YOU CAN TRUST OUR FLINT MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYERS
We Have Represented Injured Motorcyclists for Decades
For several reasons, motorcycle accidents are one of the most dangerous types of traffic collisions in Flint, Michigan. Motorcyclists are exposed to the elements when a collision happens, especially if they are not wearing helmets or any form of protective clothing. As a result, victims of motorcycle accidents are prone to sustain severe or catastrophic injuries that might result in disfigurement or disability.
Thankfully, an injured motorcyclist can seek compensation from the person responsible for their accident injuries. However, there is a misconception that motorcycle riders are the ones to blame for accidents, creating a bias that insurance companies hide under to deny valid claims. This is why injured motorcyclists must seek legal representation before commencing a claim.
At Goodman Acker. P.C., our Flint motorcycle accident lawyer, understands the bias against motorcycle riders and will protect your rights and interests. We will listen to you, provide emotional and legal support, and fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages. Start the claim process today by calling 248-286-8100 to schedule a free case review with our legal team.
Why Choose the Flint Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Goodman Acker, P.C.?
In the decades we’ve represented injured motorcycle riders, we’ve seen the devastating and life-altering impacts it has on victims. As a result, our attorneys have committed their careers to fighting for the rights and interests of injured motorcyclists. We do not go easy on insurance companies, so while we sympathize with what our clients have been through, we aggressively go against insurance companies to ensure a fair settlement.
At Goodman Acker, P.C., we are available 24/7 to listen to you and answer your questions.
As a result, we have a successful track record, having secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We never back down from a fight, and once you retain our services, we will be with you every step of the way, offering guidance and constantly updating you on your case’s progress.
We understand that legal fees often prevent injured victims from seeking legal representation. Therefore, we offer our services on a contingency fee basis. You don’t have to pay us upfront; we get paid once we secure a favorable outcome. So, don’t sleep on your rights. Contact us at 248-286-8100 to book a free case evaluation.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Flint, Michigan?
Motorcycle accidents can happen anytime, even when riding carefully and following traffic rules. The following are some of the common causes of motorcycle accidents:
- Alcohol or drug use: When drivers or motorcyclists operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs, accidents are bound to happen. According to the NHTSA, alcohol impairment is one of the leading causes of death on U.S. roads, costing $280 billion in lost wages, lost quality of life, medical costs, etc.
- Distracted driving: Operating a car or motorcycle requires complete attention. When drivers engage in distracted driving, they might be unable to see the bike in front of them, leading to a collision.
- Speeding: Motorcycles are built for speed, and the faster a motorcyclist goes, the higher the chances of being unable to stop in time to avoid a crash. The same goes for drivers who operate their vehicles above the speed limit.
- Car doors: When a car door suddenly opens without the driver paying attention to the road, it could cause an accident if an oncoming motorcyclist cannot avoid the door. While Michigan does not have a “dooring law” like in some states, it requires drivers to conduct themselves reasonably safely.
- Lane switching: Switching between lanes is always tricky and can lead to motorcycle accidents, especially when the rider tries to change lanes from a car’s blind spot.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
After a motorcycle accident, there are steps to take to ensure you have the evidence needed to prove your claim and increase your chances of receiving compensation. Therefore, do the following after a crash:
- Call 911 to get help. The call will bring the police and emergency medical services to the scene. The police will try to get your statement, close off the crash site, and conduct a preliminary investigation, while the EMS personnel will assess your wounds and offer first aid.
- Try to gather evidence before leaving the scene. Take photos of your crashed bike, the vehicle involved, any physical injury, and tire tracks, and record a video, if possible. Also, speak to any eyewitness to get their account of events and ask for their contact information if you or your lawyer need to follow up.
- Get medical treatment for your injuries, as the record is crucial evidence for your claim. Although rare, if you did not sustain any physical wounds, still get checked at the hospital to rule out delayed injuries, which could turn fatal later.
- Avoid talking to insurance companies if they contact you while in the hospital. No matter how nice they seem, don’t sign any document before your lawyer looks at it.
- Get legal representation.
Due to the nature of motorcycle accidents, you might be unable to take these steps yourself. In such an instance, our motorcycle accident lawyer in Flint can investigate your case and gather the proof needed to establish the at-fault party’s negligence.
We are the law firm to call if you need Flint motorcycle accident attorneys who understand the law and how to deal with insurance companies and come out on top.
Does Michigan No-Fault Law Apply to Motorcycle Accident Claims?
No. Motorcycles are not classified as vehicles in Michigan, so motorcycle riders are not mandated to have No-Fault insurance coverage. However, an injured motorcyclist is entitled to collect No-Fault benefits after an accident with a car or truck. The No-Fault benefits cover medical care, lost wages, and attendant care, and the claim must be filed within one year.
Recoverable Compensation in A Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
If the motorcycle accident were severe or catastrophic and the motorcyclist suffered disfigurement or disability, you can file a lawsuit for economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover all monetary losses with a fixed value, while non-economic damages are for non-monetary and intangible losses. Examples of the two are:
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Cost of repairs
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering, etc.
If the accident caused the motorcyclist’s death, their legal beneficiaries can file a wrongful death lawsuit for compensation, which also covers the deceased’s funeral and burial expenses. In some cases, the court may award exemplary damages if the victim asks for it and the evidence supports such an award.
Our lawyers at Goodman Acker, P.C. are ethical, trustworthy, and reliable and always put our clients’ needs first.
Flint Motorcycle Accident Lawyer FAQs
Having questions after a motorcycle accident is common; below, we answered some frequently asked ones. For more in-depth answers and if you have more questions, schedule a free consultation with us.
The compensation amount depends significantly on several factors. For example, if you are getting compensated through No-Fault benefits, you are limited to the at-fault party’s insurance coverage. If you file a lawsuit, the jury can award compensation based on your injuries, disability, etc.
Yes. Under the comparative negligence rule, you can still receive compensation if your fault percentage is not more than 50%. So, if you are 40% at fault, you will receive 60% of the settlement money.
Under Michigan law, the statute of limitations for motorcycle accident lawsuits is three years. The time starts counting from the accident date, and you lose your right to take legal action once it passes.
You can handle your case yourself, but it is always better to hire an attorney. Your lawyer will handle every aspect of your case and represent you before the insurance company and in court.
How Our Flint Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help You
Our motorcycle accident lawyers will examine the facts of your case to determine the strengths and weaknesses and the validity of your claim. We will help you investigate the facts, gather evidence like police reports, witness statements, and medical records, and call expert witnesses if needed.
Also, we will handle filing the claim or lawsuit and settlement negotiations. If your claim was denied before you contacted us, we will take charge of the appeal process. We will advocate for you and work tirelessly to achieve a favorable outcome.
Get The Help You Need from Our Goodman Acker, P.C. Team
If you or a loved one were involved in a motorcycle accident, our Goodman Acker, P.C. team can help. We will dedicate time and resources to your claim and be with you every step of the way. Contact us at 248-286-8100 for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
LEGALLY REVIEWED BY BARRY J. GOODMAN
Barry J. Goodman has devoted his professional life to keeping courthouse doors open for victims seeking justice. Always a tireless advocate for his own clients, Goodman sees his responsibility as a Detroit personal injury attorney in a broader sense as well. [ Attorney Bio ]
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