Written by Maurice Davis
Pedestrian accidents in Detroit are an all-too-common occurrence, and unfortunately, the consequences are often devastating for those involved. Pedestrians struck by vehicles can suffer injuries or, in extreme cases, death.
In a busy city like Detroit, understanding the leading causes of these accidents can help prevent them.
But when they do happen, it’s important to know your rights and the steps you can take to seek compensation.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Detroit
Across the country, fatal pedestrian accidents have been on the rise. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported there were 7,522 pedestrian deaths, accounting for 18% of the nation’s vehicle-related deaths.
In the latest available data, Michigan saw 2,224 pedestrians involved in accidents. Of that number, 183 died, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Understanding how your accident happened can help you pursue an injury claim.
Distracted Driving
One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving.
Drivers texting, talking on the phone, adjusting their GPS, or even eating while behind the wheel can easily lose focus on their surroundings.
In busy pedestrian areas, just a few seconds of distraction can lead to tragic accidents. When drivers fail to pay attention to the road, pedestrians can be caught off-guard, often resulting in serious injuries.
Exceeding the Speed Limit
Speed limits exist for a reason, especially in areas where pedestrians frequently cross the road.
Speeding drivers not only have less time to react but also cause greater damage in a collision.
In Detroit, where speeding is a significant issue on major streets and highways, pedestrians are at risk, particularly in crosswalks or while walking along road shoulders.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
Detroit drivers are legally required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but many fail to do so.
Whether due to impatience, ignorance of the law, or simple negligence, drivers who don’t yield put pedestrians at serious risk.
Crosswalks should be a safe zone for pedestrians, but when drivers ignore them, accidents are bound to happen.
Driving Under the Influence
Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction time.
Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to impaired drivers, as they may not notice or respond to crosswalks, traffic signals, or pedestrians in time.
Drunk driving continues to be a major cause of pedestrian accidents in Detroit and across the country.
Poor Weather Conditions
Detroit’s harsh winters and unpredictable weather can also contribute to pedestrian accidents.
Rain, snow, and ice reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Even though the weather is out of a driver’s control, they still have a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely. When drivers fail to account for these conditions, especially in low-light situations, they put pedestrians at risk.
Left-Hand Turns
Intersections are dangerous for pedestrians, especially when drivers are making left-hand turns.
Often, drivers focus on oncoming traffic and fail to notice pedestrians in the crosswalk.
This is a frequent cause of pedestrian accidents, particularly in busy areas where pedestrian and vehicle traffic intersect.
Common Injuries Suffered in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians have little to no protection against a moving vehicle, which means that injuries sustained in these accidents are often severe. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries, including concussions and more severe brain injuries, can have long-lasting effects on a victim’s cognitive abilities, motor functions, and emotional health. TBIs are often caused by the impact of a vehicle or hitting the ground after being struck.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Pedestrians hit by vehicles are at high risk of spinal cord damage, which can result in partial or full paralysis. These injuries can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life, requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Fractures to legs, arms, and ribs are common in pedestrian accidents, as the force of impact from a vehicle can easily break bones.
- Internal Injuries: A pedestrian can suffer from internal bleeding, organ damage, and other life-threatening internal injuries, which may not be immediately apparent but can be fatal if left untreated.
- Psychological Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, pedestrian accident victims often experience psychological trauma such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD due to the shock and severity of the incident.
How to Pursue a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Detroit
Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws make the process of filing a pedestrian accident claim unique compared to many other states.
Even if you are a pedestrian, you may need to file a claim through the no-fault insurance system, which can seem confusing at first.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Benefits
Michigan’s no-fault law requires drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs after an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
If you were a pedestrian hit by a vehicle, you can file a claim with the driver’s PIP insurance, or if you have your own car insurance, through your own PIP policy.
Filing for Additional Damages
If your injuries are severe and meet Michigan’s injury threshold, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional damages.
This can include compensation for pain and suffering, permanent disfigurement, or long-term disability caused by the accident.
Collect Evidence to Support Your Case
To pursue a claim, you’ll need to gather evidence proving the extent of your injuries and the negligence of the driver.
This includes medical records, witness statements, and police reports from the scene of the accident. An experienced attorney can help collect this evidence and ensure your claim is as strong as possible.
Navigating Michigan’s Complex Laws
The process of filing a claim in a no-fault state can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the laws. Working with an attorney who understands Michigan’s insurance and personal injury regulations can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Why Work with an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer in Detroit
Navigating Michigan’s no-fault insurance system can be challenging, especially when you’re recovering from serious injuries.
This is where an experienced personal injury lawyer like Attorney Maurice Davis of Davis Injury Lawyers, PLLC can make all the difference.
We Help You Maximize Your Compensation
Maurice Davis has extensive experience in handling pedestrian accident claims and can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation available under Michigan law.
Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies or pursuing a lawsuit for additional damages, having a lawyer on your side is crucial.
We Can Handle Insurance Negotiations
Insurance companies are often more concerned with minimizing payouts than helping you recover.
Maurice Davis knows how to negotiate with insurance companies and won’t settle for less than you deserve.
We Will Protect Your Rights
Pedestrian accidents can lead to complicated legal battles, especially if the driver denies fault or the insurance company disputes your claim.
Attorney Davis can protect your rights and ensure you are treated fairly throughout the claims process.
Get the Compensation for Your Pedestrian Accident That You Deserve
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Detroit, don’t try to navigate the legal system alone.
Contact Davis Injury Lawyers, PLLC today to schedule a consultation and get the help you need to recover compensation for your injuries.
Call 313-462-7979 or use our contact form today.