A pedestrian colliding with a vehicle is a frightening thought and a terrorizing experience. Unfortunately, they are not uncommon and can often leave the pedestrian with long-term or permanent injuries and disabilities.
When an accident occurs because of a negligent motorist, you could be eligible to collect compensation to cover the damages you sustained. One of the dedicated personal injury attorneys at our firm could help you file a legal claim. Call a High Ridge pedestrian accident lawyer to schedule an initial meeting.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Negligent drivers are hazardous to pedestrians. That is especially true in areas with high-pedestrian traffic. Some of the most frequent causes of pedestrian and vehicle accident include:
- Driving while texting or with other distractions, such as talking on the phone
- Speeding and reckless driving
- The failure to stop and give the pedestrian the right-of-way
- Intoxicated driving
- Failure to abide by traffic and safety laws
- Making left turns without checking for pedestrians
A High Ridge pedestrian accident attorney could investigate the cause of a crash and collect the evidence needed to build a successful claim for damages.
Recoverable Damages in Pedestrian and Vehicle Accidents
The court will consider all relevant evidence in a case when making a decision, including the extent of the driver’s negligence and the pedestrian’s injuries. An award for damages could cover:
Medical Expenses
A severe or catastrophic injury could mean outrageous and long-term medical expenses. A comprehensive compensation award could cover all healthcare costs for a pedestrian’s accident-related injuries.
Missing Time from Work
The injured pedestrian will often need to miss time from work while they recover. In some cases, they may never be able to return to their pre-accident position. A court-ordered financial award could cover their lost wages and lost future earning potential.
Pain and Suffering
Pedestrian and vehicle accidents often cause severe mental and emotional injuries. A fair settlement award could cover these non-monetary losses and others.
Requirements for Reporting Pedestrian Accidents
There are state laws that require the mandatory reporting of certain accidents. According to the Missouri Revised Statutes § 303.040, a motorist must immediately report a wreck if it meets the criteria of any of the three circumstances below:
- A driver is in an accident with a pedestrian that causes more than $500 in injuries
- A motorist is uninsured and causes over $500 in damages, bodily injuries, or death
- If the owner of a parked car is involved in an accident that leads to death, injuries, or damages of over $500
Failing to report accidents as the law requires could result in penalties, including high fees and a permanent mark on the driver’s criminal record. A qualified pedestrian accident lawyer in High Ridge could answer questions on state laws and regulations during an initial consultation.
Call a High Ridge Pedestrian Accident Attorney to Seek Recovery
When a vehicle collides with a pedestrian, the damages are almost always significant. It often causes victims catastrophic injuries and can devastate nearly every part of their lives. People should never have to be afraid of walking in pedestrian areas, such as on the sidewalk or crossing a parking lot, because of careless or reckless drivers.
If you were in an avoidable accident because of a negligent driver, you have every right to hold them accountable. A hard-working legal professional could help you collect the fair settlement amount you need and deserve. Schedule a consultation with an experienced High Ridge pedestrian accident lawyer today.
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