Patient dies after ambulance crash in Sterling Heights
A 36-year-old North Branch man died at a hospital after the ambulance carrying him rolled in a crash Sunday.
The Sterling Heights Police Department said the crash was reported about 6:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at Van Dyke Avenue and Metropolitan Parkway.
An initial investigation found that the ambulance was heading south on Van Dyke with its emergency lights and siren on. As it crossed the intersection, a Jeep Grand Cherokee hit the right side, causing the ambulance to roll over and land upright.
The ambulance carried the patient and two crew members. The crew member treating him in the rear suffered moderate injuries, and the Jeep driver had non-life-threatening injuries. Both were hospitalized. The ambulance driver was uninjured.
The crash remains under investigation. Anyone who witnessed it or has information is asked to contact Officer Porter with the department's Traffic Safety Bureau at 586-446-2920.
Michigan right-of-way rules for ambulances
Under MCL 257.653, drivers must yield to an approaching authorized emergency vehicle using the required emergency lights and siren. They must pull as close as possible to the right edge or curb, stay clear of the intersection and stop until the emergency vehicle passes, unless a police officer directs otherwise.
Ambulance drivers also have safety duties. An authorized ambulance responding to an emergency call may pass a red light or stop sign only after slowing as necessary for safe operation and using the required warning signals. According to the Michigan Judicial Institute's emergency-vehicle guidance, these privileges don't excuse careless driving.
Video can prove that warning lights were on, traffic signs were visible and show how the vehicles approached. Michigan Legal Center's explanation of preserving camera footage after a Michigan crash explains how to identify possible recordings and why a request for a copy may not prevent them from being overwritten.
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Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles car accident, serious injury and wrongful death claims.
If you were injured or lost a family member in an ambulance crash, contact Michigan Legal Center to discuss whether Michigan Legal Center can help.
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