In Missouri, car accidents can injure more than just those who are traveling in vehicles. All too often an innocent pedestrian, especially one who is not considering the danger of the roadway, can be impacted, injured or even killed by a negligent driver. Pedestrian accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere and at anytime.

On Sunday, June 7 in Butler County, an 8-year-old girl was that unknowing, unfortunate pedestrian. She was struck and injured when a parked car near her was hit by a 16-year-old girl driving a sedan. The accident occurred at 3:45 pm, when the teen drove off the roadway, hit the parked vehicle and, consequently, forced it into motion. Sadly, it ultimately struck the young pedestrian.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, both the driver and the pedestrian suffered from minor injuries. They were taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. No further information has been released concerning their statuses.

Regardless of the reason why this teenage driver veered from the road, the resulting collision and chain reaction led to injuries to herself and to an innocent 8-year-old child. Careless pedestrian accidents like this one often leave injured victims and their families struggling to understand why such an incident occurred and unsure of what to do next. Fortunately, those affected by pedestrian accidents that were caused by negligent drivers have the right to pursue personal injury compensation. Through the successful presentation of personal injury suits, compensation may be awarded by a Missouri civil court that will assist victims and their families financially and allow them to focus on the recovery process.

Source: kfvs12.com, “16-year-old driver hits parked car, 8-year-old pedestrian in Butler Co.“, Nichole Cartmell, June 8, 2015