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.
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
Recommended reading: Is It Important to Obtain a Police Report After a Michigan Car Accident?
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.
Recommended reading: The Three Types of Distracted Driving: What Every Michigan Driver Should Know
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.
Recommended reading: Why Michigan Car Accident Victims Need Unlimited Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Benefits
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
Recommended reading: Do You Need A Lawyer For A Car Accident That Was Not Your Fault?
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®.
The post MICHIGAN PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT DEATHS ROSE IN 2023 DESPITE NATIONWIDE DECLINE appeared first on The Sam Bernstein Law Firm.