Riding a motorcycle is a fun and exhilarating experience for both the young and the old. Many youngsters ride at full speed, oblivious to the danger ahead, while the not-so-young, including the retirees, take their time traversing the roads. Regardless of the age of the rider, a motorcycle is synonymous with strength and masculinity.
But are motorcycle riders aware of the complicated insurance policy affecting payments to victims of a motorcycle accident? Does Medicare cover motorcycle accidents in Michigan? If you or a loved one ride a motorbike, it’s best to know the legal rights and responsibilities involved.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Michigan
In 2019, there were 261,048 motorcycle registrations in Michigan. Unfortunately, there were about 2,809 motorcyclists or 1.12% involved in crashes. This number includes 120 fatal motorcyclist crashes and 2,047 injury crashes.
According to NHTSA, motorcyclists were 28 times more likely than passengers of vehicles to be killed in traffic crashes in 2018 and 27 times more likely in 2017.
Motorcycle Insurance in Michigan Under the New No-Fault Law
Motorcycle insurance is a requirement in Michigan. Starting July 1, 2020, there were substantial changes in the following areas:
- Motorcyclists injured in a crash with another vehicle will be entitled to the No-Fault benefits from the medical benefits coverage level chosen by the motorists involved in the accident.
- If No-Fault benefits are not available for the injured motorcyclist, he can claim the PIP benefits and be subject to a $250,000 limit set by the new auto No-Fault law.
- Injured motorcyclists who get limited No-Fault benefits by provisions under the new No-Fault law can now sue the at-fault driver of the other vehicle to recover excess medical coverage.
- The mandatory minimum limits on motorcyclists’ liability coverage will increase from $20,000/$40,000 to $50,000/$100,000 starting July 2, 2020.
Therefore, the existing No-Fault benefits coverage of the injured motorcyclist does not matter anymore. They will derive their benefits from the No-Fault policy chosen by the at-fault party. This makes many motorcyclists worry about running out of insurance coverage.
What Is Medicare and What Are Its Benefits For Injured Motorcyclists?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed to cover individuals age 65 and above. About 2.1 million residents benefit from Medicare in Michigan.
If you have Medicare, the coverage may pay for medical expenses caused by a motorcycle crash. But be well-informed about the limitations. Read on to find out more.
Does Medicare Cover Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan?
It is necessary to familiarize oneself with Medicare-eligible services vis-à-vis motorcycle accidents.
Medicare covers motorcycle accidents in Michigan, subject to certain conditions, such as:
- In motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle, another source of payment should pay first. A good example would be benefits covered by a No-Fault Insurance Policy.
- The motorcyclist has no other health insurance policy.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) medical benefits are limited or not available.
- The bills for Medicare-eligible services exceed the PIP medical coverage limits.
- Medicare is entitled to a reimbursement in cases where the recipient obtains court settlement from a third party like a defendant or an insurance company.
Notice that in addition to co-pays and deductibles, the injured person will shoulder the cost of services not covered by Medicare.
Does Medicare Cover The Same Services as Michigan No-Fault Insurance?
Medicare-covered services are different from the services covered under Michigan No-Fault insurance. Medicare only pays for its eligible services.
The Michigan No-Fault insurance covers most of the costly items and services. It also includes reimbursement of lost wages, replacement services, and survivor’s loss benefits. Therefore, it is best for Medicare recipients not to limit or forego their PIP medical benefits.
Do I Have To Reimburse Medicare For My Medical Bills?
As mentioned earlier, Medicare is entitled to reimbursement should the recipient win in his motorcycle accident case against the at-fault driver.
Get Your Free Legal Consultation with Our Highly Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers.
Do you need legal counsel in recovering damages from your motorcycle accident? Were you personally involved in a motorcycle accident? Or do you know someone who needs legal representation?
Our successful trial attorneys will assess your case and will explain the intricacies of Medicare lien and the proper way to handle them. We will help you recover compensation and damages brought about by the motorcycle accident that involves you or a loved on.
At The Clark Law Office, you will not be required to pay unless you win the case. Give us a call at (517)-347-6900 or email us at info@theclarklawoffice.com to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/medicare/medicare-plans-michigan
https://www.motorcyclelawyermichigan.com/Does-Medicare-Cover-Michigan-Motorcycle-Accidents
https://www.alllaw.com/articles/nolo/personal-injury/paying-back-medicare-after-win-case.html
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/motorcyclist-insurance-in-michigan-58313/
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