Riders lack the enclosed protection that occupants of passenger vehicles enjoy. Therefore, motorcycle accidents in Detroit can result in devastating injuries and life-altering consequences for riders and their families.
You may be entitled to compensation if you sustain an injury in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Even so, the at-fault party’s insurer may reject your claim or make a low settlement offer.
Our motorcycle accident attorney, Michigan Injury Lawyers, understands the impact of injuries and is ready to protect your right to compensation.
From investigating the crash scene to analyzing police accident reports, we build strong cases that protect your rights and maximize your recovery. You can count on us to handle the legal aspects as you focus on recovery.
Why Choose Us
When you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, choosing the proper legal representation can help you recover from the losses. At Michigan Injury Lawyers, we understand your challenges and are here to support you throughout the legal process. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a motorcycle accident can take on your life. Our motorcycle accident attorneys will fight for your rights and provide you with the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
How Much Is My Case Worth
There is no general value you can expect in a motorcycle accident case. The outcome depends on the facts and circumstances of the crash.
Some of the factors that influence the value of a motorcycle accident claim include:
Severity of an Injury
The severity of an injury impacts the value of a motorcycle accident claim. Injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents can range from minor cuts to life-altering disabilities, and the more severe your injuries, the higher the potential value of your claim.
The severity of your injuries directly impacts factors such as medical expenses, ongoing treatment costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
For instance, if you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or amputation in a motorcycle accident, the long-term implications and costs associated with these injuries can be substantial.
Moreover, severe injuries may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitative therapy, and long-term care, all of which can contribute to a higher settlement value. Our motorcycle accident attorney can prove the extent of your injuries and the associated losses.
Shared Liability
Shared liability is a legal principle acknowledging that both parties involved in an accident may share some responsibility. It can determine if you’ll receive a fair settlement value.
For instance, if motorcyclists were not wearing helmets, they could be deemed partially at fault for their injuries, even if the other driver was primarily responsible for the accident.
Under shared liability, the compensation you receive can be reduced based on your percentage of fault. Our motorcycle accident lawyers can protect your interests in determining shared liability. They can use evidence to prevent you from being unfairly blamed for the crash. They can also protect you from insurers using the shared liability to minimize their financial obligation. Michigan Injury Lawyers are prepared to fight for everything you are owed.
Availability of Evidence
Although you may be entitled to compensation, you must prove the negligent actions of the at-fault party. Therefore, you need strong evidence to support your claim. The more evidence you have, the better your chances of obtaining a higher settlement value.
Here are different types of evidence that can strengthen your claim:
- Police Reports: Official police reports provide details about the accident, including statements from involved parties and witnesses.
- Photographs and Video Footage: Visual evidence, such as photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and injuries, can paint a clear picture of what happened.
- Medical Records: Documented medical records detailing your injuries, treatments, and prognosis can prove the extent of your damages.
- Witness Statements: Eyewitness accounts can provide additional perspectives and support your version of events.
- Expert Opinions: Testimony from medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, or other experts can strengthen your case.
- Employment Records: Proof of lost income or diminished earning capacity due to injuries can support your compensation for economic losses.
- Personal Journal or Diary Entries: Keeping a record of how the accident has affected you physically, emotionally, and financially can support your pain and suffering claim.
Our motorcycle accident lawyer can use different types of evidence to push for a higher settlement value during negotiations.
Insurance Coverage of the Negligent Party
In most cases, the at-fault party’s insurer is the source of compensation for the injured party. Therefore, their insurance coverage can determine the value of your motorcycle accident claim.
An at-fault party with a low insurance coverage limit can restrict your ability to recover from the losses. Our motorcycle accident lawyer can explore alternative compensation methods, including underinsured/uninsured coverage or filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Where Do Motorcycle Accidents Occur in Detroit, MI
Motorcycle accidents can occur in any part of Detroit, MI. Even so, road users are vulnerable in specific zones.
Here are the specific roads where crashes are likely to occur:
- Interstate 94 (I-94): Known for heavy traffic and construction zones, I-94 is prone to motorcycle accidents due to overspeeding riders and motorists.
- Michigan Avenue: Known for its historical significance and vibrant neighborhoods, motorists are fond of Michigan Avenue while exploring the city. However, the various attractions along this road can also lead to distractions and potential accidents.
- M-10 (Lodge Freeway): With its sharp curves and sudden lane changes, the M-10 poses a significant risk of accidents for motorcyclists passing through Detroit.
- Jefferson Avenue: A picturesque route along the Detroit River, Jefferson Avenue can be deceivingly dangerous for motorcyclists due to its multiple intersections and varying traffic patterns.
- I-75: Another major highway in Detroit, I-75, is prone to congestion and aggressive driving behaviors, making it a hotspot for motorcycle accidents.
