Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Kalamazoo, MI

When you are in a motorcycle accident brought on by the negligence of another party, the losses you have, including medical expenses and pain and suffering, are hard to value. You may be unsure how to receive fair compensation that helps you actually recover from your injuries.

By working with Kalamazoo motorcycle accident lawyers from Matz Injury Law, you will learn what your rights are and how to pursue fair compensation.

Clients Choose Matz Injury Law For Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Kalamazoo

When you are facing increasing medical bills and pressure from insurance companies, having a proven and experienced motorcycle accident lawyer by your side can be invaluable. At Matz Injury Law, we pride ourselves on providing personalized legal representation for you. When you visit our law office, we make it our priority to help you recover fair compensation.

We Deliver Results to Our Kalamazoo Motorcycle Accident Clients

Our years of experience have helped our legal team to produce exceptional results for our clients. We recovered a $4.15 million lawsuit settlement on behalf of the family of a college student killed while riding a motorcycle. We have helped many others recover compensation when they were hurt due to the actions of others.

Our Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Are Highly Respected

• 100% five-star review rate
• Over 300 million won in compensation
• 48 years of experience in law
• We offer a 11% lower fee than the standard Michigan contingency fee
• Steven Matz was inducted into Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame.

Recognized by SuperLawyers in 2008 – 2009, 2013 – 2014, 2019 – 2024

Client Testimonials From People Affected By Motorcycle Accidents

“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.

“Steve was outstanding from the first telephone conversation all the way through until he settled my case at an amount that exceeded my expectations. He is a consummate professional and a compassionate attorney and I would highly recommend him if you ever find yourself in need of a personal injury attorney.” — Sharyn G.

“Matz injury law has lower fees than any Personal injury attorneys I have encountered, and they are very professional, highly recommend if anyone needs a personal injury lawyer in Michigan.” — Bryce L.

Michigan Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle accidents constantly happen in Kalamazoo and the surrounding area. In 2022, 8,728 motorcycle crashes took place in the region, putting many people at risk of serious injury. Some lost their lives.

Like many other areas of the country, Michigan sees an increase in motorcycle crashes once the weather warms up and riders hit the streets. Most accidents are fully preventable.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan

As a law firm serving Kalamazoo for years, we have seen many people suffer serious injuries and losses from these accidents. Some of the most common causes of them include:

• Distracted driving, especially when it is a motorcycle versus a car
• Impairment of the other driver
• Reckless driving, including speeding, illegal lane changes, or tailgating
• Road conditions, including potholes and poorly lit areas, as well as debris left on surfaces
• Fatigued driving, especially in nighttime or early morning accidents
• Mechanical failures of the bikes themselves

What Types of Injuries Are Commonly Sustained in a Motorcycle Accident?

One of the most challenging aspects of motorcycle accidents is that the rider has very little protection from a fast-moving, heavy vehicle. Even with a helmet on, the risk of serious injuries is high. Some of the most common serious injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries resulting in cognitive function decline
• Spinal cord injuries, including those with partial and full paralysis
• Broken bones
• Internal organ injuries and bleeding
• Burns
• Road rash
• Neck and back injuries

The severity of these accident injuries warrants hiring a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer to help you pursue fair compensation for them.

How Can Our Kalamazoo Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Help?

Hiring an attorney with experience is critical to protecting your right to fair compensation. At Kalamazoo, motorcycle accident lawyers will help you with all aspects of your case, including:

• Determining all parties at fault
• Evaluating your injuries and losses for compensation claims
• Handling insurance company claims and negotiations
• Pursuing additional losses for extreme incidents
• Filing a lawsuit against those at fault as necessary

Why is Riding a Motorcycle So Dangerous?

Many factors make motorcycle riders at a higher risk of being involved in injury cases.

Crashing Against a Heavier Vehicle Turns Motorcycle Accidents Into Fatal Injuries

Motorcyclists often face serious injuries because they lack the physical protection of a vehicle around them, as occurs in a car versus car accident. The heavier vehicle causes more physical injury.

Poor Protective Framework

There are no airbags and no seatbelts on motorcycles. That makes them more likely to cause serious injuries.

Reduced Visibility and Poor Road Conditions

Drivers of cars often struggle to see motorcyclists because of their smaller profile. This increases their vulnerability to collisions.

Basic Michigan Motorcycle Laws You Need to Be Aware of

Motorcycle riders must, like every other driver on the road, abide by specific rules meant to keep them and others safe. Some of the most important rules you should know include:

• Motorcyclists cannot ride more than two abreast on public roads
• Lane splitting is illegal in Michigan
• Motorcyclists cannot engage in white lining
• You cannot carry anything on your bike that limits your vehicle’s or your ability to keep your hands on the handlebars

What Should I Do if I’m Involved in a Kalamazoo Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, your actions can help build your case or harm your right to compensation. There are several steps you should take when you are in a motor vehicle accident:

• Call the police to report the incident. Do not leave the scene.
• Take photos and videos of the accident, damage to all vehicles, and the surrounding area.
• Request the contact information for any witnesses.
• Get the name, insurance information, and driver’s license information for the other driver.
• Get medical care.

By taking these steps, you create a positive foundation for capturing evidence and building your case. After you receive medical care, contact our personal injury attorneys for the legal support you need.

Who is at Fault in Most Motorcycle Accidents?

Various parties could be at fault in a motorcycle accident:

• Motorcycle riders
• Negligent other drivers
• Cities or property owners if there are road hazards
• Manufacturers of bikes if there are defective components

Note that Michigan is a no-fault state. That means that fault does not play a role in the initial claims process. However, if you need to pursue compensation against that at-fault motorist, evidence is used to determine who is at fault.

What Are My Rights as a Motorcyclist in Michigan?

As a motorcycle rider in Michigan, you have the right to the same treatment and compensation as any other driver. That includes:

• The right to pursue compensation for motorcycle accident injuries
• The right to operate your bike under the state’s laws
• The right to file a claim against your Michigan no-fault auto insurance policy for your losses

How Do I File a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?

In Michigan, you can file a claim for your losses with your personal insurance protection (PIP) insurance. If your damages are extensive and you can show the other party acted in a reckless manner, you may be able to file a lawsuit against that party. We recommend seeking legal advice before doing so. Because of Michigan’s no-fault laws, it can be harder to recover damages in this way. Let us help you get a settlement or go to court for you.

The Importance of Proving the Other Party is at Fault

The at-fault driver in a motorcycle accident may be responsible for losses that exceed those covered by your PIP insurance. However, you must demonstrate negligence in that situation and that your losses for medical costs, lost wages, and property damage meet the limits required.

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Kalamazoo, MI?

The statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim in Kalamazoo is three years. That means you have three years from the date of the accident to take legal action.

Call Our Kalamazoo Personal Injury Lawyer for Help With Your Motorcycle Crash

Contact our legal team at Matz Injury Law now. From motorcycle accidents to truck accident cases and numerous other practice areas, we are committed to fighting for fair compensation for our clients. We serve those in Kalamazoo, Lansing, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, and the surrounding areas. Call 1-866-22Not33 or fill out our contact form now.