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The loss of a loved one is a devastating experience. This is especially true if their untimely passing was caused by the reckless, careless, or malicious actions of another person.

If your loved one was killed in a cycling collision, the notion of pursuing legal action might seem daunting. However, by working with a lawyer who has experience handling Michigan fatal bicycle accident claims, you could have help with each step.

Causes of Deadly Cycling Incidents

Unfortunately, deadly cycling accidents can happen anywhere in Michigan, from busy streets to backroads. While some of these incidents are due to a simple mistake, others are the result of another person, business, or entities negligence. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Negligent drivers—such as those who were intoxicated, distracted, or otherwise reckless
  • Hazardous road conditions
  • Reckless motorcyclists
  • Truck collisions

When these or other circumstances lead to a fatal bicycle accident in Michigan, the decedent’s surviving family members might be able to file a wrongful death claim to pursue compensation. However, determining fault for a claim is often a complex legal process that could be explained by a well-practiced lawyer at Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C.

Deadly Bike Accidents at Night

The bar chart below shows the number of crashes bicyclists were involved in 2018 for different types of lighting conditions in descending order.

As expected, daylight accidents are more common than all other lighting conditions combined. The safest time to ride your bike would be early in the morning to avoid any crashes with an automobile.

Bicycle accidents lighting conditions chart - Buckfire Law

  • Daylight: 1,147
  • Dark Lighted: 209
  • Dark Unlighted: 97
  • Dusk: 59
  • Dawn: 29
  • Unknown: 17

Pursuing a Lawsuit After a Fatal Bicycle Crash

To pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against a negligent person, business, or entity for a fatal bicycle accident, a person must be named the personal representative of the decedent’s estate. If one is not listed in the deceased’s will, the Court will appoint one. Usually, this is left to the surviving spouse or children of the deceased—however, parents, grandparents, siblings, or anyone who was granted property through the decedent’s will might also be named.

During a claim, a number of damages can be requested; including funeral and burial expenses, loss of support, hospital bills, and pain and suffering endured by the decedent’s surviving family members, among others. A compassionate lawyer could help to calculate the full extent of a claimant’s losses following the loss of their loved one in a Michigan fatal bicycle accident.

What is the Statute of Limitations in Michigan?

It is important for anyone looking to file a claim on behalf of their loved one after a fatal bicycle accident to understand the statute of limitations in Michigan. According to Michigan Compiled Laws Section 600.5805, surviving family members have three years from the date of their loved one’s passing to pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit.

While exceptions might exist for this timeframe, it is advisable that a claim be filed as soon as possible. Although taking legal action might be difficult for a grieving family, the sooner a claim is filed, the easier it might be to preserve evidence and pursue a claim that satisfies the statute of limitations in Michigan.

Seek Legal Counsel for a Michigan Fatal Bicycle Accident Claim

If your loved one was killed in a fatal bicycle accident in Michigan, you might benefit from reaching out to a skilled and caring lawyer for help. While no amount of compensation can undo this tragedy, a successful claim might help to ease your financial burden and allow you to focus on spending time with your family during this difficult time. Whenever you feel ready, reach out to a legal professional at Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C.

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