Pedestrian accidents change lives in a matter of seconds. If you or someone you love were hurt when walking, you may be shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. In Kansas City, many people face this problem every year. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Kansas City can guide you through the process of getting help and paying for your injuries.
What to Do in Case of a Pedestrian Accident?
After an accident, you may be hurt and not know what to do. You might need to take an ambulance or go to the ER. Doctors can check for broken bones, head injuries, or internal damage.
The police may report. The report is useful later when you sue or claim. Take pictures of the scene and get names of any witnesses who saw the accident if possible. The data backs up what happened.
If you can, take note of what you remember. In which direction were you going? What was the color of the light? Did the car stop or leave? These small things may be useful at a later date in court.
Your Rights as a Pedestrian
Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way, especially at crosswalks. If they did not stop, then the fault lies with the driver. Missouri state law protects people who walk, run, or safely cross the street. If the driver was speeding, texting, drunk, or just not paying attention, they are at fault. Other protection can be given to children, old people, and the disabled. Drivers are expected to watch out for them more carefully. In case a sidewalk is blocked or unsafe, people can walk on the road. Even then, drivers should take care not to drive them over.
What Can a Lawyer Do for You?
A lawyer looks after your best interests. They deal with the insurance companies. They collect evidence and represent your case in court if necessary. Many accident lawyers offer free first consultations. Many work on a “no win, no pay” basis.
This is what a lawyer can do:
- Collect police reports and medical records
- Interview witnesses
- Recreate the accident scene
- Deal with insurance claims
- File a lawsuit, if necessary
An attorney helps you not take any less than you deserve. They can also explain timelines. In law, they are known as statutes of limitations. Not meeting one can shut your door to filing.
Common Injuries from Pedestrian Collisions
Walking near traffic can be dangerous. Cars are much larger and faster than human beings. That leaves injuries capable of being life-threatening. Common ones are:
- Fractured bones
- Head and brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Cuts, scrapes, and road rash
- Internal bleeding
You may not notice some injuries. A minor headache can be a major issue. Always get checked out, even if you’re not hurt. Sometimes, a person will need prolonged care. This can include physical therapy, surgery, or help with everyday tasks. These costs add up fast. Even the smallest injuries can cause problems later. A broken ankle could alter your gait. A backache could keep you home from work. Always follow your doctor’s advice.
Who Pays After an Accident?
In most cases, the driver’s insurance covers it. But this will also depend on who was at fault in the accident. If the pedestrian stepped into traffic without checking, things could be more complicated. Still, some fault may lead to some payment. Your lawyer will review every detail of the case. They may find that there were missing signs on the road or the driver had a history of improper driving. All these factors matter. Also, there are individuals who have their own insurance to contribute toward injuries, like uninsured motorist protection. A lawyer can help you make sense of all your possibilities. If the city or state failed to fix a broken traffic light or sidewalk, they may be partially responsible. That can change how your case is treated.
What Can You Get From a Claim?
A pedestrian accident can be expensive. You may miss work. You may take weeks or months off to get better. A claim can bring legal practice management help with:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Therapy or rehabilitation expense
- Future medical needs
You can even be compensated for emotional distress. Fearing to walk again, experiencing stress, or losing your independence all count. Occasionally, in extremely rare cases, courts award extra money if the driver was very careless or enraged on purpose. An award from a claim can help you move forward. It won’t make everything fine, but it can diminish the anxiety of bills and lost income.
Kansas City Roads and Pedestrian Safety
Kansas City is attempting to get its streets safer. However, most streets are not pedestrian-friendly. There are busy streets, lack of lighting, and few crosswalks that add to the risk. If a road design increased the likelihood of your accident, then the city could be partially responsible. There are some high-risk streets in Kansas City. They are usually found near shopping centers, schools, or bus stops. If you got hurt in one of these places, additional safety measures may be in force. Residents are calling for better lighting, additional signs, and reduced speeds. These could prevent additional accidents. City plans will take years to implement change. Until then, people who walk in Kansas City need to be extra careful and alert.
What Do You Need to Do Today?
If you or a loved one was hit, do the following:
- Get medical attention
- Report the accident to the police
- Write down what happened
- Record it with photographs
- Call an attorney
Make photocopies of everything. Keep your receipts. Record how your injury has affected your daily life. This could help prove the actual expense of your accident. Do not discuss anything with the driver’s insurance without having an attorney. They will try to pay you less than what you are entitled to. Also, do not sign anything until you know your rights. You may lose your right to recover full compensation.
Choosing the Right Lawyer
Select someone who has experience working with pedestrian cases. Ask them how many cases they have won. Check if they have complimentary visits. Make sure you feel heard and cared for. Also check if they are in or near Kansas City. Local lawyers know more about city codes and courts. They may even be aware of prior problems with specific roads or intersections. You would prefer that they hear you like a human being, not like a case number. Ask them if they have handled similar claims. Look for reviews. Talk to previous clients if you can. A good lawyer will find time to talk to you.
Special FAQs Pertaining to Pedestrian Accident Claims in Kansas City
1. Do I have to hire a lawyer right away?
It is a good idea. The sooner a lawyer gets involved, the better able they will be to protect your claim and get evidence.
2. What if I was hit in the evening or when it was bad weather?
That doesn’t become your fault. Car drivers still have to watch the road. Weather and time of day do not excuse irresponsible driving.
3. Can I claim it even if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?
Yes, you can. Crosswalks help, but car drivers still have to not run over individuals in the road.
4. What if the driver ran away?
This is known as a hit-and-run. Dial the police immediately. Your lawyer can track down the driver or file claims with your own company.
5. How long do I have to make a claim in Missouri?
According to Missouri law, you have five years to pursue a personal injury claim. But the sooner you start, the better your chances of winning.
Final Thoughts
Being hit by a car is frightening. You deserve to be helped. You deserve justice. In Kansas City, lawyers are here to battle for you. Don’t wait. Get advice today and head towards your rights. The right lawyer can be a big difference-maker. Act now. Consult with a Kansas City personal injury lawyer who understands how to help. The first step is the most important.