E-Bike Rider in Ferndale Killed in Truck Crash
An accident on Woodward Avenue killed one person when a truck collided with an e-bike rider.
The Ferndale Police Department responded to the crash at around 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 18 in Oakland County near College Street.
Witnesses reported seeing an Oakland County Road Commission vehicle strike the cyclist while they were riding in the bike lane in front of the vacant Tim Horton’s.
“We were very saddened to learn of the crash involving one of our drivers and a bicyclist,” said a statement from the road commission. “Our hearts go out to both the family of the cyclist and to our driver. We are currently investigating the situation and have no further information at this point.”
The intersection remains closed as the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office investigates.
Commercial Vehicle Crashes
Commercial vehicles, like most road vehicles, are also subject to federal motor carrier safety regulations. Violating these regulations may support a negligence claim that would not be relevant in non-commercial crashes.
Liability could also possibly land on the motor carrier itself in cases involving:
- vicarious liability for the driver’s negligence while working
- negligent hiring, retention, training or supervision
- pressuring the driver to violate hours-of-service rules
- poor maintenance practices
- failure to inspect or repair known defects
- unsafe scheduling or dispatch
- failure to preserve safety records after the crash
Legal Issues After an E-Bike Crash
Michigan law gives bicycle and electric-bicycle riders many of the same road rights and duties that apply to other vehicle operators. Drivers must use reasonable care around riders, and Michigan law requires motorists passing a bicycle to leave at least three feet of space when safe to do so.
Fault in an e-bike crash depends on the facts. Investigators may look at speed, lighting, visibility, lane position, traffic controls, driver conduct and whether either person violated traffic laws.
Michigan law also separates electric bikes into Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 categories. Those classifications can matter if there are questions about the bike's speed, equipment, where it was being operated or whether it had been modified.
Because this crash involved a motor vehicle, Michigan no-fault and wrongful death rules may also be relevant.
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, including Michigan car accident medical bills, PIP priority and Michigan wrongful death deadlines.