Why You Need a Cycling Accident Lawyer in Michigan
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Many cyclists look forward to early fall, when the humidity is low and the weather is still warm enough to ride comfortably. While cycling is a great way to get to work or enjoy the Michigan scenery, it can also be hazardous. In addition, most cyclists don’t know where to turn if they are injured in an accident.
Who is responsible for your medical bills? What about lost wages? An experienced bicycling accident lawyer will explain your legal rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Here is a sampling of the many questions you may have.
Do You Have a Case?WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF BEING INVOLVED IN A CYCLING ACCIDENT?
Knowing the trends in bicycle accidents in your area can help you stay safe on the road. These are recent bicycle accident statistics from Michigan State Police:
- In 2024, 29 people were killed, including 26 men and 3 women.
- Bicycle-involved crashes increased 20% from 2023 (1,480) to 2024 (1,773). Those crashes involved 1,790 bicyclists.
- The largest number of bicycle crashes in a single hour (199) occurred between 4 p.m. and 4:59 p.m.
- Approximately half of the cyclists who were injured or killed were traveling straight before the crash.
DOES NO-FAULT INSURANCE COVER CYCLING ACCIDENTS?
A number of factors determine whether an injured cyclist is covered by Michigan No-Fault coverage. If you, as a cyclist, are struck by a motor vehicle, No-Fault benefits may be available.
If you are hit by a truck or car and are eligible for Michigan No-Fault benefits, those benefits are paid through Personal Injury Protection and are limited to the coverage purchased on the applicable auto policy.
Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to file an additional claim to cover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Typically, in order to collect these additional benefits, the bicyclist must be less than 50% at fault.
However, Michigan No-Fault law is extremely complex, and insurance companies often refute legitimate claims. Therefore, it’s best to contact a reputable bicycle accident lawyer to make sure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF MOST CYCLING ACCIDENTS?
Colliding with a car, SUV, or truck accounts for the majority of bicycle accidents. Failure to yield, either by bicyclists or motorists, was a significant factor in these accidents.
Additional reasons cycling accidents occur include:
- Failing to stop in time to avoid a collision
- Falling off a bicycle due to unavoidable circumstances
- Riding too fast on slippery or bumpy roads
- Failing to follow traffic laws
- Riding while using a cell phone or other distracting device
- Hitting or attempting to avoid a dog or a deer
- Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol
In general, bicyclists must obey the same traffic laws as motor vehicle drivers. And, just like those motorists, bicyclists who break the law are subject to tickets and fines. If you need help with the nuances of your bicycle accident crash, a bicycle accident lawyer can help.
HOW CAN I STAY SAFE WHEN I’M CYCLING ON BUSY STREETS?
Here are some simple safety measures every cyclist can take:
- Obey the rules of the road, including riding in the direction of traffic
- Use the appropriate hand signals
- Always wear a helmet, even on short rides
- Make sure your bicycle is equipped with the proper lights, especially in the fall when the sun sets earlier
- Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Avoid distractions such as cell phones, headphones and other electronic devices
An accident can happen in the blink of an eye and sometimes they are unavoidable. A bicycle accident attorney can help you or a loved one recover compensation after an incident.
CALL A KNOWLEDGEABLE BIKE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY AND START YOUR CASE TODAY
If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. With our help, you can get the compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys have the resources and skill to get you the best possible outcome.
Bike accident law is complicated, but finding the right Michigan bicycle lawyer is simple.
Start your case today by clicking the link below or contact us for a free no-obligation consultation.
Do You Have a Case?
