Montcalm County Car Accident
A Montcalm County car accident has claimed the life of a 14-year old girl from Gaylord. Sarah Guthrie was tragically killed when a car driven by her stepmother Doreen Guthrie crossed the centerline of M-66 near McBride Road and was hit by another vehicle on December 24, 2008. Doreen Guthrie was taken to Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus in Grand Rapids but was listed in stable condition as of December 26. Three other passengers, Lydia McCracken, 9, Gavin McCracken, 8, and Allie Steward, 4, were treated for minor injuries and released. The driver of the other car, Deborah Beach of Edmore, was also treated for injuries and released.
I am very sorry this accident occurred, especially during the holidays. I want to extend my sympathy to Sarah Guthrie’s family for their loss. I also hope that everyone has a full recovery.
In an accident like this, it is important to determine what claims may be brought so the victims can be compensated for their injuries. Both drivers and all of the passengers should submit a claim for No Fault insurance. In Michigan, this insurance is available regardless of fault and will cover lost wages and all reasonable and necessary medical expenses. That means the hospital bills of everyone involved in this accident should be covered by their insurance.
Since her injuries appear to be more severe, Doreen Guthrie may be able to collect additional benefits. For instance, if she is prevented from doing chores around the house due to her injuries, she can file for household replacement services. If she requires supervised care, she can collect a reasonable rate to pay a professional or a family member to provide this care. A lawyer could help her determine if it would be appropriate to claim these and other benefits.
Finally, because Sarah Guthrie died in the accident, her estate could file a No Fault survivor loss claim and it sue Doreen Guthrie for negligence and wrongful death. This lawsuit will be paid for and defended by Doreen’s insurance company so it does not matter that she and Sarah are related. However, the family should discuss this lawsuit with a lawyer, who can help them weigh the advantages and disadvantages of filing a lawsuit before they make their decision.
If you would like more information about your rights after a Michigan car accident, you can order our FREE book, “The Ultimate Michigan Car Accident Handbook” by clicking on the book link. We will send it out immediately along with other important information.
For more information about Michigan car accident cases, visit our law firm web site at www.BuckfireLaw.com. If you would like to speak with one of our Michigan car accident attorneys about your case, feel free to call us anytime at (800) 606-1717 or simply submit this contact form and we will get back to you quickly.
