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Crosswalk accidents have become increasingly common in Metro Detroit and throughout Michigan. As pedestrian traffic rises in busy cities like Detroit, Royal Oak, Ferndale, and Ann Arbor, so do the risks. Unfortunately, when a vehicle strikes a person in a crosswalk, the injuries are often catastrophic—leaving victims and families facing life-altering challenges.
The Vulnerability of Pedestrians
Children walking to school, seniors crossing busy intersections, and drivers on foot in parking lots are all at high risk. When vehicles fail to yield, look up from their phones, or simply rush through an intersection, pedestrians pay the price.
LSM’s Experience in Pedestrian and Crosswalk Injury Claims
With decades of experience representing victims across Metro Detroit, Liss, Shapero & Mitnick has built a strong reputation for handling complex pedestrian and crosswalk injury cases. We understand the unique challenges pedestrians face after an accident and fight to ensure victims receive the medical care, financial support, and justice they deserve.
Compassionate, Client-First Representation
At LSM, clients are treated like family. We guide you through every step of the legal process with:
- Clear communication
- Genuine compassion
- A full-team approach to strengthen your case
Your recovery and your rights come first—always.
Understanding Crosswalk Laws in Michigan
Crosswalk laws in Michigan are designed to protect pedestrians, but many drivers either misunderstand or ignore these rules. Knowing your rights can help you understand why the driver—not the pedestrian—is often legally responsible for a crosswalk accident.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws
Overview of Michigan Crosswalk Laws
Michigan law generally requires drivers to:
- Stop and yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks
- Exercise due care to avoid striking pedestrians in any location
- Use caution when approaching crosswalks, especially near schools or residential areas
When Drivers Must Stop and Yield
Drivers must yield to pedestrians:
- In a marked crosswalk
- When the pedestrian is on the half of the roadway the vehicle is traveling
- When the pedestrian is close enough to be in danger
Pedestrian Rights in Marked vs. Unmarked Crosswalks
Michigan recognizes unmarked crosswalks at intersections, meaning pedestrians have rights even where lines are not painted. Many drivers are unaware of this—and their ignorance leads to preventable accidents.
Municipal Ordinances Affecting Pedestrians
Some cities have stricter pedestrian protections than state laws.
Differences Across Metro Detroit
Cities like:
- Ann Arbor
- Royal Oak
- Ferndale
require drivers to stop—not just yield—for pedestrians in crosswalks.
Enhanced Pedestrian Protections
These local ordinances aim to reduce pedestrian injuries, but confusion among drivers can still lead to serious accidents.
Liability in Crosswalk Accidents
Determining fault in a crosswalk accident requires a detailed investigation. LSM examines every factor to identify who is responsible and pursue maximum compensation for the injured pedestrian.
Driver Negligence
Most crosswalk injuries occur because of driver negligence, including:
Texting, Distracted, or Inattentive Drivers
Cell phones, GPS, infotainment systems, and distracted driving are top contributors to crosswalk injuries.
Speeding or Aggressive Driving
Drivers traveling too fast near intersections cannot stop in time to avoid a pedestrian.
Drunk or Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drug impairment dramatically increase reaction times and reduce driver awareness.
Third-Party Liability
Some crosswalk accidents involve liability beyond the driver.
Municipal Negligence
Local governments may be responsible if:
- Crosswalks are poorly lit
- Traffic signals malfunction
- Crossings lack proper signage
Construction Zone Hazards
Contractors may be liable for improperly marked work zones that confuse drivers or pedestrians.
Commercial Vehicles & Employers
When a company driver hits a pedestrian, the employer may be liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision.
Shared Fault Considerations
Michigan uses a comparative negligence system, meaning compensation may be adjusted based on each party’s percentage of fault.
In some cases, insurance companies attempt to blame pedestrians. However, in most crosswalk collisions, the driver still holds majority responsibility.
Even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still recover compensation.
Michigan No-Fault Insurance and Pedestrian Accidents
Michigan’s No-Fault system provides important protections for pedestrians injured in crosswalk accidents. Even though the pedestrian is not in a vehicle, they are still entitled to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.
PIP Benefits for Pedestrians
Pedestrians hit by a motor vehicle may qualify for the same benefits as drivers and passengers, including:
Medical Bills
Covers hospital visits, surgery, specialists, medication, therapy, and long-term care.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, PIP provides wage-loss benefits for up to three years.
