3 important questions about motorcycling in Michigan

by Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

As the weather warms, many Michigan motorcyclists enjoy more time on the road, and it is important that these riders know how state law treats cyclists. Knowing the answer to a few important questions could help them protect themselves on the road.

What are Michigan’s motorcycle licensing requirements?

While Michigan does not require a separate motorcycle license, riders on public roadways must have a CY motorcycle endorsement on their Michigan driver’s license. Drivers can either complete a rider’s course or take a skills test to earn this endorsement.

Does Michigan require motorcyclists to wear a helmet?

While helmet use can be an important way for motorcyclists to protect themselves, the state of Michigan allows riders and their passengers to choose whether to wear a helmet as long as they meet specific conditions. These include:

• Being 21 years old or older
• Having $20,000 or more in first party medical benefits insurance
• For riders, having had their motorcycle endorsement for two or more years

While motorcyclists who meet these conditions can choose to forego wearing a helmet, anyone who does not meet these conditions must legally wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle.

Is a motorcycle accident treated the same as a car accident by insurance companies?

Motorcycle accidents are handled differently from car accidents because, under Michigan insurance law, two- and three-wheeled vehicles do not qualify as motor vehicles. In an accident, this leads to motorcyclists receiving benefits from the insurance policy of the car or truck involved in the accident. However, recent changes to Michigan’s insurance law allow motorists to choose their level of coverage, which can limit the support that motorcyclists receive.

The differences between can have a significant impact on motorcyclists after a crash. Because riders are significantly less protected than those in a car, their injuries are often severe and they are as much as 27 times as likely to pass away in an accident. As a result, injured motorcyclists may want to explore their legal options to ensure that they receive the support they need.

Posted in Car Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Personal Injury | No Comments »