Michigan Motorcycle Insurance Requirements Guide

Key Takeaways

• Auto insurance policy coverage limits are different for motorcyclists.
• Michigan allows you to ride without a helmet but requires extra insurance.
• You can be fined for not carrying the proper motorcycle insurance.
• Motorcyclists must have liability coverage but should have additional types of insurance for better coverage.

From navigating complex coverage options to understanding the state’s no-fault laws, motorcycle riders in Michigan face unique insurance challenges. Without proper insurance, the consequences of an accident—whether it’s medical bills, property damage, or liability—can be financially devastating.

Failing to secure the right coverage could leave you vulnerable to significant out-of-pocket expenses, legal trouble, or inadequate protection in the event of a motorcycle crash. At Matz Injury Law, we are here to help motorcyclists navigate the Michigan motorcycle insurance requirements and provide you with the necessary protection for peace of mind on the road.

Types of Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in Michigan

The different types of motorcycle insurance coverage are similar to auto insurance and provide protection for riders involved in Michigan motorcycle accidents.

Liability Coverage

Anyone who drives, including motorcyclists, must have, at a minimum, liability coverage. This portion of the policy covers property damage and bodily injury to others.

Collision Coverage

If your bike suffers damage in an accident, collision coverage will cover the repairs or replacement. This type of coverage is not mandatory but can prove to be immensely useful in case of a collision.

Comprehensive Coverage

You can protect your bike against non-collision incidents, such as fire, theft, and vandalism, if you have comprehensive coverage, which is optional.

Medical Payments Coverage

MedPay is another coverage that is discretionary. However, adding this to your policy can help pay for medical expenses incurred by you and your passengers, even if you are at fault for the accident.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

While minimum liability coverage is mandatory for all drivers, including motorcycle drivers, some do not carry insurance. If an uncovered person hits you, and you elect to have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, this part of the policy covers accidents caused by drivers who do not have insurance or who do not have enough insurance to cover your damages.

Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in Michigan?

Motorcyclists are required to carry the state minimum of liability for insurance. However, it is better to have a full-coverage policy that includes collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, and MedPay, as accident injuries for motorcyclists are often more severe than those who are driving passenger vehicles. This is because a motorcycle is lighter than a passenger vehicle and does not offer the same protection.

Mandatory Requirements for Motorcycle Insurance in Michigan

Michigan provides mandatory coverage for those who wear helmets and those who do not wear helmets. Helmet-wearers must have mandatory liability coverage, while those who choose not to wear a helmet must have medical coverage in addition to liability coverage.

How Much Liability Coverage is Required for Motorcyclists?

A motorcyclist must have a minimum of $250,000 and $500,000 in liability insurance coverage. This covers bodily injury or death for one or two people if the motorcyclist caused the wreck. Michigan laws also require a motorcyclist to have $10,000 for property damage.

If a motorcyclist chooses to ride without a helmet, he or she must also carry a minimum of $20,000 in medical benefits coverage. For every rider who chooses not to wear a helmet, the state requires an additional $20,000.

However, as of July 1, 2020, a motorcyclist can opt to carry a lower amount of liability insurance: $50,000 and $100,000, but he or she must sign a form regarding the perils of carrying lower coverage.

Is No-Fault Insurance Required for Motorcycles in Michigan?

No-fault insurance in Michigan is not required for motorcyclists, as it is for trucks and cars. Still, we highly recommend it as motorcycle accident injuries are often more severe since the bike is much smaller than other vehicles.

Types of Motorcycle Insurance Coverages Available in Michigan

Motorcycle owners can opt for several types of insurance coverage in addition to their liability coverage.

Medical Benefits Coverage

Because motorcyclists can suffer more extreme injuries, the additional medical benefits coverage can help cover medical expenses if other coverage runs out.

Accessory and Equipment Coverage

Motorcycle gear is not cheap, and it may not be covered under other portions of your insurance policy. You can purchase additional coverage for helmets, saddlebags, and other gear that may become damaged in the event of an accident.

