Over 2,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents in Michigan in 2022, and, according to Michigan State Police, there has been a 17 percent rise in the number of pedestrian fatalities on Michigan roads from 2020 to 2022.
If you have been seriously injured or lost a loved one to a wrongful death in a pedestrian accident in St. Clair Shores or anywhere in Metro Detroit, you are legally entitled to substantial compensation for your losses. To receive appropriate compensatory damages, however, you require highly skilled legal representation. Fortunately, you can find it at The Nunley Law Group, PLLC. Se Habla Español
Our pedestrian accident attorneys have nearly a decade of experience and an impressive record of successful outcomes both through settlements and courtroom verdicts. Contact us now for a free consultation to find out whether you have a viable claim. Once you become our client, we will charge you no attorneys’ fees until we recover damages.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Michigan
Most pedestrian accidents occur either in congested urban areas or on poorly lit rural roads, in both cases during dusk or darkness. Though weather, road conditions, or defective car parts may be contributing factors, most pedestrian accidents are caused by driver error due to:
- Reckless driving (speeding, weaving tailgating)
- Impairment by alcohol or drugs
- Distraction by texts, GPS, eating, reaching
- Driving a poorly maintained vehicle (e.g. with broken headlights)
- Driving without a license or with a suspended or revoked license
You can rely on The Nunley Law Group to find the party responsible for your pedestrian accident and to hold them accountable, even if they are the manufacturer of a defective auto part or a government agency that failed to keep the roadway free of defects and debris.
Why Taking Prompt Action Is Important
In most cases, you have 3 years to file a personal injury claim in Michigan. Nonetheless, you should be aware that though medical and other costs mount quickly, especially when you are unable to work, the wheels of justice turn slowly. The sooner we start working on your case, the sooner you stand to receive the funds you need to restabilize your life. Now is the time to call on us, while:
- Witness memories are clear
- Road defects have not been removed or repaired
- Police reports and medical records are easily accessed
- iPhone records are easier to subpoena
- Forensic evidence is readily available for collection
- Damage to vehicles and property is still visible
Our attorneys need the above to use as leverage during negotiations with opposing attorneys.
If they still do not make a reasonable offer, we are well-prepared to wage an aggressive courtroom battle. Also, by getting in touch with us now you give us an edge when it comes to connecting with pertinent experts (medical, automotive, accident reconstruction) who will
testify on your behalf.
Pedestrian Accidents Often Result in Catastrophic Injuries
Without the metal enclosure of a car to protect them, pedestrians are all too vulnerable to traumatic injuries, such as:
- Amputation
- Neuromuscular injury
- Organ loss or damage
- Spinal cord injuries (partial or complete paralysis)
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Even so-called “simple” fractures, dislocations, or pinched nerves can result in temporary disability and a long period of rehabilitation. Also, if the victim is elderly and/or the defendant’s vehicle is large and traveling at high speed, there is a greater chance that the injury will take considerably longer to heal, or be life-altering and require long-term care.
Damages Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Will Fight to Win
We will do everything in our power to make sure you obtain the meaningful resources you need to cover past, current, and future expenses related to your injuries, including both economic and non-economic damages.
- Economic damages cover tangible losses, such as damaged or lost property, medical costs, lost income (present and future), and replacement services (e.g. cleaning, driving, childcare).
- Non-economic damages cover intangible losses, such as physical pain and emotional anguish, permanent disability or disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Wrongful death damages may include final medical costs, funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship or guidance. In cases in which the defendant’s behavior was egregious (e.g. drunk driving) the court may also award you punitive damages.
Even If You Bear Partial Blame for the Accident, We Will Stand by You
While it may not seem likely, pedestrians can be considered partly at fault for a traffic accident, if, for example, they were crossing against the light or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Nonetheless, though the law may limit the amount of your awarded damages in such a case, our capable attorneys know how to navigate the judicial system to help you receive the maximum compensation allowable.
According to the modified comparative law principle in Michigan, the court will assign each person involved in the accident a percentage of fault and will deduct that percentage from the awarded damages. So, if a pedestrian is found to be 20 percent responsible and is awarded $100,000, that individual will receive $80,000. However, if the injured person is found to be
more than 50 percent responsible for the accident, they will only be able to receive economic damages, not non-economic ones.
No Matter What, Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Are On Your Side
At The Nunley Law Group, we know that as a pedestrian the cards are stacked against you when you step into an intersection, cross a road, or stop to fix a tire. You are no match for a bicycle or scooter, let alone a car, truck, or motorcycle.
We know that no matter what your age or condition, being in a pedestrian accident is a terrible trauma, physically, emotionally, and financially. Contact us today to experience the powerful legal advocacy and compassionate moral support we will provide.