Schoolcraft County crash involving alcohol kills one dirt bike rider
A 33-year-old Germfask man died on Sunday after a dirt bike crash in Schoolcraft County.
According to Michigan State Police, they responded to a call at around 10:50 p.m. on M-77 near Grant Road in Germfask Township. The 33-year-old dirtbike rider was driving when he struck a legally parked pickup truck on the shoulder of the road.
Two nearby citizens attempted lifesaving efforts, EMS and responding troopers arrived at the scene and also attempted lifesaving efforts. The driver was pronounced dead while being transported to the hospital.
Police say that alcohol was believed to be a factor in the crash and the accident remains under investigation.
Legal options after an accident
Michigan is a no-fault state, which means that without having to determine whose fault an accident is, people injured in the crash may qualify for Personal Injury Protection benefits.
These benefits can help cover economic losses from the crash such as allowable medical expenses, wage loss, replacement services or attendant care.
Recovering noneconomic losses usually requires a separate claim against an at-fault driver. This would only be an option if the injuries meet the state’s threshold of serious impairment of body function, permanent serious disfigurement or death.
Legal Issues After a Dirt Bike Crash
Michigan law treats dirt bikes differently depending on where they are being operated. On public roads, most dirt bikes are not street legal unless they have been properly converted, registered, insured and equipped to meet Michigan vehicle laws. On trails, private property, and designated off-road areas, different rules may apply under Michigan's off-road vehicle (ORV) laws.
Fault in a dirt bike crash depends on the facts. Investigators may examine speed, rider experience, trail or roadway conditions, visibility, right-of-way, vehicle maintenance, alcohol or drug use, and whether any rider or driver violated traffic or ORV regulations.
Factors such as helmets, age restrictions, supervision of younger riders and where the dirt bike was being operated can become important when determining liability.
Michigan no-fault insurance laws, third-party negligence claims and wrongful death rules may be relevant if the crash involved a motor vehicle.
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.