Roadside Assistance Coverage

Some insurance companies provide roadside assistance coverage to help cover towing if your bike breaks down or if you get into an accident and can’t drive your bike. It is an excellent addition to other Michigan insurance plans, such as no-fault PIP and other coverages.

Financial Options for Motorcyclists without Medical Coverage

If a motorcyclist does not have medical insurance coverage and suffers injuries in a wreck, he or she can:

• Use his or her health coverage
• Sue the at-fault party
• Use Medicare or Medicaid if applicable
• Pay out-of-pocket

Does Medicare Cover Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Michigan?

Federal laws state that Medicare is a secondary payer, so it will only pay if the motorcyclist does not have a policy that covers medical expenses.

Non-Residents Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Michigan

If you are not a resident of Michigan but you operate a motorcycle for over 30 days during a calendar year, you must have liability coverage required under Michigan’s no-fault law. (MCL 500.3102(1) and 500.3103(1)).

Legal Fines and Penalties for No Motorcycle Coverage

If you do not have liability insurance and are injured while driving your own bike, no-fault PIP coverage will not cover your medical expenses (MCL 500.3101(1) and 500.3113(b). Other penalties include:

• You may have to pay out of pocket for expenses and might not receive non-economic damages.
• You may have to pay damages to the people you injure if the accident is your fault.
• You can sue another at-fault driver, but if you lose and you do not have liability coverage, your no-fault still will not cover you (MCL 500.3135(2)(c)).
• You could incur a fine of $200 to $500 (MCL 500.3102(2)).
• You may be charged with a misdemeanor and could spend up to a year in jail (MCL 400.3102(2)).
• If you are not wearing a helmet and do not have insurance, and are injured in a crash, you will incur a $100 fine (MCL 257.656(1) and 257.907(2)(a)).

How Can a Law Firm Assist with Motorcycle Accident Claims?

Experienced motorcycle accident lawyers can help Michigan motorcyclists by:

• Investigating the case
• Developing a strategy to recover the compensation you deserve
• Helping you receive all no-fault benefits you are entitled to
• Identifying all insurance coverage you may be entitled to
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Being ready for litigation if the insurance company does not offer a fair and reasonable settlement or if you have to sue the at-fault driver for other reasons

Why Clients Choose Matz Injury Law

Our clients choose experienced motorcycle accident lawyers with a track record of recovering the compensation they deserve and the ability to litigate cases when insurance companies refuse to step up.

Testimonials

“I was advised by Steve Matz over several days regarding a previous auto accident. He was very diligent with providing me the information I needed to be successful. I was very worried and misguided about the steps I needed to take to manage the lawsuit and obtained his contact information from one of the law firm’s previous clients. I appreciate all of the time he took to get me back on track.” – Domonique B.

“Steve Matz was very easy to work with. His whole staff was knowledgeable and efficient. I would recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney. Thanks again Steve and staff!!” – Linda P.

“If you’re looking for an attorney to handle your automobile accident/injury claims, then I highly recommend Steve Matz and his team! When I fractured my skull, he helped me settle my bodily injury claim in a timely manner! He was very attentive, professional, and cordial. It was easy to reach him if I had any questions.” – Alicia C.

Related Resources

• Is Motorcycle Lane Splitting Legal in Michigan?: Learn more about lane splitting and why it is illegal in Michigan.
• Michigan Average Injury Settlement for Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcycle accidents often cause more severe injuries, which can mean more compensation.
• What Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover in Michigan?: Learn more about uninsured motorist coverage and why we recommend everyone add this to their insurance policies.

Let Us Help You With Disputes Involving Your Motorcycle Insurance Company

Ready to discuss your case? Schedule a free consultation with our personal injury lawyers by calling 866-226-6833 or by completing our online contact form, and we’ll be in touch immediately.