In The News

Friday, February 13, 2015

Moving Violation Causing Death Dismissed; Ingham County Motor Vehicle Attorney William Livingston Gets Dismissal for a 1-point Civil Infraction in Delhi Township Fatal Motorcycle Accident

By Michael Nichols
Categories: Michael J. Nichols

The Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office recently dismissed a charge of Moving Violation Causing Death against a Jackson County man. He was facing a conviction with a 1 year maximum penalty and a 1 year "hard" suspension of his driver license. Instead, William Livingston (Bill), obtaiined a dismissal in exchange for an admission to a 1-pt civil infraction.

Livingston, originally from LIvingston County, negotiated the agreement by pushing the case to trial and thoroughly investigating the facts. "This case was tough but it also seemed that there was strong evidence that the unfortunate victim unfortunately drove well over the speed limit and there was nothing our client could do in light of his obstructed view at the intersection." Livingston joined the Nichols Law Firm of East Lansing in November, 2014.

The original charge, which carries a maximum penalty of up to 1-year imprisonment and a fine of up to $2,000, stemmed from an August 2013 motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Bishop Road and Waverly Road in Delhi Township. The driver who was charged was accused of pulling out in front of a motorcyclist who was travelling East on Bishop Road. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead shortly after the accident.

Livingston said "I found out that the intersection of Bishop and Waverly where the accident occurred is known by locals to be particularly dangerous." A combination of high speeds, a two-way stop, and a corner with limited lines of sight due to high vegetation have created a situation that leads to a high number of serious accidents. Livingston said “It is a very tragic case for all parties involved, especially the family of the deceased; but sometimes an accident is just that, and not every tragic incident requires severe punishment.”

Many people are charged with crimes stemming from motor vehicle accidents every year. If you need hope when it seems hopeless, call the team that is committed to results. Call The Nichols Law Firm at 517.432.9000.