Michigan Pedestrian-Auto Accidents & Proving Negligence

Pedestrian-auto accidents in Michigan are not uncommon. In fact, in 2013 there were 2,392 pedestrians involved in motor vehicle crashes, with 149 pedestrians killed and 1,941 severely injured (Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, Publication: Michigan Pedestrian Crashes)

Other 2013 Michigan pedestrian accident statistics include:

• The age group with the highest percentage of pedestrians injured was 21-34 years with 23.6%, followed by 35-54 years with 23.4%, and 11-20 years with 23.0%.
• The age group with the highest percentage of pedestrians killed was 35-54 years with 35.6%, followed by 55 and over with 28.2%, and 21-34 years with 24.2%.
• The three most common actions a pedestrian was taking before being hit by a car included (1) Crossing at an intersection (727 pedestrians); (2) crossing not at an intersection (599 pedestrians); (3) in roadway with traffic (245 pedestrians).

Typically, pedestrian-auto accidents occur because the driver failed to follow the rules of the road and exercise reasonable care. When a driver does not exercise reasonable care they are considered negligent. A driver who may have operated negligently in a pedestrian-car accident may have been doing one or more of the following:

• Driving with distractions (i.e. eating, talking on the phone, texting, etc.)
• Speeding
• Failing to yield the right of way
• Disobeying traffic signals or signs
• Failing to signal when turning
• Disregarding weather or traffic conditions
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

In many cases, it may seem obvious who was at fault for the crash; however Michigan courts will look at numerous factors from the incident to determine who was negligent and cause for the collision. For this reason it is important that if you or your family was involved in a Michigan pedestrian-car accident that you contact an experienced attorney immediately to discuss your rights. It is also important that you do not make any statements to the driver or insurance adjuster until you consult with an attorney. Insurance adjusters will look for a way to find you at fault for the accident and therefore not responsible for compensation of your injuries. Making a wrong statement could be detrimental to your claim and cause you to lose out on collecting compensation for your injuries.

At the law firm of Goodman Acker, P.C. our Michigan pedestrian accident lawyers have over 30 years of experience helping pedestrians injured and families of those killed as a result of a motor vehicle accident. We will not only be able to help you collect compensation for your injuries or the loss of a loved one, but because Michigan is a no-fault state, help you apply and collect for any no-fault insurance benefit you may be entitled to from the insurance companies. No-fault benefits could include anything from lost wages, attendant care services (in-home nursing care), medical bill reimbursement, household modifications, survivor loss benefits, and more.

For more information on what our Goodman Acker attorneys can do for you, call our law firm office today at (248) 793-2010. We will start investigating your claim immediately and ensure your rights are being protected under Michigan law. We offer afree, no obligation case review where we will answer all of your questions and explain your rights to you. Best of all, should you need our legal representation, our Michigan pedestrian accident attorneys offer atrusted no win no fee promise, which means there are no legal fees or costs to you whatsoever until you receive a settlement or recover. Call now to learn your rights!