Pedestrian accidents can occur in many different contexts. A driver of an automobile may strike a pedestrian who is walking near a busy intersection. An individual may walk into oncoming traffic and cause an accident involving multiple vehicles. Individuals riding bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards, and tricycles are also considered pedestrians. Pedestrians have rights and responsibilities they must adhere to while going about their day on Missouri’s streets.
Drivers, however, also have a duty to use reasonable care while on roads and highways. Pedestrians may not be clearly visible to drivers during poor weather conditions. Also, pedestrians are more likely to suffer serious bodily injury or death due to being struck by an automobile. Contact Justin L. Mason, LLC in St. Louis, Missouri today if you have suffered injuries during an accident.
Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians may suffer injuries under many different circumstances. Drivers operating trucks, scooters, passenger vehicles, and bicycles can all cause accidents involving pedestrians. Also, other pedestrians can also cause pedestrian accidents. A driver who strikes a pedestrian may be liable under the same principles relevant to other personal injury cases.
The pedestrian must prove the following elements to establish the liability of the responsible party:
- The driver owed the pedestrian a duty of reasonable care
- The driver was negligent and thereby breached the duty of care
- The pedestrian suffered injuries caused by the other responsible party’s negligence
Drivers must adhere to Missouri traffic laws and safety regulations while driving in the state. All drivers must pay attention to road conditions and watch out for other vehicles and pedestrians on or beside the road.
Some of the most common behaviors considered negligent under Missouri law include not adhering to traffic rules, driving while intoxicated, texting while driving, distracted driving, failing to stop at a stop sign, and speeding.
Distracted driving is becoming more common in Missouri and throughout the United States. GPS devices, cell phones, and other devices can distract drivers and cause them to stop paying attention to the road and other automobiles on the road.
The Types of Injuries Victims Suffer in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accident victims often suffer severe bodily injuries. The following injuries are some of the most common injuries suffered by victims in pedestrian accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Fractured bones
- Third-degree burns
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Severe sprains
Pedestrians do not have any physical protection from the full impact of being struck by a moving vehicle. In the most severe pedestrian accidents, victims may suffer temporary or permanent paralysis. Due to their vulnerability, pedestrians often suffer some of the most severe personal injuries during accidents in Missouri. After seeking immediate medical treatment, pedestrian accident victims should contact a personal injury lawyer.
Contact Justin L. Mason, LLC in St. Louis, Missouri
If you have suffered injuries during a pedestrian accident in Missouri, contact Justin L. Mason, LLC in St. Louis, Missouri. Contact us today to learn more about the legal services we offer. Retaining an experienced personal injury lawyer is one of the best things you can do if you suffered injuries during a pedestrian accident.