Pedestrian accidents can turn your life upside down overnight. You can have injuries, medical expenses, and lost income. Pedestrians under Missouri law can file a lawsuit for their injuries. But securing a victory might be difficult. This is where using a Kansas City attorney can prove to be the difference.
Why You Should Have a Lawyer Following a Pedestrian Accident
Insurance companies will try to limit your claim after a pedestrian accident. Insurance companies will most likely offer you far less than your rightful worth immediately. Your rights will be protected by a lawyer, and he/she will deal with the insurers. Lawyers know how to gather evidence, question witnesses, and determine fault. You stand to lose good compensation without a lawyer.
Reading Missouri Pedestrian Accident Laws
Missouri has some laws in the event of a collision with a pedestrian. Pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk. Drivers have to come to a stop at intersections when there are pedestrians. When the driver disobeys these laws and one gets into an accident, the driver is responsible. Your lawyer will explain how these laws apply to your case. They will also discuss time limits for filing a claim or suit.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrian accidents are more likely to cause serious injury. Some of the most common injuries are:
- Broken bones
- Head trauma
- Spinal injuries
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
Injuries may have future medical costs. Your lawyer will make sure your claim pays all future and past medical costs.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
- Get medical attention immediately. Your health is most important.
- Call the police. A police report can assist your claim.
- Write down everything. Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicles, and injuries.
- Do not provide recorded statements to insurance providers. Only speak with your attorney.
- Save all of the medical bills and records. They are critical to your case.
Through these activities, your claim may be made more effective and your rights asserted.
How a Kansas City Lawyer Can Help
A Kansas City lawyer will guide you through the legal process. They will:
- Conduct detailed investigation of the accident
- Get statements from witnesses
- Get medical records
- Negotiate insurance
- Determine to pursue your claim or lawsuit on your behalf
Lawyers also do contingency practice. That is, you only pay if they succeed. They focus on securing you utmost fair compensation for your suffering and pain, lost earnings, and injuries.
Compensation Paid in Pedestrian Accidents
The payment will be based on so many things:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability
Missouri is a comparative fault state. If you are even somewhat at fault, your payment may be reduced. An attorney will defend your case and minimize fault.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
The insurance companies prefer to settle quickly. They will offer you less than you deserve. Never sign a settlement without an attorney. Your attorney knows the value of your case and can negotiate for you to receive what you deserve.
Filing a Lawsuit in Missouri
If negotiations fail, your lawyer can sue. Filing under Missouri law requires a timely action for a certain period, known as the statute of limitations. In personal injury lawsuits, the period normally averages five years. Timely filing helps preserve your right to recovery.
Why Local Experience Is Important
Working with a Kansas City attorney is working with an attorney who is experienced in local judges and courts. Local knowledge is beneficial in:
- Knowing how local courts handle pedestrian accident claims
- Having doctors in the local area to use for documentation
- figuring out how local jurors view these cases
This type of information enhances your success level.
Questions to Ask Your Pedestrian Accident Attorney
When you hire an attorney, ask pointed questions:
- How many cases of pedestrian accidents have you worked on?
- What is your success rate?
- How do you handle clients?
- Will you handle my case yourself, or assign it to somebody else?
- How much is your fee, and how will you charge me?
Asking these kinds of questions enables you to choose a lawyer whom you can trust.
Settling vs. Trying the Case
The majority of the pedestrian accident cases settle outside court. Settlement is less stressful and faster. But if the insurance company refuses your reasonable offer, your lawyer will take your case to court. Your attorney will guide you on what to do to receive maximum recovery.
Protecting Your Future
Recovery from a pedestrian accident is more than just getting paid. It’s about protecting your future health, wellness, and finances. A personal injury lawyer near me in Kansas City can enable you to recover while doing the hard work in law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much time do I have to file a pedestrian crash claim in Missouri?
You generally have five years from when the accident happened to pursue a personal injury. The sooner you act, the better your case will do.
2. What if I contributed to the accident partially?
Missouri is a comparative fault state. Your damages will be reduced by your portion of fault, but you will recover damages.
3. How much does a pedestrian accident lawyer cost?
Most are only paid when and if you win, usually a percentage of the judgment or settlement.
4. Can I settle without an attorney?
Yes, but you’ll typically receive less insurance company money. An attorney gets you fair compensation and defends your rights.
5. What damages can I recover following injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident?
You may recover medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation expenses, pain and suffering, and permanent disability.
Final Thoughts
If you were hit while you were walking around Kansas City or any other part of Missouri, don’t wait. Call an experienced Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in your area today to discuss your case. The right guidance will free you up to focus on your recovery while the professionals take care of the process. Your body and pocket deserve a proper recovery.
