Legal Options for Injured Pedestrians in Missouri
Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in St. Louis and throughout the rest of the state. Whether you’re leaving Enterprise Center after a Blues game or walking through Forest Park, there is a constant risk of getting hit by a car, truck, or other vehicle. Fortunately, pedestrian accident victims often have legal options to pursue compensation from the person who hurt them.
That said, getting the compensation you deserve is difficult. Between the complicated legal system and greedy insurance companies, you are going to face roadblocks along every step of the way. The best way to ensure that you get a settlement or award is to retain the experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyers at Bruntrager & Billings as soon as you can after an accident.
Your Legal Options
After an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have a couple of legal options. You can file an insurance claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company, or you can file a lawsuit to pursue damages. In practice, these cases almost always start with an insurance claim, and only proceed to court if you are unable to reach a settlement agreement with the at-fault party’s insurance company
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons, and understanding the causes is essential for establishing liability and pursuing the appropriate legal action. Some common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other activities while driving are less likely to notice pedestrians and may be unable to react in time to prevent a collision.
Speeding
Speeding is a common cause in pedestrian accidents in the St. Louis area. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to unexpected situations, increasing the risk of collisions with pedestrians.
Failure to Yield
Drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or when making turns can cause severe accidents. Pedestrians have the right of way in designated areas, and drivers who disregard this can be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is against the law, but it continues to be a serious problem throughout Missouri. Intoxicated drivers often have impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and decreased awareness of their surroundings. This can lead to devastating accidents involving pedestrians.
Poorly Designed or Maintained Infrastructure
In some cases, pedestrian accidents can be caused by poorly designed or maintained infrastructure. Defective sidewalks, inadequate lighting, or missing signage can all contribute to accidents and injuries. In cases involving these issues, you can often file a claim against the government entity responsible for the maintenance of the roadway.
The Insurance Company Wants to Pay You as Little as Possible
Insurance companies are in business to make money, not to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. After a pedestrian accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may quickly contact you with a settlement offer. While this might seem like a positive development, these initial offers are typically far below what your case is actually worth. Insurance adjusters often use various tactics to minimize payouts, such as questioning the severity of your injuries, suggesting you were partially at fault, or pressuring you to accept a quick settlement before you fully understand the extent of your damages.
Without experienced legal representation, you might not realize the true value of your claim, which should include not just current medical bills, but also future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Insurance companies count on injured pedestrians being unfamiliar with their rights and the claims process. Don’t fall into this trap – having skilled legal representation levels the playing field and helps ensure you receive fair compensation.
Contact a St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in St. Louis, it is crucial to seek legal representation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call Bruntrager & Billings today at (314) 646-0066 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Our experienced attorneys are ready to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you – let us help you get the justice you deserve.