Local Attorneys Serving Cyclists and E-Bike Riders
Bicycling is a great hobby that offers freedom along with health and environmental benefits, but it also comes with risks. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle collision, the physical, emotional, and financial impact can be overwhelming. At Barrix Law Firm, our seasoned bicycle accident attorney understands how important fair compensation is for your future.
We serve cyclists in Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Nunica, and surrounding parts of Ottawa County. We’re here to guide you through the claims process and protect your rights under Michigan’s complex no-fault insurance laws. To see how we can help, request a free case review today.
Table of Contents
- Michigan Bicycle Accident Statistics
- Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
- Common Injuries After Bike Accidents
- What to Do After a Bicycle Collision in Grand Haven
- Insurance Benefits & Compensation After Bike Accidents
- How a Grand Haven Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Help
- Why Choose Barrix Law Firm
- Grand Haven Bicycle Accident FAQs
- Request a Free Case Review
Michigan Bicycle Accident Statistics
According to data from the Michigan State Police, bicycle-related crashes increased by 20% between 2023 and 2024. This escalation is compounded by a tragic 21% rise in cyclist fatalities within the same period, which may lead to more wrongful death claims. To prevent deadly accidents, there’s an urgent need for increased awareness, improved infrastructure, and adherence to traffic laws. Let’s take a closer look at statewide data.
- Between 2023 and 2024, the number of bicycle-involved accidents in Michigan jumped 20% from 1,480 to 1,773.
- Bike accidents have increased 45% over the past 5 years with 1,224 crashes reported in 2020.
- Male riders account for 89% of fatalities, and over 60% of cyclists who died were wearing crash helmets.
- Riders aged 55 and older account for 55% of the state’s 29 fatalities, while riders aged 20 or younger account for 17% of deaths.
- August has the highest number of bicycle-involved accidents with over 250 crashes reported annually.
- The majority of bicycle accidents occur between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. when school and work traffic are heaviest.
These sobering statistics show just how vulnerable bicyclists are on Michigan roads and how important it is to have an experienced Grand Haven law firm on your side after a bicycle accident.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can occur at any time. These incidents are rarely due to a single cause but rather a combination of contributing elements. The most common reasons for bicycle crashes include driver negligence, cyclist behavior, and dangerous road or weather conditions that affect visibility. Learn more about the most common causes of bicycle accidents.
- Left-turn collisions occur when a vehicle turns across the cyclist’s path.
- Dooring accidents are common in urban areas where open car doors can strike oncoming cyclists.
- Intersection crashes often occur when drivers or cyclists fail to yield.
- Road hazards like potholes and uneven pavement can cause cyclists to lose control.
- Blind-spot and merging collisions occur when drivers fail to spot riders nearby.
- Distracted or impaired driving can cause accidents during peak riding hours.
Common Injuries After Bike Accidents
At Barrix Law Firm, we understand just how serious bicycle and pedestrian accidents can be. Due to the lack of crash protection, accidents can cause debilitating personal injuries that have lifelong consequences. Our bike accident lawyer is experienced in handling cases involving the following injuries:
Soft Tissue Injuries
These include painful abrasions like road rash as well as deep cuts, lacerations, scars, and bruising.
Major Bone Fractures
Bike accidents often cause orthopedic injuries affecting the collarbone, wrists, arms, ribs, pelvis, and legs.
Head and Brain Trauma
Even with a helmet, riders are at risk for concussions and brain injuries that can lead to long-term impairments.
Neck and Back Injuries
The force from an accident can cause everything from whiplash and herniated discs to catastrophic spinal cord damage and paralysis.
What to Do After a Bicycle Collision in Grand Haven
Taking appropriate steps after a bicycle accident can help to protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Because bicycle accidents often involve severe injuries, you may be incapacitated and unable to communicate with first responders. This means that they may only have one side of the story. Here are a few tips to help yourself or a loved one.
- Call 911: Michigan requires a police report for all accidents resulting in injuries, death, or at least $1,000 in property damage. Failing to report an accident or leaving the scene can be a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Seek Medical Care: Get your injuries evaluated at the scene of the accident or as soon as possible. Follow your provider’s instructions, and keep copies of all medical records and bills.
- Preserve Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including injuries, road/weather conditions, and damage to your bike. Bystanders may be able to help you identify witnesses and gather information.
- Get a Copy of the Police Report: Request a copy of the policy report from the agency that responded. This could be the Michigan State Police, the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, or the Grand Haven Department of Public Safety.
- Notify Insurer: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. If it’s necessary to contact the other driver’s insurer, be careful about what you say, and avoid making a recorded statement without consulting an attorney.
- Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer: If you’re hospitalized or recovering at home, a family member can contact Barrix Law Firm on your behalf to schedule a meeting. We’ll handle everything from investigating the accident to communicating with insurance companies.
Insurance Benefits & Compensation After Bike Accidents
There are generally 2 ways to recover compensation after a bicycle-involved traffic accident in Grand Haven depending on the extent of your injuries and whether you meet Michigan’s severe injury threshold.
- All reasonable and necessary medical care
- 85% of lost wages for up to 3 years
- A nominal daily allowance for household services
- Survivor’s benefits in the event of a fatal accident
If the motorist involved inflicted severe or disabling injuries, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through the at-fault driver’s liability insurance, especially if you exhaust your PIP coverage. Compensation can be recovered through a settlement or litigation. At-fault claims may cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Future lost income after PIP’s 3-year limit
- Long-term care needs
- Damage to your bicycle and gear
*Michigan is a comparative fault state, so compensation can be reduced by your level of fault. If you bear the majority of the blame, you cannot recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering.
How a Grand Haven Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Help
Barrix Law Firm advocates for cyclists across Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Nunica, and Ottawa County. Whether your crash happened along Lakeshore Avenue, in your neighborhood, or on roads shared with motorists, we bring local insight and legal strength to your claim. See how we can help.
- Thorough Investigation: We will collect and preserve key evidence, including photos, video, and witness statements, to establish liability after your bicycle crash.
- Case Evaluation & Strategy: We can determine whether you qualify for no-fault PIP benefits, estimate the full value of your claim, and choose the best strategy for your situation.
- Insurance Negotiation: Insurance companies often underpay or deny claims. Our team negotiates aggressively to achieve fair settlements for riders in Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Nunica, and beyond.
- Litigation Preparation & Trial: When insurers refuse to offer a fair resolution, our Grand Haven lawyers are fully prepared to take your bicycle accident case to court.
Why Choose Barrix Law Firm
Our law practice was founded by Michigan native Jason S. Barrix in 1993. For over 30 years, we’ve served local families in Grand Haven and cities across West Michigan. The lawyer that you choose can have a big impact on the outcome of your case. Here’s what we have to offer.
Local Roots: As a local law firm, we focus on serving clients in Ottawa County and communities where we live and work.
Comprehensive Legal Support: From your initial case review to mediation and litigation, we’re equipped to handle all aspects of your claim.
Client‑Focused Service: You aren’t just a case to us. Our team provides personalized advice and legal services to help ensure the best outcome.
Proven Results: We have recovered substantial settlements for local clients who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents. We will fight for you and your family.
Grand Haven Bicycle Accident FAQs
If your bike accident involved a motor vehicle, you may be entitled to PIP benefits for your medical care and lost wages. The first step is to file a claim with your own auto insurance carrier or a resident relative’s.
Non-vehicle occupants, including bicyclists and pedestrians, may be able to access benefits through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan if there are no other options. PIP is not available if you had an accidental fall or were injured by a road hazard. Speak to a bicycle accident attorney to determine your options and the correct priority order for insurance claims.
It depends on whether you’re filing a no-fault or at-fault claim. If you’re applying for PIP benefits, you should notify your insurer as soon as possible or within 1 year of the accident. If you’re filing an at-fault claim against the driver and their insurance company, you have 3 years to file a personal injury lawsuit according to the statute of limitations.
It depends on the severity of your injuries. No-fault PIP insurance only covers medical care, partial lost wages, and limited household services. To seek compensation for pain and suffering, you must meet the severe injury threshold needed to file an at-fault claim. Head trauma, organ damage, coma, and disabling injuries may qualify you.
Although bicycles are not considered motor vehicles, riders have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists. They are legally allowed to ride on all roads, excluding restricted-access highways. Minors are prohibited from using certain mobility devices, such as electric skateboards, on public streets.
No. Michigan does not require adults or children to wear bicycle helmets. However, helmet use is strongly recommended. It may also help to strengthen your claim. Under the state’s comparative fault rules, compensation can be reduced if you are found to be partially responsible for the accident.
Request a Free Case Review
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Nunica, or anywhere in Ottawa County, don’t wait to seek legal help. Whether you’re filing a no-fault insurance claim or are suing the other driver, strict time limits apply. Contact Barrix Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation case review.
Our experienced Grand Haven bike accident lawyer will explain your rights and help you seek compensation for your injuries. You deserve to concentrate on healing while we focus on the law. Give us a call, or contact us online. We’re ready to advocate for you.
