What Injuries Do Pedestrians Get From Being Hit By a Car?

Being struck by a car can be life-altering. Pedestrians often suffer serious injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord damage, or internal bleeding. Beyond the physical pain, these injuries can interrupt your ability to work, care for your family, and live your daily life.

Without immediate medical care and effective legal support, the burden of medical expenses and insurance company delays can become overwhelming. At Matz Injury Law, our personal injury attorneys understand the challenges you are facing and are here to help you navigate the path to recovery.

“Steve was communicative, clear, highly competent, efficient and friendly. I have not pursued anything like this before and felt that I was in good hands. I was satisfied with the settlement – and would highly recommend Matz Injury Law to those who are looking for this type of service.” — Jennifer B.

How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in Michigan?

Pedestrian accidents continue to be a significant safety concern in Michigan. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• In 2023, pedestrian-involved crashes rose 11%, from 1,897 in 2022 to 2,114.
• Between 2019 and 2023, total car crashes fell 8.4%, yet pedestrian fatalities increased nearly 23%, rising from 149 to 183 deaths.
• October remains the most dangerous month, especially between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., when traffic is heavy and visibility is limited.
• In 2024, pedestrian deaths declined to 156 — the lowest since 2019 — but the risk remains high.

These statistics show that even as overall crashes decline, pedestrians face increasing danger on Michigan roads.

Leading Factors in Michigan Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian crashes in Michigan often result from a mix of driver negligence, pedestrian behavior, and roadway conditions. The most common contributing factors include:

• Speeding and reckless driving.
• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone.
• Failing to yield the right-of-way at crosswalks.
• Running red lights or ignoring stop signs.
• Reduced visibility from poor weather, nighttime conditions, or dark clothing.
• Crossing outside designated crosswalks.
• Pedestrians distracted by phones or headphones.
• Hazardous roadway designs, such as wide multi-lane intersections.
• Drivers making unsafe turns or overlooking blind spots.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

These behaviors and conditions significantly increase the risk of serious pedestrian accidents and fatalities.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Michigan

When a motor vehicle strikes a pedestrian in Michigan, the individual absorbs the full force of the impact without protection from airbags, seatbelts, or a vehicle frame. This makes pedestrians highly vulnerable to severe injuries. Even at low speeds, accidents can cause trauma that requires long-term medical care and recovery. Common types of injuries include:

• Bone fractures and broken bones. Arms, legs, ribs, and the pelvis are especially vulnerable. Some fractures heal with a cast, while others require surgery, metal implants, and lengthy rehabilitation. Complicated fractures may lead to chronic pain or mobility issues.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Head impacts can cause concussions, bleeding, or swelling in the brain. TBIs may result in memory loss, cognitive problems, or permanent disability, often requiring years of treatment and therapy.
• Head injuries. These include skull fractures, facial fractures, and eye damage. Such injuries may cause disfigurement, vision impairment, or the need for reconstructive surgery, with lasting psychological effects.
• Back injuries. Spinal fractures, herniated discs, and torn soft tissues often cause long-term pain, reduced mobility, and, in severe cases, nerve damage or paralysis.
• Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions. Broken glass or vehicle impact can cause deep wounds that require stitches and may leave scars. Open injuries also risk infection.
• Internal injuries. Collisions can damage organs such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, or spleen. Internal bleeding is especially dangerous because symptoms may not appear right away, often requiring emergency surgery.
• Soft tissue injuries. Sprains, torn ligaments, and severe bruising can limit range of motion, cause chronic pain, and interfere with daily activities.
• Spinal cord injuries. High-impact accidents may cause partial or complete paralysis, often requiring mobility aids and lifelong care.
• Psychological injuries. Many victims develop PTSD, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, or a lasting fear of walking near traffic.

Long-Term Effects of Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Michigan

The consequences of a pedestrian accident often last well beyond the initial hospital stay. Many victims live with lasting health problems, emotional challenges, and financial strain that reshape their daily lives. Common long-term effects include:

• Cognitive impairment. Traumatic brain injuries can cause memory loss, mood changes, and concentration difficulties, affecting work, relationships, and independence.
• Paralysis. Spinal cord damage may result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring long-term therapy, assistive devices, and home or vehicle modifications.
• Chronic pain. Lingering pain from fractures, nerve damage, or soft tissue injuries often requires ongoing treatment with medication, injections, or therapy.
• Reduced mobility. Serious injuries may limit walking, driving, or standing for long periods, interfering with work, hobbies, and daily routines.
• Psychological trauma. Victims often experience depression, PTSD, anxiety, or social withdrawal, which may require counseling or support groups.
• Financial hardship. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income can create significant financial pressure on victims and their families.
• Quality of life changes. Many victims can no longer enjoy prior activities, sometimes needing career changes, caregiver support, or home adaptations like ramps and lifts.

