Union City woman dies in Branch County ATV crash
A 26-year-old Union City woman died Friday night after an ATV crash in Union Township, Michigan State Police said.
Troopers from the MSP Marshall Post said preliminary information indicates the woman was traveling west on Sullivan Road near Braucker Road about 9 p.m. Aug. 14 when she lost control after passing another vehicle. The ATV left the road and struck a tree.
First responders administered life-saving measures, but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. MSP said she was not wearing a helmet and alcohol is believed to have been a factor.
The Union City Fire Department and Life Care EMS assisted at the scene. The investigation remains ongoing.
Michigan ORV helmet and alcohol rules
Michigan law generally requires off-road vehicle operators and passengers to wear a Department of Transportation-approved crash helmet and protective eyewear, subject to limited exceptions in MCL 324.81133.
A separate law prohibits operating an off-road vehicle while intoxicated, with an unlawful alcohol level or while visibly impaired by alcohol or controlled substances. MCL 324.81134 sets those rules. A reported safety issue or suspected impairment does not by itself determine the cause of a crash or civil liability.
Fatal crashes and wrongful death claims in Michigan
Michigan’s Wrongful Death Act permits a lawsuit when a death results from another person’s wrongful act, neglect or fault. The action must be brought by the estate’s personal representative under MCL 600.2922. A fatal crash alone does not establish that such a claim exists.
Michigan Legal Center’s guide to Michigan wrongful death deadlines explains that the applicable deadline depends on the underlying claim and possible defendants.
Get help from Michigan Legal Center
Michigan Legal Center is the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates. Its practice areas include personal injury and wrongful death matters. After a fatal crash, Contact Michigan Legal Center to ask whether the matter falls within Michigan Legal Center’s practice areas.
There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.