Missouri, also known as the “Show-Me State,” is a state known for its midwestern charm, scenic beauty, and rich history. The vibrant culture, wide range of attractions, and amazing food bring in a large number of tourists. Cities like St. Louis are economic hubs with a lot of job opportunities.
Job opportunities bring many people to cities like St. Louis. This makes such cities crowded with both vehicle and pedestrian traffic, leading to an increase in pedestrian crashes. Being involved in a pedestrian crash is not only devastating but also often leaves the survivors with serious and life-threatening injuries.
The state of Missouri has several laws to protect pedestrians involved in such incidents. But many survivors are usually unaware or confused about how to navigate through the process. In such cases, seeking legal help for pedestrian accidents in St. Louis, MO, can help them navigate the legal process easily.
What are the laws that protect pedestrians in Missouri?
Understanding the Missouri laws that protect pedestrians is essential to protecting your rights if you or your loved one is ever in such a situation. So here are a few Missouri traffic laws you should know about.
1. Pedestrians in Crosswalks
According to this law, pedestrians who are at crosswalks should be given the first priority. This means if a pedestrian is on a crosswalk, the cars and other vehicles on the road should stop to let the pedestrian pass by.
This applies to even crosswalks that may not be painted. Failing to stop or slow down can result in the driver being held liable.
2. No Passing at Crosswalks
Sometimes vehicles tend to pass by other vehicles that have stopped. But if a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk to let pedestrians pass by, it is the law that other vehicles should also stop. This avoids cases of hidden-lane collision where the passing driver may not see the pedestrian.
3. Municipal Ordinances
The laws are applicable to a few cities, like St. Louis, where traffic can be high. These cities enforce additional pedestrian safety rules, like charging higher penalties for speeding in high-risk areas. This ensures that pedestrians can move about safely in cities with a high volume of traffic.
4. School Zone Laws
Since children are more susceptible to pedestrian crashes, drivers must ensure that they drive with extreme caution and slow down in school zones.
5. Duty to Stop After a Crash
In spite of many laws, pedestrian accidents can still happen. So, when such incidents happen, a few drivers may tend to get scared and drive away. But Missouri requires drivers to stop immediately after a pedestrian collision. Fleeing the scene can be considered a criminal offense.
6. Comparative Fault Rule
In Missouri, the legal system follows a comparative fault rule. This means that even if the pedestrian is partially at fault for the incident, such as not crossing at a crosswalk, they are still eligible for compensation.
This ensures that insurance companies do not put the entire fault on pedestrians.
Conclusion
- In Missouri, there are several laws that protect pedestrians.
- They have a clear right-of-way law, requiring drivers to stop at crosswalks.
- Drivers are to ensure safety when driving through high-risk areas.
- Drivers should follow rules such as school zone rules and neighborhood laws.
- Drivers have the duty to stop after a pedestrian crash.
- The comparative fault system allows pedestrians to claim compensation even if they are partially at fault.
