Pedestrian Lawyer

Hollis Law Firm

Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

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Kansas City offers numerous activities like unique restaurants, art exhibits, and outdoor adventures. Many residents and visitors enjoy the walkable areas and choose to travel on foot and through public transportation rather than using a motorized vehicle. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are not uncommon in Kansas City and may cause severe, debilitating injuries. Due to their vulnerability to vehicles, pedestrians suffer more risk in traffic accidents than those inside cars. 

The injuries and harm a pedestrian may face after a serious traffic accident can result in long-term disabilities, financial loss, and other significant damages. If you suffer severe injuries in a pedestrian accident, speak with a Hollis Law Firm Kansas City personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Our team can guide you through the legal and medical process of filing an injury claim. With our tools and resources, you can feel confident in your legal representation.

What Types of Injuries Can You Sustain in a Kansas City Pedestrian Accident?

The injuries you may sustain in a pedestrian accident depend on the vehicle’s speed and the location of the collision. Not only can the initial impact of the vehicle cause life-threatening damage, but also the surrounding environment and any flying debris. For example, if a pedestrian is hit by a car and hits their head on the street’s curb, they can suffer severe brain injuries and damage. 

There are various injuries a person can sustain in a pedestrian accident, including:

    • Sprains and strains
    • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
    • Neck injuries
    • Spinal cord injuries
    • Whiplash
    • Concussion
    • Burns
    • Broken bones
    • Soft tissue injuries
    • Internal injuries

    You may initially believe you’ve suffered no injuries after an accident until further down the road when you experience severe pain and discover latent injuries. Latent injuries are those that may not show any outward injury signs. However, a doctor can examine your health and any possible injury you may have sustained after an accident.

Who May Be Liable for Pedestrian Accidents in Kansas City?

Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern in cities like Kansas City, where the interaction between vehicles and pedestrians is constant. When such accidents occur, it is crucial to identify the parties responsible for the incident and determine liability. Understanding the various parties that can be held accountable is essential for seeking justice and pursuing compensation.

Motor Vehicle Drivers

One of the primary parties that can be held liable for pedestrian accidents in Kansas City is motor vehicle drivers. Drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly, which includes obeying traffic laws, maintaining proper control of their vehicles, and yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians. If a driver fails to exercise reasonable care and causes an accident resulting in pedestrian injuries, they can be held responsible for their negligence.

Pedestrians

While pedestrians generally have the right-of-way in crosswalks and other designated areas, they also have a responsibility to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws. If a pedestrian’s actions contribute to an accident, they may share some degree of liability.

For instance, if a pedestrian suddenly darts into traffic without warning, it can make it difficult for drivers to avoid a collision. However, it is important to note that Kansas City follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still be entitled to recover damages proportionate to the other party’s negligence.

Vehicle Manufacturers

In some cases, the liability for a pedestrian accident can extend beyond the driver and pedestrian involved. If a defect in the vehicle’s design or manufacturing contributed to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer or distributor may be held liable. For example, faulty brakes or defective steering mechanisms could make it difficult for a driver to avoid hitting a pedestrian, even with reasonable care.

Government Entities

Government entities, including the city of Kansas City and its agencies, can also be liable for pedestrian accidents under certain circumstances. If a dangerous roadway condition, such as inadequate signage, malfunctioning traffic lights, or inadequate pedestrian facilities contributes to an accident, the responsible government entity may be held accountable for its negligence. However, it is essential to note that claims against government entities often involve specific procedures and shorter time limits for filing.

Property Owners

In some cases, the liability for a pedestrian accident may extend to property owners. For instance, if a pedestrian is injured due to dangerous conditions on private property that adjoins a public sidewalk, the property owner may be held responsible for their negligence. This could include maintaining hazardous walkways, failure to clear snow or ice, or allowing debris or obstructions that hinder pedestrian safety.

The Importance of Working With a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Kansas City

Pedestrian accidents can be devastating, resulting in severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, seeking legal representation from an experienced Kansas City pedestrian accident attorney is crucial.

