Michigan has specific laws governing motorcycle licenses, helmets, insurance, passengers, equipment, and operation on public roads. Some of these rules differ significantly from the laws that apply to passenger vehicles, particularly when it comes to Michigan No-Fault insurance.
Whether you ride regularly or are trying to understand your rights after a crash, knowing the rules that apply to motorcycles can help you understand what may happen next.
This guide explains important Michigan motorcycle laws and how issues such as helmet use, insurance coverage, passengers, and traffic violations may affect a motorcycle accident claim.
If you were injured in a crash, our Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer page provides additional information about motorcycle injury claims.
Do You Need a Motorcycle Endorsement in Michigan?
Yes. To legally operate a motorcycle on a public road in Michigan, a rider generally needs a motorcycle endorsement, commonly known as a CY endorsement, on a valid driver’s license.
Michigan provides two primary paths for obtaining a motorcycle endorsement:
- Successfully completing an approved Michigan Rider Education Program course; or
- Obtaining a motorcycle Temporary Instruction Permit, practicing under the applicable restrictions, and passing an approved motorcycle rider skills test.
A motorcycle Temporary Instruction Permit is valid for 180 days. While riding with the permit, the rider must be under the constant visual supervision of a licensed motorcycle operator who is at least 18 years old. A permit holder cannot ride at night or carry a passenger.
Riders under age 18 must successfully complete an approved motorcycle safety course to obtain the endorsement.
Current licensing and endorsement requirements are available through the Michigan Secretary of State.
What Happens If You Ride Without a Motorcycle Endorsement?
Operating a motorcycle on Michigan public roads without the required endorsement can result in penalties.
More importantly for an accident claim, being unendorsed does not necessarily answer the separate question of who caused a collision.
For example, a motorcyclist could lack the proper endorsement but still be struck by another driver who ran a red light or failed to yield. The licensing violation and the cause of the collision are separate issues that may both need to be evaluated.
After a crash, investigators may consider the actions of everyone involved rather than relying on one licensing or traffic violation alone.
Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Law
Michigan does not require every adult motorcycle operator to wear a helmet.
Under Michigan law, an operator may ride without a helmet when the applicable requirements are satisfied. Generally, the operator must:
- Be at least 21 years old;
- Have held a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years or have successfully completed an approved motorcycle safety course; and
- Have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits coverage.
A rider who does not satisfy the requirements for Michigan’s helmet exception must wear an approved motorcycle helmet.
Helmet requirements for passengers are somewhat different. A passenger generally must be at least 21 years old and the applicable medical-benefit coverage requirements must also be satisfied before the passenger may legally ride without a helmet.
The Michigan State Police provides additional information about the state’s motorcycle helmet requirements.
Can I Still Have a Motorcycle Accident Claim If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Potentially, yes.
Not wearing a helmet does not automatically determine who caused a motorcycle accident.
Suppose a motorcyclist is traveling through an intersection when another driver turns left directly into the motorcycle’s path. Whether the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet is different from the question of whether the other driver’s turn caused the collision.
However, helmet use can become relevant to other issues in an injury claim, particularly when the motorcyclist suffered a head or brain injury.
The effect of helmet use on a particular case depends on the facts, the injuries involved, the available evidence, and Michigan law.
This is why it is important to distinguish between two questions:
Who caused the crash?
and
What caused or contributed to the injuries being claimed?
Those questions are not necessarily answered the same way.
Does Michigan Require Motorcycle Insurance?
Michigan requires motorcycles operated on public roads to have the insurance required by state law.
However, motorcycle insurance works differently from ordinary automobile insurance.
One of the most important differences involves Personal Injury Protection benefits.
A standard motorcycle policy does not provide Michigan automobile PIP benefits in the same manner as an ordinary auto policy. Motorcycle insurers may offer first-party medical benefits, and those benefits also play a role in Michigan’s helmet-law requirements.
Because coverage can vary considerably, motorcyclists should review their actual policy and coverage selections rather than assuming motorcycle insurance works the same way as car insurance.
How Does Michigan No-Fault Insurance Apply to Motorcycle Accidents?
Michigan’s No-Fault system treats motorcycles differently from ordinary passenger vehicles.
Motorcycle policies themselves do not include traditional automobile PIP benefits. However, a motorcyclist injured in an accident involving a motor vehicle may be entitled to PIP medical benefits depending on the circumstances.
