Walking should be safe. Roads are made for people too—not just cars. But many drivers ignore that. When a car hits a person, the walker always loses. The crash might last seconds, but the pain lasts much longer. Pedestrian accidents in Missouri are rising. Cities like Kansas City, Springfield, and St. Louis see more walkers hurt each year. If you or someone close was hit by a car, help is out there. A local experienced personal injury lawyer in Kansas City can fight for you.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen
Most walkers do nothing wrong. Still, drivers hit them every day. These are the top causes:
- Speeding: The faster a car moves, the less time the driver has to stop.
- Phones and other distractions: A few seconds of looking away can end in tragedy.
- Running red lights or stop signs: Many drivers rush through without looking.
- Failing to yield: Walkers in crosswalks still get hit.
- Drunk or high driving: Impaired drivers don’t see or react in time.
A moment of carelessness can lead to a lifetime of pain.
What Victims Go Through After the Crash
When a car hits a person, the injuries are often serious. These may include:
- Head trauma
- Broken bones
- Damage to the spine
- Internal bleeding
- Permanent scars
The medical bills stack up fast. Some people need surgery. Others need long therapy just to walk again. And it’s not just physical pain. Many victims face fear, anger, or even depression. Some stop walking in public altogether. These injuries don’t just hurt the body. They hurt daily life.
What a Missouri Pedestrian Lawyer Can Do
You don’t have to go through this alone. A Missouri lawyer helps you in the legal process to stand up and fight back.
1. Investigates the Crash
They collect reports, photos, and videos. They talk to witnesses. They show what really happened.
2. Deals With Insurance
Insurance companies often try to blame the walker. A lawyer pushes back. They fight for what’s fair.
3. Finds Hidden Facts
Some crashes involve more than one party. Your lawyer may find that others share fault too.
4. Goes to Court If Needed
If the insurance company won’t pay, your lawyer can file a case. They’ll stand by you in court.
5. Takes the Pressure Off
They speak to doctors, insurers, and adjusters—so you can focus on healing.
Missouri Pedestrian Laws That Can Help You
Missouri has laws that protect people on foot. Here are key rules:
- Vehicles must always give the right of way to a pedestrian that is inside a marked crosswalk or in an unmarked crosswalk.
- Pedestrians must obey a traffic signal.
- Vehicles must slow down in any school zone and in the area surrounding a park.
- If there is a sidewalk, pedestrians must use the sidewalk.
You may be able to win your case even if you broke the law or the rule. Missouri is a “pure comparative fault” state. If the driver was 80% at fault then you may be recovering 80% of your damages.
Common Damages You May Claim
If a driver hurt you, they may owe you for:
- Medical bills (now and future)
- Time you missed at work
- Job loss or lower pay
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care or devices
- Mental health care
- Death of a family member
A lawyer checks your full losses and fights for the highest fair amount.
What If the Driver Left the Scene?
Hit-and-runs happen more than people think. They leave victims hurt and confused. But your lawyer can act fast.
They may:
- Find street or store camera footage
- Speak to witnesses nearby
- Work with police
- Help you file a claim with your own insurance
Even if the driver is never found, you may still get money through your uninsured motorist coverage. A lawyer guides this process.
What If You Were Not in a Crosswalk?
Some people think the case ends there. It doesn’t. Missouri law allows walkers to recover money—even when outside a crosswalk. It depends on the full story. A lawyer shows how the driver still could have stopped or acted safely.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash
Here’s what you should do if a car hits you or someone close:
- Get medical help right away
- Call the police and file a report
- Get names and numbers of any witnesses
- Take pictures if you can
- Don’t speak with insurance yet
- Call a lawyer as soon as possible
The right steps early on make a big difference later.
The Cost of Hiring a Pedestrian Lawyer
Most injury lawyers work on a “no win, no pay” system. That means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- The lawyer gets a cut only if you win
- You still get most of the money
This way, anyone can afford help—even with no savings.
How Long Do You Have to File a Case?
In Missouri, you have five years to file most injury claims. But don’t wait.
Over time:
- Videos get deleted
- Witnesses forget
- Drivers change their stories
A lawyer moves fast and keeps your case strong.
How Long Will the Case Take?
Each case is different. Some settle in weeks. Some may take over a year. Simple crashes with clear faults move faster. Cases that need court can take longer. A good lawyer keeps you informed. They handle the slow parts so you don’t have to.
How a Lawyer Gives You Strength
It’s hard to fight alone—especially when hurt. A lawyer gives you the power to say no to unfair offers. They don’t let insurance play games. They stand up for you every step of the way. The goal is simple: get you what you deserve, not just what the insurance wants to pay.
FAQs About Pedestrian Injury Claims in Missouri
1. What if I can’t afford a lawyer right now?
You don’t pay upfront. Your lawyer only gets paid if you win.
2. Can I still sue if I was partly at fault?
Yes. You may still recover part of your damages under Missouri law.
3. What should I do right after a crash?
Call for help. Get medical care. Don’t speak to insurance without a lawyer.
4. What if I didn’t go to the doctor right away?
You can still file a case. But waiting makes it harder. See a doctor now.
5. Can I sue if my child was hit by a car?
Yes. Parents or guardians can file for injured children. Lawyers help with these claims.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
A crash may stop your steps—but it doesn’t have to stop your future. If a driver hurts you or someone you love, don’t stay silent. Call a skilled and affordable Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer who helps victims. You have rights. You deserve care. And you don’t have to fight alone.
