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Kansas City Pedestrian Accidents: What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You

Walking is part of everyday life. But in Kansas City, it can turn dangerous fast. One careless driver can change your life in seconds. A skilled and affordable personal injury lawyer in Kansas City helps you get through it. They deal with the legal mess. You focus on healing.

Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen

Drivers don’t always watch for walkers. They look at phones. They speed. Some drive drunk. Some are just careless.

Many crashes happen at:

  • Crosswalks
  • Stop signs
  • Busy city corners
  • Driveways
  • Parking lots

Dark roads, bad weather, and poor signs make things worse. A quick walk can turn into a hospital visit.

Who Gets Hurt the Most?

Kids and seniors are most at risk. Kids are small. Drivers don’t see them. Seniors may not walk fast or hear cars coming. But anyone can get hit. You could be walking to work or school. You could be on a sidewalk. You could be crossing with a green light. It still happens.

What Injuries Are Common?

Many people think they’re fine at first. But pain may start later. Always get checked by a doctor.

Here are some common injuries:

  • Broken bones
  • Cuts or bruises
  • Head trauma
  • Brain injury
  • Neck or back pain
  • Torn muscles
  • Internal bleeding
  • Long-term pain

Some injuries heal fast. Others last for life. Some need surgery. Others need months of therapy.

First Steps After a Crash

  1. Get to a safe place.
  2. Call 911.
  3. Ask for a copy of the police report.
  4. Take photos or videos of the scene.
  5. Get names and numbers of witnesses.
  6. Go to the doctor. Even if you feel fine.
  7. Save all bills, records, and receipts.
  8. Call a lawyer before you talk to anyone else.

Do not admit fault. Do not talk to the driver’s insurance alone.

Why a Lawyer Helps

You don’t need to fight this alone. A lawyer takes over the hard stuff.

They will:

  • Gather facts and photos
  • Talk to witnesses
  • Review camera footage
  • Handle all calls with insurance
  • Review medical records
  • File all forms and legal paperwork the right way
  • Make sure you get paid what you deserve

Lawyers know how to deal with tricky claims. They deal with low offers, delays, and blame games. You don’t have to.

No Money Upfront

Most personal injury lawyers don’t charge you upfront. They only get paid if you win. This is called a “contingency fee.” You can start a case even if you’re broke. That’s how the law is supposed to work—fair for all.

What You Might Get Paid For

Every case is different. But here’s what you may get money for:

  • Doctor bills
  • ER visits
  • Surgery or rehab
  • Lost income
  • Pain and stress
  • Long-term care
  • Mental trauma
  • Help around the house
  • Wheelchairs or walkers
  • Travel for care
  • Damage to clothes or gear

Your lawyer adds it all up and fights for the full amount.

Missouri Law: Deadlines Matter

In Missouri, you usually have five years to file a pedestrian injury claim. But don’t wait. Some cases have shorter limits. If a city or state worker was at fault, you may have only 90 days to act. Also, waiting too long can hurt your case:

  • Witnesses may forget
  • Video may be deleted
  • Drivers may move away

A lawyer knows when and how to act fast.

What If the City Was to Blame?

Some crashes happen because the road was unsafe:

  • No crosswalk
  • No lights
  • Bad signs
  • Broken sidewalks

If the city caused or added to the danger, you can sue them. These claims are harder. You must follow special rules. You must act fast. A lawyer will know what steps to take.

What If You Were Also at Fault?

Let’s say you crossed at the wrong spot. Or you were looking at your phone. You can still file a claim. Missouri uses “comparative fault.” That means:

  • If you were 20% at fault, you still get 80% of the money.
  • If you were 50% at fault, you still get 50%.
  • If you were more than 50% at fault, you get nothing.

A lawyer will help lower the blame put on you. They’ll push back against unfair claims.

Hit-and-Run Drivers

Sometimes the driver takes off. You may not know who hit you. Don’t panic. There’s still hope. Your own car insurance may help, even if you weren’t in a car. This is called “uninsured motorist” coverage.

A lawyer can:

  • Work with police to find the driver
  • Look for video footage
  • File claims with your insurance

Don’t give up just because the driver fled. You still have rights.

When Kids or Elders Are Hurt

These cases are more complex. Kids can’t file claims alone. A parent or guardian files for them. Elders may suffer more harm than younger people. One fall can change their life. The law often treats these cases with more care. A lawyer helps families get fair care for the most vulnerable.

How Long Does a Case Take?

It depends. Some cases settle in weeks. Others take months or years. Fast cases may involve small injuries. Bigger cases may need more:

  • Time for healing
  • Medical tests
  • Expert witnesses
  • Negotiations
  • Court dates

Your lawyer will keep you posted. You’ll never be in the dark.

What to Bring to Your First Meeting

You don’t need to bring everything. But these things help:

  • Photos from the scene
  • Police report (or report number)
  • Doctor’s notes
  • Bills and receipts
  • List of meds
  • Pay stubs if you missed work
  • Any witness info

Be honest. Don’t hide anything. Your lawyer is there to help—not judge.

What If the Driver Was a City Worker?

If the driver worked for the city or state, different rules apply. These cases may be filed against the government. You must move fast and follow strict steps. A lawyer who knows local laws can help you get it right the first time.

You Deserve Support

A pedestrian crash shakes up your life. It’s not just physical pain. It can bring:

  • Stress
  • Panic
  • Anger
  • Guilt
  • Money worries

You don’t need to carry all of it. A good lawyer eases your burden. Call an experienced local Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer today. They help you stand up and move forward.

FAQs

1. Do I still have a case if I don’t use a crosswalk?

Yes. You may still get paid, even if you crossed mid-block. Talk to a lawyer first.

2. How much does a pedestrian injury lawyer cost?

Nothing up front. They only get paid if you win. No win, no fee.

3. Should I talk to the driver’s insurance?

No. They are not on your side. Call a lawyer first.

4. Can I file if the driver left the scene?

Yes. A lawyer may help you file through your own insurance.

5. What if I feel fine but get sore later?

That’s common. Always see a doctor after any crash. Injuries may show up days later.