Michigan Motorcycle Accident Property Damage Claims

Michigan bikers have great affection for their motorcycles and want to get them repaired as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident. In fact, many bikers are as concerned about their bikes as they are about their own personal injuries. They want their motorcycle fixed and back on the road as soon as possible after a crash.

Unfortunately, many insurance companies do not make this process very easy. Our experienced Michigan motorcycle accident lawyers help bikers get their repairs made while we help them with their personal injury cases. Damage to the bike can be significant or it can be more minor, like broken lights and scratches to the paint job. Regardless of the type or amount of damage, getting it repaired and road-ready again is always a top priority.

The Michigan No-Fault Act provides for payment of the riders’ medical expenses incurred to mend their own physical injuries. However, contrary to what many riders believe, the No-Fault Act does not provide for payment to mend the injuries to your motorcycle.

• Mini-Tort Does Not Pay for Motorcycle Damage
• Get Proper Motorcycle Insurance Coverage
• Contact a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Michigan Property Damage Claim Statistics

According to the Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Reporting System, there were 2,809 motorcyclists were involved in crashes in 2019.  And, almost every accident involved damage to the motorcycle and its components.  It is essential that bikers understand the need for property damage coverage and purchase insurance before taking their bikes on the road.

Mini-Tort Does Not Pay for Motorcycle Damage

There is a mini-tort claim available for motor vehicle accident damage, but this does not cover damage to the motorcycle. Back in 1986, our Michigan Court of Appeals held that the mini tort provision applies only to damages to “motor vehicles” which as that term is used in the No-Fault act does not include “motorcycles.” This means that any claim for damage to the motorcycle will be handled exclusively by, and per the terms of, your contract of motorcycle insurance.

Get Proper Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

It is essential to carry motorcycle insurance that provides adequate protection and coverage regarding damage to your motorcycle in the event that you are in an accident. The insurance company will not pay a claim if you do not have this coverage. You can look at your insurance declaration page to see the extent of your property damage coverage limit.

It is becoming more common for motorcyclists to purchase and make aftermarket modifications to their motorcycles. Whether it is custom pipes, trike conversions, or a custom paint job, or accessories like custom seats or saddlebags, it is an expensive investment. So, when a bike is involved in a crash it becomes very costly to replace these accessories and customized parts.

For this reason, you want to make sure that your insurance will cover not only damage to the motorcycle as purchased but also damage to the aftermarket modifications and accessories added after the motorcycle left the factory floor. Many policies write this as accessory coverage or custom parts and equipment (CPE) coverage. If you do not have this additional coverage, the insurance company will only pay for damage to the actual bike itself.

Also, don’t forget you may be entitled to benefits under the Michigan No-Fault Act if you suffered accident-related injuries. These include payments for medical expenses, wage loss, attendant care, and replacement services. There are strict deadlines for submitting these claims.

Finally, you can also sue the at-fault driver for your personal injury damages. These are recoverable damages for your physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, and disability. Many bikers use their settlements to purchase a new motorcycle or make repairs to their damaged bike.

Contact a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

To learn more about your legal rights after a Michigan motorcycle crash, contact The Buckfire Law Firm today. Our award-winning lawyers will help you get your bike fixed, win a settlement, and get back on the road again. We charge no fees unless you win a settlement.