According to the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services, in many cases the motorcyclist seeks PIP benefits through the insurer of the owner or registrant of the motor vehicle involved in the crash.
The available benefits can depend on the PIP coverage selected under the applicable auto insurance policy.
This distinction can be extremely important after a serious motorcycle collision.
For more information about Michigan’s No-Fault system, visit our Michigan No-Fault insurance lawyer resource.
What If the Vehicle That Hit the Motorcycle Was Uninsured?
An uninsured vehicle can create additional insurance issues.
Michigan DIFS explains that when a motor vehicle involved in the crash is uninsured and no applicable insurer can be identified, an injured motorcyclist may be able to seek benefits through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan.
Eligibility and available benefits depend on the circumstances.
Motorcyclists may also have other insurance coverage that needs to be reviewed after a collision, including any applicable uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Because motorcycle coverage can differ substantially from auto coverage, the actual insurance policies involved should be examined after a serious crash.
What If No Car Was Involved in the Motorcycle Crash?
This is another important distinction under Michigan’s No-Fault system.
If a motorcycle accident does not involve a motor vehicle—for example, a rider loses control and crashes into a tree—Michigan DIFS explains that PIP benefits may not be available.
That can make the rider’s own motorcycle medical-benefit coverage and other available insurance particularly important.
A motorcycle-only accident and a motorcycle-versus-car accident can therefore produce very different insurance questions even when the rider suffers similar injuries.
Michigan Motorcycle Passenger Laws
Michigan law regulates when and how passengers can ride on motorcycles.
A motorcycle must be designed and equipped to carry a passenger. The passenger generally must use the designated passenger seat and footrests or pegs.
Michigan law provides that a passenger cannot ride on a motorcycle unless the passenger’s feet can rest on the assigned footrests or pegs, with an exception involving certain permanent physical disabilities.
There is not a general minimum passenger age under this rule; the ability to properly use the passenger footrests is an important requirement.
Helmet requirements also apply separately to passengers.
Do Motorcycle Passengers Have to Wear Helmets in Michigan?
Passengers are subject to Michigan’s motorcycle helmet law.
A passenger who does not qualify for Michigan’s helmet exception must wear an approved helmet.
For an adult passenger to ride without a helmet, the passenger must satisfy the applicable age and medical-benefit requirements.
Because the insurance requirements can depend on whether coverage is maintained by the operator or passenger, riders should verify their coverage before assuming a passenger may legally ride without a helmet.
Does Michigan Require Eye Protection on a Motorcycle?
Michigan has specific eye-protection requirements for motorcyclists.
Michigan State Police explains that motorcyclists traveling more than 35 mph must have appropriate eye protection through shatterproof goggles, a face shield, or a windshield.
Even apart from the legal requirement, proper eye protection can protect riders from insects, stones, road debris, wind, and other hazards that can interfere with visibility and control.
What Equipment Does a Motorcycle Need in Michigan?
Motorcycles operated on Michigan roads must comply with state equipment requirements.
Depending on the motorcycle and circumstances, applicable requirements can involve:
- Brakes
- Headlights and other required lighting
- Mirrors
- Exhaust equipment
- A permanent and regular seat
- Passenger seating when carrying a passenger
- Passenger footrests or pegs
- Other equipment required for lawful roadway operation
Michigan law also restricts a rider from carrying objects that prevent the rider from keeping both hands on the handlebars.
Equipment issues can also become relevant after an accident. If brakes, tires, lights, or another component may have contributed to the collision, the condition of the motorcycle can become part of the investigation.
Can Two Motorcycles Ride Side by Side in Michigan?
Michigan law allows motorcycles to travel two abreast within a lane under applicable conditions.
Riders should still maintain enough space to safely operate and respond to traffic, road conditions, and unexpected hazards.
Riding alongside another motorcycle does not eliminate the rider’s obligation to comply with other Michigan traffic laws.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Michigan?
Motorcyclists should not assume that riding between lanes of moving traffic is permitted in Michigan simply because the practice may be allowed elsewhere.
Michigan riders remain subject to state laws governing lane use, passing, and motorcycle operation.
After a collision involving a motorcycle traveling between or around other vehicles, the exact positioning of the motorcycle, movement of surrounding vehicles, roadway markings, traffic conditions, and applicable laws may all become relevant.
Do Motorcyclists Have to Follow the Same Traffic Laws as Cars?
