Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Springfield

Fighting For Those Who Have Been Injured As a Pedestrian in Missouri

The human body is not equipped to withstand the force of being struck by a motor vehicle. Accident victims frequently sustain brain injuries, paralysis, broken bones, and other serious injuries. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash, the injury attorneys of Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC can investigate the cause of the pedestrian accident, negotiate aggressively with the insurance company, and work diligently to obtain the compensation to which you are entitled.

Our Springfield pedestrian accident attorneys are here to help. Call us at (417) 557-3407 today to schedule an appointment.

Statistics For Pedestrian Accidents in Missouri

In 2011, 75 pedestrians were killed, and 1,377 were injured in Missouri traffic accidents. This means one person was killed or injured in a pedestrian traffic crash every 6.0 hours in the state.

Careless drivers are frequently to blame for pedestrian crashes. Common causes include:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on a cell phone while driving
• Failure to obey stop signs and traffic signals
• Right-of-way violations at intersections or crosswalks
• Inattention while backing out of a driveway, alley, or parking space

How To Determine Fault for a Pedestrian Crash

Under Missouri law, both pedestrians and drivers have certain legal obligations. For example, drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian and take extra precautions when encountering a child or incapacitated adult. In addition, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. When another driver stops to allow a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear must not overtake and pass the stopped vehicle.

At the same time, pedestrians are required to use common sense, such as looking both ways before crossing and walking on sidewalks where available. Pedestrians crossing at an intersection must also obey “Walk” and “Don’t Walk” signals. When not crossing at a crosswalk, the pedestrian must yield the right of way to all vehicle traffic.

Pedestrian Accidents Result in Severe Injuries

Pedestrians are lucky to walk away from a truck or auto accident unscathed. According to the state of Missouri’s 2011 traffic crash statistics, 91.2 percent of pedestrian crashes resulted in a death or personal injury. Common injuries include head trauma, fractures, contusions, internal injuries, back and neck injuries, and abrasions. In the most serious crashes, victims may suffer more dire consequences, such as permanent brain damage or paralysis.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

When you've suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to various types of damages. Potential damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: Pedestrian accidents often lead to serious injuries, necessitating immediate medical attention and ongoing treatment. Recovery for medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any future medical costs related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: If your injuries stop you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical injuries are often accompanied by emotional distress and pain.
• Property Damage: If personal belongings or clothing were damaged in the accident or lost personal items, you may be qualified for compensation for property damage.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In tragic cases where a pedestrian accident results in the loss of life, surviving family members could pursue wrongful death damages, including funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other related costs.
• Punitive Damages: In extreme negligence or willful misconduct, the court may grant punitive damages to penalize the liable party and prevent similar conduct.

What is the Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accident Claims in Missouri?

Time is of the essence when pursuing a pedestrian accident claim in Missouri. The statute of limitations helps dictate the timeframe within which legal action must be initiated. In the state of Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including pedestrian accidents, is generally five years from the date of the incident.

It's important to note that exceptions may apply in certain situations, such as cases involving government entities. Therefore, it is imperative to consult with experienced Springfield pedestrian accident lawyers at Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC, to ensure compliance with the applicable statute of limitations and increase the likelihood of a successful claim.

Contact Our Springfield Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

At Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC, our seasoned pedestrian accident lawyers in Springfield help injury victims recover from serious pedestrian collisions. Whether negotiating with the insurance company or pursuing your case at trial, we work diligently to obtain full and fair compensation on your behalf.

Call our offices today at (417) 557-3407 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with our Springfield pedestrian accident lawyers.