Many East Lansing collisions involve predictable local patterns—without being “predictable” to the driver.
Common circumstances we see include:
- Campus-area crossings and bus stops: Fast-moving turning traffic and late braking when pedestrians step into the travel path.
- Nighttime visibility issues: Dark clothing, glare from headlights, and lighting that doesn’t fully illuminate crosswalks.
- Event-driven traffic surges: Game days and special events increase congestion, distraction, and aggressive driving.
- Construction zones and lane shifts: Temporary signage and detours can create confusion about who should yield.
- Sidewalk-to-street transitions: People often walk along curbs and then cross to reach destinations—timing and sightlines become critical.
These details matter because they affect liability—and in pedestrian cases, liability is often disputed even when the impact seems obvious.


