Hit by a Car? Your Essential Guide to Missouri Pedestrian Rights

Every 64 minutes in America, a pedestrian loses their life in a traffic collision. At The Floyd Law Firm, we’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact these accidents have on families and communities. More importantly, we’ve seen how understanding the legal landscape can make the difference between financial ruin and meaningful recovery.

The Alarming Trend

Bottom Line Up Front: Pedestrian deaths have skyrocketed 78% since 2009, representing nearly one in five traffic deaths nationwide.

The latest data shows that drivers killed over 7,000 people walking in the United States in 2024. However, this modest year-over-year improvement masks a disturbing long-term trend. Most concerning is that 83% of pedestrian deaths occur in urban settings, where people should feel safest walking.

Missouri’s Growing Crisis

Missouri is experiencing its own pedestrian safety emergency. The state recorded 148 pedestrian deaths in 2024, which is a record high and a 16% increase from 2023. This represents the highest number of pedestrian fatalities ever recorded in Missouri.

What makes Missouri’s situation particularly concerning is that many pedestrian fatalities involve people who exited their vehicle and were subsequently struck on high-speed roadways. Around 75% of these tragedies occur during nighttime conditions, when visibility is most challenging.

When and Where Accidents Happen

Understanding patterns helps both prevent accidents and build stronger legal cases. The most critical factor is darkness. 76% of pedestrians are killed when it’s dark. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of pedestrian deaths occurred in locations without sidewalks, highlighting dangerous infrastructure gaps.

Weekend periods see the highest fatality rates, with nearly half of all pedestrian deaths occurring between Friday and Sunday.

The Technology Promise and Reality

The automotive industry has responded with Pedestrian Crash Prevention systems that deliver automatic braking when detecting pedestrians. But technology is never perfect. While vehicles equipped with these systems show promising results, these technologies have significant limitations, particularly in low-light conditions when most fatalities occur.

The Devastating Impact

Pedestrian accidents typically result in catastrophic injuries due to the fundamental physics involved because a human body cannot withstand impact with a 4,000-pound vehicle. Common serious injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Multiple bone fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Psychological trauma and PTSD

The economic impact extends far beyond medical bills. Families face lost income, ongoing rehabilitation costs, home modifications, and long-term care needs that can stretch into millions of dollars over a lifetime.

Legal Rights in Missouri

Missouri operates under a comparative fault system, meaning pedestrians may still recover compensation even if they bear some responsibility for an accident. However, pedestrian cases present unique challenges:

• Generous timeline: Missouri allows five years to file a lawsuit, longer than most states
• Comparative negligence: Compensation can be reduced by the pedestrian’s percentage of fault
• Insurance complications: Pedestrians often lack coverage, making recovery dependent on the at-fault driver’s policy
• Evidence preservation: Critical evidence can disappear quickly

Critical Factors

Alcohol impairment plays a role in 40% of all pedestrian fatalities, with complex liability implications. Hit-and-run crashes account for 25% of pedestrian deaths, presenting additional legal challenges but remaining pursuable with experienced representation.

Building Your Case

Successful pedestrian accident claims require comprehensive investigation and documentation:

• Police reports and traffic citations
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
• Medical records documenting all injuries and treatment
• Employment records showing lost wages
• Expert accident reconstruction analysis
• Documentation of long-term care needs

Time is Critical

While Missouri’s five-year statute of limitations may seem generous, evidence disappears quickly. Surveillance footage is often overwritten within days, witnesses’ memories fade, and accident scenes change. Immediate steps after an accident include:

1. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
2. Report the accident to police
3. Photograph the scene and collect witness information
4. Avoid making statements about fault
5. Contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney

Your Rights Matter

At The Floyd Law Firm, we understand that behind every pedestrian accident statistic is a real person whose life has been forever changed. Having experienced legal representation like us on your side ensures your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for all your current and future losses. We’re committed to fighting for the rights of pedestrians and their families, ensuring they receive the compensation they need to move forward with dignity and security.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, time is critical for both your recovery and your legal rights. Contact The Floyd Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your options.