Collision Coverage in a Motorcycle Accident

Most motorcycle accidents involve physical damage to the motorcycle. Unfortunately, in most circumstances, the Michigan no-fault law does not provide coverage to compensate a motorcyclist for damage to his or her motorcycle, even if that motorcycle is damaged in an accident with a motor vehicle.

However, if the operator of the motor vehicle which caused damage to the motorcycle lacked the no-fault coverage required by Michigan law, that operator may be held personally liable for any damage sustained by the motorcycle in the accident. MCL 500.3135.

If the motorcycle was “reasonably parked” at the time that it sustained the damage, the motorcycle’s owner may make a claim for “property protection insurance benefits” from the insurer of the motor vehicle which caused the damage to the motorcycle. In such a situation, the motorcyclist is entitled to the cost of repair or replacement of the motorcycle, minus any depreciation, but with the addition of any value associated with the loss of use of the motorcycle. MCL 500.3121 and .3123.

Motorcyclists who are concerned about collision damage coverage should make sure to discuss such coverage with their insurer. In many cases, collision damage may be purchased by the motorcyclist as an extra option on their insurance plan.

Collision Damage to Motorcycles

Collision Coverage in a Motorcycle Accident

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