Woman killed, three teens injured in Summit Township crash

A 32-year-old woman died and three teenagers were injured when a Jeep hit a tree early Sunday in Summit Township.

Michigan State Police Jackson Post troopers said they attempted to stop a white Jeep Patriot around 3:50 a.m. Oct. 18 near West Michigan Avenue and 24th Street. The driver fled south on 24th Street, but troopers did not pursue him.

Moments later, Jackson 911 received an iPhone crash notification near 24th and Morrell streets. Troopers found the Jeep crashed into a tree. Their preliminary investigation indicated that the 17-year-old driver, from Jackson, was speeding and failed to stop at the Morrell Street intersection before the crash.

The woman, a passenger from Hanover, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and an 18-year-old woman from Hanover were taken to Henry Ford Hospital in critical condition. A 16-year-old boy from Jackson was taken there with non-life-threatening injuries.

State police said they believe alcohol and speed were factors in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

Civil claims after a suspected impaired-driving crash

An injured person doesn't need a criminal conviction to pursue a civil claim against a driver. Criminal and civil cases use different standards of proof, so an acquittal doesn't automatically prevent a civil lawsuit based on the same conduct. The person bringing the claim still must prove the driver's negligence caused the injury and establish the losses being claimed.

A civil claim seeks compensation separately from a criminal prosecution, as Michigan Legal Center explains in its discussion of civil claims after a drunk-driving crash. Under MCL 500.3135, recovery for pain and suffering after a motor vehicle crash requires death, serious impairment of body function or permanent serious disfigurement. Suspected alcohol use alone doesn't establish civil liability or guarantee recovery.

Get help from Michigan Legal Center

Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles serious car accident injuries and wrongful death claims.

If you were injured or lost a family member in a Michigan car crash, Contact Michigan Legal Center to ask about your legal options.

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 explains the types of help available for injured drivers and passengers through its Michigan car accident claims information.