Knowledge of Pedestrian Accident Laws

Pedestrian accident cases involve a complex web of laws and regulations that vary from state to state. A skilled Kansas City pedestrian accident lawyer possesses in-depth knowledge of these laws and understands how they apply to your specific case. They can assess the circumstances surrounding the accident and guide you through the legal process.

Protecting Your Rights

Insurance companies and opposing parties often try to minimize their liability and offer low compensation amounts to accident victims. By working with a pedestrian accident attorney, you have a dedicated advocate who will protect your rights. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Building a Strong Case

Successfully pursuing a pedestrian accident claim requires gathering compelling evidence and expert testimony and presenting a convincing case. A Kansas City pedestrian accident lawyer has the resources and experience to build a strong case on your behalf. They will work with accident reconstructionists, and medical professionals to establish the extent of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the responsible party’s negligence.

Navigating the Legal Process

The legal process can be overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with injuries and emotional distress. A Kansas City pedestrian accident attorney will guide you through every step, ensuring that you meet deadlines, submit necessary documents, and handle all legal procedures. They can also represent your interests in negotiations, compensation discussions, or in court if the case goes to trial.

  • 4 Common Pedestrian Accident Locations in Kansas City

    Pedestrian accidents can occur anywhere at any time. However, there are a few locations where these crashes are more prevalent and dangerous. It’s important for residents and those visiting Kansas City to be aware of the possible dangers these locations pose. Consider the following four locations where pedestrian accidents commonly occur:

    Intersections

    Even though crosswalks are created explicitly for pedestrians and their safety, intersections are some of the most common areas for pedestrian fatalities. These accidents often happen when a vehicle fails to stop behind the line, turns left across the intersection, or runs a red light. 

    High Traffic Areas

    Areas with high traffic volumes often have sidewalks too close to the roadway or completely lack sidewalks. With the combination of close proximity and large amounts of vehicles, drivers may accidentally hit a pedestrian when trying to navigate traffic. For example, if a vehicle is trying to get off an exit and drives over the side of the road, they may not see a pedestrian and harm the individual. 

    School Zones

    Drivers must be aware of their surroundings in school zones due to the possibility of children biking or walking to and from school. Children may not be fully aware of their own surroundings and walk out into the road without checking for vehicles. In these situations, drivers need to triple-check the area before driving.

    Parking lots

    With the mix of drivers and pedestrians in a compact location, parking lots are often areas of pedestrian crashes. Whether the driver backs into a pedestrian, turns into a pedestrian or fails to check for pedestrians properly, the injuries can be severe. Also, those with disabilities and small children suffer a more significant risk when drivers do not adequately check their surroundings. 

    Pedestrians are more likely to suffer severe injuries in a traffic accident due to their vulnerability. Seek immediate medical attention to help recover from any possible injuries and document the collision’s severity. 

    When Should I Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney?

    Handling the aftermath of a pedestrian accident claim while also navigating medical treatment and other responsibilities is stressful and overwhelming. The complicated processes and unfamiliar terminology may pose a threat to your claim and compensation if you do not have an experienced lawyer on your side. Our team at Hollis Law Firm can offer their knowledge and legal services to those in need of assistance. 

    • Answering questions regarding your claim
    • Analyzing documents for potential legal issues
    • Discussing claim information with insurance companies
    • Negotiating settlement offers 
    • Gathering case-related evidence and information
    • Interviewing eyewitnesses and collecting surveillance
    • Guiding you through the medical documentation process

    There are many steps to take after a car accident, and trying to do them all on your own can cause high amounts of unnecessary stress.  We want to give you the time you need to recover, so our team will stay by your side and work in your best interest.

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Find a Dependable Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer at Hollis Law Firm

Accidents involving pedestrians often inflict serious injuries due to the person’s exposure to surrounding objects and dangerous vehicles.  When another person’s negligence causes you to suffer injuries, you have the right to hold them accountable and seek compensation for your losses. 

The lawyers at Hollis Law Firm can use their knowledge and experience to represent you during your legal proceedings. With our help, you’ll have someone by your side every step of the way, offering answers and strategies for handling your claim. We tailor our services specifically to your claims needs and are proud to offer clients trusted legal counsel for their claims. 

Schedule a free consultation with an experienced lawyer at Hollis Law Firm by calling (800) 701-3672 or filling out our contact form today.

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