after a full investigation, which may include police reports, witness statements, and video evidence. In Michigan, you are not automatically liable just because you were driving a motor vehicle. If the motorcyclist was speeding, weaving through traffic, or disobeying traffic signals, they may be partially or entirely at fault.

Michigan follows a comparative fault system under MCL 600.2959, meaning compensation can be reduced by your share of the blame. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. However, you may still recover reduced economic damages (like medical expenses or lost wages), depending on the circumstances.

Matz Injury Law can help you understand your rights, deal with insurance companies, and defend against liability if the motorcyclist’s actions caused or contributed to the crash. Our team will investigate the accident thoroughly and work to protect your legal and financial interests.

Emotional Effects for All Parties Involved in a Motorcycle Accident

The impact of a crash often extends far beyond the physical motorcycle accident injuries. Drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and even bystanders may experience emotional responses such as fear, anxiety, or ongoing stress. Some individuals may struggle to return to driving or develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress.

These emotional reactions are valid and common. Talking to a licensed counselor or joining a local support group can be an important step in your recovery. Emotional healing takes time, and it’s okay to ask for help when navigating the mental and psychological effects of an accident.

If you’re pursuing a personal injury claim, documenting emotional distress can also support your case. Matz Injury Law can help you include these impacts as part of your overall claim for compensation.

Evidence Needed to Hold a Motorcyclist Legally Liable

If you plan to pursue legal action after a motorcycle crash, gathering strong evidence is critical to proving fault and securing compensation. The sooner this evidence is collected, the more reliable it is likely to be.

Key forms of evidence may include:

• Photos or videos of the crash scene
• Police accident reports
• Medical records documenting your injuries
• Dashcam or surveillance footage
• Statements from eyewitnesses

Over time, physical evidence can disappear and memories can fade. Working with an attorney early in the process can help preserve valuable documentation and build a stronger case.

Matz Injury Law helps injured individuals and grieving families gather the necessary evidence to support personal injury and wrongful death claims across Michigan.

When the Motorcyclist Is Uninsured or Underinsured

If the motorcyclist who caused your accident has no insurance or carries too little coverage to pay for your losses, you may still have options under Michigan law.

Two common paths include:

• Filing a claim through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, if your auto policy includes it
• Filing a personal injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault motorcyclist

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is not required in Michigan, but many drivers choose to include it in their policies. If this coverage is available, it may help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault party cannot.

In cases where no insurance coverage is available or the rider lacks sufficient assets, financial recovery may be limited. An attorney can help review your insurance policy and identify the most practical path forward.

Serious Injuries You May Suffer if a Motorcycle Hits You

Although motorcycles are smaller than cars or trucks, they often travel at high speeds and offer little protection in a collision. When a motorcycle strikes a pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver, the results can be devastating.

Common injuries motorcycle accident victims experience include:

• Head injuries or concussions
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Deep cuts and road rash
• Internal bleeding or organ damage

These injuries may require surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, or long-term medical care. Some can lead to permanent disability or emotional trauma.

Matz Injury Law works with accident victims throughout Michigan to document the full extent of their injuries and seek appropriate compensation for medical treatment, pain and suffering, and related losses.

What Immediate Steps Should You Take if You’re Hit by a Motorcycle?

Getting hit by a motorcycle can be disorienting and frightening. In the moments after a crash, it can be difficult to think clearly, but the steps you take can make a big difference for your safety, your recovery, and any legal claim you may file later.

Here’s what to do if you’re able:

1. Call 911 right away to report the accident and get medical help
2. Move to a safe spot if you can do so without causing further injury
3. Get checked out by emergency responders, even if you think you’re okay
4. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, the motorcycle, and any damage
5. Collect names and contact information from the rider and any witnesses
6. Ask for the police report number so you can request a copy later
7. Let your insurance company know what happened
8. Talk to a personal injury attorney before giving a recorded statement to the motorcyclist’s insurer

These steps can help protect your well-being and lay the groundwork for any injury claim. If you’re unsure what to do next, a lawyer can guide you through the process and take pressure off your shoulders while you focus on healing.

Matz Injury Law helps people across Michigan after serious motorcycle accidents. We’re here to answer your questions and help you take the next step forward.

What Not to Do at the Scene of the Accident

In the moments after an accident, emotions can run high. It’s easy to say or do something that might later affect your ability to file a claim or defend yourself. Keeping calm and focused can help protect both your health and your legal rights.

Here are a few things to avoid:

• Do not admit fault, even if you feel responsible
• Avoid arguing or blaming others at the scene
• Do not guess or speculate about what caused the crash
• Stay off social media, as anything you post could be used against you later
• Stick to the facts when speaking with police and medical personnel

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed after an accident. Taking a few deep breaths and focusing on your safety and the basics can go a long way. If you’re unsure how to handle the situation, reaching out to an attorney soon after the crash can help you stay on the right track.

