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If your loved one died in a Michigan fatal motorcycle accident due to another person’s negligence, you need the help of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. Losing a loved one is never easy, especially when their death is sudden or unexpected.

Unfortunately, along with the emotional toll of a loss, you might be facing financial strain and be unsure of how to proceed. By filing a claim against a negligent motorist—as well as a no-fault claim for survivor benefits—you reduce your financial stress and focus on spending time with your family.

An experienced attorney will explain your rights and take care of everything from start to finish, even if the at-fault party does not have insurance.  Call The Buckfire Law Firm now to start working on your case.

Most Common Reasons for Motorcycle Deaths

No matter their safety procedures, motorcyclists simply do not have the same level of protection that most other motorists do. This means that, even when a biker wears a helmet and all other appropriate gear, the risk of a deadly accident is unfortunately high.

Bikers are rarely at fault in motorcycle crashes.  Rather, it is the negligence and inattention of other motorists.

There are many types of accidents that could cause motorcyclist deaths, but the most common are:

  • Reckless and careless driving
  • Texting and other forms of distracted driving
  • Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and drugs
  • Illegal lane changes, especially abrupt changes without signaling
  • Excess speed and erratic speeds
  • Potholes, shoulder drop-offs, and other road defects
  • Flying wheels and tires from trucks and other vehicles

Fatal injuries often occur when a motorcyclist or passenger is thrown from their bike.  The impact of the ground or being struck by another vehicle causes the death.

Michigan Fatal Motorcycle Accident Statistics

In 2018, there were 134 motorcyclists died in Michigan motorcycle accidents.  Of that number, 81.3% were male motorcyclists.

In 81.1% of fatal accidents, the biker was traveling straight ahead at the time. The majority of the bikers were wearing helmets at the time of the crash.

The graph below shows the increase in fatal crashes in the state of Michigan the last 10 years.

Michigan fatal motorcycle accident chart - Buckfire Law

  • 2009: 105
  • 2010: 125
  • 2011: 113
  • 2012: 132
  • 2013: 133
  • 2014: 110
  • 2015: 140
  • 2016: 146
  • 2017: 133
  • 2018: 134

Can I file a Motorcycle Accident Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Family members of a deceased motorcyclist can sue a negligent driver in a wrongful death lawsuit.  Typically, the surviving family will choose a personal representative to file the lawsuit.  The personal representative is then appointed by a probate court judge to pursue the fatal accident case.

The personal representative works with the attorney to bring a lawsuit.  These cases demand compensation for the deceased’s pain and suffering prior to death, as well as numerous other losses suffered by the surviving family members.

Recoverable damages include expenses for hospital bills, funeral arrangements, and burial expenses.  A major type of damage is for  loss of care companionship of the family member.

These cases can result in large settlements.  If the parties agree on a settlement amount, it must be approved by a judge.  The judge also determines the percentage share to each family member, unless the family members all agree to the amounts.

Sue for a Motorcycle Passenger Death

Passengers are unfortunately frequently killed in motorcycle crash.  In some cases, the biker caused the accident killing the passenger.

In these cases, the surviving family members can file a claim against the negligent biker.   These claims are filed even if the motorcyclist also dies in the accident.

The biker’s insurance company pays the settlement to the family members.

Get Help From Our Michigan Fatal Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Let our award-winning motorcycle accident lawyers help you and your family after a devastating loss.

You need a strong, compassionate, and experienced attorney in your corner.  We have helped families like yours since 1969.

We charge no legal fees unless you get a settlement.  And, we pay all of the case costs and expenses.

Call us now and we will start working on your case immediately!

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