Passenger critically injured in Battle Creek rollover crash
A 26-year-old passenger was hospitalized in critical condition after a vehicle rolled over and hit a telephone pole in Battle Creek.
The Battle Creek Police Department said emergency crews were sent to West Michigan Avenue and North 20th Street at 4:49 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 31.
The vehicle left the road before overturning and hitting the pole. Firefighters freed the passenger, a Battle Creek man who was trapped inside, and LifeCare Ambulance took him to a local hospital.
Police identified the driver as an 18-year-old Battle Creek man. Investigators believe alcohol may have contributed and expect to pursue charges. The department's Accident Reconstruction Team is investigating.
Passenger claims after a crash involving suspected drunk driving
A passenger may have an injury claim against their own driver if the driver's negligence caused their injuries, an option discussed in Michigan Legal Center's guide to passenger injury claims after a Michigan car accident. Suspected alcohol use alone doesn't establish civil liability.
An injured passenger seeking pain and suffering damages generally must show a serious impairment of body function or permanent serious disfigurement under MCL 500.3135. A serious impairment must be observable or perceivable by someone other than the injured person, affect an important body function and affect the person's general ability to lead their normal life.
Separately, an eligible passenger may receive personal injury protection benefits for medical care and part of their lost income regardless of who caused the crash. Coverage limits and exclusions can affect what's payable.
Get help from Michigan Legal Center
Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles car accident injury claims and no-fault insurance disputes.
Contact Michigan Legal Center to ask about possible benefits and injury claims after being hurt as a passenger in a Michigan car crash.
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's car accident claims services include help with no-fault benefits and claims against at-fault drivers.