St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Seeking Justice for Wrongfully Injured Pedestrians in Missouri
Even the most cautious pedestrians aren’t fully protected from negligent drivers. If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in St. Louis, do not pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Put over 40 years of legal experience on your side by turning to our nationally recognized pedestrian accident attorneys in St. Louis at Sedey Harper Westhoff.
With a proven track record of results and an outstanding reputation for achieving exceptional verdicts, you can trust our pedestrian accident lawyers in St. Louis to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve following a wrongful injury. From navigating the legal intricacies of the claims process to negotiating a fair settlement, our compassionate attorneys are well-versed in Missouri law and St. Louis ordinances, working to protect your rights both in and out of the courtroom so you can focus on healing.
If you were harmed in a pedestrian accident, our dedicated pedestrian accident attorneys in St. Louis can aggressively seek justice on your behalf. Contact us online to discuss your case and legal options.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics in St. Louis
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Missouri ranks 20th in the nation for pedestrian accident fatalities. Following a 228% increase in pedestrian fatalities between 2020 and 2022, 646 people were injured or killed while walking or biking in St. Louis in 2023, making it the deadliest year on record.
These alarming statistics not only highlight the frequency of pedestrian accidents in St. Louis but also underscore the critical need for improved pedestrian safety measures and awareness. As urban areas continue to grow and traffic increases, it's imperative that local governments, community organizations, and individuals take proactive steps to enhance safety and reduce the risk of pedestrian injuries.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents in St. Louis can occur for a variety of reasons. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile devices, adjusting GPS, or engaging with passengers can cause drivers to overlook those walking and increase the risk of pedestrian accidents in St. Louis.
- Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds reduces drivers' reaction times and increases the risk and severity of collisions involving pedestrians.
- Failure to Yield: Accidents commonly happen when drivers disregard the right of way at crosswalks or intersections, putting St. Louis commuters at risk.
- Drunk or Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence impairs a driver's judgment and significantly increases the risk of pedestrian accidents throughout the St. Louis area.
- Poorly Designed Crosswalks or Signage: Inadequate signs or crosswalk markings can cause confusion for both drivers and pedestrians, leading to preventable accidents.
Dangerous Intersections for Pedestrian Accidents in St. Louis
As a pedestrian, staying alert for negligent drivers and other hazards is essential to preventing life-altering accidents. Some of the most dangerous intersections for pedestrians in the St. Louis area include:
- Interstate 70 and Grand Avenue: Unmarked lanes and missing crosswalks make this intersection a frequent site for pedestrian accidents in St. Louis.
- North Grand Boulevard and Montgomery Street: High traffic volumes and poor pedestrian signal visibility increase the risk of accidents at this location.
- North Grand Boulevard and Interstate 64: Numerous accidents are reported due to inadequate lighting and confusing lane markings.
- Jefferson Avenue and Interstate 44: Multiple lanes and high-speed traffic make this a particularly hazardous St. Louis intersection for pedestrians.
Local Resources for Pedestrian Accident Victims in St. Louis
Pedestrian accident victims in St. Louis have access to a variety of community resources to support their recovery. The St. Louis Regional Health Commission offers comprehensive healthcare guidance and access, helping connect injured pedestrians to vital medical and rehabilitation services. Such support is crucial for getting timely treatment after an accident.
The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety also supports victims and helps promote best practices for both drivers and pedestrians. Their initiatives keep the community informed about evolving safety standards and encourage participation in programs that make St. Louis roads safer. Engaging with these organizations can empower accident victims and reinforce injury prevention throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Missouri
-
How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Under Missouri law, the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim is generally five years from the date of the injury. Failure to file your claim on time can result in the loss of eligibility for compensation. Consulting with an experienced attorney is paramount to exercising your right to a fair settlement.
-
Can I Recover Compensation Even if I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes, you can still seek damages in a pedestrian accident claim even if you were partially liable for the accident. Missouri follows the pure comparative negligence rule, and plaintiffs can recover compensation even if they are 99% at fault. However, the final compensation awarded will be reduced by your percentage of the fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for a pedestrian accident totaling $100,000 in damages, you would only receive $80,000 ($20,000 less than the original value).
-
How Long Does a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit Take to Settle?
It depends on the case. Some claims are settled out of court within a few months, while others can take years to resolve. Some influencing factors include the severity of the injuries, potential liability disputes, and the possibility of litigation if the insurer refuses to reach an agreement. A knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer can give you a better idea of anticipated timelines, keep you informed about your case’s progress, and represent your best interests at trial if necessary to secure a just settlement.
-
Do I Need to Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
Wrongful injuries often result in tremendous physical, emotional, and financial burdens for victims and their loved ones. While it may be tempting to cut costs by waiving your right to an attorney, securing legal representation can mean the difference between recovering maximum compensation and walking away with nothing. In some cases, the court may require the defendant to cover your legal fees as part of the final settlement. No matter your legal situation, our lawyers can work diligently to hold negligent parties accountable.
- We investigate and evaluate your injury and the harm you have suffered.
- We negotiate a quick, fair settlement with the insurance company where possible.
- We work with your medical providers to develop a strong case of negligence.
- We take your case to court to get you the best result.
We Get Results!
Our clients say we are smart, hard-working, aggressive advocates, who will fight for your rights.
-
"I have the utmost respect for Sedey Harper Westhoff."
They are a unique group of smart, talented, dedicated and passionate attorneys working together to represent their clients with the highest degree of legal expertise, and to make a positive difference in the world. Their work is unparalleled.
- Francine K. -
"The counsel that I received from Sedey Harper Westhoff during each phase of my discrimination and retaliation case was excellent."
The professionalism and knowledge exhibited, and the personal touch my family received, was comforting during a very difficult time in my life.
- Rickey D. -
"You don’t just get one attorney… you get an entire firm on your side. I can’t recommend them highly enough."
Their reputation with the court system and the opposing firm / defendant spoke volumes in getting this case to a winning settlement. Most importantly, they are real people in a sea of so many attorneys.
- Terry H.
Saint Louis, MO 63139 Map & Directions