When a vehicle hits a person, there is no contest — the pedestrian loses every time. These are among the most serious injury cases I handle: traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, shattered bones, and far too often, wrongful death. If you were hit while walking in Joplin or anywhere in the four-state area, here’s what you need to know.
Drivers Owe Pedestrians the Duty of Care
Common causes of pedestrian collisions include distracted driving, failure to yield in crosswalks, rolling right turns, backing accidents in parking lots, and speeding through neighborhoods. The driver’s insurance company will still look for ways to blame the person on foot — you were outside the crosswalk, you were wearing dark clothing, you stepped out suddenly. Missouri’s pure comparative fault means even a partially-at-fault pedestrian can recover; the fight is over percentages, and evidence gathered early is what moves them: scene photos, camera footage, and witness statements gathered fast.
Where the Money Actually Comes From
The driver’s liability coverage is the starting point, but rarely the whole picture. Your own auto policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can apply even though you were on foot — a fact that surprises almost everyone. Hit-and-run? Your UM coverage stands in for the fleeing driver. Serious injuries demand finding every available policy, and that’s investigative work I do on every case.
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From the blog: Hit by a Car While Walking in Joplin? Know Your Rights.
The consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win. When you’re hurt, call Kurt. (417) 553-4898 — or request a free case review.