- Gratiot Avenue: Connecting downtown Detroit with the suburbs, it poses risks for motorcyclists with its frequent stops, pedestrian activity, and diverse traffic flow.
You have a right to pursue compensation if injured in a motorcycle accident on the above roads. Our motorcycle accident lawyers can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and initiate a compensation claim against the negligent party.
Local Legal Support
Although many injured victims obtain compensation from the insurer of the at-fault party, many cope without financial support. However, hiring our local Detroit motorcycle accident attorneys can increase your chances of compensation for your losses.
We can represent you if you suffered an injury in any of the following accidents:
- Left-turn Accidents: Often occur when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle at an intersection.
- Lane Splitting Accidents: These accidents happen when a motorcyclist maneuvers between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, resulting in a collision.
- Dooring Accidents: Occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door in the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Our motorcycle accident lawyers can use traffic camera footage, among other sources of evidence, to prove your claim.
- Rear-End Collisions: Involving a motorcycle being struck from behind by another vehicle, often due to following too closely.
- Intersection Accidents: Common at intersections when a driver fails to yield the right-of-way to a motorcycle.
- High-Speed Collisions: Typically more severe and can result from reckless driving, speeding, or impaired driving.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers can also represent you if you sustain any of the following injuries:
- Road rash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal injuries
- Amputations
- Facial injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burns
- Broken bones and fractures
- Psychological injuries
Fighting the Insurance Company
You’ll likely face resistance from insurance companies, who may play down the severity of your injuries or claim. However, working with our motorcycle accident lawyers can level the playing field when facing an insurer.
We can protect your rights in the following ways:
- Investigating the Crash: Our motorcycle accident attorneys delve deep into the details of your accident to uncover different pieces of evidence that support your case. From gathering witness statements to analyzing police reports and accident reconstructions, we will work tirelessly to build a strong foundation for your claim.
- Negotiating with the Insurer: Dealing with insurance companies can be a frustrating process, especially when they try to undervalue or deny your claim. Our skilled motorcycle accident attorneys are adept at negotiating with insurers, advocating for your rights, and pushing for a fair settlement that covers losses.
- Representing You in Court: If negotiations stall or the insurance company refuses to cooperate, our motorcycle accident attorneys can take your case to court. With zealous advocacy and a meticulous approach to litigation, we will fight for your rights in the courtroom and for a fair settlement value.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers will face insurers confidently and fight for a favorable outcome in your claim.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident claim can protect your health, legal rights, and future claims.
Here’s what to do after a motorcycle accident:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
See a healthcare provider immediately if you feel fine or think your injuries are minor. The adrenaline and shock from the accident can mask symptoms of serious injuries like internal bleeding, concussions, or whiplash.
By getting checked by a medical professional promptly, you ensure that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated. Additionally, medical documentation from your visit can support any potential legal proceedings or insurance claims.
The sooner you seek medical help, the stronger your case will be if you need to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. An insurer may also question the severity of your claim if you delay seeking medical attention.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers can use medical records to prove the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
File a Police Accident Report
You should also file a police accident report after a motorcycle crash. A law enforcement officer will create an official record of the incident, which helps determine fault and document key details of the accident.
The police accident report is strong evidence when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action. Our motorcycle accident lawyer can use a police crash report to build a strong case on your behalf and secure the compensation you deserve.
The details of the police accident report can solve disputes if there are questions about the liable party.
Consult Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney
You should also speak with our motorcycle accident lawyers after the crash. They can evaluate the circumstances of the incident and determine if you have a case against the at-fault party.
Most importantly, they will provide legal guidance and insights throughout the claim process. For instance, all legal cases, including motorcycle accident cases, must adhere to legal timelines. Our motorcycle accident attorneys understand the applicable timelines in your case.
For example, the Detroit, MI, personal injury statute of limitations requires motorcycle accident victims to file a lawsuit within three years. If you initiate a claim beyond the three-year deadline, you can lose your right to compensation.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers will initiate a timely lawsuit or personal injury claim so you don’t lose your right to compensation. They can advise you on exceptions or unique circumstances affecting your legal timelines.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? We’re Ready to Help
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, you're likely enduring financial difficulties. For example, a broken arm can keep you out of work for months, affecting your ability to pay your household bills. A broken back could keep you from your same job in the future; causing long-term financial strain. This is when a motorcycle accident attorney comes in to ensure you are treated fairly.
You may also struggle under the weight of hefty medical bills. You, therefore, deserve representation from an experienced attorney who’ll fight for a settlement for what you are owed. Our car accident lawyers at Michigan Injury Lawyers can build a case to support your compensation claim.
Contact a dedicated Detroit motorcycle accident attorney today. Call our office at (313) 438-4357 or see our online form to schedule a free consultation.