Generally, motorcyclists must follow Michigan traffic laws just as other roadway users do, along with laws that specifically apply to motorcycles.
That includes rules involving:
- Speed limits
- Traffic lights and stop signs
- Yielding
- Passing
- Lane changes
- Following distance
- Impaired driving
- Reckless driving
- Other rules of the road
Motorcycles’ smaller size and different handling characteristics do not exempt their operators from traffic laws.
At the same time, other drivers owe motorcyclists the same duty to operate safely around them.
What If a Driver Says They Didn’t See the Motorcycle?
A driver saying that they did not see a motorcycle does not by itself determine legal responsibility.
Motorcycle collisions frequently involve questions about visibility, right-of-way, intersections, turning movements, and lane changes.
An investigation may consider:
- Where each vehicle was located;
- Which direction each vehicle was traveling;
- Traffic signals and signs;
- Sight lines;
- Vehicle speed;
- Lighting and weather;
- Witness statements;
- Dashcam or surveillance footage;
- Physical evidence from the roadway; and
- Damage to the vehicles.
The evidence—not simply one driver’s explanation—helps determine how the collision occurred.
Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents
A common motorcycle crash scenario occurs when another vehicle turns left across a motorcycle’s path.
These accidents may happen at intersections, driveways, parking-lot entrances, or other locations where a vehicle crosses opposing traffic.
Determining responsibility can involve examining right-of-way, traffic signals, vehicle speeds, visibility, witness accounts, video footage, and the positions of the vehicles before impact.
Motorcyclists can suffer significant injuries in these crashes because they have far less physical protection than occupants of passenger vehicles.
What If the Motorcyclist Was Speeding?
Speed can be relevant to determining fault, but an allegation of speeding does not automatically resolve an accident claim.
The actions of every person involved should be considered.
For example, one driver may be accused of making an unsafe turn while the motorcyclist is accused of traveling too fast. Investigators may need to determine whether either or both actions contributed to the collision.
Evidence such as video, vehicle damage, roadway marks, witness statements, electronic data, and accident reconstruction may help answer those questions.
How Does Comparative Fault Work in a Michigan Motorcycle Accident?
Michigan’s comparative-fault rules can become important when more than one person may have contributed to an accident or the resulting damages.
A motorcycle rider does not necessarily lose every potential claim simply because the rider is accused of contributing to the accident.
The effect of comparative fault depends on the type of damages sought, the percentage of fault attributed to the parties, and the facts of the case.
This is another reason motorcycle cases should be evaluated based on the evidence rather than assuming that one traffic violation determines the entire outcome.
Does Not Wearing a Helmet Mean the Motorcyclist Caused the Crash?
No. Whether someone wore a helmet and whether that person caused the collision are different issues.
Helmet use may become relevant to particular injuries or damages, but it does not automatically establish how the collision happened.
A driver who fails to yield to a motorcycle, for example, does not necessarily avoid responsibility simply because the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet.
The facts of the crash and the nature of the injuries must be evaluated separately.
What Evidence Can Be Important After a Motorcycle Accident?
Evidence can disappear quickly after a crash.
Depending on the circumstances, important evidence may include:
- Police reports
- Photographs of the scene
- Vehicle damage
- Motorcycle damage
- The motorcycle itself
- Helmet and riding gear
- Witness statements
- Dashcam footage
- Business or residential surveillance video
- Traffic-camera footage when available
- Cellphone records when relevant
- Vehicle electronic data
- Medical records
- Ambulance and emergency-room records
- Employment and wage information
- Insurance policies and correspondence
Preserving the motorcycle and damaged riding equipment can be especially important when questions arise about how the collision occurred or how an injury happened.
What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Michigan?
The circumstances of every accident are different, but several steps may help protect your health and preserve information after a crash.
1. Get to a Safe Location
If possible, move away from active traffic and other immediate hazards.
2. Call 911
Report the collision and request medical assistance when necessary.
3. Seek Medical Care
Motorcycle crashes can cause serious injuries. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious at the scene.
4. Document the Scene
If you can safely do so, take photographs or video of the vehicles, motorcycle, roadway, traffic controls, debris, skid marks, and surrounding area.
5. Get Witness Information
Independent witnesses may have important information about how the crash occurred.
6. Preserve the Motorcycle and Riding Gear
Avoid disposing of the motorcycle, helmet, clothing, or other damaged equipment if those items may become relevant to the investigation.
