Alcohol likely a factor in Flint crash that killed motorcyclist
A Fenton motorcyclist died after colliding with a car in Flint Township Monday afternoon.
The crash happened around 1:20 p.m. Monday, June 29 at the intersection of West Bristol Road and Bristolwood Drive in Flint Township, according to the Flint Township Police Department.
A 30-year-old Burton woman was speeding east on West Bristol Road when she crossed into oncoming traffic and hit the motorcycle traveling west on Bristol Road.
The motorcyclist, 69-year-old Gregory Green, of Fenton, was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died.
The Burton woman was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
The intersection was closed for several hours while investigators processed the crash scene. Police said the crash remains under investigation, but alcohol or drug impairment and speed are believed to be contributing factors.
Flint Township police were assisted by the Flint Township Fire Department, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police crash reconstruction team.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information is asked to contact Detective Lopez at 810-600-3250.
Legal options after a fatal Michigan motorcycle crash
When a Michigan motorcycle crash involves a car or other motor vehicle, the insurance analysis can be different from an ordinary car crash claim.
Michigan is a no-fault state, which means people injured in a motor vehicle crash may qualify for Personal Injury Protection benefits without first proving who caused the crash. Under MCL 500.3114, Michigan has specific priority rules for motorcycle operators or passengers injured in a crash involving a motor vehicle.
Recovering noneconomic losses usually requires a separate claim against an at-fault driver. That type of claim is generally available when the injuries involve death, serious impairment of body function or permanent serious disfigurement.
In fatal crash cases, Michigan’s wrongful death statute, MCL 600.2922, generally requires the claim to be brought by the personal representative of the estate.
For more background, read Michigan Legal Center’s guide on what to do after a motorcycle accident in Michigan and Michigan car accident medical bills and PIP priority.
Legal issues after a suspected impaired driving crash
Michigan’s operating while intoxicated statute, MCL 257.625, is the general legal framework for impaired driving cases. If prosecutors believe impaired driving caused a death, that can lead to serious criminal charges.
A criminal case and a civil injury or wrongful death claim are separate. A criminal charge focuses on whether the state can prove a crime. A civil claim focuses on compensation for losses caused by negligence, wrongful conduct or other legally actionable behavior.
In a crash like this, investigators may review toxicology results, speed evidence, lane position, witness statements, vehicle damage, crash scene measurements and reconstruction findings before reaching final conclusions.
Get help from Michigan Legal Center
Michigan Legal Center is the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates. Our attorneys help injured people and families across Michigan with personal injury, car crashes, no-fault claims, insurance disputes, serious injury claims and wrongful death cases.
If you or a loved one was injured in a Michigan car crash, call Michigan Legal Center at (248) 886-8650 or contact us for a consultation.
There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.
Michigan Legal Center can help you navigate the issues involved in claims such as this with Michigan car accident medical bills and PIP priority and Michigan wrongful death deadlines.