Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor Serving West Michigan and Washtenaw County

Pedestrian Accidents in Michigan: Legal Rights and Compensation for Injury Victims

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on Michigan roads and walkways. Whether walking through downtown Grand Rapids or Ann Arbor, crossing at an intersection, or jogging along a sidewalk, pedestrians face serious risks when drivers fail to yield, speed, or drive distracted.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Attorney Aaron Israels helps West Michigan and Washtenaw County pedestrian accident victims fight for their rights and recover the highest compensation they deserve.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Michigan

Pedestrian accidents often occur because of driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving – Texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS takes a driver’s eyes off the road.
• Failure to Yield – Many drivers ignore crosswalk laws and fail to stop for pedestrians.
• Speeding – A speeding driver has less time to react and results in a higher impact force in a crash.
• Drunk or Drugged Driving – Impaired drivers lack coordination and reaction time, increasing the risk of hitting pedestrians.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs – Pedestrians crossing legally may still be hit by reckless drivers.
• Poor Visibility – Low-light conditions, bad weather, and obstructed crosswalks make pedestrians harder to see.

Regardless of the cause, pedestrian accident victims often suffer life-altering injuries that require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.

Michigan Laws Protecting Pedestrians

Michigan law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in certain situations:

• Crosswalks: Drivers must stop for pedestrians legally crossing at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Intersections: Vehicles must yield to pedestrians when turning left or right.
• Sidewalks & Driveways: Drivers must yield to pedestrians when crossing sidewalks or exiting driveways.
• School Zones: Drivers must stop when school crossing guards signal a pedestrian crossing.

If a driver fails to follow these laws and causes an accident, they may be held legally and financially responsible for the pedestrian’s injuries.

Michigan No-Fault Insurance and Pedestrian Accidents

Because Michigan is a No-Fault insurance state, pedestrian accident victims can file a claim for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.

– Medical Expenses – Coverage for hospital bills, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
– Lost Wages – Compensation for time off work (up to 85% of lost income).
– Attendant Care & Household Services – Compensation for in-home care and household tasks you can no longer perform.
– Death Benefits – If a pedestrian is killed in an accident, their family may be entitled to survivor’s loss benefits.

Who Pays for a Pedestrian’s Injuries?

• If the pedestrian has auto insurance – Their own No-Fault policy covers medical bills and lost wages.
• If the pedestrian does NOT have auto insurance – They can file a claim through a household member’s auto policy.
• If no auto insurance is available – The pedestrian can apply for benefits through Michigan’s Assigned Claims Plan (MACP).

No-Fault benefits do not cover pain and suffering or emotional distress—but victims can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional compensation.

When Can a Pedestrian Sue an At-Fault Driver?

Under Michigan law, pedestrians can file a third-party liability claim against a negligent driver if they suffer a serious injury.

To file a lawsuit, the injured pedestrian must show:
– The driver was negligent (e.g., distracted driving, failure to yield, speeding).
– The accident caused a serious impairment of a bodily function (e.g., traumatic brain injury, spinal damage, broken bones, permanent disability).
– The pedestrian suffered pain and suffering, emotional trauma, or loss of enjoyment of life.

A successful claim can recover additional damages, including:

• Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Disability and Disfigurement – If the injuries lead to long-term impairment.
• Excess Medical Bills – If medical costs exceed No-Fault coverage limits.
• Wrongful Death Damages – If the accident was fatal, the pedestrian’s family may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Michigan

If you’ve been hit by a car, taking the right steps can protect your rights and strengthen your case:

1. Call 911 Immediately – A police report serves as crucial evidence.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Some injuries (e.g., concussions, internal bleeding) may not appear right away.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the vehicle.
4. Get Witness Contact Info – Bystander statements can support your claim.
5. Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters Alone – Insurance companies may try to minimize your payout or ask you to sign documents prior to getting a lawyer involved.
6. Consult an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer – Attorney Aaron Israels can negotiate for maximum compensation and ensure your rights are protected.

Why You Need a West Michigan Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Insurance companies often deny pedestrian accident claims or try to offer low settlements to victims. Aaron fights to make sure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

As experienced Michigan personal injury attorneys, we:

– Investigate the accident and determine liability.
– Fight insurance company denials and lowball settlement offers.
– Ensure you receive No-Fault benefits for medical care and lost wages.
– Pursue additional compensation through a lawsuit if necessary.

Pedestrian accident cases can be very complex, especially with Michigan’s No-Fault system and recent legal changes. Let our West Michigan legal team handle the paperwork, negotiations, and court battles—so you can focus on healing.

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