Wheelchair User Killed at Ann Arbor Intersection
Wheelchair User Killed at Ann Arbor Intersection in a tragic late-night collision that has sent shockwaves through the community. According to the Ann Arbor Police Department, just before midnight on Monday, a 79-year-old man using a wheelchair was legally crossing East Huron Street at North Fourth Avenue when the traffic signal changed. Still in the crosswalk, he was struck by an eastbound SUV and suffered fatal injuries at the scene.
Officers responding to the initial “pedestrian struck” call quickly discovered that the victim had begun crossing on the walk signal but remained in the roadway when the light turned red. The driver, a 22-year-old Ann Arbor woman, continued eastbound and did not stop. She later turned herself in and is now held at the Washtenaw County Jail. Investigators have noted alcohol as a potential contributing factor and are awaiting the results of toxicology reports.
First responders from the Ann Arbor Fire Department and Huron Valley Ambulance rendered aid, but the victim was pronounced dead on arrival. The collision closed down East Huron Street for several hours as police and traffic investigators collected evidence, interviewed witnesses, and reviewed nearby surveillance footage. Community members have expressed grief and frustration over the loss of a life under such preventable circumstances.
In cases like this, victims’ families may pursue compensation for their immense loss. Wrongful-death claims can cover funeral and burial expenses, medical costs incurred before death, loss of financial support, and the emotional suffering endured by surviving loved ones.
At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand that no amount of money can replace a cherished family member. However, our firm is committed to securing maximum compensation to alleviate the financial burdens that follow such tragedies. We guide families through every step—filing the claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, advocating aggressively in court to ensure justice is served.
Beyond wrongful-death damages, survivors or their estates may also seek punitive damages if the driver’s conduct—such as driving under the influence or fleeing the scene—meets the threshold for gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Our attorneys meticulously investigate accident details, gather police and medical records, and consult with accident reconstruction experts and forensic specialists to build a compelling case. We work “with you” to document losses, calculate fair compensation, and outline the long-term impacts on quality of life and financial security.
At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, our approach is personalized and thorough. From the moment you engage our services, we assign a dedicated legal team to your case, ensuring prompt, compassionate, and clear communication. We handle interactions with insurers and opposing counsel so you can focus on healing and supporting your family. Our seasoned trial lawyers are ready to present a robust, fact-based argument before judge and jury if litigation becomes necessary.
The loss of a life in a wheelchair-accessible crosswalk raises broader questions about pedestrian safety and drivers’ responsibility to yield. Ann Arbor officials have indicated they will review signal timing and crosswalk visibility as part of an ongoing traffic-safety audit. We stand ready to advise on roadway improvements and advocate for policies protecting vulnerable road users.
Call us for a free and confidential case evaluation. We are available by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
