Pedestrian safety is a priority throughout Kansas City. There are roughly accidents each year that result in injury and death. Understanding your pedestrian rights will enable you to keep yourself safe and also protect you legally. This handbook will review important laws, responsibilities, and the correct actions to take if you are injured.
Understanding Pedestrian Rights
Generally, the pedestrian has the right of way. However, this does not mean the pedestrian can go wherever they want and not follow the rules. Pedestrians have rules too including walking in crosswalks, following traffic signals, and being aware. The pedestrian only yields to the driver when they are walking in a crosswalk. Drivers need to be aware too. Kansas City is governed by Missouri state traffic laws. They dictate where a pedestrian must walk and when a driver must slow down. Becoming aware of them avoids your ending up in an accident and the better any ensuing legal process action for damages. Pedestrian safety is of utmost importance. Keeping track of traffic; being attentive and not distracted; and having children involved can be important in pedestrian safety, avoiding inattention or negligence from motorists can still sometimes injure very diligent pedestrians.
Crosswalks and Right of Way
Crosswalks are where the pedestrian on foot must be. One must stop as a driver when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk. Even when crossing on a green light, watch out for coming turning cars. There are unmarked crosswalks that occur at some intersections. Pedestrians maintain right of way in Missouri intersections even in the absence of lines defining them. Always try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Pedestrians should cross, if there are any, in crosswalks. Avoid night or mid-block crossing. Pedestrians must not enter the traffic suddenly, which is the cause of most accidents.
Sidewalks and Walking Rules
Pedestrians walk on the sidewalk. Street walking is permitted only when there is no sidewalk. Walk against the flow of traffic when there is no sidewalk. Pedestrians according to Missouri law must use the sidewalk if there is one. Be visible, especially walking at night. Wear light-colored attire and bring lights or reflectors. Visibility reduces accident rates and comes in handy when you have to make a case in court. Sidewalk safety also involves taking cognizance of danger. Slips and falls can occur due to slippery sidewalks, roadworks, or other debris on the road. Document hazardous ground so that you may make a claim in court if need arises.
Pedestrian Accidents: What to Do
If you're hit by a car, then do the following:
Your medical records, pictures, and your own witness testimony are used to build your case. Your lawyer can work with insurance adjusters and treat you fairly.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents occur for a variety of reasons. The most common causes are:
Most pedestrian accidents take place due to risky driver behavior as well as risky pedestrian behavior. Both are the subject of court actions. Pedestrians must never presume drivers can see them. Relying on eye contact, slowing down crossing, and waiting for the cars to stop reduces the incidence of accidents.
Pedestrian Responsibility and Comparative Fault
Missouri only has a comparative fault. Percent responsibility of the driver and pedestrian may be allocated to them only. In the event that a pedestrian is at fault, the recovery of compensation will be reduced. Example: When a person strikes a pedestrian crossing the street mid-block, the offender may find the pedestrian partially at fault. Courts will proportion percentagewise fault between parties. Being conscious of your rights and abiding by rules reduces the risk of being blamed. Be careful always and cross the road safely.
Insurance and Compensation
The following are entitled to victims following an accident:
Insurance companies will try to keep the payment low. Engaging a lawyer is standing up for your rights and receiving a fair settlement. Kansas City personal injury lawyers are familiar with local insurance companies. They can guide you through claims and suits. Compensation can also be for damage to property like a dented purse or shoe. Document the damage and have store receipts available for your case.
Special Areas: School Zones and Bus Stops
Increased alertness should be the order of the day in schools. Low speed zones are required by Missouri legislation in school zones and playgrounds. Kids should be brought to a stop when crossing streets. School stops are also a dangerous zone. Pedestrians should stay on the sidewalk safely and not venture out unsuspectingly. Distracted motorists account for the majority of bus stop accidents. Parents need to teach children elementary walking rules. Walking with a grown-up, crossing roads both ways, and following traffic regulations instills lifelong practices.
Night and Weather Safety
Nighttime and bad weather are more common times for pedestrian accidents to occur. Rain, fog, and snow impair visibility. The driver cannot spot pedestrians ahead. Wear clothing that reflects light, carry a flashlight, and remain on well-lit roads. Remain vigilant and take extra caution while approaching a crossing.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
Safety customs help prevent accidents from happening and assist legal action in case of an accident.
When to Contact an Attorney
You need to contact an attorney when:
Your attorney can carry out an investigation, reveal evidence, and negotiate on your behalf. You get what belongs to you in this way. Call a local skilled Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer right away.
Laws of Kansas City You Should Know
Knowledge of such laws prevents pedestrians from being fined and makes court cases difficult to prosecute.
FAQs
1. What if my car gets hit by a car while I am lawfully crossing? What should I do?
Call the police, tend to your injury, tell them where the accident happened, and seek an attorney immediately.
2. Does a pedestrian always have the right of way in Kansas City?
No. A pedestrian is provided with the right of way on crossing the road but must still obey signs and use common sense.
3. Can I sue a driver if I was crossing the street illegally?
Yes, but your recovery might be diminished on your portion of fault.
4. How is accident compensation decided in cases involving pedestrians?
It's negotiable based on medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and percentages of fault.
5. Do I sue a lawyer if the accident doesn't look so bad?
Yes. Little injuries tend to turn into big injuries, and lawyers ensure insurance companies pay reasonably.
