Your first decisions can strongly influence how an adjuster (and later, a court) views causation and damages.
**Focus on: **
- Get medical care and follow up. In Michigan, your medical record is often the strongest way to connect symptoms to the crash. Even if you feel “mostly okay,” injuries like concussions, soft-tissue strains, and back/neck pain may show up later.
- Document the scene while it’s still fresh. If you can do so safely, capture wide photos of the intersection/crosswalk, traffic signals, lighting, and your position relative to the curb.
- Collect witness information. In Lansing, it’s common for people to pass quickly—especially around routes used for commuting and errands. Get names and contact details before everyone moves on.
- Write down your recollection immediately. Note the direction you were walking, where you first noticed the vehicle, and what distracted you (if anything) before impact.
Avoid: giving recorded statements or “quick explanations” to insurance before your injuries and expenses are understood.


