On January 11, 2016, a 44-year-old Ann Arbor woman was killed[1] in a crash on I-94.
Police were called about 6:30 p.m. on January 11th to westbound I-94 near Ann Arbor-Saline Road for a pedestrian crash with a semi-truck, according to Michigan State Police Sgt. Chris Pascoe. Police believe that the woman was walking on the freeway, possibly near or over the fog line into the lane of traffic, when she was struck by a 1999 Freightliner tractor-trailer. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Michigan Pedestrian Fatalities
According to the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, there were 2,406 pedestrians involved in accidents in 2014. 158 of the pedestrian accidents resulted in Michigan pedestrian fatalities.[2]
Steps to Take After a Michigan Pedestrian-Vehicle Accident
- Medical Attention: If you or anyone else is injured, contact the police and request medical assistance. It is crucial to receive proper medical attention as soon as possible after an accident.
- Claim Against the Driver: If a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle, the driver is often times considered to be at fault, even if the pedestrian was not in a crosswalk.
- Claim Against the Municipality: Some vehicle-pedestrian accidents might be the fault of the city if there was a failure of traffic control devices such as stop lights.
Michigan Driver Negligence in Pedestrian Accidents
In some instances, a pedestrian injured by a vehicle driver can file a claim based on driver negligence. A driver may be considered negligent for any of the following:
- Pre-occupation and failure to pay attention;
- Failure to observe the speed limit;
- Failure to yield the right of way at crosswalks;
- Failure to use turn signals;
- Violating traffic laws, including neglecting to stop at light and stop signs; and
- Driving under the influence.
Michigan Pedestrians at Fault
Although fault in post pedestrian-vehicle accidents can be attributed to the driver of the vehicle, is some instances negligence on part of the pedestrian may refer to any of the following:
- Darting out in front of cars;
- Failing to use dedicated cross walks;
- Failing to see if it is safe to cross the street;
- Ignoring pedestrian signals at intersections.
Michigan Pedestrian-Vehicle Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one were injured in a pedestrian accident involving a motor vehicle, it is important to speak to a Michigan pedestrian accident attorney in order to discuss your case and determine if anyone is liable for your damages. Call the Michigan Injury Lawyers so they can discuss your case. Please feel free to call our office today at 313-GET-HELP for a free consultation with no obligation.
References:
[1] http://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/index.ssf/2016/01/pedestrian_killed_in_crash_on.html
[2] http://publications.michigantrafficcrashfacts.org/2014/MTCFVol1.pdf
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
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