Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Michigan

At Vahdat Weisman Law, we stand up for pedestrians who have been injured by negligent drivers across Michigan and in other parts of the United States. A collision between a motor vehicle and someone who is walking often leaves the pedestrian with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and many unanswered questions. Our auto accident lawyers are here to provide clear guidance, protect your rights, and pursue the full compensation Michigan law allows. From our office in Livonia, we handle claims statewide and coordinate with out-of-state counsel for accidents outside Michigan, giving you a single, dedicated team focused on delivering the results you deserve.

Why Pedestrian Cases Require a Focused Legal Strategy

Pedestrian claims differ from typical automobile cases because injuries are often severe, fault analysis can be hotly contested, and insurance coverage can involve multiple sources of recovery. A careful evaluation is essential. We analyze police reports, intersection and crosswalk design, traffic signal timing, sightlines, vehicle data, and any available surveillance or dashcam footage. We also examine the driver’s conduct, including speed, distraction, intoxication, failure to yield, and improper turning. When needed, we work with accident reconstruction experts, human factors specialists, and medical professionals to prove liability and the full extent of your damages.

Michigan No-Fault Benefits for Injured Pedestrians

Michigan’s automobile insurance system provides important personal injury protection (PIP) benefits to many injured pedestrians. If you have applicable coverage, PIP benefits can help pay for reasonable and necessary medical care related to the crash, a portion of lost wages subject to statutory limits, and certain replacement services.

Determining which insurer is responsible can be complicated, especially if you do not own a vehicle or live with a relative who has automobile coverage. In those situations, your claim may be handled through an assigned-claims process. Our team identifies the correct insurer, submits the required documentation to open and support your claim, and challenges improper denials or delays. Prompt notice and thorough medical documentation are critical. We help you avoid common pitfalls, such as missing deadlines or providing incomplete information that insurers can use to limit benefits.

Pursuing a Third-Party Negligence Claim

In addition to PIP benefits, many injured pedestrians have the right to pursue a liability claim against the at-fault driver and any other responsible parties. This claim seeks compensation for pain and suffering, disability, loss of enjoyment of life, scarring, and other non-economic losses, as well as excess economic damages that PIP does not cover.

Michigan law requires proof that the driver’s negligence caused a serious impairment of body function or permanent serious disfigurement before noneconomic damages can be recovered. We build that proof through detailed medical records, treating physician opinions, and testimony from people who know how the injuries have affected your daily life, work, and independence.

Comparative Fault Considerations

Insurers often argue that a pedestrian should have seen the vehicle, used a different route, or obeyed a particular signal. Michigan law uses a comparative fault framework that reduces damages by the percentage of fault attributed to the injured person. If a judge or jury assigns too much fault to the pedestrian, recovery for certain noneconomic losses can be limited or barred.

We push back against unfounded blame-shifting by focusing on the driver’s legal duties, the timing of the signals, the area’s design and lighting, and established crossing patterns. Evidence like vehicle black box data, cell phone records, skid or yaw marks, and independent witness statements can be decisive.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Crashes

In our experience, most pedestrian crashes are typically caused by one of the following:

• Left-turn collisions at intersections when drivers focus on gaps in oncoming traffic and fail to see someone in the crosswalk.
• Right-on-red turns where drivers look left for vehicles and do not check for pedestrians approaching from the right.
• Speeding in residential areas, school zones, and downtown corridors.
• Distracted driving that involves texting, app use, or in-vehicle screens.
• Impaired driving from alcohol, drugs, or certain medications.
• Poor visibility conditions, including darkness, rain, or inadequate street lighting, combined with driver inattention.
• Parking lot and driveway incidents where drivers fail to yield while backing up.

Each scenario presents unique proof challenges, and our approach adapts to the facts of your case.

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, seek medical evaluation immediately, even if you believe you can walk it off. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, and early documentation strengthens your claim. After that, you should:

• Call the police so an official report is created.
• If possible, take photographs of the scene, the vehicle, debris, skid marks, traffic signals, signage, and any obstructions.
• Obtain contact information for witnesses.
• Preserve your shoes, clothing, and any mobility devices as potential evidence.
• Do not provide recorded statements to any insurer before speaking with counsel.
• Keep track of all medical bills, mileage to appointments, and time missed from work.

We guide you through each step of the legal process so you can focus on recovery.

Serious and Catastrophic Injuries

Pedestrian collisions frequently cause fractures, orthopedic injuries requiring surgery, traumatic brain injuries, concussions, spinal trauma, internal organ damage, nerve injuries, and permanent scarring. Recovery may involve hospitalization, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and long-term therapy. Vocational limitations can affect earnings and future career opportunities.

Our team quantifies these losses with input from treating providers and qualified experts. Life care planners can project future medical needs, while economists can calculate the present value of reduced earning capacity. We present these findings in a clear, persuasive way for negotiation or trial.

