Six Hurt in Southwest Michigan SUV–Amish Buggy Crash
Six Hurt in Southwest Michigan SUV–Amish Buggy Crash has left a close-knit community reeling after a devastating accident Friday evening in Bloomingdale Township, Van Buren County. According to the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 7:45 p.m. along County Road 388 when a sport utility vehicle traveling westbound slammed into the back of an Amish horse-drawn buggy heading in the same direction.
Authorities reported that all six buggy occupants were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Four suffered serious injuries, while one victim was listed in critical condition. The severity of the injuries prompted multiple ambulances to respond to the scene. Emergency crews from Bloomingdale Fire, Columbia Fire, LIFE EMS, and Van Buren EMS worked alongside sheriff’s deputies to provide urgent care and transport the victims.
Investigators quickly determined that both speed and alcohol impairment were contributing factors. The SUV’s driver was arrested on suspicion of operating while intoxicated, causing serious injury, and booked into the Van Buren County Jail. The crash forced County Road 388 to close for nearly four hours as first responders cleared the wreckage and gathered evidence.
The tragic nature of this accident highlights the vulnerability of Amish buggy riders, who share rural roadways with modern motor vehicles but have little protection in a collision. The impact from an SUV traveling at high speed can cause life-altering injuries—particularly when alcohol is involved.
Compensation at Stake for Victims
Victims in cases like this may be entitled to significant compensation under Michigan law. This can include coverage for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, future rehabilitation costs, and, in severe cases, long-term disability support. Because one victim is in critical condition, the potential damages could extend to lifelong medical care, loss of earning capacity, and emotional trauma. Families may also seek compensation for the costs of modifying homes or vehicles to accommodate permanent injuries.
When an intoxicated driver is at fault, Michigan law allows victims to pursue both compensatory and punitive damages to hold the driver fully accountable. Insurance companies often attempt to settle quickly, but these early offers may not reflect the full extent of the victims’ losses—especially when future care needs are considered.
How We Can Help
At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of such a catastrophic crash can be. Our legal team is committed to standing by injured victims and their families from the very first day. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the crash, collect medical records and witness statements, and work with accident reconstruction experts to prove liability.
We also negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to ensure our clients receive the maximum possible compensation—not just for immediate bills, but for the long-term consequences of the injury. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take the case to court to fight for justice.
When someone’s reckless decision to drink and drive shatters lives, we believe they must be held accountable. By working with us, victims and their families can focus on healing while we handle every aspect of the legal battle.
Call us for a free and confidential case evaluation. We are available by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
