Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in East Lansing, Michigan
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection that motorcyclists have compared to car drivers. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in East Lansing, MI, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable and experienced motorcycle accident lawyer on your side to help you navigate the complex legal process. At Jay Trucks & Associates, PC, we have the experience and expertise to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
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Why Choose Jay Trucks & Associates, PC as Your East Lansing Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. The recovery process can be long and expensive, and dealing with insurance companies while trying to heal can be overwhelming. Many motorcycle accident victims also face bias, as some people wrongly assume that motorcyclists are reckless or at fault for their own accidents. This bias can affect insurance settlements and even court cases.
Our East Lansing motorcycle accident lawyers understand the unique challenges that motorcyclists face. We are here to fight for your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. At Jay Trucks & Associates, PC, we will:
- Investigate the accident: We will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident and gather evidence to prove fault, such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction data.
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies: Insurance companies may try to offer you a low settlement or deny your claim altogether. We will negotiate with them on your behalf to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Represent you in court if necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in East Lansing, Michigan
Motorcycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which are caused by the negligence of other drivers. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may fail to notice motorcyclists on the road.
- Failure to yield: Many motorcycle accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way at intersections or when making left-hand turns.
- Unsafe lane changes: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making it easier for drivers to miss them when changing lanes.
- Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit may not have enough time to react to a motorcycle, leading to serious collisions.
- Drunk driving: Alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, increasing the likelihood of a collision with a motorcycle.
- Road hazards: Motorcycles are more vulnerable to hazards like potholes, debris, and uneven pavement, which can cause accidents.
Regardless of the cause, if another driver’s negligence led to your motorcycle accident, our East Lansing motorcycle accident attorneys will work to hold them accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents in East Lansing, Michigan
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries because motorcyclists are not protected by the same safety features that car drivers have, such as seat belts, airbags, and a reinforced vehicle frame. Common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, motorcyclists can suffer serious head injuries in a crash. TBIs can result in cognitive impairment, memory loss, and long-term neurological damage.
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
- Broken bones and fractures: The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause multiple fractures, often requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
- Road rash: When a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike, they can suffer severe abrasions and burns from sliding across the pavement, known as road rash. These injuries can lead to permanent scarring and infection.
- Internal injuries: The force of a collision can cause internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, or punctured lungs.
- Amputations: In severe accidents, limbs may be crushed or severely damaged, requiring amputation.
These injuries can have long-term or permanent effects on a victim’s quality of life. At Jay Trucks & Associates, PC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that motorcycle accident injuries can take, and we are committed to helping you recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Compensation Available to Motorcycle Accident Victims in East Lansing, Michigan
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in East Lansing, MI, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation to help cover your losses. The types of compensation you can pursue in a motorcycle accident claim include:
- Medical expenses: You can recover compensation for all medical costs related to your injuries, including emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care required due to your injuries.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you can recover compensation for the wages you lost during your recovery, as well as for any loss of future earning capacity if your injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
- Pain and suffering: Motorcycle accidents can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. You may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the accident.
- Property damage: If your motorcycle was damaged or destroyed in the accident, you can recover compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Loss of consortium: In cases where your injuries affect your relationship with your spouse or family, your spouse may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship and support.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases where the at-fault driver’s actions were especially reckless or malicious, the court may award punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Our motorcycle accident attorneys will work to ensure that all of your losses are accounted for and that you receive the maximum compensation available under Michigan law.
Motorcycle Laws and Liability in East Lansing, Michigan
Michigan has specific laws governing motorcyclists and the insurance requirements they must meet. To protect your rights after a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to understand how these laws apply to your case.
Michigan’s Helmet Law
Under Michigan law, motorcyclists who are 21 years of age or older are not required to wear a helmet if they have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits coverage and have held a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years. However, wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries, and not wearing a helmet may impact the amount of compensation you can recover if you are involved in an accident.
No-Fault Insurance and Motorcycle Accidents
Michigan is a no-fault insurance state, meaning that your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, motorcyclists are not automatically covered by Michigan’s no-fault insurance system. Instead, motorcyclists must purchase separate insurance policies that meet the state’s requirements.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident with a motor vehicle, the driver’s no-fault insurance may cover your medical expenses. However, if your injuries are severe, you may also be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional compensation.
Comparative Negligence in Michigan
Michigan follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. Our attorneys will work to minimize your percentage of fault and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
How Jay Trucks & Associates, PC Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help With Your Motorcycle Accident in East Lansing, Michigan
At Jay Trucks & Associates, PC, we understand the unique challenges that motorcycle accident victims face. Our experienced East Lansing motorcycle accident lawyers are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. When you work with us, you can expect:
- Personalized attention: We will take the time to understand the details of your case and develop a legal strategy tailored to your specific needs.
- Aggressive representation: We will fight to hold the at-fault parties accountable and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
- No upfront fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Helpful Resources for Motorcycle Accident Victims in East Lansing, Michigan
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): NHTSA provides information on motorcycle safety, accident statistics, and tips for reducing the risk of motorcycle accidents. Visit NHTSA
- Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF): MSF offers motorcycle safety training and education, helping motorcyclists reduce their risk of accidents and stay safe on the road. Visit MSF
- Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT): MDOT provides information on road conditions, safety regulations, and resources for Michigan motorcyclists. Visit MDOT
Frequently Asked Questions
After a motorcycle accident, your priority should be your safety. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel injured. Document the accident scene by taking photos, collecting contact information from witnesses, and exchanging information with the other driver. Finally, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your legal options and ensure that your rights are protected.
Yes, you can still recover compensation if you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced if it is determined that your injuries were made worse by not wearing a helmet. Our attorneys will work to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available under Michigan law.
In Michigan, you generally have three years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s essential to start the claims process as soon as possible to preserve evidence and ensure that all legal deadlines are met. Our attorneys can help you file your claim and navigate the legal process.
Zero Upfront Fees; Free Initial Consultation
(989) 601-2554
CONTACT US
Contact Our East Lansing Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in East Lansing, MI, don’t wait to seek legal help. The experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Jay Trucks & Associates, PC are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 989-418-3094 for a free consultation. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery.
(989) 601-2554
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