Police identify truck in Zeeland bicycle hit-and-run

The Zeeland Police Department has identified the pickup involved in a hit-and-run that injured a 12-year-old bicyclist. The driver is cooperating with investigators.

Police announced the update Wednesday, Oct. 21. The crash happened about 7:05 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at North State Street and West Roosevelt Avenue. The boy was riding to school.

Police said he stopped and waited at the crosswalk before heading west across State Street. A pickup turned north from Roosevelt Avenue in front of him, and he hit the truck's passenger side as the driver continued north.

He was taken by ambulance to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. His parents said he needed more than 100 stitches after a bicycle pedal injured his leg.

Main Street Bicycle Company in downtown Zeeland is collecting donations to replace his damaged bike. Owner Aaron Schutter said residents have called and stopped by to contribute or ask how to help.

“It's a small community. A lot of people know each other and just want to help,” Schutter said.

Anyone with information can contact the Zeeland Police Department at 616-772-9125.

Who pays medical bills after a Michigan bicycle crash?

Michigan no-fault personal injury protection benefits may pay reasonable charges for reasonably necessary medical care after a bicyclist is injured in a crash involving a motor vehicle. Payment doesn't depend on proving that the driver was at fault, but the rider must qualify for benefits.

A child may qualify through a parent's policy. Coverage selections and exclusions can affect payment. Michigan Legal Center explains how these insurance questions affect Michigan bicycle and e-bike accident claims.

If no applicable policy is available, MCL 500.3115 directs people injured outside a motor vehicle to the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan, subject to eligibility requirements. For an injured child, a parent or guardian can ask an attorney to identify the proper insurer or determine whether an assigned claim is available.

Get help from Michigan Legal Center

Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles bicycle accident injuries and no-fault insurance claims.

If your child was injured in a bicycle crash involving a motor vehicle, Contact Michigan Legal Center to ask whether Michigan Legal Center can help with the insurance and injury claims.

There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.