Detroit, MI (July 30, 2025) – A man suffered serious injuries Tuesday evening after being struck by a vehicle while changing a tire along the shoulder of the northbound Southfield Freeway near Schoolcraft. The incident occurred at approximately 7:10 p.m. and remains under investigation by Michigan State Police.
According to preliminary reports from the Detroit Regional Communication Center, a Dodge Caliber had pulled off onto the right shoulder of Southfield Fwy due to a flat tire. A man was outside the vehicle attempting to fix the tire, while his wife remained seated in the front passenger seat. As the man worked near the vehicle, he was struck by a northbound Chevrolet Impala.
When troopers arrived, they found the injured man lying on the ground with visible serious injuries. He was alert and breathing at the scene and was quickly transported by Detroit Fire Department EMS to a nearby hospital for further care.
The driver of the Chevrolet, a 52-year-old man from Plymouth, remained on scene and was interviewed by investigators. Authorities noted signs of impairment, and the driver was arrested and taken to a hospital for a blood draw. Charges are pending as the investigation continues.
Our thoughts are with the injured man and his family during this difficult time, and we hope for a full and swift recovery.
Pedestrian Safety Risks on Michigan Freeways
Tuesday’s tragic incident on Southfield Fwy highlights a lesser-known danger faced by drivers and passengers—exiting a vehicle on freeway shoulders. Whether due to mechanical issues, flat tires, or roadside emergencies, stepping out of a vehicle on high-speed roads presents a serious risk, especially when visibility is reduced or motorists fail to move over.
Michigan law requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching vehicles stopped on the shoulder with hazard lights. Unfortunately, crashes involving pedestrians on freeways continue to occur, often with devastating consequences. In this case, despite being properly pulled off the road, the victim was struck while attempting to perform a routine safety task.
The driver responsible for the collision is suspected of being impaired—a factor that significantly increases both the likelihood and severity of traffic crashes. Impaired driving remains a top contributor to injury and fatal collisions across Michigan. Enforcement efforts continue statewide to curb these preventable incidents, particularly in urban areas like Detroit.
For victims and their families, pedestrian crashes can result in long-term physical, emotional, and financial hardship. Recovery often requires extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and legal support to address the damages suffered. Accessing help early can be vital in preserving rights and easing the road to recovery.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a crash like the one on Southfield Fwy, know that you’re not alone—and help is available.
Being struck on the roadside is a life-changing event—but finding support shouldn’t be. At Local Accident Reports, we help injury victims access official crash documentation and connect with critical recovery resources. Request your free accident report today and begin your next steps with trusted guidance by your side.
