Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Legal Help After You’ve Been Struck

Starting your walking journey in Kansas City should be a safe experience. Sadly, every year, individuals are struck by trucks, cars, or buses resulting in often serious life altering injuries, some never recover. If you have been struck, or your loved one has been struck, you may require a local Kansas City personal injury lawyer with experience representing pedestrian accident claims. This guide will outline your rights, how a Kansas City pedestrian accident attorney could assist you, and what to do following an accident.

Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Kansas City

Many pedestrian crashes happen because drivers fail to watch the road. Here are common causes:

• Distraction due to a mobile device or other technology – Drivers using phones or other distractions while driving.
• Speeding – Decreases reaction time and increases injury risk.
• Failure to yield – Drivers fail to recognize rules of the road within a crosswalk.
• Impaired driving – Averages reaction times and may impair judgements.
• Poor weather or visibility – Eases barriers to seeing pedestrians.

Pedestrians have the right to safe passage. But drivers often ignore laws meant to protect them.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Even low-speed impacts can cause serious harm. Common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Internal bleeding
• Cuts and bruises

Some victims need months or years of care. Others face permanent disability.

What a Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Does

A skilled lawyer can help you in many ways:

1. Investigating your accident – Gathering photos, witness statements, and police reports.
2. Proving fault – Showing that the driver was careless or broke traffic laws.
3. Calculating damages – Adding up medical bills, lost wages, and future needs.
4. Dealing with insurance – Negotiating for fair payment.
5. Bringing a lawsuit – If you need to take your case to court.

Local attorneys know all of the traffic laws and court rules, making it possible for them to maximize your compensation. They understand how to deal with insurance companies that are trying to get out of having to pay you.

What to Do After Being Hit

Your actions after an accident can affect your claim.

• Get medical help – Even if you feel fine, injuries may appear later.
• Call the police – A report will document the crash.
• Gather evidence – Take photos and note the driver’s details.
• Get witness contacts – Their statements may help your case.
• Avoid quick settlements – Insurance offers may be far too low.

In your situation, the sooner you reach out to an attorney, the more you will benefit.

Laws Protecting Pedestrians in Kansas City

While Kansas City has the same traffic laws that Missouri adopts, it also has its own city traffic laws regarding pedestrians. Here are the rules for a driver:

• A driver must stop and yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
• A driver must stop at an intersection before turning and there is a pedestrian crossing in front of the stopped vehicle.
• A driver may not pass a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk for a pedestrian.

If the driver does not perform their duties, and there is an injury, the driver may be liable.

Compensation You May Claim

If you were struck, you may be able to claim money for:

• Medical treatment now and in the future.
• Lost wages during recovery.
• Loss of earning ability.
• Pain and suffering.
• Emotional distress.

In fatal cases, families may file a wrongful death claim.

How Long You Have to File a Claim

In Missouri, the deadline for personal injury claims is generally five years from the accident date. For wrongful death, it is usually three years. Waiting too long may mean losing your right to compensation.

Why Choose a Local Lawyer

A Kansas City pedestrian accident lawyer knows local roads, intersections, and courts which will help in the legal process. They may also know past crash patterns in dangerous areas. This can help in proving your case.

What to Expect During Your Case

• Free consultation – Most lawyers start by hearing your story at no cost.
• Case review – They check police reports, medical records, and witness accounts.
• Negotiation – They talk with the insurance company to reach a fair deal.
• Trial – If no deal is made, the lawyer takes your case to court.

Most pedestrian accident cases settle before trial. But a strong lawyer prepares for both.

Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents in Kansas City

Safety tips for walking in the city:

• Use marked crosswalks.
• Wait for traffic signals.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Wear bright clothing at night.
• Avoid distractions like phones or headphones.

How Much Do Lawyers Cost

Most pedestrian accident lawyers in Kansas City work on a contingency fee system. If you do not win, they do not get paid. You don't have to pay them up front amounts. If you win, they take a percentage of your settlement or court award.

Closing Remarks

In an instant, a car can change your life substantially. You may have medical bills, time missed from work, and just the emotional toll of an accident can add up quickly. A skilled pedestrian accident attorney near me in Kansas City can help you fight for your dignity and the fair compensation you deserve for your injuries. The good news is that a quick response after your pedestrian accident may become a major advantage in a successful case.

FAQs

1. What is the price for services from a Kansas City pedestrian accident lawyer? 

Most attorneys charge on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay anything until they settle your case.

2. How long will my case take?

The time depends upon the complexity of your case and whether it settles or goes to trial. Many settle within months.

3. What if the person who hit me is uninsured? 

Your attorney can look into whether you have claims through your own insurance or other potentially liable parties.

4. Can I recover if I am partially to blame?

Yes. Missouri law allows you to recover money when you bear some faults. However, your recovery will be reduced by the amount of fault that you have.

5. What should I bring to my initial meeting with the attorney? 

You should bring any police reports, medical records, photographs, and any bills that are associated with your case.