Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Representing Injured Pedestrians in Missouri, Kansas & Arkansas
At the Law Office of Tom Wagstaff Jr., we are committed to upholding the rights of pedestrians who have been injured in accidents across Kansas City and beyond. Our team of attorneys, celebrated for their compassion, friendliness, and professionalism, are adept at navigating the complexities of injury claims, so you don’t have to. Not shying away from the courtroom, our trial-ready lawyers are equipped to escalate your case to litigation if it serves your best interest and gives you the greatest chance of receiving the most compensation for your injuries and losses after a reckless driver hit you. Whether you're from Kansas, Missouri, or Arkansas, rest assured that our firm stands ready to champion your cause and seek justice on your behalf.
Don’t wait to get the legal counsel you need. Call (816) 597-4556 to schedule a free case review with our Kansas City pedestrian accident lawyers.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
Pedestrian accidents occur when a motorist collides with a pedestrian. The reasons for such accidents can vary widely, but they often result in severe injuries or even fatalities for the pedestrians involved. To start a pedestrian accident claim, our attorneys can perform a thorough investigation into its cause. Our aim is to uncover why it happened and who holds the liability, providing critical information that empowers your claim.
Three common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving: When motorists are not fully attentive to their surroundings due to activities such as texting, eating, or using a GPS while driving, the risk of a pedestrian accident dramatically increases.
- Failure to yield at crosswalks: Drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. However, some drivers neglect this rule and proceed without checking for pedestrians, leading to collisions.
- Speeding: Motorists who exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for conditions have less time to react to pedestrians on the roadway. High-speed impacts are particularly dangerous and often result in serious injuries to pedestrians.
Serious Injuries in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Pedestrian accident cases must be given full and serious attention due to the catastrophic nature of potential injuries, so it makes sense to bring your case to a law firm as trusted as ours. Unlike motorists who have the vehicle's structure to provide some level of protection, pedestrians are exposed and vulnerable during the impact with a motor vehicle, likely resulting in life-changing injuries. If necessary, we can collaborate with medical professionals to get comprehensive information about your injuries, which can be instrumental in building a strong case.
Common injuries suffered by pedestrians in such accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): These can occur when a pedestrian's head strikes a vehicle or the pavement, leading to concussions, contusions, brain bleeds, etc.
- Spinal cord injuries: The impact can cause damage to the spine, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
- Broken bones: The force of collision often leads to fractures in various parts of the body, such as legs, arms, ribs, and more.
- Internal injuries: These might not be immediately evident but can be life-threatening. They can include damage to organs, internal bleeding, or punctured lungs.
Award Winning Results
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$37 Million
- Heirship Dispute
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$3 Million
- Nursing Home Elopement
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$2 Million
- Nursing Home Elopement
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$1.95 Million
- Motor Vehicle Collision
Damages Available to Pedestrian Accident Claimants
In a pedestrian accident claim, the damages pursued typically fall into three categories:
- Economic damages: These are quantifiable losses directly related to the accident. They include medical expenses, such as hospital bills, medication costs, physical therapy, and any future medical care required due to the injury. Additionally, economic damages cover lost wages from time off work for recovery, or loss of earning capacity if the injury results in a disability that impairs your ability to work.
- Non-economic damages: These damages refer to the intangible impacts of the accident on your life. They include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and shortened life expectancy. These damages are subjective, and their value can vary greatly from case to case.
- Punitive damages: Punitive damages are not awarded in every case, but they may be applicable in instances where the defendant's actions were particularly egregious or reckless. The purpose of these damages is not to compensate the victim but rather to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Again, punitive damages are rare and might not be available for your claim.
Get the Answers & Guidance You Need – Call Now
Our Kansas City pedestrian accident lawyers are committed to standing up for the rights of pedestrians who have been unfairly injured due to a motorist's negligence. Our team is ready to meticulously investigate your case, determine liability, and advocate for the compensation you deserve. With our extensive knowledge of Kansas City laws and steadfast determination, we proudly provide a supportive environment during difficult times for our clients. Let us help you turn the page toward recovery and justice.
Start your legal fight with a strong legal team. Choose our firm. Call (816) 597-4556 today.
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“He worked hard on our behalf and we reached a positive conclusion.” - Lori D.
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“Tom gives lawyers a good name.” - Donna J.
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“Tom and his firm are great people!” - Brad
Kansas City Pedestrian Accident FAQ
- Do pedestrians always have the right of way?
While pedestrians often have the right of way, this is not always the case. Drivers are generally required to give way to pedestrians at crosswalks, intersections with traffic lights, and parking lots. However, there are circumstances where a pedestrian may not have the right of way, such as when they are crossing a road outside of an intersection or marked crosswalk, or when the pedestrian signal does not indicate it is safe to cross. At the same time, a driver must make every reasonable and safe attempt to avoid hitting a pedestrian, even if that pedestrian has no right of way. Due to the complexity of right-of-way laws, you should always consult with one of our attorneys soon after a pedestrian accident for legal guidance. - Where do pedestrian accidents usually occur?
Pedestrian accidents typically occur in areas where vehicle and foot traffic intersect. The most common locations for these accidents are urban intersections, non-intersection areas such as mid-block locations, and parking lots. - Can pedestrian accidents involve multiple liable parties?
Pedestrian accidents can involve multiple liable parties. The responsibility for an accident is not always solely on the driver of the vehicle that hits a pedestrian. Other parties could also be held liable depending on the circumstances of the accident. For example, if the driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer could share liability.