7. Keep Your Records
Save medical bills, insurance communications, repair information, employment records, and other documents related to the accident.
8. Be Careful With Insurance Communications
Insurance companies may request statements or documents after a collision. Understand what is being requested and which insurer is involved before assuming that every request is routine.
Can I Recover Compensation After a Michigan Motorcycle Accident?
The compensation potentially available after a motorcycle accident depends on the facts, insurance coverage, injuries, fault, and applicable Michigan law.
A serious motorcycle collision may involve questions concerning:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Future medical needs
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Other accident-related losses
Different categories of benefits or damages may come from different insurance policies or legal claims.
There is no universal motorcycle accident settlement amount. The value of a claim depends on the evidence and circumstances of the individual case.
How Long Do I Have to Bring a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Michigan?
Different deadlines can apply to different claims and insurance benefits arising from a motorcycle accident.
The applicable deadline can depend on what type of claim is being pursued, which insurance coverage is involved, who may be responsible, and other circumstances.
Because waiting can also make evidence harder to obtain, deadlines are not the only reason to investigate a motorcycle crash promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Motorcycle Laws
Do I need a special license to ride a motorcycle in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan generally requires a motorcycle, or CY, endorsement to operate a motorcycle on public roads.
How do I get a motorcycle endorsement?
Michigan allows riders to qualify through an approved motorcycle safety course or through the Temporary Instruction Permit and rider skills testing process, subject to applicable requirements.
Do I have to wear a motorcycle helmet in Michigan?
Not necessarily. Michigan permits certain riders age 21 and older to ride without a helmet if they satisfy the state’s experience or safety-course requirement and applicable medical-benefit coverage requirement.
Can a motorcycle passenger ride without a helmet?
Certain passengers age 21 and older may qualify to ride without a helmet when Michigan’s applicable insurance requirements are satisfied.
Can I still make a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Potentially. Not wearing a helmet does not automatically determine who caused the collision. Helmet use may raise separate questions concerning particular injuries and damages.
Does motorcycle insurance have PIP coverage?
Motorcycle policies do not include traditional Michigan automobile PIP benefits. However, a motorcyclist injured in a crash involving a motor vehicle may be eligible for PIP benefits depending on the circumstances and applicable coverage.
What happens if a car hits my motorcycle?
The motor vehicle’s applicable insurance may become important for PIP benefits, and there may also be a potential liability claim depending on who caused the collision and the injuries involved.
What happens if I crash my motorcycle without another vehicle involved?
Michigan DIFS explains that PIP benefits may not be available when a motorcycle crash does not involve a motor vehicle. Other available motorcycle or health insurance coverage may therefore become important.
Can two motorcycles ride side by side in Michigan?
Michigan law permits motorcycles to ride two abreast within a lane under applicable conditions.
Can a child ride as a passenger on a motorcycle in Michigan?
Michigan State Police explains that there is not a general minimum passenger age under the applicable rule. Instead, a passenger generally must be able to rest their feet on the assigned footrests or pegs, subject to the statutory exception for certain permanent physical disabilities.
Do I need eye protection?
Michigan requires appropriate eye protection when traveling more than 35 mph unless the motorcycle provides the qualifying windshield protection.
What if I was partly responsible for the motorcycle accident?
Michigan comparative-fault rules may affect a claim when responsibility is shared. The effect depends on the circumstances, percentage of fault, and type of damages involved.
Should I keep my helmet after an accident?
If the helmet or other riding gear was involved in a serious crash, preserving it may be useful because its condition could become relevant evidence.
Michigan Motorcycle Accident Resources
Motorcycle law and motorcycle accident claims can involve several different areas of Michigan law and insurance coverage.
For related information, see:
- Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
- Michigan No-Fault Insurance Lawyer
- Michigan Motorcycle Endorsement Information
- Michigan Motorcycle Safety Information
Talk With Khamo Law After a Michigan Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can raise complicated questions about fault, insurance coverage, Michigan No-Fault benefits, helmet use, and the extent of a rider’s injuries.
Khamo Law can investigate how the collision happened, identify available insurance coverage, preserve relevant evidence, evaluate potentially responsible parties, and explain the legal options supported by the circumstances of the case.
For more information about injury claims after a crash, visit our Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer page.
Call 248-466-0606 or contact Khamo Law online for a free consultation.