Replacement Services
Includes help with household tasks such as cleaning, childcare, and meal preparation.
Mileage Reimbursement
Covers transportation costs to and from medical appointments.
These benefits apply regardless of who caused the accident.
Priority of Insurance Coverage
Determining the correct insurance policy is critical in a pedestrian accident. The order of priority typically follows:
- Your own auto insurance policy (if you have one)
- A household member’s auto insurance
- The at-fault driver’s insurance
- The Michigan Assigned Claims Plan (MACP) if no insurance is available
This system can be confusing, especially for pedestrians who do not own a vehicle. LSM handles these complexities so clients can focus on healing, not navigating insurance red tape.
Suing the At-Fault Driver
In addition to PIP benefits, injured pedestrians may sue the driver who caused the crash for pain and suffering and other damages—if the injuries meet Michigan’s legal threshold.
You may sue the at-fault driver if the accident caused:
Serious Impairment of Body Function
A significant impact on mobility or the ability to live or work normally.
Permanent Disfigurement
Scarring, loss of limb, or other lasting physical changes.
Wrongful Death
Families may pursue compensation when a loved one is fatally injured in a crosswalk.
LSM ensures victims and families pursue every available form of compensation.
What To Do After a Crosswalk Accident
The steps you take immediately following a crosswalk accident can greatly influence your health and the strength of your case.
Call 911 and Get Immediate Medical Care
Even if injuries appear minor, a medical evaluation is essential. Many pedestrian injuries worsen over time and must be documented from the start.
Take Photos of the Scene, Vehicle, and Injuries
If you can do so safely, photograph:
- The vehicle that hit you
- Damage to the vehicle
- The crosswalk and surrounding area
- Traffic signals and signage
- Your visible injuries
These images help establish the cause and severity of the crash.
Obtain Witness Names and Statements
Witnesses can provide powerful support for your claim, especially when drivers deny fault.
Preserve Clothing, Footwear, and Damaged Items
These items may show impact marks, blood, tears, or debris—important evidence in proving the mechanics of the collision.
Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame or secure statements that limit your claim.
Always speak with a lawyer before giving a recorded statement.
Importance of Early Legal Representation
Acting quickly ensures:
- Evidence is preserved
- Witnesses are contacted
- Insurance forms are handled correctly
- Your rights are protected from the beginning
LSM’s team takes immediate action to safeguard your claim.
Compensation Available for Crosswalk Injury Victims
Pedestrians struck in crosswalks often face life-changing injuries and financial hardship. Michigan law allows victims to pursue compensation through both PIP benefits and claims against the at-fault driver.
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses
Hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and long-term care.
Long-Term Rehabilitation
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological counseling, and assistive devices.
Lost Wages
Income lost during recovery.
Loss of Future Earning Capacity
For injuries that permanently affect your ability to work.
Transportation & Out-of-Pocket Costs
Including medical travel, home care, and necessary equipment.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and Suffering
Physical pain and the impact of injuries on your daily life.
Emotional Distress
PTSD, anxiety, depression, and trauma related to the accident.
Loss of Quality of Life
Diminished enjoyment of activities, mobility issues, and lifestyle changes.
Disability and Disfigurement
Permanent injuries that affect appearance, mobility, or independence.
Wrongful Death Damages (If Applicable)
Families who lose a loved one in a crosswalk accident may recover damages for:
Funeral and Burial Expenses
Coverage for end-of-life costs.
Loss of Companionship
The emotional and relational loss suffered by surviving family members.
Loss of Financial Support
Income or benefits the deceased would have provided.
LSM supports families with compassion and guidance during these unimaginable moments.
When Drivers Fail to Protect Pedestrians, LSM Protects You
Crosswalk accidents can leave victims facing months or years of medical care, emotional trauma, and financial stress. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we understand the magnitude of what you’re going through—and we are here to help you rebuild your life.
Our team brings decades of experience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to every crosswalk injury case. Early legal involvement is essential to protecting your rights, preserving key evidence, and ensuring insurance companies do not take advantage of you.
Most importantly, we treat our clients like family. Your healing, your future, and your peace of mind are at the center of everything we do.
Get Your Free Consultation – Your Rights Come First
Liss, Shapero & Mitnick 2695 Coolidge Highway
Berkley, MI 48072
Phone: 248-584-1300
Toll-Free: 1-855-LISS-LAW (1-855-547-7529)