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St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Pedestrian accidents are a serious problem in St. Louis, Missouri. In 2021, there were 1,023 pedestrian accidents in the city, resulting in 104 injuries and 12 fatalities.
The number of pedestrian accidents in St. Louis has been increasing in recent years. In 2017, there were 832 pedestrian accidents, resulting in 92 injuries and 10 fatalities. In 2018, there were 910 pedestrian accidents, resulting in 100 injuries and 11 fatalities. In 2019, there were 965 pedestrian accidents, resulting in 105 injuries and 13 fatalities. In 2020, there were 998 pedestrian accidents, resulting in 103 injuries and 12 fatalities.
Pedestrian Fatalities
The number of pedestrian fatalities in St. Louis has also been increasing in recent years. In 2017, there were 10 pedestrian fatalities. In 2018, there were 11 pedestrian fatalities. In 2019, there were 13 pedestrian fatalities. In 2020, there were 12 pedestrian fatalities. In 2021, there were 12 pedestrian fatalities.
Pedestrian Injuries
The majority of pedestrian accidents in St. Louis result in injuries. In 2021, there were 104 pedestrian injuries. Of these injuries, 67 were serious and 37 were minor.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
The most common cause of pedestrian accidents in St. Louis is driver negligence. Other common causes include pedestrian negligence, speeding, and distracted driving.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in St. Louis
Pedestrian accidents are a prevalent issue in St. Louis, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Identifying the common causes of these accidents is crucial to developing effective prevention strategies.
The most common causes of pedestrian accidents in St. Louis include:
Driver Negligence
- Speeding
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting, talking on the phone, eating)
- Failure to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
For instance, in 2021, a pedestrian was struck and killed by a speeding driver who ran a red light.
Pedestrian Error
- Jaywalking or crossing the street illegally
- Walking while intoxicated
- Failing to use crosswalks or pedestrian signals
- Wearing dark clothing or headphones that impair visibility
In 2022, a pedestrian was injured after being struck by a car while jaywalking across a busy intersection.
Environmental Hazards
- Poorly lit streets
- Damaged sidewalks or roads
- Obstructions blocking pedestrian visibility
- Lack of designated crosswalks or pedestrian bridges
For example, in 2023, a pedestrian was struck by a car after tripping on a broken sidewalk, causing them to fall into the street.
Legal Rights of Pedestrians in St. Louis
Pedestrians in St. Louis, Missouri, enjoy several legal rights that protect their safety and well-being. These rights include the right-of-way at crosswalks, the duty of care owed to them by drivers, and the right to a safe and accessible pedestrian infrastructure.
Drivers in St. Louis have a legal duty of care to pedestrians. This means that they must exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm to pedestrians. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, stop for pedestrians in the roadway, and be aware of pedestrians when turning or backing up.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws
Pedestrians have the right-of-way at all crosswalks, marked or unmarked. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, even if the pedestrian is not in the crosswalk. Pedestrians also have the right-of-way at intersections, even if they are not crossing the street. Drivers must yield to pedestrians who are crossing the street at an intersection, even if the pedestrian is not in a crosswalk.
Crosswalk Safety
Crosswalks are designed to provide a safe place for pedestrians to cross the street. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, even if the pedestrian is not in the crosswalk. Pedestrians should use crosswalks whenever possible and should be aware of their surroundings when crossing the street.
Role of a St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries and financial losses. A St. Louis pedestrian accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance to victims in navigating the legal process and maximizing their compensation.
A lawyer can help victims:
- Determine liability and identify responsible parties
- Gather evidence, such as medical records and witness statements
- Negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of victims
- File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary
The legal process for pursuing a pedestrian accident claim involves:
- Filing a claim: Victims must file a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company within a specific time frame.
- Investigation: The insurance company will investigate the claim and determine liability.
- Negotiation: The victim’s lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a settlement.
- Lawsuit: If negotiations fail, the victim may file a personal injury lawsuit.
Hiring a qualified St. Louis pedestrian accident lawyer can significantly increase the chances of obtaining fair compensation for injuries and damages.
Choosing a St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Selecting a qualified pedestrian accident lawyer in St. Louis is crucial to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Consider the following tips:
Experience and Expertise: Look for an attorney who specializes in pedestrian accident law and has a proven track record of success in handling such cases. Experience in handling complex cases involving insurance companies and negligent drivers is essential.
Reputation and Referrals
Research the lawyer’s reputation through online reviews, testimonials, and industry recognition. Seek referrals from other attorneys, former clients, or trusted sources. A good reputation indicates the lawyer’s competence and ethical standards.
Fees and Communication
Understand the lawyer’s fee structure and payment options. Most pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they recover compensation for you. Discuss the fee percentage and any additional costs upfront. Open and clear communication is vital throughout the process.
Interviewing Potential Lawyers
Schedule consultations with several potential lawyers. Prepare questions about their experience, approach to pedestrian accident cases, and their strategy for maximizing your compensation. Trust your instincts and choose a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and who demonstrates a genuine interest in your case.
