What Are Common Injuries from Michigan Motorcycle Accidents?

 Posted on September 28, 2020 in Personal Injury

Motorcyclists have little protection from the force of a collision. Even when a rider wears a helmet and protective clothing, a crash can cause injuries that require emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, or time away from work. Some symptoms also develop gradually, so the seriousness of an injury may not be obvious at the scene.

After a Michigan motorcycle accident, prompt medical evaluation can protect both your health and the documentation of your claim. Tell the treating provider about every symptom, including headache, dizziness, numbness, weakness, and increasing pain.

Injuries Frequently Seen After Motorcycle Crashes

• Head and brain injuries: A concussion or traumatic brain injury may cause confusion, memory problems, headaches, sleep changes, or sensitivity to light and noise.
• Spinal and nerve injuries: Trauma to the neck, back, or spinal cord can cause chronic pain, limited movement, weakness, or paralysis.
• Fractures and joint injuries: Riders often suffer broken arms, wrists, legs, ankles, ribs, or damage to the shoulder, hip, and knee.
• Internal injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding may be life-threatening even when the rider has few visible wounds.
• Road rash, burns, and scarring: Sliding across pavement can damage multiple layers of skin and may require infection treatment, grafting, or reconstructive care.

How Michigan Insurance Can Affect a Motorcycle Injury Claim

Motorcycle policies do not include the same Personal Injury Protection medical benefits as Michigan auto policies. According to the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services, a rider injured in a crash involving a motor vehicle may be entitled to PIP medical benefits depending on the facts and available coverage. If no motor vehicle is involved, health insurance or optional medical benefits purchased with the motorcycle policy may become especially important.

PIP-related benefits and a negligence claim against an at-fault driver address different losses. A negligence claim may involve pain and suffering and other damages allowed under Michigan law. The correct insurance path depends on the vehicles, policies, and circumstances, so it is better to review the actual coverage than to assume a particular insurer must pay.

Evidence Worth Preserving

Photographs of the motorcycle, helmet, riding gear, road surface, skid marks, and vehicle damage may help explain what happened. Save medical records, receipts, wage information, witness contacts, and any available camera footage. Do not repair or dispose of the motorcycle or protective equipment before important evidence has been documented.

Talk With a Grand Rapids Motorcycle Accident Attorney

John D. Tallman evaluates motorcycle injury claims throughout West Michigan. If a careless driver injured you or a family member, call 616-361-8850 or contact the firm for a free consultation. There is no attorney fee unless compensation is recovered.

Source: Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services auto insurance FAQs.