A disturbing hit-and-run incident has shaken our community, leaving a 65-year-old motorcyclist from Auburn Hills with serious injuries. The crash, which occurred on Thursday in Bloomfield Township, serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by motorcyclists and the devastating impact of hit-and-run accidents.
The victim, a seasoned rider with decades of experience, now faces a challenging road to recovery due to the reckless actions of a driver who fled the scene.
This incident highlights several critical issues that demand our attention:
- Motorcycle Safety for Older Riders As our population ages, we’re seeing more older motorcyclists on the road. While experience is invaluable, it’s crucial to recognize that reflexes and physical resilience may change with age. This incident underscores the importance of ongoing safety education and awareness for riders of all ages.
- The Scourge of Hit-and-Run Accidents Leaving the scene of an accident is not only morally reprehensible but also a serious crime. In Michigan, fleeing the scene of an accident resulting in serious injury can lead to felony charges, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. The driver’s decision to flee has compounded the victim’s trauma and complicated the path to justice.
- Community Responsibility As a community, we all play a role in road safety and in bringing those responsible for such acts to justice. If you witnessed this incident or have any information, please contact the Bloomfield Township Police Department immediately.
Steps to Take if You Witness a Hit-and-Run:
If you witness a hit-and-run accident, your quick action can be crucial in helping the victim and aiding law enforcement. First, ensure your safety and call 911 immediately to report the incident and request medical assistance if needed. Try to memorize or quickly jot down the fleeing vehicle’s license plate number, make model, and colour. Note the direction in which the vehicle fled. Check on the victim if it’s safe to do so, but avoid moving them unless they’re in immediate danger.
Gather as much information about the accident as possible, including the exact location, time, and any distinguishing features of the driver you may have noticed. Take photos or videos of the scene if you can do so safely. Stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives and provide them with your contact information and all the details you’ve gathered. Your eyewitness account can be invaluable in helping the victim seek justice and compensation. Remember, reporting a hit-and-run is not just helpful—it’s often a legal obligation.
- Call 911 immediately
- Try to remember details about the fleeing vehicle (make, model, colour, license plate)
- Check on the victim if it’s safe to do so, but don’t move them unless they’re in immediate danger
- Provide your contact information to law enforcement as a witness
For Motorcyclists: While we can’t control the actions of others, there are steps riders can take to enhance their safety:
- Always wear proper safety gear, including a DOT-approved helmet
- Increase visibility with reflective clothing and always use headlights
- Ride defensively, assuming that other drivers may not see you
- Consider taking refresher safety courses, especially if you’re an older rider
If You’re Involved in a Hit-and-Run:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly minor injuries
- Report the incident to the police as soon as possible
- Document everything you can remember about the accident and your injuries
- Contact your insurance company, but avoid detailed statements until you’ve consulted an attorney
- Consider reaching out to a personal injury attorney experienced in motorcycle accidents and hit-and-run cases
An experienced attorney can help navigate the complexities of hit-and-run cases, including:
- Investigating the incident and potentially identifying the fleeing driver
- Dealing with insurance companies, including your uninsured motorist coverage
- Ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Protecting your rights throughout the legal process
To the driver who fled, it’s not too late to do the right thing. Turn yourself into law enforcement. The consequences of fleeing are far more severe than those of staying at the scene and taking responsibility. To our injured motorcyclist, our thoughts are with you for a full and speedy recovery. Know that the community stands with you, and there are resources available to help you through this challenging time.
“My heart goes out to the 65-year-old motorcyclist from Auburn Hills who suffered serious injuries in this hit-and-run crash. As an attorney who’s represented many victims of such accidents, I understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll this can take. If you or a loved one have been injured in a similar incident, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights. Seek immediate medical attention, report the incident to the police, and document everything you can. Don’t face insurance companies alone – they often try to minimize compensation. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can investigate the crash, potentially identify the fleeing driver, and fight for the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Remember, you’re not just a statistic – you’re a person who deserves justice and support during this challenging time. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation to understand your options and ensure your rights are protected.” Andy Gillin, GJEL Car Accidents Attorney
This hit-and-run incident serves as a sombre reminder of the importance of road safety and the responsibility we all share to look out for one another on the roads. Let’s work together to create a safer environment for all road users, particularly our more vulnerable motorcyclists, and to foster a culture of accountability and compassion.
As personal injury attorneys, we at GJEL have seen firsthand the devastating impact of fatal hit-and-run accidents on families and communities. While legal action cannot bring back a loved one, it can help families cope with the financial burdens that often follow such tragedies.
Fatal hit-and-run accident settlement calculators can also provide an estimated range for the potential settlement based on the deceased’s age, income, dependents, and the circumstances of the accident. However, viewing the calculator’s results as a rough estimate rather than a definitive valuation of your claim is crucial. Talk to an experienced GJEL Accident Attorney and visit our Richmond office or contact us at +1 415-986-4777 for a free legal consultation.
Remember, if you have any information about this hit-and-run incident, please contact the Bloomfield Township Police at https://bloomfieldtwp.org/police/. Your tip could be crucial in bringing the responsible party to justice and providing closure for the victim and their family.
Stay safe on the roads, and always remember: if you’re involved in an accident, stopping to render aid isn’t just the law – it’s a moral imperative that could save a life.
Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.