Determining Fault in a Motorcycle-Involved Accident

In Michigan, determining who is at fault in a motorcycle accident is essential to recovering compensation. Fault is assessed using evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Dashcam or traffic camera footage
• Accident reconstruction analysis

Michigan law applies a modified comparative fault system. This means that if you are found partially responsible for the crash, any compensation you receive may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering non-economic damages.

Matz Injury Law works with investigators and accident reconstruction professionals to build strong, evidence-based claims on behalf of injured clients.

Can You Sue a Motorcyclist for Damages?

Yes, you may sue a motorcyclist for damages if their negligence caused a crash that resulted in severe injuries or death. In Michigan, lawsuits are typically permitted when injuries meet the state’s threshold for serious impairment of body function or permanent disfigurement under MCL 500.3135.

If the motorcyclist’s insurance policy does not fully cover your losses, filing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit may allow you to pursue additional compensation, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Funeral and burial costs (in fatal cases)

Matz Injury Law helps clients understand their legal options and pursue claims when an at-fault rider’s insurance coverage falls short.

Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance and Motorcycle Accidents

Under Michigan law, motorcyclists are required to carry liability insurance, but personal injury protection (PIP) benefits are not included in standard motorcycle policies. This often creates confusion after a crash.

If a motorcycle is struck by a car or truck, the PIP benefits from the motor vehicle’s policy may apply, covering medical expenses and lost wages under MCL 500.3114(5). However, if a motorcycle hits a pedestrian or cyclist, PIP may not be available unless a motor vehicle was involved. In those cases, the injured party may need to pursue a liability claim against the motorcyclist to recover damages.

Matz Injury Law helps injured motorcyclists, pedestrians, and drivers understand how no-fault coverage applies and what options exist for recovering compensation.

How Wrongful Death Lawsuits Work in Michigan

In Michigan, when a fatal motorcycle accident results from negligence, the deceased person’s estate may bring a wrongful death lawsuit under Michigan Compiled Laws section 600.2922. The case must be filed by a court-appointed personal representative, usually a close family member, on behalf of the surviving relatives.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical expenses related to the final injury
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
• Loss of the deceased’s future income and benefits

Matz Injury Law represents families in wrongful death claims throughout Michigan and helps them navigate the legal process with clarity and compassion.

Your Rights if a Loved One Dies Due to a Motorcyclist’s Negligence

If a motorcyclist‘s negligence caused the death of your loved one, you may have legal options to pursue compensation and accountability through a wrongful death claim. While no legal action can undo the loss, it can help ease financial burdens and provide a path toward justice.

As a surviving family member, you may be able to:

• File a wrongful death lawsuit through the estate’s personal representative
• Pursue an insurance claim against the at-fault motorcyclist’s liability coverage
• Seek compensation for funeral costs, medical expenses, lost future income, and emotional losses

Because Michigan law sets a strict time limit on filing these claims, acting quickly is important. If too much time passes, your family may lose the ability to recover damages.

Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash

Under Michigan law, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death or personal injury lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the person’s death. If a claim is not filed within this period, the right to recover compensation is typically lost.

This legal deadline applies regardless of the severity of the loss. Waiting too long can make it impossible to pursue damages for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of companionship, or future income.

Matz Injury Law helps families take timely legal action and avoid missing important deadlines. If your loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Navigating the Insurance Process After a Motorcycle Accident in Michigan

After a motorcycle crash, filing an insurance claim may be one of the first steps toward recovery, but it can also be one of the most confusing. Between adjuster calls, paperwork, and legal deadlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Here’s what to know about how the process works in Michigan and how to protect your rights.

How Insurance Companies Handle Motorcycle Accident Claims

Once you report the accident, insurance companies will start their investigation. They may:

• Review the police report and photos
• Speak with witnesses
• Request your medical records
• Ask for a recorded statement

Keep in mind that adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their goal is often to limit how much the insurer pays. They may question the seriousness of your injuries, delay your claim, or suggest that you were partly at fault. In Michigan, if you are found more than 50% at fault, you may not recover non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

You are not required to provide a detailed statement to the other party’s insurer. Speaking with a lawyer first can help you avoid saying something that could be used against you.

What to Expect From a Settlement Offer

Some insurance companies may offer a quick settlement early in the process. These offers are often much lower than what your case is actually worth. A fair settlement should cover not only current medical bills but also future treatment, lost income, and the full impact of your injuries.

