Why Spring Brings More Motorcycle Accidents to Michigan
Spring is one of the most dangerous times for motorcyclists due to a combination of human and environmental factors. Traffic patterns shift. Days are short, and road conditions are often poor. Unfortunately, Michigan’s no-fault auto insurance system limits compensation for injured riders unless a motor vehicle was involved in the crash. This can make it difficult to access insurance benefits for injuries and medical care if you’re involved in a single-vehicle accident or lay down your bike due to a hazard. Here are a few seasonal factors that increase the risk of springtime motorcycle accidents.
Drivers Not Watching for Motorcycles
Drivers failing to spot motorcycles is a leading cause of accidents, and it’s often worse in the spring when motorists are still in winter driving mode. Unfortunately, drivers often fail to check for smaller vehicles, which can lead to rear-end accidents, intersection accidents, and left-turn collisions.
Visibility and Perception Issues
Sun glare, shadows, and visual clutter make motorcycles harder to see. Michigan law requires a headlight and one or two taillights to improve visibility (MCL 257.696).
Damaged Roads and Debris
Potholes, gravel, and salt often remain on the road long after winter is gone. These hazards reduce traction and stability, especially for motorcycles. If you were injured due to hazardous road conditions, government liability may apply in some cases (MCL 691.1402).
Changing Traffic Patterns
Roadwork often increases in the spring. Construction zones, grooved pavement, and increased pedestrian activity create unpredictable conditions that raise the crash risk for motorcyclists and drivers.
Rider Inexperience
Riders who are returning to the streets after a long winter may have reduced reaction times and coordination. Unlicensed operation, such as failing to secure a motorcycle endorsement, adds legal exposure (MCL 257.312a).
Key Causes of Spring Motorcycle Accidents
Many motorcycle crashes are caused by clear violations of Michigan traffic laws. Both motorcyclists and other drivers may be responsible for traffic violations.
- Distracted Driving (MCL 257.602b): Mobile device use leads to inattention and delayed reactions, which increases the risk of motorcycle accidents.
- Failure to Yield (MCL 257.649, 257.650, 257.626b): Careless driving and failure to yield at intersections or when turning left are leading causes of Michigan motorcycle accidents.
- Speeding (MCL 257.627): Excess speed reduces stopping distance, decreases reaction time, and increases injury severity. Driving too fast for conditions is also a violation of the state’s basic speed law.
- Impaired Driving (MCL 257.625): Alcohol and drugs remain a leading cause of severe and fatal motorcycle accidents. In Michigan, 31% of fatal motorcycle accidents were related to drinking, and 22% of fatal crashes involved drugs.
- Inexperience and Lack of Training: Riding requires a high degree of athleticism and skill. New or rusty riders face a higher risk. Michigan helmet laws apply (MCL 257.658), especially for riders with less than 2 years of motorcycle experience.
Spring Motorcycle Safety Tips for Michigan Drivers and Riders
When it comes to highway safety and preventing motorcycle accidents, everyone on the road needs to do their part. Defensive driving techniques can also protect you from potential liability in the event that you are involved in a collision.
Tips for Drivers
Drivers can avoid prima facie liability by using defensive driving practices and following all rules of the road.
- Look twice before left turns and when yielding. Drivers who are turning left must yield to oncoming traffic that’s in the intersection or close enough to be an immediate hazard. (MCL 257.650).
- Check blind spots before changing lanes per MCL 257.642, and respect motorcycles and other vehicles that have the right-of-way as described in MCL 257.53.
- Watch for hazards/construction. Under 257.627(6), speed limits in work zones with closed lanes generally should not exceed 45 mph. Fines are typically doubled in school, work, and emergency response zones.
- Slow down. Tailgating or driving at a speed that does not allow for adequate stopping distances can result in a violation of the basic speed law (VBSL) per 257.627(1).
- Avoid distractions. Per MCL 257.602b, it’s illegal for drivers to hold or use a mobile electronic device (i.e., cellphone) while driving. Mandatory penalties start at $100 and/or 16 hours of community service for a first violation.
Tips for Riders
For riders, staying safe is about focusing on the things that you control, like when and where you ride, how fast you go, what safety gear you wear, and how well your bike is maintained. By taking proactive steps and following these motorcycle safety tips, you can significantly reduce your risk on the road.
- Wear a DOT-approved helmet. Although MCL 257.658 states that riders aren’t required to wear a helmet if they carry adequate medical benefits and have at least 2 years of riding experience or a safety certification, helmet use can reduce your risk of death by 37% and cut your risk of sustaining a traumatic brain injury by 68%.
- Wear high-visibility gear. While just over 70% of Michigan riders wear helmets, less than 4% wear high-viz gear. Fluorescent colors and reflective strips can increase your visibility even in dark or overcast conditions, making them safer than standard black leather jackets.
- Maintain your tires. Michigan has specific rules for tire safety, including physical damage and worn tread (MCL 257.710). Motorcycle tires have a very small contact patch, so it’s important to make sure your tires are inflated to the correct PSI for safe handling, especially after temperature changes.
- Check your lights. Motorcycles should have at least one but not more than two headlights per MCL 257.685 and up to two red taillights that are visible from 500 feet (MCL 257.686).
- Carry ample insurance. Under MCL 500.3101, motorcycles aren’t considered motor vehicles, so they are excluded from PIP insurance unless a motor vehicle is involved in the accident. Consider purchasing MedPay as an add-on.
- Follow the Golden Rule of motorcycle safety. When driving defensively, assume that other drivers cannot see you and act accordingly.
Protecting Your Rights
Michigan motorcycle accidents demand experienced counsel to navigate no-fault PIP exclusions and pursue third-party claims against the responsible driver. If you were injured or involved in a near-miss where a driver forced your motorcycle off the road, consult a motorcycle accident attorney who is familiar with Michigan State Police data and statutes found in Michigan Compiled Laws. For help with your case, contact us today for a free, in-depth case evaluation. Stay safe!
