Pedestrians in Missouri typically expect to be safe when they cross busy roads in marked crosswalks. Unfortunately, not all drivers keep a lookout for pedestrians when they go through busy intersections. Such negligence can lead to pedestrian accidents with catastrophic injuries or even fatalities.

A fatal pedestrian accident occurred near the campus of the University of Missouri on a recent Monday morning. A spokesperson for the Columbia Police Department said a bus that was operated by a 22-year-old driver made a left turn on a yellow left turn yield signal. However, he failed to see a 66-year-old pedestrian in the crosswalk.

After being struck by the bus, the seriously injured pedestrian was transported to a hospital, but he succumbed to injuries after being admitted. The city reported that the bus driver — a temporary staff member — was placed on unpaid leave following the accident. The accident investigation is reportedly ongoing and will also involve the reconstruction of the incident.

Losing loved ones so unexpectedly in pedestrian accidents are naturally traumatic and emotional experiences. This can only be worsened by the financial challenges typically associated with end-of-life arrangements and the sudden loss of income. Fortunately, financial relief may be pursued by filing a wrongful death claim in a Missouri civil court. In this case, once liability is established by adequate evidence of negligence on the part of the bus driver, the court will consider entering a monetary judgment to cover documented pecuniary and non-financial damages sustained. Along with the mentioned financial losses, claims may include emotional losses, such as the loss of companionship.

Source: kbia.org, “Man Killed in Columbia City Bus Accident“, Patrick Comerford, March 8, 2016