Imagine cruising down Michigan’s scenic highways, the wind in your hair, and the thrill of freedom in your veins. While riding a motorcycle offers an exhilarating adventure, it also has inherent risks.
In Michigan, having proper motorcycle insurance is not just a wise choice—it’s a legal requirement. Understanding the importance of motorcycle insurance, the legal requirements, coverage options, and the benefits it provides can help you protect yourself legally and financially, ensuring peace of mind every time you hit the road.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact the experienced Michigan motorcycle accident attorneys at Fieger Law for a free consultation to learn your rights and get help securing the compensation you deserve.
Legal Requirements for Motorcycle Insurance in Michigan
Michigan law mandates that all motorcycle riders must have insurance. The state’s mandatory insurance laws require motorcyclists to carry liability insurance to cover bodily injury and property damage caused to others in an accident (including passengers and other motorcyclists). The default coverage amounts are:
- $250,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- $500,000 for bodily injury or death of more than one person
- $10,000 for property damage
Drivers may have the option of purchasing other coverage limits.
If another road user injures you, you can file a claim with their liability insurance to cover the cost of your damages. Failure to comply with these insurance requirements can lead to severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and the potential for personal financial liability in the event of an accident. Riding without insurance puts you at legal risk and leaves you vulnerable to financial losses.
If you’re in a crash and unsure of your insurance coverage, talk with our team at Fieger Law. We can review your policy, explain what’s covered, and help you file a claim against the negligent driver who caused the crash.
Coverage Options for Motorcycle Riders in Michigan
Motorcycle insurance in Michigan offers various coverage options to meet different needs and budgets. Understanding these options can help you choose the best coverage for your situation:
- Liability Coverage: This is the minimum required by law and covers bodily injury and property damage to others if you are at fault in an accident.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver without insurance or insufficient insurance. It ensures you are not left to cover expenses out of pocket.
- Medical Payments Coverage: Also known as MedPay, this coverage helps pay for medical expenses incurred by you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision incidents such as theft, fire, or vandalism, while collision policies cover damage to your motorcycle due to a collision with another vehicle or object.
- Optional Equipment Coverage: This covers the cost to repair or replace custom parts and accessories added to your motorcycle, often not included in standard policies.
Depending on your coverage, you may be able to get full compensation for injuries and damages like medical bills or lost wages after a collision. Talk to one of our qualified motorcycle attorneys at Fieger Law to pursue a fair settlement from your policy or from the liable party.
Benefits of Having Motorcycle Insurance
Having adequate motorcycle insurance provides numerous benefits that extend beyond just meeting legal requirements:
- Financial Protection: Insurance covers the costs associated with bodily injuries and property damage, protecting you from potentially devastating financial losses.
- Medical Expenses and Lost Wages: In the event of an accident, insurance can cover medical expenses and compensate for lost wages, ensuring that you and your family are financially supported during recovery.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are compliant with legal requirements and protected against various risks gives you peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your rides without unnecessary worry.
Even if you have coverage, insurance companies often blame motorcyclists for their own accidents to deny or lowball claim offers. Meet with our attorneys at Fieger Law to protect your rights and minimize unfair biases that could impact your claim so you get the amount you’re entitled to.
Common Misconceptions About Motorcycle Insurance
Several misconceptions about motorcycle insurance can lead riders to forgo insurance, let their coverage lapse, or only buy the minimum amount required. Get the truth behind these myths to make the best choice for your motorcycle insurance coverage:
- Myth: Motorcycle insurance is expensive and not worth the cost.
- Truth: While premiums can vary, insurance costs are often much less than the potential financial burden of an accident without coverage.
- Myth: My auto insurance policy also covers me when I’m on my motorcycle.
- Truth: Auto insurance policies typically do not cover motorcycles. You must obtain separate motorcycle insurance to cover your two-wheeled vehicle.
- Myth: I only need the minimum liability coverage.
- Truth: While minimum coverage meets legal requirements, it may not provide sufficient protection in the event of a serious accident. Additional coverage options offer greater financial security.
Secure Your Ride with Motorcycle Insurance
Motorcycle insurance is a crucial component of responsible riding in Michigan. It ensures legal compliance, provides essential financial protection, and offers peace of mind.
If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident, speak with our motorcycle accident attorneys at Fieger Law. We can review your case and help you get fair compensation from your policy or the driver who caused the crash.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced team help you manage your case and receive the settlement you deserve.