What Happens if a Pedestrian Caused an Accident?

If you drive a vehicle in St Louis, MO, you may think that pedestrians always have the right of way. But what happens if a pedestrian caused an accident? Unbelievable as it may sound, pedestrians can also be liable under specific situations, and where this happens, understanding the issue of liability becomes quite relevant. At Burger Law, we know how these cases can turn complicated quickly, especially with Missouri’s specific rules and statutes. Let’s break it down so you know what to expect.

How Are Pedestrians Responsible for a Road Accident?

Yes, pedestrians can be held responsible for causing a road accident. While drivers are expected to be careful, pedestrians also have legal responsibilities to ensure safety on the road. Examples of pedestrian liability include:

• Jaywalking: Crossing roadways outside marked crosswalks or disregarding traffic signals poses serious risks to motorists and disrupts the smooth flow of vehicles.a
• Sudden movements: A pedestrian who suddenly steps off the curb without warning may startle drivers who do not have sufficient time to act appropriately.
• Walking while impaired: Public intoxication has posed a very serious risk to people other than just drivers; it can also lead to bizarre and unsafe pedestrian behaviors.
• Obstructing traffic: Standing in the middle of a busy roadway or failing to use designated crossing zones greatly increases the likelihood of collisions and jeopardizes everyone’s safety.

Such actions frequently violate Missouri’s traffic statutes, ultimately holding the pedestrian accountable for significant injuries, damages, or disruptions caused to other road users involved in these scenarios.

Injuries Due to Pedestrians’ Negligence

Accidents caused by negligent pedestrians can result in serious injuries for drivers and passengers alike. While vehicles offer a level of physical protection, the repercussions of abrupt stops, swerves, or collisions can still be severe, including:

• Whiplash from sudden braking to avoid hitting a pedestrian, causing painful neck injuries.
• Airbag deployment injuries, such as abrasions, contusions, or even minor fractures resulting from the rapid force.
• Secondary collisions are where a driver’s attempt to swerve around a pedestrian leads to crashing into another vehicle or roadside object.
• Psychological trauma, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress, can linger after narrowly avoiding a life-threatening incident.

The effects extend beyond physical harm; drivers often face emotional turmoil and mounting financial strains, including healthcare expenses, car repair bills, and time lost from work. According to a study published in PubMed Central, sudden and unexpected road incidents can exacerbate stress and lead to prolonged psychological impacts, further complicating recovery.

What Are the Rules for Pedestrian Accidents in Missouri?

Missouri law places responsibility on both drivers and pedestrians to avoid accidents. State regulations require all individuals on the road to act responsibly and exercise appropriate caution to minimize the risk of accidents. This means pedestrians cannot suddenly enter a roadway when it’s impractical for an oncoming car to stop.

Missouri also follows the principle of comparative negligence, which allows the fault to be shared between the pedestrian and the driver. For instance, if a pedestrian’s actions contributed to 60% of an accident, they may be held accountable for that portion of the damages.

Understanding these laws is crucial when determining who is at fault. Our firm often references these regulations to build strong cases for our clients.

What to Do if You Are Involved in a Car Accident Caused by a Pedestrian?

If you’re a driver involved in a pedestrian-caused accident, taking the right steps can protect your legal and financial interests. Here’s what to do:

1. Call the police: Reporting the accident ensures there’s an official record of the incident.
2. Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, including any damage to your car, the pedestrian’s location, and nearby traffic signals or signs.
3. Speak with witnesses: Collect statements and contact information from anyone who saw what happened.
4. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional.
5. Contact your insurance company: Report the accident promptly, but avoid admitting fault.

By documenting the event thoroughly and following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle any legal claims or disputes.

Get Help from an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

Handling accidents involving pedestrians requires a deep understanding of Missouri traffic laws and liability rules. At Burger Law, we’re here to help drivers in St. Louis navigate these complex situations. If you’ve been in an accident caused by a pedestrian’s negligence, call us today at (314) 500-HURT. Let’s fight for the compensation and clarity you deserve!