Bicyclist killed in Missaukee County on Prosper Road
A 35-year-old Falmouth bicyclist died Saturday, Nov. 7, after being hit by a vehicle in Clam Union Township.
The Missaukee County Sheriff's Office said deputies were called about 6:09 p.m. to Prosper Road between Eight Mile and Nine Mile roads.
Sheriff Wil Yancer said preliminary findings showed the bicyclist and vehicle were both heading east when the vehicle hit the bicycle. The rider was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, a 59-year-old Falmouth resident, was not injured.
Investigators said the bicyclist was riding in the roadway after dark while wearing dark clothing. The bicycle had no lights.
Speed and alcohol do not appear to have been factors, the sheriff's office said. The Clam Union Township Fire Department assisted at the scene. The investigation is ongoing.
Bicycle lights and driver duties after dark in Michigan
Michigan law requires specific equipment for a bicycle ridden on a roadway from half an hour after sunset until half an hour before sunrise. Under MCL 257.662, the bicycle must have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 100 to 600 feet when illuminated by a vehicle's lawful low-beam headlights. A red rear light visible from 500 feet may be added, but it doesn't replace the required reflector.
Drivers also must travel at a careful, reasonable speed for the conditions and be able to stop within the clear distance ahead. Staying within the posted speed limit doesn't remove the duty to adjust for limited visibility.
Both a rider's equipment and a driver's conduct can matter when evaluating responsibility for a crash. Michigan Legal Center's explanation of bicycle and e-bike accident claims discusses how preserving the bicycle and other evidence can help establish what happened and whether a driver failed to use reasonable care.
Get help from Michigan Legal Center
Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles bicycle accident and wrongful death claims.
If you lost a loved one in a bicycle crash involving a motor vehicle, contact Michigan Legal Center to ask about a possible claim.
There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.