Can Grass Clippings Cause Deadly Motorcycle Accidents? What Every Biker Should Know

During late spring and summer, an abundance of grass clippings makes Michigan roadways look like they have been strewn with green confetti. However, unlike confetti, wet grass clippings can have deadly consequences for motorcyclists. In fact, even a thin layer of fresh cuttings can make roads as slippery as an oil slick or patch of ice. What’s more, determining liability and recovering compensation for these types of accidents presents challenges requiring a high level of legal expertise.

Therefore, it is important to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to ensure the best financial outcome for you and your family.

WHY ARE GRASS CLIPPINGS DANGEROUS FOR MOTORCYCLISTS?

While grass clippings may look harmless, for motorcyclists, they are just as dangerous as winter ice. Freshly cut grass clippings have a high water content that makes roads perilously slippery for vehicles with only two wheels. While wet grass does not pose a risk to heavier, four-wheeled such as cars and trucks, even a thin covering of fresh cuttings can cause a biker to lose control and suffer disastrous consequences. While slippery roads are unsafe under any circumstances, motorcyclists traveling on a highway at higher speeds are more likely to lose traction because they have less time to slow down or change lanes.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A MOTORCYCLE CRASH INVOLVING GRASS CLIPPINGS?

Determining liability for these kinds of accidents can be complicated depending on the circumstances of the crash. In some cases, there may be more than one responsible party, especially if an automobile or other motor vehicle was involved.

For example, if a motorcycle crashes because a car cut it off and forced it onto a slippery grass-covered shoulder, the automobile driver may be liable for injuries and other damages sustained by the biker.

In addition, the motorcyclist may be eligible for No-Fault medical benefits under the policy of the driver or owner of the car.

If riding over grass clippings was the sole reason the motorcyclist lost control and crashed, it may be possible to sue the party responsible for placing the clippings on the road.

In this situation, there are several parties who could be liable, depending where the accident occurred and who is responsible for the property. These might include:

• Landscaper or landscaping company
• Property or business owner
• Property manager or landlord
• Government entity (local, state or Federal) responsible for landscaping and maintaining road where clippings were placed and not removed

Unfortunately, most municipalities are protected by governmental immunity laws, making it difficult to receive compensation for accidents occurring on public property.

Nevertheless, every victim should consult an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer regardless of the situation. A knowledgeable attorney will assess the case, explain the available options and recommend the best way to recover damages caused by someone else’s negligence.

DO I NEED A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER IF MY CRASH WAS CAUSED BY GRASS CLIPPINGS?

Yes. It is wise to call a motorcycle accident lawyer if you are injured in any type of crash, regardless of the cause. These claims can be extremely complicated for several reasons, including the fact that motorcycles are not considered motor vehicles under Michigan law.

In addition, distinct laws apply to different types of motorcycle accidents, particularly regarding eligibility for No-Fault benefits. Determining liability for a motorcycle crash can also be challenging, especially when another vehicle such as a car or truck is involved.

Furthermore, it takes a skilled attorney with a thorough knowledge of motorcycle accident law to win a large settlement that includes compensation for future losses and intangible damages such as pain and suffering.

IT IS ILLEGAL TO PUT GRASS CLIPPINGS ON MICHIGAN ROADS?

There is currently no statewide law that prohibits blowing or depositing grass clippings on Michigan roads. However, some municipalities have enacted local ordinances prohibiting this practice, which can be very dangerous for motorcyclists and bicyclists.

For example, Sumpter Township, located in Wayne County, passed an ordinance prohibiting residents or businesses from blowing grass clippings onto the road. Any person or entity who violates this statute could be charged with a misdemeanor and fined and/or jailed for up to 90 days.

Even if your municipality does not have a similar ordinance, residents and landscapers should avoid depositing clippings on the road. Instead, try one of the following options:

• Leave them on the lawn to provide nutrients and help the soil stay moist
• Compost the clippings
• Give them away to be used for mulch

GET THE BERNSTEIN BIKER ADVANTAGE® TODAY WITH OUR MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS

Because many of our lawyers and staff members ride, we know the pleasures and pitfalls of riding a motorcycle. We also understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be for the biker and their loved ones. And, we understand the complexities of Michigan motorcycle law and the many legal issues surrounding these claims. With our vast collective experience, legal expertise and extensive resources, we know how to build a winning case and we will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Motorcycle accident laws are complicated, but finding the right motorcycle accident lawyer is simple.

Fill out the brief form below or contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.