Motorcycle Crash in Macomb Leaves the Rider Dead

Brandon Kuzminski was riding his 2009 yellow Honda motorcycle south down Romeo Plank Road in Macomb. Just before 10am, as he was crossing an intersection, he crashed head-on with a 2000 Dodge Ram van that was driven by a 36-year old man from Harrison Township.

The van made a left turn, and allegedly failed to yield to the motorcycle’s right of way.

Kuzminski was wearing his helmet and not under the influence of either drugs or alcohol.

This is a grim reminder that drivers need to look out for motorcycles and respect their vulnerability on Michigan’s roadways. Approximately 50,000-100,000 motorcycle accidents are reported annually in the United States. In an effort to reduce those numbers, we want to remind drivers to use the utmost caution while driving by and around motorcycles.

While Kuzminski was wearing a helmet, Michigan law no longer requires it.

As a driver, if you:

• Are at least 20 years old;
• Have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits.
• Have held a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years, or have passed an approved motorcycle safety course.

Then you do not have to wear a helmet while riding on Michigan’s roadways.

The law also extends to passengers:

As a passenger, if you:

Are at least 21-years old.

Have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits insurance in addition to the insurance that is required of the motorcycle operator.

Then you can also ride without having to wear a helmet.

Anyone younger than 21 years old is still required to wear a helmet as a passenger or driver.

Michigan riders often choose not to wear helmets:

• As a freedom of expression
• To feel the wind in their hair
• As a matter of right
• For comfort

We want to remind all drivers and motorcycle riders to be safe on Michigan’s roads. We encourage all riders to wear helmets, but we also respect their decision not to. And remember, if you or your family has been injured as a result of a motorcycle injury, then you are entitled to collect against the person that harmed you.