Blog

MICHIGAN PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT DEATHS ROSE IN 2023 DESPITE NATIONWIDE DECLINE

Published by Bill Laubscher at April 9, 2024

Person lying on the ground after a car accident

Every day, approximately 18 pedestrians leave home and never return. Although pedestrian deaths have risen steadily over the past decade, recent statistics show this deadly trend is declining in many states across the U.S. Unfortunately, Michigan is not among them. In fact, preliminary data shows an increase in Michigan pedestrian deaths, from 63 during the first six months of 2022 to 74 for the same period in 2023.

If you or a loved one is injured, hiring an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer is the best way to protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve.

Do You Have a Case?

SOMBER STATISTICS ON PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS

The following information is based on data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA):

Nationwide pedestrian deaths rose 77 percent in the decade between 2010 and 2021, a trend that continued the following year
This increase is three times more than the 25 percent rise in all other traffic fatalities combined
In 2022, more than 7,500 pedestrians were killed, the highest number of deaths in four decades
Except for a slight decline in 2022, Michigan pedestrian-involved fatalities have risen steadily over the past five years, from 65 during the first half of 2019 to 74 in the same period of 2023
Michigan pedestrian deaths rose 17.46 percent in the first six months of 2023 compared to the same time period in 2022
In addition to Michigan, pedestrian fatalities increased in seventeen other states during the first six months of 2023 compared to the previous year
In 30 states, including the District of Columbia (D.C.), pedestrian deaths declined during the same time period
The number of pedestrian deaths remained the same in Oregon, Iowa and New Mexico
Fatality rates per 100,000 people were highest in Florida (1.99) and New Mexico (1.94)
Pedestrian deaths per 100,000 people were lowest in Rhode Island (0.27) and Idaho (0.31)
Pedestrian accidents are generally higher in the Sun Belt and other states with warm climates as well as in urban areas

WHAT IS BEHIND THE ONGOING RISE IN PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS?

Here are the most common reasons for the increase in pedestrian accidents, according to research studies and traffic safety experts:

Continuation of reckless driving behaviors stemming from the pandemic

Although traffic decreased significantly during the lockdowns and never returned to pre-pandemic levels, fatal accidents rose 15 percent between 2019 and 2022. Law enforcement officials attribute this to an increase in risky behaviors such as speeding, drunk/drugged driving and failing to wear seat belts. While many of these practices started during the pandemic, many drivers are still engaging in these dangerous practices.

Rise in distracted drivers and pedestrians

Pedestrians, like drivers, are also prone to distractions that can lead to tragic consequences. A person looking down at a cell phone may not see an oncoming car or a “Don’t Walk” signal in time to avoid being hit. In addition, headphones and ear buds can block out horns, sirens and other warning sounds. And, when both drivers and pedestrians are distracted, the risk of a serious accident increases significantly.

Although Michigan enacted legislation last year banning the use of hand-held cell phones while driving, it is too soon to know whether the new law will result in fewer distracted driving accidents.

More SUVs and trucks on the road

The popularity of larger vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks was cited several years ago as a major cause of increased pedestrian accidents. In addition to being heavier than standard automobiles, these vehicles have higher front-end profiles that make it harder to see pedestrians. Additionally, if a truck or SUV strikes a pedestrian, the weight and height of the vehicle is more likely to cause serious or fatal injuries.

Insufficient crosswalks and other infrastructure issues

Numerous Michigan intersections and streets do not have crosswalks, making it dangerous for pedestrians to cross busy roadways. In addition, many drivers are unfamiliar with, or fail to observe, crosswalk laws and right-of-way rules for pedestrians, which increases the likelihood of a serious accident.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A PEDESTRIAN CAR ACCIDENT?

When a pedestrian is injured by an automobile, determining liability can be complicated.

In general, drivers should do everything possible to avoid hitting a pedestrian, regardless of who has the right of way. However, when a car strikes a person on foot, the driver may not be entirely responsible.

Michigan personal injury law includes a “modified comparative negligence” statute, which means a settlement may be reduced when the victim is partially at fault for an accident or injury.

Pedestrian who engaged in any of the following behaviors may be considered partly responsible for an accident:

Crossing the street against a “don’t walk” signal or red light
Darting out in front of a moving vehicle
Jaywalking or crossing in the middle of a road instead of at a crosswalk or intersection
Looking down at a cell phone instead of paying attention to traffic

Michigan No-Fault laws surrounding auto accidents are complex. Therefore, it is wise to contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney if you are injured by a careless motorist.

Recommended reading: What You Need To Know About Michigan Crosswalk Law

SAFETY TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS

Walk on sidewalks when available
Pay attention to your surroundings, including traffic signals, signs and oncoming vehicles
Avoid texting or using electronic devices such as cell phones, headphones and earbuds, when crossing the street or walking in congested areas
Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night
Obey traffic signals, including stop signs, lights and “don’t walk” signs
Use crosswalks whenever possible
Cross streets at a corner or intersection when no crosswalks are available
Look left-right-left before crossing a street and continue looking while crossing
Make eye contact with drivers prior to crossing in front of cars
When no sidewalks are available, walk on the side of the street facing traffic as close to the curb as possible

CALL OUR EXPERIENCED PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT LAWYERS TODAY!

If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you need an experienced lawyer to protect your rights and win the compensation you deserve. Our highly qualified attorneys have the skills, knowledge and resources to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Pedestrian accident law is complicated, but finding the right Michigan pedestrian accident attorney is simple.

Don’t let the legal clock run out. Start your case today by clicking on the link below or calling 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.

Help is just a click away®.

Do You Have a Case?

HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED?

Get The Bernstein Advantage^® today!
Free. Simple. Quick.