Riding a motorcycle in Michigan gives you a sense of freedom, but that freedom does come with risks. Michigan law allows riders over 21 to ride without a helmet if they meet specific insurance and licensing requirements. While this offers more personal choice, it can also impact a personal injury claim if an accident occurs. Many crashes happen on M-11, especially between Eastern Avenue SE and Byron Center Avenue in Grand Rapids, where heavy traffic and sudden lane changes create dangerous conditions. If you suffered injuries in a crash, a Grand Rapids motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand how helmet laws affect your case.
Michigan’s Helmet Law and How It Affects Liability
Michigan law does not require all motorcyclists to wear helmets. If you are over 21, have at least $20,000 in medical insurance, and hold a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years (or pass an approved safety course), you can legally ride without one. However, this decision can influence how fault and compensation are determined in an injury claim.
Insurance companies often argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to the severity of injuries. This can lead to reduced compensation, even if another driver caused the crash. Michigan follows a modified comparative fault rule. This rule means your compensation can decrease if you are found partially responsible for your injuries. Even if the accident was not your fault, an insurance adjuster might use your helmetless status against you. This makes it critical to understand how to protect your rights and ensure you are not unfairly blamed for your injuries.
How Insurance Companies May Reduce Your Compensation
When filing a personal injury claim, you expect fair compensation for medical bills, lost paychecks, and pain. Insurance adjusters, however, work to minimize payouts. If you were not wearing a helmet, they might argue that your injuries could have been less severe if you had. This is particularly true in cases involving head trauma or facial injuries.
Common insurance tactics include:
- Claiming your injuries resulted from your own negligence
- Offering a low settlement based on your choice to ride without a helmet
- Arguing that helmet use would have prevented serious injury, reducing their client’s liability
- Delaying the claims process in hopes you will accept a lower offer
A strong legal strategy can counter these tactics. An experienced attorney knows how to challenge unfair arguments and fight for full compensation. They can also negotiate aggressively to ensure you are not pressured or bullied into accepting an inadequate settlement.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident Without a Helmet
Taking the right steps after a crash strengthens your case. Even if you were not wearing a helmet, you still have legal rights.
First, seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. A medical report links your injuries to the accident, which is necessary when dealing with insurance companies.
Second, gather evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, and your injuries. Get contact information from any witnesses (if applicable) and obtain a copy of the police report. These details support your claim. It is also a good idea to keep records of all medical treatments and all expenses related to the accident.
Finally, consult an attorney. A lawyer will review your case, deal with the insurance company, and protect your rights. Legal representation will make a big difference in how much compensation you receive. An experienced lawyer will also make sure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time, preventing any technical issues that could delay your claim.
Why Working with a Lawyer Is Essential
Fighting an insurance company alone is difficult, especially when they try to reduce your payout. An attorney provides essential support by gathering evidence, proving liability, and negotiating a fair settlement. They can also work with medical experts to show how the accident (not the lack of a helmet) caused your injuries.
Courts in Michigan consider all factors in an injury case, and having legal representation ensures your side is heard. Without a lawyer, you risk accepting a lower settlement than you deserve. Additionally, an attorney can help anticipate and counter the arguments insurance companies use to undervalue your claim.
Protect Your Rights After a Motorcycle Crash
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Grand Rapids, you need legal help to protect your claim. Whether you wore a helmet or not, you deserve fair compensation for your injuries. An experienced attorney can fight against insurance company tactics and make sure you receive the financial support needed for recovery. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer today to discuss your case and take the next steps toward justice.
This post is provided by a third party who may receive compensation from the products or services they mention.