Hit-and-Run Crashes and Uninsured Motorist Issues

When a driver flees the scene or lacks adequate insurance, there may still be paths to compensation. Your own automobile insurance policy or a policy in your household may include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage that applies to pedestrian injuries. The policy language and notice provisions are important, and insurers may require prompt reporting. We analyze all potential coverages and initiate claims quickly to protect your rights. If necessary, we also coordinate with law enforcement, canvass for video, and use investigative resources to identify the at-fault vehicle.

Wrongful Death Representation

Tragically, some pedestrian crashes result in the loss of life. In those cases, we represent the personal representative of the estate to pursue claims for funeral and burial expenses, medical bills, loss of financial support, loss of services, and the profound loss of companionship suffered by family members. We handle every legal detail in these emotional, high-stakes cases with care and discretion, coordinate with the probate process as needed, and work to hold negligent parties fully accountable.

Municipal and Roadway Liability

Some crashes involve dangerous roadway conditions, obscured signage, defective signal timing, or improper construction traffic control. Claims against government entities have strict notice requirements and specific defenses. Timely action and precise investigation matter. We evaluate whether a roadway defect or negligent maintenance contributed to the crash and, when appropriate, pursue claims against the responsible governmental agencies pursuant to Michigan law.

Time Limits and Preserving Your Claim

The statute of limitations and insurance contract deadlines govern pedestrian cases. Claims for PIP benefits involve prompt notice and ongoing proof of medical necessity. Negligence claims generally must be filed within a defined period (typically three years), and wrongful death claims follow additional procedures. Because every case is different, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible so we can preserve evidence, meet all deadlines, and protect your options. Early legal involvement can significantly improve outcomes.

How Vahdat Weisman Law Builds Your Case

Our initial intake process focuses on your medical status and immediate needs. We open all applicable insurance claims, demand benefit payments, and coordinate with providers so that care is not interrupted. Our investigation team secures scene photos and video, obtains 911 audio, requests event data recorder downloads when available, and promptly interviews witnesses.

Additionally, we assemble a comprehensive medical record that includes imaging, operative reports, therapy notes, and specialist opinions. Where helpful, we commission demonstrative exhibits, mapping, and animations to explain the mechanism of injury and fault. And we present a detailed demand package that fully documents liability, damages, and future losses, and negotiate assertively for a settlement that reflects the true value of your case. If the insurer does not act in good faith, we are prepared to litigate, take depositions, file motions, and try your case before a jury.

Communication and Client Service

Clear communication is central to our practice. You will know where your case stands, what to expect next, and why we are taking each step. We straightforwardly explain legal concepts and make ourselves available to answer your questions. We also coordinate with your medical team to understand your recovery plan and ensure the legal strategy supports your health goals. Decisions about accepting a settlement or continuing to litigate your case are made together, based on full information and your priorities.

Serving Clients Across Michigan and Beyond

From Livonia, we represent pedestrians injured in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Genesee, Ingham, Kent, and other Michigan counties. We also assist clients who are hurt while traveling or visiting other states by working with local counsel in those states and ensuring the case strategy remains consistent. Wherever the crash occurs, we bring the same level of preparation, advocacy, and attention to detail that your case deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you were hit by a car as a pedestrian, we know you have a lot of questions. Our clients frequently ask us the questions below.

• Do I have a case if I was not in a crosswalk? Many pedestrian claims remain viable outside a marked crosswalk, and drivers still have duties to operate with due care. Liability depends on the specifics of your case, including visibility, traffic control, and driver behavior.
• What if I were partially at fault? Your recovery may still be possible, but your percentage of fault can reduce any award you receive. And if your fault is more than 50%, certain categories of damages may be off the table completely. We work to minimize any fault attributed to you and to maximize your total recovery.
• How are medical bills paid? PIP benefits, health insurance, and liability settlements can each play a role. We coordinate benefits and address reimbursement issues to reduce your out-of-pocket burden.
• Will my case go to trial? Many cases are settled, but we prepare every claim as if it will be tried before a jury. Trial preparation drives fair results at the negotiating table and in the courtroom.
• How long will the process take? Timelines vary based on medical recovery, the complexity of the investigation, and the court’s schedule. We move efficiently while protecting your long-term interests.

Choose Vahdat Weisman Law

Pedestrian cases demand experienced counsel, a precise investigation, and unwavering advocacy. At Vahdat Weisman Law, we bring all three to every client we serve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact us at (734) 469-4994 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We will evaluate your options, explain how Michigan’s insurance and liability rules apply to your situation, and take immediate action to protect your rights. From Livonia to communities throughout Michigan and across the United States, we are ready to fight for the accountability and compensation you deserve.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and prior results do not guarantee future success.