Nearly 2,000 Missourians are involved in pedestrian accidents each year. While any accident can be traumatic, biking or jogging accidents are especially so. People on foot are simply no match for large vehicles and the results are often disastrous. Pedestrians often suffer far more serious injuries than the people occupying the vehicles that hit them. All too often, pedestrians may be left with lingering injuries and in many tragic cases, the injuries are fatal.
In the aftermath of an injury, attempting to deal with savvy insurance representatives can create unnecessary anxiety and confusion. It’s easy to make a mistake and harm your chances of obtaining compensation. When an injury happens, you need an advocate on your side who can carry the legal burden for you so you don’t have to.
If you or a loved one was involved in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, you do not have to face the physical, emotional, and financial challenges alone. At Jett Legal, we are approachable, knowledgeable, and personally invested in both the care of our clients and the outcomes we achieve. Our team at Jett Legal has years of experience representing personal injury clients and is ready to help you navigate this process so that you can focus on your personal healing. We proudly serve clients in St. Louis, Missouri, as well as areas throughout St. Charles and Jefferson counties.
The period immediately following an accident can be chaotic, but there are a few things you need to do — for your safety and your chances of seeking potential compensation.
If you have been struck by a vehicle and are unconscious, this responsibility falls on the motorist or other witnesses (if any are available). However, if you are conscious after being struck, the responsibility is yours. The physical and emotional shock that your body will most likely be suffering may cloud your judgment and your ability to recognize pain and injury. Always call 911 for immediate assistance and let first responders assess your condition.
Even if you only feel shaken up, you should get medical treatment at the emergency room or urgent care as soon as possible. After a wreck, you will have adrenaline pumping through your body, which could potentially mask the injuries you have suffered. Many times people think they are okay but find themselves experiencing pain later. You may have fractures, a disc injury to your spine, or torn ligaments. Some of these serious injuries can start off with a relatively low level of pain. People with significant injuries often think they have only suffered bruising or minor strains.
People who witness the accident can help sort out what happened. If other bicyclists or individuals were nearby and saw the accident, ask for their contact information. Responding law enforcement officers will also be able to seek out any witnesses.
Take photos of your injuries, your bicycle, and the accident scene. Write everything down and make detailed notes. Take note of the date, time, place, the cause of the wreck, and any other information. This information will be useful for your attorney.
In bicycle or pedestrian accidents, injuries are very common. You may face a lengthy recovery as well as significant financial expenses. If you have been injured, it is in your best interest to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer will learn the details of your case and build the strongest case on your behalf.
Bikes are defined as vehicles under Missouri law, which gives them the same rights as cars and the same duties as drivers. Cyclists should adhere to the following:
Missouri law does not mandate the use of bike helmets while riding, but cyclists do have to make sure their bike is properly equipped while riding at night. All bikes must have at least one white front headlight, as well as a red rear reflector and/or a red rear light.
As a pedestrian, there are also certain rules of the road that must be followed:
Missouri is governed by a tort system. All motor vehicle accidents must have an “at-fault” driver and parties may sue the “at-fault” individual for damages. In addition, state law requires any action to recover damages for injuries to the person — caused or stained from an accident involving a motor vehicle — to be brought forth within a two-year period.
If you have been in a bicycle accident or hit by a car, do not wait to seek legal representation. Drivers are quick to blame others and it’s easy to make a mistake when dealing with complex insurance claims. Although we will fight for every penny you deserve, the end result isn't just about the dollar amount, but the way we work together to get there.
Our team at Jett Legal has experience in representing pedestrians and cyclists in the St. Louis, Missouri area and will fight for the justice you deserve. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in such an accident, you can trust us to stand by your side as you seek compensation. Contact us for a consultation.
