Injured Crossing the Street? A Personal Injury Lawyer in Kansas City Can Help
Pedestrian accidents can change lives in seconds. If you were hit crossing the street in Kansas City, you are not alone. Many people get hurt every year just trying to walk safely. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Kansas City can help you get the money you need for medical bills, missed work, and pain. This page explains what to do after a crash, how fault is proven, and why hiring a lawyer is a smart move. You’ll also learn how insurance companies work and how a lawyer fights to protect you.
Pedestrian Accidents Are Common in Kansas City
What could be better than traffic and crazed inattentive drivers? In Kansas City, especially on a Friday night, there are many people simply walking to or from work, school, or a baseball game, who have no idea the perp at the wheel has no intention of recognizing their right to take to the street. When accounts of distracted conduct caused by phone use, speeding, or being forgetful about stopping/seeing or yielding. Crosswalks and walk signs are there to protect you. But, even if the pedestrian’s actions were in compliance with all traffic laws or regulations, there is still a possibility of injury depending on an arbitrary inappropriate action of the driver. A serious accident may subject you to anything from a broken bone to some level of traumatic brain injury, or anything in between. If you have been hurt by being injured by a car while a pedestrian, you need to call a law firm for representation right away. The sooner you pursue legal representation, the easier it will be for you.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash
Stay calm. Move to a safe place if you can. Call 911. Let the police make a report. That report may help prove who was at fault. Get medical help right away, even if you feel okay. Some injuries show up hours later. You will also need medical records for your case.
Try to gather:
- Names and contact info for all drivers and witnesses
- Photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage
- A copy of the police report
Do not speak to the driver’s insurance company without legal help. They may try to blame you or offer less money than you need.
How a Lawyer Can Help You
A personal injury lawyer works for you, not the insurance company. They will:
- Review your case and explain your rights
- Gather proof to show the driver was at fault
- Deal with the insurance company for you
- Make sure you get the full money you deserve
Most lawyers don’t charge anything upfront. They only get paid if you win. This is called a contingency fee.
What If You Were Partly at Fault?
Maybe you stepped off the curb early. Maybe you were looking at your phone. That doesn’t mean you can’t get money. Missouri uses something called “pure comparative fault.” That means even if you were partly wrong, you can still recover money. Your final amount just gets reduced based on how much blame you share. A good lawyer will help in the legal process to fight to keep your fault as low as possible.
Types of Injuries Pedestrians May Suffer
Getting hit by a car can cause serious harm. Some common injuries include:
- Head injuries or brain trauma
- Broken arms, legs, or ribs
- Back and spinal cord damage
- Cuts, bruises, or road rash
- Emotional stress or fear of walking again
Some of these injuries may take months or years to heal. Others may never go away. You should not have to pay for injuries caused by someone else.
Damages You May Be Owed
You may be able to get money for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages from missing work
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Counseling or rehab costs
Every case is different. A lawyer can estimate how much your case is worth.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Missouri, you usually have five years to file a personal injury claim. But don’t wait. Waiting makes it harder to collect evidence. And the insurance company will try to use delays against you. A lawyer can file the right papers and keep your case on track.
Insurance Companies Are Not Your Friend
Insurance companies are for profit companies. They have an interest in paying you as little as possible. They may:
- Deny your claim
- Say you caused the crash
- Offer a low amount quickly and hope you take it
Don’t fall for these tricks. Let your lawyer handle the calls and letters.
How Long Will the Case Take?
Some cases settle in a few months. Others take longer, especially if there’s a lawsuit. The time depends on:
- How clear the fault is
- How bad your injuries are
- Whether the insurance company fights your claim
Your lawyer will push to settle fast but won’t rush you into a bad deal.
Choosing the Right Lawyer in Kansas City
Pick someone who:
- Focuses on personal injury law
- Has handled pedestrian crash cases
- Knows Missouri traffic laws
- Will talk with you, not just their staff
Ask for a free case review. Good lawyers offer this with no strings attached.
Why Timing Matters
The longer you wait, the more you risk:
- Losing key evidence
- Forgetting details
- Letting the other side shape the story
Reach out as soon as you can. Even if you’re still hurt or in shock, a lawyer can guide you step by step.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Being hit by a car is scary and painful. You may feel angry, confused, or hopeless. But you’re not alone. A skilled personal injury lawyer in Kansas City can lift the stress off your shoulders. They’ll handle the legal fight while you focus on healing. Call today. You could be one call away from the help you need.
FAQs
- Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?
Yes. Missouri law may still protect you. The driver must watch for all people on the road. Talk to a lawyer. - How much does a pedestrian accident lawyer cost?
Most charge nothing upfront. They get paid only if you win. It’s called a contingency fee. - What if I don’t feel hurt right after the crash?
Some injuries take time to show up. See a doctor right away and keep all records. - Can I sue if the driver left the scene?
Yes. You may still get money through your own insurance or a special fund. A lawyer can explain how. - How long will my case take to settle?
It depends. Some cases settle fast. Others take longer. Your lawyer will explain your best options.
Need Help? Call a Kansas City Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was hit while crossing the street, don’t wait. Help is one call away. A skilled local Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer can explain your rights and help you get the money you deserve. You don’t pay unless you win.
