Road rage directed at motorcyclists is a concerning issue, often driven by stereotypes and misunderstandings. Many drivers believe motorcyclists are reckless and ignore traffic laws, contributing to problems on the road. This stereotype fosters tension between drivers and riders, often leading to aggressive actions toward bikers.

In the past year, 92% of Americans have reported seeing road rage, and 89% have experienced it themselves. However, for motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable on the road, the power imbalance with larger vehicles can make these incidents more severe, especially when they cause crashes, often resulting in lasting physical and emotional damage.

For motorcycle riders, knowing your rights as a road rage victim can help you get the compensation you need to recover. Our skilled Michigan motorcycle injury lawyers at Fieger Law can advise you on your legal options and hold an aggressive driver liable for your injuries.

Road Rage Against Motorcyclists: What Does It Look Like?

Road rage involves aggressive or violent behavior toward others on the road. It often happens due to a driver’s frustration with traffic or being late, preexisting anger or stress, or tiredness. When perpetrated against motorcycle riders, it can look like the following:

  • Buzzing Motorcyclists: Drivers may intentionally and aggressively pass too closely, irritated by the belief that the motorcyclist occupies too much space in the lane. 26% of all road rage incidents in the U.S. involve aggressive driving behaviors like this.
  • Dangerous Maneuvers: This includes cutting off or brake-checking motorcyclists. Drivers might perform these risky actions in retaliation for what they perceive as risky or annoying riding habits. 22% of road rage incidents include cutting off another vehicle, and 34% involve tailgating.
  • Forcing Off the Road: In extreme cases, drivers might intentionally try to run motorcyclists off the road, especially if they feel the motorcyclist has compromised their safety or convenience.
  • Verbal Abuse: Motorists may shout insults or make threatening gestures toward motorcyclists to intimidate or provoke them. This is typically triggered by frustration with the motorcyclist’s presence or behavior. Honking or gesturing is involved in 32% of road rage incidents in the U.S.
  • Throwing Objects: Drivers sometimes throw objects at motorcyclists to startle or injure them, often as a response to anger or a desire to “teach them a lesson.” This may lead to the rider losing control of their motorcycle and crashing.

If you are a victim of road rage that has led to injuries to yourself or damage to your motorcycle, contact Fieger Law. We can help you hold the perpetrator responsible and get you financial support for your medical bills and damaged property.

How Often Are Motorcycle Accidents Involving Cars Caused by Road Rage?

Over the last decade, motorcycle accident deaths have increased by 32%, and in an accident, riders are 24 times more likely to die than passenger car occupants. And while motorcycle riders are often victims of road rage accidents, they can also be hurt due to unintentional driver negligence.

A major cause of motorcycle accidents is that other drivers simply do not see them. This is especially problematic when a motorcyclist is traveling straight through an intersection where another vehicle is waiting to turn, when the motorcyclist is overtaking or passing another vehicle, and when another vehicle is changing lanes.

Drivers may fail to see the rider due to the following, causing an accident:

  • Using phones or other devices while driving
  • Eating or drinking behind the wheel
  • Adjusting the radio or navigation settings frequently
  • Engaging in conversations with passengers
  • Focusing on roadside distractions
  • Failing to check mirrors adequately before maneuvers

At Fieger Law, we can help you pursue a claim against a negligent driver who injures you while you are on your motorcycle. We can talk with witnesses and collect evidence like phone records and black box data to prove their actions and get you a settlement.

Filing For Compensation as an Injured Rider

When you’re injured by an aggressive or careless driver, speak with Fieger Law. We can explain your compensation options and legal rights and help you through the claims process, whether it’s a personal injury claim for intentional road rage, or for driving negligence.

  • Road Rage Claims: If a driver targeted you in a road rage incident, we can help you pursue a claim seeking compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress, and exemplary damages. This includes situations where another driver caused you to crash into an object or another vehicle, or if their actions, like assault or throwing an object, caused you injury.
  • Negligence Claim: Even if the accident wasn’t caused by intentional aggression, you can work with our experienced lawyers to file an injury lawsuit based on negligence. We can provide tips for dealing with the other driver, police, and insurance adjusters, like remaining calm and avoiding accusations to help fight existing biases, while also building a strong claim for compensation.

Our team supports your case with strong evidence of the other party’s fault, winning you damages for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Speak With Fieger Law to Protect Your Rights After a Crash

Our team at Fieger Law has over 100 years of combined experience protecting the rights of injury victims in Michigan and throughout the U.S. If another driver’s aggressive or negligent actions cause serious injuries, let us help you seek compensation and justice.

We won’t stop until you receive the recovery award you’re entitled to after an angry or careless driver causes you harm. Contact us today for your free consultation with one of our skilled attorneys.