A head-on collision happens when the front ends of two cars, motorcycles, trucks, and other vehicles collide with each other in opposite directions. This type of collision falls under the category of crashes called lane-departure or road-departure crashes. This is because the causes are similar, even if the consequences are different. In both, the driver is not able to stay centered in their correct lane. Instead, they either leave the roadway or cross the center-line which will most likely result in a collision.  Navigating the legal system after a motorcycle accident is easier with a dedicated attorney by your side.

The consequences of a head-on collision are more drastic for a motorcycle rider because they are not protected by anything other than their helmets, unlike a vehicle driver. This fact alone puts them in more danger. The state of Michigan recognizes this and acknowledges that the visibility of motorcycles is a primary concern when it comes to motorcycle crashes. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation enumerated the following items as helpful in clearly identifying motorcyclists on the road:

  • Light-colored helmets
  • Light-colored eye protection
  • High visibility clothing, often brightly colored
  • Thick protective clothing (ex. leather clothing)
  • Long sleeve shirt
  • Pants
  • Over-the-ankle boots
  • Protective gloves

One must be prepared and must be extra careful when driving a motorcycle because a crash will most likely result in cuts, lacerations, broken bones, other common injuries, or worse, death.

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Motorcycle Collision Statistics in Michigan

According to the Michigan Traffic Crash Facts website, 2,964 motorcycles were involved in crashes last 2017. While this number has declined (from 3,384 in 2016), this is still a significant number to consider especially since 137 of these crashes result in the death of the motorcyclist. According to the police reports, in 117 or 85.4 percent of the 137 fatalities, the motorcycle driver was riding straight ahead before the crash, often entering or approaching dangerous intersections where visibility or driver awareness was limited.

Furthermore, 42 of the 137 deaths were due to a had-been-drinking accident while 38 of the fatalities had drivers identified as drinking before the crash. Majority of the accidents led to an injured motorcyclist (2,238). In fact, the same study notes that five in every 10,000 motorcycle registrations will end up in a fatality. In other words, motorcycles were involved in 0.9 percent of all traffic crashes in Michigan back in 2017.

To help ensure the safety of motorcycle riders, the Michigan Vehicle Code Public Act 300 of 1949 was enacted in 1969. This requires all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet to help protect them from an unfortunate incident such as a crash. However, on April 13, 2012, the state of Michigan changed this helmet law from a universal one to a partial helmet law instead. The updated law allowed some certified Michigan riders to go on a motorcycle without a helmet provided that they are over 21 and are carrying additional insurance. Looking at the statistics, among the 137 fatalities in 2017, 72 motorcyclists were wore their helmets, while 59 motorcyclists did not wear their helmets at all. A study done by the Wayne State University in 2013 identified statewide helmet use at 73 percent while high-visibility gear usage was at 5.6 percent only.

Possible Causes of a Head-On Crash

When it comes to a head-on crash, the following are some common situations that can cause it:

  • A drunk driver running a traffic signal
  • An intoxicated driver driving on the wrong side of the road before the crash
  • A tired vehicle driver (car or truck) who suddenly changes direction across the centerline of the road or highway. This can lead to crashing into the front of your vehicle.
  • A distracted driver who is by his/her cellphone or other mobile devices. He/she may lose control of his vehicle, which can then cause a head-on accident.
  • A driver who is recklessly handling his/her vehicle. He/she may lose control of his/her car while making a left-hand turn or over-correcting a turn. This can lead to him/her crashing head on to your motorcycle.

Whatever the cause of the accident may be, it’s crucial to contact an expert motorcycle accident lawyer in Michigan who can help protect your rights in such situations.

Why Head-On Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous

There’s no such thing as a minor head-on collision when a motorcycle is involved. These crashes often happen at high speeds and leave riders with little time or no room to avoid impact. With no barrier between the rider and the vehicle, even a split-second mistake by a negligent driver can lead to catastrophic or fatal injuries.

Most head-on motorcycle accidents are not caused by reckless riders, but by distracted, impaired, or careless drivers who cross into oncoming lanes. In many cases, these drivers are making improper left turns into the path of an oncoming motorcycle, especially at intersections or while trying to beat a light. Two-lane highways, rural roads, and blind curves are also common locations where these devastating crashes occur. The table below outlines the leading causes of head-on motorcycle collisions and why they’re so often life-altering:

🚧 Cause of Collision🛣️ How It Typically Happens⚠️ Why It’s So Dangerous
💤 Distracted or drowsy driversMotorist drifts over centerlineRider has no time or space to react
🛑 Improper passing on two-lane roadsCar swerves into oncoming motorcycleFull-speed impact at combined velocity
🚀 Speeding or reckless drivingDriver loses control on curves or hillsIncreased force of impact on contact
🍺 Driving under the influenceImpaired judgment leads to wrong-lane entryHigh likelihood of fatal or severe injury

Get in Touch with Expert Accident Attorneys in Michigan

When it comes to a head-on collision, the first thing you need to consider is your health. Once everything is stable, the best thing to do is to get in touch with a top-rated lawyer who has experience in dealing with these types of situations. The Clark Law Office is your best option in Michigan. We have won millions for our clients across the state. We guarantee the same hard work and dedication when we deal with your case. Call us at (517) 347-6900 for a free consultation.

🔗 Browse the full range of wreck scenarios in our Motorcycle Crash Categories article.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Head-On Collisions

Who is usually at fault in a head-on motorcycle crash?

In most cases, the driver of the car or truck is at fault—often due to distracted driving, improper passing, or drifting into the wrong lane. Motorcyclists are rarely to blame, even if they had to react quickly to avoid a crash.

Can I sue if a driver crossed the centerline and hit me?

Yes. If a negligent driver entered your lane and caused a head-on collision, you can file a personal injury lawsuit for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

What if the other driver died in the crash—can I still make a claim?

Yes. Even if the at-fault driver was killed, you can still file a claim against their auto insurance policy or their estate. These are sensitive cases but still legally valid.

Are head-on motorcycle crashes more likely to be fatal?

Absolutely. These accidents involve high-speed, direct impact and offer little protection for the rider. The fatality rate in head-on motorcycle collisions is significantly higher than other crash types.

Do I need a lawyer after a head-on motorcycle accident?

Yes. These cases often involve severe injuries, long-term medical care, and contested liability. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help protect your rights and fight for full compensation.

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