Multiple crashes including at least one fatal crash close lanes on U.S. 131 and M-6 Wednesday
Multiple crashes including at least one fatal crash close lanes on U.S. 131 and M-6 Wednesday morning, July 1.
According to Michigan State Police, a fatal crash on U.S. 131 at M-6 caused lane and ramp closures and a separate four-vehicle crash on westbound M-6 east of Byron Center Avenue caused additional closures.
State police said multiple lanes and ramps were closed for investigation and cleanup. Drivers were asked to avoid the area, find another route and expect significant delays. Lanes have since reopened after police investigated and crews cleared the scene.
Police have not said what led to the crashes. Additional information is expected later Wednesday.
Legal options after a fatal Michigan highway crash
Michigan is a no-fault state, which means people injured in motor-vehicle crashes may qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits without first proving who caused the crash.
PIP benefits can help cover economic losses from the crash such as allowable medical expenses, wage loss, replacement services or attendant care.
A separate claim for noneconomic losses usually requires a claim against an at-fault driver. That type of claim may be available when injuries involve death, serious impairment of body function or permanent serious disfigurement.
When multiple crashes are involved, fault can be more difficult to determine and may lie with multiple different people.
Michigan's wrongful death statute, MCL 600.2922, generally requires fatal crash claims to be filed by the personal representative of the estate. Potential damages can include medical, hospital, funeral and burial expenses, conscious pain and suffering, loss of financial support and loss of society and companionship.
Under MCL 257.627, drivers generally need to travel at a careful and prudent speed for current road conditions and be able to stop within the assured clear distance ahead.
For more background, read Michigan Legal Center's guide to Michigan car accident medical bills and PIP priority and Michigan wrongful death deadlines.
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.