Pedestrian Injuries in Missouri: What the Law Says and How a Lawyer Can Help

People walk on streets, crosswalks, and pathways every day. Motorists in Missouri have regulations to follow in order to be safe. Crashes do happen despite them. When they happen, the law is there to safeguard the victims. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Kansas City is present to guide you on your rights and fight for fair treatment.

Missouri Pedestrian Laws

Missouri law protects walkers. Drivers must yield to them at marked crosswalks. Drivers must stop if a pedestrian has reached the crosswalk. Pedestrians must also follow rules. They must walk along crosswalks and observe walk signals. If a person is hit while walking, who’s at fault depends on the situation. A motorist might be to blame if speeding, distracted driving, or not yielding. A pedestrian might be to blame if crossing against the light or not looking first. There are likely more restrictions in some cities. Some cities outlaw jaywalking, for example. Some cities provide school crossing zones. Knowing local restrictions can keep you from getting hurt and from being in trouble. Wandering on highways or other off-limits roads is also against the rules. Pedestrians should travel on safe paths. Breaking these rules makes it harder to make a claim.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Injuries

The majority of crashes happen because drivers are distracted. Some of the reasons include:

• Speeding in residential areas or around schools
• Driving while texting
• Not coming to a stop at crosswalks
• Driving under the influence
• Not checking before turning into crosswalks

Occasionally poor road design or broken signals will also play a part. Too little lighting, faded crosswalks, and missing signs all contribute to drivers not seeing walkers as easily. Rain, fog, or snow also make it more hazardous. Even with seemingly harmless things like blasting music in cars or walking with a view to the phone, harm can be caused. Drivers and pedestrians must be vigilant. Nighttime or poor visibility makes pedestrians more at risk. Busy intersections, construction zones, and parking areas are also hazardous. Always stay alert. At times, there may also be a collision in the parking lot, which happens to be private property. Some of these include backing cars or blocked ways. Even here, one can sue. 

What Happens After a Pedestrian Is Hit

If you are run over by a car, visit a doctor first. Even if everything is okay, you could have some injuries that would not show until later. Call the police. Attempt to get names and numbers of witnesses. Take pictures of the scene if you have time. Note down what the driver appeared like and the color and number plate of the car. Attempt to put down what occurred when it is still fresh in your mind. These facts may be useful later. The driver’s insurance can pay you cash. Do not take anything without speaking with an attorney. You may be owed more than they offer you. Lowball offers are typically quick offers. An attorney will tell you what your case is really worth. You may also need follow-up treatment, like therapy or rehab. Keep all records and receipts. They help prove your expenses afterward. Let your doctor know about all pain or problems. Even small ones can get worse later. In some cases, you may need to take time off from work or school. Be honest about how your life has been impacted. It helps make a good case.

How a Lawyer Can Help You

Lawyers know the law and deal with insurance companies every day. Here’s what they can do:

• Explain your rights in simple language
• Gather evidence like camera footage or witness accounts
• Talk to doctors about your injuries
• Answer insurance calls so you don’t have to
• Help you get money for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering
• Negotiate more reasonable settlements
• Go to court on your behalf if you must

You don’t owe most injury attorneys anything unless they win your case. That’s no up-front payment. This allows people to receive aid without becoming broke. Attorneys can also detect sneaky tricks insurance firms play. Some adjusters attempt to blame you or make your injury less serious. An attorney keeps things level-headed. They also know how to prove pain and losses. That is, showing how your accident impacts your job, your family, or your daily life. Solid lawyers build solid cases on plain facts. Some lawyers can also help you find doctors who will take payment later, once you have won your lawsuit. This can be helpful if you are worried about money.

Time Limits for Filing a Case in Missouri

Missouri gives you five years to file a personal injury lawsuit. But too much delay will hurt your case. It’s always best to consult an attorney as quickly as possible. Witnesses over the years forget what they have seen. Videos are erased. Evidence is misplaced. Acting quickly gives your attorney more to work with. If one of the family members is killed in a pedestrian accident, then the relatives can bring an action for wrongful death. That is under a three-year statute of limitations. In the case of a city or state, the time limit is shorter. There are claims that need to be brought within 90 days. Another good reason to move quickly. Missing a deadline could cost you your right to receive money. Even if you don’t know, visit a lawyer early. A short conversation can inform you of where you stand. In addition, some injuries seem minor initially but may prove serious later. You wouldn’t want to lose your chance at getting legal practice management help due to not acting early enough.

What You Can Get From a Claim

If someone else hurt you, you might be given money for:

• Current and future medical bills
• Time lost from work
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disability or continued care
• Help at home if you cannot do things

It depends on how bad the injury is and how much it affects your life. A broken arm is different from brain damage. Some injuries heal fast. Some will last a lifetime. Even small injuries can have big repercussions. You might not be able to drive, cook, or watch children. A lawyer helps prove how your life is altered. The court also takes into account the circumstances of how the injury happened. If the driver was drunk, distracted, or irresponsible, it can add value to your case. This can bring you more money. Pain and suffering is hard to measure but extremely real. It could be fear of walking again, stress, or grief from the accident. These also tally.

Safe Walking Tips for Everyone

Laws are useful, but safety starts with drivers and walkers. Here’s some advice:

• Use sidewalks when possible
• Cross corners and crosswalks
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing
• Don’t walk and phone
• Wear light-colored clothes at night
• Carry a flashlight in poorly lit areas

Drivers must slow down in residential areas and constantly watch for pedestrians. Be observant of children near schools and parks. Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk. They may be letting someone cross. Drivers must also be observant of side streets and driveways. Pedestrians can be hidden behind cars or trees. A second look can save a life. Safety is not a rule. Safety is a habit. If we all stay aware and look out for each other, more will stay safe. If you are out walking with kids, hold their hands at an intersection. Teach them the habit of stopping and looking both ways. These types of habits can last a lifetime.

FAQs for Missouri Pedestrian Injuries

1. Can a pedestrian be held liable for the accident?

Yes. If the pedestrian broke a traffic law, he or she might be at fault. Missouri is a “pure comparative fault” state. That is, you can get money even if you were somewhat at fault, but you get less.

2. What would happen if the driver leaves the scene?

That’s a hit-and-run. Call the police right away. If they can’t find the driver, you might still get help from your own auto policy, if you have uninsured motorist coverage.

3. Can I sue the city if the accident was caused by a malfunctioning traffic light?

Maybe. If the city knew the light was broken and didn’t fix it, then they could be held responsible. These are tough cases. You have to act fast because claims against cities don’t have as much time to file them.

4. The person injured was a child?

Children are given special attention by the law. Drivers must be even more careful near schools and parks. One’s mistake doesn’t necessarily mean fault. Judges are more likely to protect children than adults.

5. Can I claim it if I wasn’t crossing in a crosswalk?

Yes. Because you are not in a crosswalk does not mean that you cannot recover money. The court will take everything into consideration. If the driver was careless, you still may have a case.

Final Thoughts

Pedestrian accidents can change lives. But don’t do it yourself. Missouri law gives you a chance to make things right. A local Kansas city personal injury lawyer can represent you, answer your questions, and stand up for what you are entitled to. If you or the one you love was hurt walking, talk to an attorney. It could make a big difference. A phone call can lead to the help you need. Walk wisely. Drive safely. And if the worst happens, know your rights.