What Steps Should I Take if I’m Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?

If you are struck by a motor vehicle in Michigan, the steps you take immediately afterward can protect both your health and your legal rights:

• Seek medical care right away. Even minor symptoms may signal serious internal injuries. Consistent follow-up treatment is also important for recovery and documenting your case.
• Call the police and file an official accident report. This provides a critical record of the crash.
• Document the scene. Take photos of the accident location, the vehicle, and your injuries.
• Gather witness information. Collect names and contact details from anyone who saw the accident.
• Keep detailed records. Save medical bills, treatment notes, and evidence of lost wages.
• Be cautious with insurance companies. Avoid giving statements without first speaking to an attorney.
• Notify your insurance carrier. Depending on your policy, this may be required.
• Contact Matz Injury Law. Our pedestrian accident attorneys can guide you through Michigan’s no-fault system, negotiate with insurers, and pursue compensation so you can focus on healing.

Legal Rights After a Pedestrian Accident in Michigan

Michigan’s no-fault insurance system applies to pedestrians injured by motor vehicles. If you are struck, you may be entitled to personal injury protection (PIP) benefits regardless of fault. These benefits usually come from:

• Your own auto insurance policy.
• The policy of a relative in your household.
• The Michigan Assigned Claims Plan (MACP) if no other coverage is available.

PIP benefits include lifetime medical care for accident-related injuries, up to three years of wage loss (85% of pre-tax income), mileage reimbursement for medical travel, and up to $20 per day for household replacement services.

Understanding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Benefits

Under Michigan’s no-fault law, pedestrians injured by a motor vehicle may receive personal injury protection (PIP) benefits, even if they were partially at fault. These benefits may include:

• Medical coverage. PIP benefits may cover all reasonable medical expenses related to the crash, including hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and prescriptions, up to the policyholder’s selected coverage limit. Some policies offer unlimited coverage, but others may be capped at $250,000 or $500,000 depending on the chosen level.
• Wage loss. Up to 85% of your pre-tax income for up to three years, tax-free. However, there is a monthly maximum benefit set by the state, which is adjusted annually. For accidents occurring between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, the monthly cap is $7,014.
• Replacement services. Up to $20 per day for three years for household help, such as cooking, cleaning, or childcare.
• Nursing or attendant care. Payment for in-home care if a doctor determines it is necessary.
• Mileage reimbursement. Travel costs to and from medical appointments, pharmacies, and therapy.

If no auto insurance applies, injured pedestrians may qualify for benefits through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan (MACP), which typically provides up to $250,000 in allowable medical expenses and limited wage loss and replacement services.

The Pedestrian Accident Claims Process in Michigan

After a pedestrian accident, recovering compensation usually involves these steps:

• Seek medical treatment and notify your insurance company.
• Collect evidence, including the police report, witness statements, and medical records.
• File a PIP claim to cover medical bills, wage loss, and replacement services.
• Negotiate with insurance adjusters, who often make low initial offers.
• If a fair settlement cannot be reached, file a lawsuit for additional damages.

An experienced attorney at Matz Injury Law can manage each stage of this process, from filing claims to negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, presenting your case in court. This legal support helps you focus on recovery while your lawyer protects your rights.

Who Is Liable When a Car Hits a Pedestrian?

PIP benefits apply regardless of fault, but liability becomes important if you pursue compensation beyond PIP, such as pain and suffering or excess economic loss. In Michigan:

• Driver negligence. A motorist may be liable if they were speeding, distracted, failed to yield, ran a red light, or otherwise violated traffic laws.
• Pedestrian responsibility. A pedestrian may share fault if they were jaywalking, intoxicated, or ignored traffic signals.
• Comparative negligence. Michigan law follows a modified comparative fault system. If you are 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages, though your award will be reduced by your share of fault. However, if you are found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover compensation for pain and suffering, though certain economic damages may still be available.

This means that even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you may still recover damages, but the amount could be reduced.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Michigan Pedestrian Accident Claims

Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
• If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering.

Regardless of fault, you may still receive PIP benefits for medical expenses, wage loss, and replacement services.

