Man killed in I-94 pedestrian crash near Watervliet

A man died early Wednesday, Oct. 7, after being hit by a car near the Watervliet exit.

The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office said first responders were dispatched at 2:05 a.m. to westbound I-94 near Exit 41. They found him on the side of the road near a stopped vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver cooperated with investigators and said the man was wearing all black and standing in a westbound lane and said the collision couldn't be avoided.

Deputies said speed and alcohol did not appear to be factors in the initial investigation.

Authorities had not identified the man or determined why he was in the roadway.

Michigan law on pedestrians and freeway crashes

Michigan law prohibits pedestrians on limited-access highways, including interstate freeways which is a civil infraction under MCL 257.679a.

Michigan’s basic speed law requires a speed appropriate for the conditions, including visibility, even when a driver is below the posted limit. Darkness, sight limitations and reaction time affect that assessment.

When evaluating Michigan personal injury claims, the conduct of both the driver and the pedestrian can matter. A traffic violation does not resolve every question about who caused a collision. Civil responsibility depends on whether negligent conduct, meaning a failure to use reasonable care, caused or contributed to the harm.

Get help from Michigan Legal Center

Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles pedestrian accident and wrongful death claims.

If a pedestrian crash injured you or killed a family member, contact Michigan Legal Center to ask about a review of the potential claims.

There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.

Michigan Legal Center’s car accident services include reviewing fault and insurance questions after a crash.