The squeal of tires. The crash. Then, silence—except for the rush of a car peeling out. A hit-and-run with a pedestrian is not only irresponsible—it’s a crime. If you’re ever involved in such a situation, having an idea of your legal responsibilities might make all the difference between a bad legal experience and one that could be disastrous. If you’re a panicking driver or a pedestrian demanding justice, the law in Missouri is unequivocal about what happens next. Here’s how it breaks down.
Leaving the Scene: What Missouri Law States
Missouri law seriously deals with hit-and-run accidents. If a motorist hits a pedestrian and drives away without stopping, he/she may face dire legal repercussions, including:
- Criminal Charges – Leaving the scene of an accident, particularly one which involves injury, is a felony in Missouri. They can be as heavy as fines of up to $10,000 or heavy jail time.
- License Suspension – The Missouri Department of Revenue can suspend or revoke a driver’s license following a hit-and-run.
- Civil Liability – Unless criminal charges do not fit, the driver might be held financially accountable for damages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Not stopping isn’t only immoral—it can destroy lives, including yours.
What You Need to Do Following a Pedestrian Crash?
Missouri law provides straightforward guidelines for motorists involved in an accident:
- Stop Right Away – Running away makes everything worse. If you’re involved in an accident, stop as close to the location as safely as possible.
- Check on the Pedestrian – Call 911 right away if the pedestrian is hurt. Even small injuries need to be reported.
- Give Information – You need to provide your name, contact information, and insurance data to the pedestrian or responding officers.
- Wait for Officials – Waiting until police get there before departing can prevent criminal charges.
- Provide Aid If Able – As you wait for emergency personnel, provide reasonable aid. This may involve calling for assistance or getting the pedestrian to a safe location.
These actions aren’t merely legal mandates—they might save a life.
What If the Driver Ran Away?
If you were struck by a fleeing driver, don’t panic. There are steps to obtain justice:
- Call 911 Right Away – Relay as much information as possible: the vehicle’s make, model, color, license plate (even partial), and the direction it fled.
- Search for Witnesses – Nearby pedestrians, nearby businesses with security cameras, or dashcam video from other drivers can be invaluable.
- Get Medical Help – Even if you’re okay, pedestrian accident injuries might not appear until later.
- Report the Accident – A police report makes your case stronger and could assist authorities in finding the driver.
- Get in Touch with a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Springfield – Legal counsel is essential to get you compensated and protect your rights.
What If You’re the Driver But Scared and Left?
A second of panic can last forever. If you fled the site of a pedestrian crash, act fast:
- Turn Yourself In – The longer you remain silent, the more it hurts. Coming forward demonstrates accountability and can pay off for you.
- Hire an Attorney – Before talking with police, seek the advice of a pedestrian accident attorney in Springfield. They’ll advise you how to navigate the situation legally.
- Be Honest – Lying or covering up the accident will only increase potential penalties.
Missouri law doesn’t look kindly on hit-and-runs, but taking the right steps after a mistake can make a difference.
Possible Defenses for a Hit-and-Run Charge
Years of research show that every 1 in 5 pedestrian deaths are the result of a hit-and-run accident. If you’re accused of a hit-and-run, your case may not be as open-and-shut as it seems. Possible defenses include:
- Mistaken Identity – At times, police misidentify motorists based on poor surveillance footage or untrustworthy witnesses.
- Lack of Knowledge – Occasionally, a driver might not have known they struck someone, particularly in slow-speed or nighttime accidents.
- Medical Emergency – If an unexpected medical condition forced you to leave the scene, that could be a defense.
- Fear for Safety – If it would have placed you in harm’s way in that moment, your lawyer can suggest that fleeing was required.
A lawyer can review the facts and construct the strongest defense.
Missouri Penalties for Hit-and-Run Crimes
The penalty for fleeing a pedestrian collision is different based on the situation:
- Property Damage Only – Fines, suspension of license, and potential misdemeanor charges.
- Injury to a Pedestrian – Jail time, excessive fines, license suspension, and a felony conviction.
- Fatality – In the event of death, the driver might end up behind bars for years and face life-changing penalties.
Shirking responsibility is not worth the gamble.
Why Do You Need Legal Help?
Pedestrian accidents change lives in an instant. If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run or are facing legal consequences, don’t handle it alone. Our team is ready to fight for your rights, ensure fair treatment, and seek the best possible outcome. Reach out today to discuss your case confidentially and take the first step toward justice.
