Distracted driving isn’t just about texting and driving anymore. It’s GPS rerouting mid-commute, changing songs, grabbing coffee, and even adjusting the rear view mirror. Meanwhile, Missouri pedestrians—especially in cities like Springfield—remain unprotected against thousands of pounds of speeding metal. The outcome is tragic and avoidable. One distracted driver + one or several vulnerable pedestrian/s = chaos, injury, lawsuits, and sometimes, death.
In recent years, Missouri law enforcement and local lawmakers have worked hard to reduce pedestrian fatalities. Still, according to MoDOT data, pedestrian deaths have more than doubled statewide in the past decade. It’s not always about speed. Often, it’s about attention—or the lack of it.
Distracted Driving in Missouri – A Growing Threat
Multiple factors drive the uptick in pedestrian-related accidents. Let’s break them down:
- Distracted Driving: Smartphones are now behind more pedestrian incidents than alcohol in some parts of Missouri.
- Urban Sprawl: Longer crossings, faster roads, and fewer pedestrian safety zones increase exposure risk.
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Not every Springfield street has sidewalks, and not every intersection includes a marked crosswalk or flashing beacon.
- Impaired Judgment: Whether it’s a tired driver or someone under the influence, split-second mistakes often happen in slow zones near schools, clinics, and bus stops.
Pedestrians in Missouri Are Legally Protected—But Still At Risk
Missouri law gives pedestrians in crosswalks the right of way. However, legal protections provide little safeguard against a driver who is distracted and speeds down Battlefield Road or Chestnut Expressway.
Even if an improperly crossing pedestrian was involved, Missouri is a comparative fault state, so the driver could still be mostly liable. These aren’t cut-and-dry cases—they require legal nuance and smart litigation.
How Pedestrians Can Protect Themselves?
While driver’s bear responsibility, pedestrians can take proactive steps:
- Use designated crossings. Missouri courts weigh this heavily in injury cases.
- Avoid distractions. Headphones and phone scrolling can reduce your awareness.
- Make eye contact with drivers, especially in areas without stop signs or signals.
- Be visible. Reflective gear and flashlights help at night.
Springfield Car Accident Lawyers Address the Grey Areas
Car accident lawyers in Springfield understand how to obtain vital traffic camera footage, subpoena cell phone records, and reconstruct accident sites to uncover the true story behind the accident.
Clients don’t usually arrive with answers. They come with pain, trauma, and confusion. And lawyers bring strategy and results, particularly when liability is in question.
Establishing Negligence in a Case of Distracted Driving
In court, emotion will not suffice. You require facts—tangible, admissible, and on time.
- Cell phone records can verify a call or text at the moment of the accident.
- Eyewitness testimony frequently substantiates assertions regarding a driver’s conduct.
- Accident reconstruction specialists are employed to plot what transpired, second by second.
- Security footage from surrounding storefronts can tell it more effectively than words.
Proving negligence is crucial. Without it, even the saddest pedestrian accident case can fail to prevail. That’s why legal advice from a legal expert from day one is imperative.
If a distracted driver has hurt you on the road, don’t hesitate. Legal timelines are tight, and proof disappears quickly. Contact our licensed Springfield attorney today and initiate the legal process for justice.
