St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Lawyer 

Fighting FOr Pedestrian Accident Victims in Missouri

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable users of our roadways. They do not have the benefit of hundreds of pounds of steel surrounding them, or even a helmet.

As a result, they’re often at the mercy of the motorists who share the roadway with them. Motorists have the responsibility to drive safely, and in cases where they fail to do so around pedestrians, the results are often very serious.

If you or someone you know was struck by a car while walking, it is important to discuss your situation with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible.

Our St. Louis pedestrian accident attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse have represented many pedestrians who have been seriously injured and the families of those who have been killed in accidents. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents can take on victims and their families.

We will aggressively pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Call us today for a free consultation with our pedestrian accident attorney in St. Louis at (314) 350-1900.

How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in St. Louis?

Pedestrian accidents are all too common in the St. Louis area, and unfortunately, they are becoming more frequent.

A total of 22 pedestrians were killed in St. Louis in 2020, which is nearly double the amount recorded the year prior. As economic investment has spurred new construction throughout the area, this has often led to street closures and diversions, forcing pedestrians, cyclists, buses, and motorists to interact more than ever before.

The results disproportionately impact minority communities. According to recent figures from the City of St. Louis, black residents are roughly twice as likely as white residents to be injured while walking in the city.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

There are many factors that can contribute to pedestrian accidents, but some of the most common include:

• Distracted Driving. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are more likely to hit pedestrians.
• Speeding. Drivers who are speeding are less likely to see pedestrians and more likely to cause serious injuries if they do hit them.
• Poor Lighting. If a pedestrian accident happens at night, it may be because the driver didn’t see the pedestrian due to poor lighting.
• Intoxication. Drunk drivers are much more likely to cause pedestrian accidents than sober drivers.

As we mentioned above, pedestrians are highly exposed when walking alongside or crossing roadways. One moment of impatience or inattention can mean the difference between life and death.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a pedestrian accident, call the St. Louis pedestrian accident lawyers at NGK Law today for a free consultation – (314) 350-1900.

Common Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Accidents

Depending on the speed the driver was traveling and where the accident occurred, injuries from a pedestrian accident can range from minor bumps and bruises to fatal injuries.

Pedestrian accidents sometimes result in catastrophic injuries like:

• Head and brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Loss of limbs

If you are struck by a car while walking, it is critical that you first call the police and report the accident, and then get medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you need to have a doctor thoroughly examine you. Getting into a car accident causes a rush of adrenaline, and that adrenaline can mask symptoms of more serious issues, such as a traumatic brain injury.

When you file a police report and see a doctor, it also establishes a thorough trail of records documenting the accident and the results from it.

Next, speak with a St. Louis pedestrian accident attorney. They will review your situation with you, advise you of your legal rights, and help guide you through the process of filing a personal injury case.

Are Pedestrians Ever at Fault for Accidents in Missouri?

In Missouri, pedestrians have the right of way at all crosswalks, whether they are marked or unmarked. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and if they don’t, they can be charged with a traffic violation.

However, there are some situations where pedestrians can be found at fault if their actions were responsible for causing the accident. Here are a few examples:

• If a pedestrian is jaywalking or crossing the street outside of a crosswalk, where a driver wouldn’t expect to see them, the pedestrian may be held responsible if they are hit by a car.
• If a pedestrian is distracted and wanders into a roadway outside of a designated crosswalk, they can be found at fault for the accident. With the increasing popularity of smartphones, this is a growing issue in the St. Louis area.
• If a pedestrian is intoxicated, they can be found at fault for causing an accident. For example, if an intoxicated pedestrian wanders into a crosswalk against the signal, they can be found at fault for any incidents they cause.

How a St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a frightening experience on its own, but the weeks and months afterward are often worse. If you suffered a serious injury, you likely have to contend with medical expenses, lost time from work, emotional suffering, and dealing with the insurance company.

You deserve to have time to yourself to recover from your injuries and get on with your life. That is when it can be so useful to work with a personal injury attorney.

If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, a personal injury attorney can handle all of the heavy lifting with your personal injury process. They will guide you through the process, help you gather evidence, and represent you in court if your situation goes to trial.

If you have suffered any serious injuries as a result of the incident, an attorney can also help you seek damages from the driver who hit you. This can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

If you are considering working with a personal injury attorney after being involved in a pedestrian accident, contact NGK Law today for a free consultation.

What Is My Case Worth?

There is no cap to the amount of damages you can recover from a non-medical malpractice personal injury lawsuit in Missouri.

This means the value of pedestrian accident cases can vary depending on the facts of the scenario and the severity of the injuries. Some cases may be worth thousands of dollars, while others may be worth millions, such as a wrongful death claim.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for an Injury Case after a Pedestrian Accident?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is five years. This means that you have five years from the date of the accident to file a pedestrian accident case. If you don’t file your case within this time period, you may be barred from recovering compensation.

It's crucial to adhere to these timelines as delays can hamper the ability to gather evidence and may weaken the overall strength of your case.

FAQ About Pedestrian Accidents

What Steps Should I Take Immediately Following a Pedestrian Accident?

Immediately following a pedestrian accident, prioritize your safety and health by moving away from traffic and seeking medical attention, even if you feel uninjured. Call law enforcement to the scene to document the incident officially, which will aid any future legal proceedings. Gathering contact information from the driver and any witnesses is also crucial. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage if possible. Finally, contact a St. Louis pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss your options and receive guidance on the next steps.

What Types of Compensation Can I Seek After a Pedestrian Accident?

After a pedestrian accident, victims may seek several types of compensation to cover various damages. These include medical expenses—both immediate and future related to the incident—lost wages due to an inability to work and compensation for pain and suffering endured. In cases with significant long-term impacts, such as disability or loss of life enjoyment, additional compensation could be pursued. Each case differs, so an experienced pedestrian accident attorney can provide insights into the specific compensations you may be eligible for.

Are Hit-And-Run Accidents Common in St. Louis?

Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are not uncommon in St. Louis and can leave victims feeling helpless. These incidents add complexity to pedestrian accident cases due to the challenge of identifying the responsible party. If you’re involved in a hit-and-run, report the incident to the police immediately and provide as much information as possible, such as vehicle details and eyewitness accounts. A pedestrian accident attorney can assist in pursuing all viable avenues for compensation, even if the driver is not immediately known.

How Does Comparative Fault Affect My Accident Case in Missouri?

Missouri follows a comparative fault system, meaning the compensation you can recover is adjusted according to your share of fault in the accident. For example, if you're deemed 20% responsible and awarded $10,000, you'd receive $8,000. It's crucial to have a seasoned attorney evaluate your situation to mitigate any unfair fault assessments, ensuring you receive fair compensation. A skilled attorney can help balance the scales in your favor by meticulously gathering evidence and presenting a compelling argument.

Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney in St. Louis Today

Our pedestrian accident lawyers at NGK Law have years of experience handling many pedestrian accident claims. We understand the intricacies and challenges involved in these accidents and are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation. We can thoroughly examine the details of your claim, gather evidence, consult with experts, and work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf. Whether you've sustained severe injuries or are facing emotional and financial difficulties after a pedestrian accident, we are here to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. With a commitment to your well-being and a proven track record of success, NGK Law is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact NGK Law today to get started with our St. Louis pedestrian accident lawyer.