If negotiations break down, you have other options:

• Your attorney can continue negotiating directly with the insurer
• You may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue damages in court
• Mediation is another option where both sides work with a neutral third party

When a Fatal Crash Is Involved

Motorcycle crashes that result in death are handled more seriously and often involve multiple layers of insurance coverage. These cases may include:

• Bodily injury liability coverage from the at-fault party
• Wrongful death claims through the deceased person’s estate
• Possible criminal charges, depending on the circumstances

For families, the loss is devastating, and the legal process can be especially difficult to face while grieving. A lawyer can handle the legal side of things, allowing you to focus on healing and supporting your loved ones.

How Matz Injury Law Can Help

At Matz Injury Law, we help injured clients and grieving families across Michigan manage the insurance claim process from start to finish. We communicate with adjusters, collect the evidence needed to support your claim, and push for fair compensation. If the insurance company refuses to treat you fairly, we are prepared to take your case further.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Motorcycle Accident in Michigan

If a motorcyclist caused the crash that injured you or a loved one, you may be able to recover compensation for the losses you’ve suffered. In Michigan, this typically includes both financial and personal damages.

Types of Compensation

You may be able to recover money for:

• Medical bills and future medical care
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Funeral and burial costs (in fatal cases)
• Property damage

Every case is different. Some injuries require months of treatment, while others may lead to permanent disability or emotional trauma. These factors all affect the value of your claim.

How Compensation Is Calculated

Courts and insurance companies often use two common methods to estimate pain and suffering:

• The multiplier method, which multiplies your economic damages (like medical bills) by a number that reflects the severity of your injuries
• The per diem method, which assigns a daily dollar amount for each day you are in pain or unable to live your normal life

A lawyer may use one or both of these methods when negotiating with insurers or presenting their case in court.

How Fault Affects Your Compensation

Michigan follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are partially at fault for the crash, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your total recovery would be reduced by 20%.

However, if you are more than 51% at fault, you cannot recover compensation for pain and suffering.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Handle a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Michigan?

After a motorcycle crash, dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance paperwork can feel like too much to manage on your own. While you are not required to have a lawyer, working with one can make a big difference—especially if your injuries are serious or the other party disputes fault.

A motorcycle accident attorney can help by:

• Gathering and organizing medical records, crash reports, and other evidence
• Communicating with insurance companies on your behalf
• Calculating damages based on current and future losses
• Negotiating for a fair settlement or filing a lawsuit if needed

Accident claims can quickly become complicated, especially when multiple parties or insurance policies are involved. An attorney can guide you through each step and protect your interests while you focus on recovery.

Matz Injury Law has helped many people across Michigan who were injured in motorcycle crashes. Whether you need help understanding your rights or dealing with a difficult insurance adjuster, we are here to support you.

Why Clients Choose Matz Injury Law

At Matz Injury Law, our priority is helping you keep more of your settlement. While many Michigan personal injury firms charge the standard 33⅓% contingency fee, our fee is just 22%. That means more of your recovery stays in your pocket.

Our personal injury lawyers have recovered over $300 million for clients throughout the state, and we’re proud of the positive feedback we receive from the people we represent. With free consultations and no fees unless we win, we aim to provide reliable legal support when you need it most.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, we are here to listen, explain your options, and help you take the next step forward.

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.

“Steven and Krystal have been Very Helpful, Informative, Professional and Kind to me after My Vehicle Accident as I was Hurt and Confused about my Rights. I am Glad to have Retained Steven Matz as My Attorney during this difficult time.” — Virginia S.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Motorcycle Riders Always Have the Right of Way?

No. Motorcyclists must follow the same traffic laws as all other road users in Michigan. They are expected to yield, stop, and signal just like cars and trucks.

Will My Insurance Rates Go Up if I Was Not at Fault?

Michigan law generally prohibits insurers from raising your premiums solely because you were involved in an accident that was not your fault. However, other factors may still influence your rates.

Are Motorcycle Accidents Treated Differently Than Car Accidents in Michigan?

Yes. Motorcycle accidents are treated differently under Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws. Riders typically do not receive personal injury protection (PIP) benefits unless a car or truck was involved in the crash.

Start Your Free Motorcycle Accident Case Review Today

A motorcycle accident can leave you dealing with painful injuries, unexpected medical bills, lost income, and emotional stress. Whether you were hit while walking, driving, or riding, you deserve to understand your rights and explore your legal options.

At Matz Injury Law, we help injury victims across Michigan pursue fair compensation after serious crashes. We handle communication with the insurance companies, build strong claims, and guide you through every step of the process.

Your consultation is free. You will not owe any legal fees unless we recover money for you.

Call 866-22Not33 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free case evaluation with our law firm today.