Uninsured Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan

If you were injured in a motorcycle collision with a careless, reckless, or malicious driver, you are likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed. Furthermore, while you might be able to seek compensation against an at-fault driver and their insurance company, this becomes more difficult if the motorist was uninsured.

If so, you might benefit from reaching out to a lawyer who has experience with handling uninsured motorcycle accidents in Michigan. A dedicated attorney could, for example, assist you with figuring out the appropriate claim to file, as well as helping with the necessary paperwork and any required negotiations as you seek recovery.

• Legal Options for Uninsured Motorcyclists
• Call a Lawyer to Discuss Compensation

The Importance of an Uninsured Motorist Policy

When a person is involved in a serious motorcycle crash, they have no control over how much—if any—insurance the other motorist holds. This is why having underinsured motorist coverage in the liability insurance policy is extremely important.  Many bikers are unaware they even have this coverage.

While this coverage is optional, it could provide an additional and potentially vital layer of protection for motorcyclists in the state. Essentially, this coverage enables a victim of a motorcycle wreck to pursue benefits even when the at-fault driver does not carry any form of auto insurance in Michigan. This can provide a pain and suffering settlement even when the negligent driver is uninsured.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage Pays Additional Settlement Funds

Many motorists have the minimal policy liability coverage of $ 20,000.00 in Michigan. This means that a biker who suffers catastrophic injuries will have a limited recovery from pain and suffering.  However, many motorcycle and auto insurance policies provide underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage helps the victim receive additional settlement funds above and beyond the policy limits of the at-fault driver. This policy could also come into effect when, for example, the injured person’s liability claim exceeds the amount available in the at-fault motorist’s policy.

Legal Options for Uninsured Motorcyclists

Michigan’s no-fault statute applies to an uninsured motorcyclist who causes any type of motor vehicle accident. For example, if a biker with no insurance causes an accident that injures another person, an insurance company is still required to grant them no-fault or personal injury protection (PIP) benefits.

However, this company might then hire an attorney to file a lawsuit against the uninsured motorcyclist for reimbursement. Furthermore, if the injured claimant has an uninsured motorist policy and is able to settle their claim with an insurance carrier, the motorcyclist without coverage might have to personally reimburse the insurance company for this settlement, as well.

Reimbursement from a motorcyclist who lacks insurance coverage could be made in installments or coordinated directly with Michigan’s Secretary of State. If these payments are not kept up, the uninsured motorist’s license could be suspended or revoked. Because of this, it is important for any motorcyclist who lacks proper coverage to consult with a knowledgeable attorney about their legal options in Michigan.

Call a Lawyer to Discuss Compensation After an Uninsured Motorcycle Accident in Michigan

Carrying uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage might prove beneficial as a means to provide an extra layer of protection against negligent drivers who do not carry insurance. However, if you were already involved in an uninsured motorcycle accident in Michigan, it might be helpful to reach out to a lawyer at Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C. for help.

On the other hand, if you were not carrying auto insurance at the time of a crash, a well-versed attorney could help to assess your legal options and fight to protect your rights. To discuss your unique circumstances with a legal professional, call today to schedule a consultation.