There have been a number of different fatal pedestrian collisions reported in our region in 2023. Unfortunately, another hit-and-run crash has taken the life of a pedestrian. According to a report from KSHB 41 News Kansas City, a pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run incident in the southern part of the city. The accident happened on Saturday, October 14, near the intersection of Troost Avenue and East 86th Terrace. The name of the victim is currently being withheld. Any person with information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
Traffic Poses a Serious Risk to Pedestrians
Sadly, motor vehicle collisions take the lives of approximately 7,000 pedestrians in the United States each year. Kansas City sees more than its fair share of pedestrian crashes. While crosswalks, intersections, and sidewalks are supposed to be safe havens for pedestrians, the reality is that our streets are not nearly as safe as they should be for pedestrians.
Duty to Stop and Remain at the Scene of a Pedestrian Crash
When a pedestrian crash occurs, it is imperative that motorists fulfill their responsibilities under the law. The at-fault driver must stop and remain at the scene of a pedestrian. Leaving the scene of a pedestrian accident—also known more simply as a hit-and-run—is a serious offense. If a pedestrian is seriously injured or killed in a hit-and-run crash, the driver can face a felony charge.
A Hit-and-Run Accident Can Be an Especially Challenging Claim for Pedestrians
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be an especially daunting task for pedestrians. The immediate absence of the offending party (the at-fault driver) adds a major layer of complexity. A pedestrian may have questions about how exactly to pursue their legal claim. Of course, even more alarming, the hit-and-run pedestrian crash may not be reported right away. A seriously injured pedestrian could struggle to get the immediate medical care they need.
Pedestrians Still Have Viable Legal Options After a Pedestrian Crash
Despite the hurdles presented by hit-and-run accidents, pedestrians in Kansas City are not without legal recourse. To start, many at-fault motorists are eventually tracked down by a comprehensive investigation. Beyond that, pedestrians and their families may also have legal claims against other parties, potentially including a third party who contributed to the crash. Finally, in some cases, an uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) policy may cover damages. An experienced Kansas City pedestrian accident lawyer can help victims pursue justice.
Consult With Our Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City personal injury lawyer handles the full range of pedestrian accident claims, including hit-and-run collisions. If you or a loved one was seriously hurt by a hit-and-run driver, we are here to help. Reach out to us by phone or contact us online for a free, no-obligation review of your case. With an office in Kansas City, we fight for the rights of pedestrian accident victims all across the surrounding region in Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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