Seeking Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident in Michigan

In Michigan, injured pedestrians may recover both no-fault benefits and, in certain cases, additional compensation through a lawsuit against a negligent driver. The type and amount of recovery depend on the severity of injuries, fault percentages, and available insurance coverage. Possible damages include:

• Medical expenses. Emergency care, rehabilitation, surgeries, therapy, and other ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages and future earning capacity. Compensation for income lost during recovery and reduced ability to work in the future.
• Replacement services. Up to $20 per day for household help, childcare, or similar services.
• Pain and suffering. Non-economic damages are available if your injuries meet Michigan’s legal threshold for filing a lawsuit.
• Property damage. Costs to repair or replace personal items damaged in the accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life. Damages for the impact on daily activities and quality of life.
• Survivor’s loss benefits. For fatal accidents, family members may recover funeral costs and loss of the deceased’s financial support.

Wrongful Death Claims After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident in Michigan

When a pedestrian is killed by a negligent driver, family members such as a spouse, children, or parents may bring a wrongful death claim under Michigan’s Wrongful Death Act (MCL § 600.2922). Damages may include:

• Funeral and burial costs.
• Loss of the deceased’s income and financial support.
• Loss of companionship, care, and guidance.
• Pain and suffering the deceased experienced before death.

A wrongful death attorney can guide families through this difficult process by gathering evidence, calculating damages, negotiating with insurers, and, if needed, representing them in court. This allows grieving families to focus on healing while their lawyer works to hold the at-fault driver accountable.

Matz Injury Law supports families across Michigan with compassion and clarity, helping them pursue the recovery they deserve.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Recover Fair Compensation

A pedestrian accident lawyer can provide vital support by:

• Investigating the crash and gathering evidence.
• Handling all communication with insurance companies.
• Negotiating for fair compensation.
• Filing a lawsuit if a settlement cannot be reached.
• Explaining how Michigan’s no-fault system applies to your case.

With legal help, you can focus on healing while your attorney works to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you need.

At Matz Injury Law, we guide clients through every step of this process with transparency and care, charging only a 22% contingency fee — so you keep more of your settlement.

Michigan Driver and Pedestrian Safety Resources

Michigan offers resources to improve pedestrian safety and reduce crashes:

• The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning supports teen driver safety through programs like Strive for a Safer Drive (S4SD), which promotes awareness and peer education among high school students.
• The Toward Zero Deaths initiative combines enforcement, public education, and infrastructure planning to reduce traffic fatalities across Michigan.
• The National Safety Council’s Road to Zero program has awarded grants to support pedestrian safety improvements in Detroit, including crosswalk redesign and community outreach.
• The SEMCOG Safe Streets for Every Road User program distributes free bike lights and conducts pedestrian safety outreach across Southeast Michigan.
• The University of Michigan-Dearborn Department of Public Safety provides public education campaigns focused on pedestrian safety and traffic rules for both drivers and walkers on and off campus.

Why Clients Choose Matz Injury Law

At Matz Injury Law, we focus on giving every client personal attention, honest guidance, and strong representation throughout their case. We handle every part of a pedestrian accident claim, from medical bills and wage loss to pain and suffering or wrongful death. Our law firm’s approach is built on transparency and trust, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal process.

Our Contingency Fee Advantage

Most Michigan personal injury firms charge around 33% in attorney’s fees. At Matz Injury Law, our contingency fee is only 22%, meaning you keep more of your settlement or award. This lower fee reflects our commitment to putting clients first and helping families recover financially after a serious accident.

Client Testimonials

“This team was highly professional but also caring and compassionate. Every call, text and email was answered quickly and they all showed genuine concern and friendliness toward my family and i.” — Racheal M.

“Jared Matz very professional made this process very easy we trusted him and he delivered, very easy to communicate with him and he made sure that we understand everything he went over every little detail and keeps you updated every step of the way. Thank you so much for getting the settlement as fast you did” — Doha A.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right-of-Way in Michigan?

Not in every situation. Pedestrians typically have the right-of-way when lawfully crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks, but they must also obey traffic control signals and use caution. Drivers are legally required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and must exercise due care to avoid collisions, even when pedestrians are crossing improperly.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit After a Pedestrian Accident in Michigan?

You typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the general statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. However, Michigan law may allow additional time — up to two years after the appointment of the personal representative of the estate — to file the lawsuit in certain cases.

How Much Is My Pedestrian Accident Claim Worth?

Compensation depends on the severity of injuries, medical expenses, wage loss, long-term effects, and pain and suffering. Michigan’s comparative negligence rule may also reduce damages if you share fault.

Free Case Evaluation with a Michigan Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrian accidents often cause severe injuries that bring physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Medical bills, reduced mobility, and lasting trauma can disrupt every part of your life.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver, Matz Injury Law can help you pursue compensation and focus on recovery. Call us at 866-226-6833 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.