Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Southfield, MI

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Southfield, Michigan?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Southfield is (248) 796-5500.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Southfield, Michigan?

  You can get a copy of the police report for the accident by coordinating with the Southfield Police Department Records Bureau at (248) 796-5580 or submitting a request online via Oakland County CLEMIS found at https://payments.clemis.org/extservices/. You can also reach the bureau by mail at this address:

  Southfield Police Department – Records Bureau 26000 Evergreen Road Southfield, MI 48076

• What are the conditions stated in Michigan's helmet law that motorcycle operators in Southfield should know?

  The law states that head protective gear is mandatory for every individual operating a motorcycle in Southfield. However, people 21 years of age or older may refuse to wear a helmet only if:

  -They have had a motorcycle endorsement for two years or passed a motorcycle safety course. -They carry a minimum of $20,000 in first-party medical benefits insurance and coverage of at least $20,000 per person per occurrence if there is a passenger.

• How do Michigan's helmet law rules differ for motorcycle passengers in Southfield?

  The conditions for motorcycle passengers in Southfield are the same. They can ride a motorcycle without a helmet if:

  -They are 21 years of age or older. -They carry a minimum of $20,000 in first-party medical benefits insurance or are riding with an operator who has coverage of at least $20,000 per person per occurrence.

• Why is having uninsured motorist protection important for motorcycle operators in Southfield?

  While uninsured motorist protection remains optional, it is a beneficial insurance add-on as it provides an extra layer of financial protection should a person get involved in a collision with an uninsured motorist in Southfield. The policy enables the victim to seek benefits despite the lack of insurance of the at-fault driver. It can also help plaintiffs obtain additional settlement funds when the policy limits of the at-fault driver have been exceeded.

• How can a Southfield motorcycle accident lawyer help your case?

  After suffering injuries in a motorcycle crash in Southfield, hiring an attorney can make a huge difference in your claim. Legal representatives can help you, first and foremost, obtain appropriate medical treatment and focus on recovery. As you rest and heal, they'll build a solid case for maximum compensation by conducting an extensive investigation. They'll also sort out all paperwork, negotiation, and legal matters on your behalf.

• How can motorcyclists in Southfield minimize the risk of getting injured in deer-related accidents?

  The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning released a guide material that motorcyclists in Southfield can keep in mind when riding in Michigan. To avoid deer-related accidents, one may try to:

  -Reduce reaction time using the cover braking technique. -If possible, avoid riding during the peak hours of deer movement: night, dawn, and dusk. -Spread out in a staggered arrangement to prevent impact on others in case one rider hits a deer. -Use both brakes for maximum braking.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.