--- title: "5 Reasons You May Need a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Michigan" url: https://callsam.com/blog/pedestrian-accident-attorney/ description: "Michigan pedestrian deaths rose even as national totals fell. Here are five reasons to hire a pedestrian accident attorney after a crash." lastModified: 2026-09-18 --- # 5 Reasons You May Need a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Michigan Published: April 15, 2019 Walking has become a risky business, especially on crowded Michigan roads. Pedestrians are being killed or seriously injured by motorists in high numbers. The laws surrounding pedestrian accidents are complex, and obtaining the benefits you’re entitled to can be overwhelming. Because of the challenging nature of filing an insurance claim or dealing with a lawsuit after an accident, it’s wise to hire an experienced [pedestrian accident lawyer](https://callsam.com/case-types/pedestrian-accidents/) if you or a loved one is hurt in a crash. Here are five of the most significant factors affecting pedestrian safety. A qualified pedestrian accident attorney will do what it takes to achieve a successful outcome in any situation. ## 1\. Most roads are designed for cars, not people Many pedestrians cross busy streets on their own because there are no crosswalks or traffic signals. In some cases, the crosswalks are spaced too far apart. Many people will cross the street outside of a crosswalk if one is too far away to access. Therefore, many pedestrians choose to take dangerous risks that often end in tragedy. If you have crossed the street outside of a designated intersection, hiring a [pedestrian accident lawyer](https://callsam.com/case-types/pedestrian-accidents/) can make a big difference. ## 2\. Pedestrian traffic laws are complex and often misunderstood Most municipalities follow the Michigan Uniform Traffic Code. According to this law, pedestrians have the right of way if they are in a crosswalk on the same half of the road as an approaching vehicle. In addition, drivers must yield to pedestrians who are obeying traffic signals in a crosswalk. Furthermore, motorists are not required to come to a complete stop in many situations. This can be hazardous for pedestrians who are expecting traffic to stop while they cross the street. An experienced [pedestrian accident attorney](https://callsam.com/case-types/pedestrian-accidents/) can help you navigate through your case if you’re involved in an accident with a motor vehicle. ## 3\. SUVs put pedestrians at greater risk Pedestrians struck by SUVs are more likely to be seriously injured or killed than people who are hit by smaller vehicles. This is because SUVs are larger, heavier and have higher front-end profiles. Significantly more drivers are buying larger vehicles such as SUVs and pick-up trucks than in the past. This means more pedestrians will die or be seriously injured if they’re involved in an accident. If you are struck by a motor vehicle, contact a [pedestrian accident lawyer](https://callsam.com/case-types/pedestrian-accidents/) today. ## 4\. Distracted drivers and walkers pose an additional danger for pedestrians Distracted drivers and walkers are responsible for an increasing number of serious crashes. An alarming number of motorists and pedestrians are being killed or severely hurt in accidents involving cell phones or other electronic devices. In addition, drivers are engaging in other distracting behaviors such as eating, grooming or talking to passengers. Pedestrians are often looking down at their phones or listening to music on their headphones. When drivers and pedestrians alike are distracted, the results can be disastrous. If a driver’s distracted behavior causes a pedestrian accident, a knowledgeable lawyer can help the injured pedestrian get compensation. ## 5\. More pedestrians died in Michigan last year compared to the national trend In the past several years, overall pedestrian deaths have been on the decline. In 2025, 6,732 pedestrian deaths were recorded in the U.S., a decrease of 7% from 2024. However, in Michigan, the statistics are particularly alarming. Pedestrian deaths in Michigan jumped nearly 18% from 2024 to 2025. Cities such as New York have cut pedestrian deaths by lowering speed limits and providing more crosswalks and street lights. However, Detroit has yet to follow suit, to the detriment of those who navigate the city on foot. ## CAN YOU SUE A NEGLIGENT DRIVER IN A PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT? After a pedestrian accident, auto insurance may help pay medical expenses and lost wages. Michigan No-Fault law dictates that injured parties may seek those PIP benefits through applicable auto coverage, regardless of who caused the crash. You can still file a third-party claim against a negligent driver for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Making that case can be complicated and overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with injuries. A [pedestrian accident lawyer](https://callsam.com/case-types/pedestrian-accidents/) can help guide you through this process. ## OUR TEAM OF WINNING ATTORNEYS CAN START YOUR CASE TODAY If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, we can help. We understand how overwhelming it can be after a life-altering accident. Our team of experienced attorneys knows what it takes to win your case and we are ready to do what it takes. “A knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney will guide you through every step of the process and make sure you win the compensation you deserve,” says Mark Bernstein of The Sam Bernstein Law Firm. Auto accident law is complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple. Don’t let the clock run out. Get started on your case today. Fill out the brief form below or contact us for a free no-obligation consultation. ## Related Posts ### [Firm Sues Road Commission for Lack of Pedestrian Safety](https://callsam.com/blog/firm-sues-road-commission-for-lack-of-pedestrian-safety/) ### [The Latest Facts About Michigan Pedestrian Accidents](https://callsam.com/blog/michigan-pedestrian-accident-facts/) ### [Electric Scooter Accidents in Michigan: Who is Liable?](https://callsam.com/blog/electric-scooter-accident-liability/) ### [Can I Opt Out of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) If I Have Medicare?](https://callsam.com/blog/michigan-no-fault-medicare-coverage/) ### [Mark Discusses Michigan No-Fault Law on TV20](https://callsam.com/blog/mark-discusses-michigan-no-fault-law-on-tv20/) ### [How Much Do SUVs Contribute to Pedestrian Accidents and Deaths?](https://callsam.com/blog/suv-rise-pedestrian-accidents/) ### [Your Guide to Understanding Michigan No-Fault Insurance](https://callsam.com/blog/michigan-no-fault-insurance/) ### [The 5 Michigan Pedestrian Crosswalk Laws You Should Know](https://callsam.com/blog/michigan-pedestrian-crosswalk-laws/) ### [Who is Responsible in a Pedestrian Car Accident?](https://callsam.com/blog/who-is-responsible-in-a-pedestrian-car-accident/) ### [Hit-and-Run Fatalities Increase for Bicyclists and Pedestrians](https://callsam.com/blog/hit-and-run-fatalities-bicyclists-pedestrians/)