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As a personal injury law firm, we are deeply concerned about the recent increase in pedestrian fatalities. According to a new study from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths in the United States have reached a 40-year high. In 2022, an estimated 7,485 pedestrians were killed by drivers, an average of 20 deaths per day. This represents a 12% increase over the previous year. The study also found that the pedestrian fatality rate has been increasing for over a decade. In 2010, the pedestrian fatality rate was 1.61 per 100,000 people. By 2022, the rate had increased to 2.26 per 100,000 people. Why Are Pedestrian Fatalities Increasing? There are a number of factors that are contributing to the increase in pedestrian fatalities, including: Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a major factor in many pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving are more likely to miss pedestrians on the road. Speeding: Speeding is another major factor in pedestrian accidents. When drivers are speeding, they have less time to react to pedestrians on the road. Impaired driving: Impaired driving is also a major factor in pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to make mistakes and hit pedestrians. Pedestrian error: While pedestrian error is a factor in some pedestrian accidents, it is important to note that drivers have a responsibility to avoid hitting pedestrians, regardless of whether the pedestrian is at fault. What Can Be Done to Reduce Pedestrian Fatalities? There are a number of things that can be done to reduce pedestrian fatalities, including: Enacting stricter laws on distracted driving: States need to enact stricter laws on distracted driving and enforce those laws more vigorously. Reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are present: Reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are present can give drivers more time to react and avoid accidents. Cracking down on impaired driving: Law enforcement needs to crack down on impaired driving and hold drunk and drugged drivers accountable for their actions. Improving pedestrian infrastructure: Cities and towns need to improve pedestrian infrastructure, such as crosswalks and sidewalks, to make it safer for pedestrians to walk and bike. What to Do If You or Someone You Love Is Injured in a Pedestrian Accident If you or someone you love is injured in a car or pedestrian accident, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights and options. An experienced attorney can help you investigate the accident, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life. We Stand With Pedestrian Accident Victims Our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of pedestrian accidents. We understand the unique challenges that pedestrian accident victims face, and we are committed to helping them obtain the compensation they need to recover and rebuild their lives. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact MSB Law today for a free consultation. We can help you understand your legal rights and options, and we can develop a strategy to get you the compensation you deserve.

Delivery trucks are a common sight on our roads, especially during the holiday season. However, accidents involving delivery trucks can have serious consequences, leading to personal injuries and property damage. If you’ve been involved in a delivery truck accident in the Kansas City area, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and the steps you should take to protect them. Seek Immediate Medical Attention Your health should be one of your highest priorities. After a delivery truck accident, you should seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, and a medical evaluation can document your condition for future legal proceedings. Contact Law Enforcement and Document the Scene Call the local law enforcement authorities to report the accident. The police report will serve as a crucial piece of evidence in your case. Additionally, take photos of the accident scene if you are able, including the vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If you take photos, try to get photos of the delivery vehicle license plate, any damage to the delivery vehicle and your vehicle, and photos of any DOT numbers on the side of the delivery vehicle. This visual documentation can help establish liability later on. Exchange Information with the Truck Driver Collect the contact and insurance information of the delivery truck driver, just as you would in any other accident. Be sure to obtain the name of the driver, their employer’s information, the truck’s license plate number, and any relevant insurance details. Gather Witness Information If there were any witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information. Eyewitness accounts can be valuable in corroborating your version of events and strengthening your case. Preserve Evidence Keep any evidence related to the accident, such as damaged personal property, torn clothing, or medical records. This evidence can be essential when assessing the extent of your damages and pursuing compensation. Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Navigating a delivery truck accident claim can be complex. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is one of the most critical steps you can take. They can help you understand your legal rights, guide you through the claims process, and work on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve. Determine Liability Identifying liability in a delivery truck accident can be multifaceted. Your attorney will investigate the accident, review the evidence, and work with experts to determine who is at fault. Liability may fall on the truck driver, the delivery company, or even third parties responsible for vehicle maintenance. File an Insurance Claim Your attorney will help you file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Insurance claims typically cover medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. Prepare for Litigation, If Necessary If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney will prepare to take your case to court. They will build a strong legal strategy, gather witnesses and evidence, and represent your interests in the courtroom. Know Your Legal Rights Throughout the process, it’s essential to stay informed about your legal rights and the potential outcomes of your case. Your attorney will keep you apprised of developments and advise you on the best course of action. At MSB Law, our experienced truck accident lawyers are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered injuries in delivery truck accidents. We understand the complexities of these cases and are here to advocate for your rights. If you’ve been involved in a delivery truck accident in the Kansas City area, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation to learn more about your legal options. Your well-being and rights are our top priorities.

Far too many lives are cut tragically short by drunk drivers every year. While laws and enforcement play a crucial role, grassroots community initiatives can also help curb dangerous impaired driving. Citizens have the power to instill change locally. This article will explore actions communities can take to prevent drunk driving accidents. Contact an experienced car accident attorney today if you have any questions. Promote Use of Ridesharing Services Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft provide reliable transportation for those who have been drinking, taking their keys out of the equation. Communities can encourage use through partnerships, promotions and facilitated pickup zones.  Support Establishments that Promote Safe Rides Home Restaurants and bars should be training their staff to promote alternative transportation options and  proactively intervene to stop patron drunk driving. At a higher level, the local government can support public transportation that stays open later or encourage developments within walking distance for most people. Organize Awareness and Outreach Events Rallies, candlelight vigils for victims, school assembly talks and social media campaigns bring attention to the devastation from drunk driving, enacting change through education. Establish More Sobriety Checkpoints Advocating for increased police sobriety checkpoints serves as a deterrent and helps take drunk drivers off the roads before tragedy strikes. Team Up with Safety Organizations Partnering with groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Students Against Destructive Decisions creates a powerful, unified front against driving impaired. Our Kansas City Area Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Can Help Combating drunk driving requires a collaborative effort. Citizens have the power to ignite change locally and prevent senseless tragedies. Through grassroots initiatives, communities can help instill a culture of responsibility surrounding drinking. Contact MSB Law’s car accident attorneys today, and we will help get you back on track.

The arrival of fall brings changing weather conditions and traffic patterns that can impact motorcycle safety and lead to more accidents. Riders must adapt to stay protected. In this article, we’ll discuss key considerations for operating your motorcycle safely as the seasons shift. Cooler Temperatures Affect Traction Colder fall temperatures can reduce traction on the roadways. Tires will not grip as well, and braking distances increase. Reduce speed, avoid abrupt acceleration or braking, and be cautious of shaded areas prone to black ice. Autumn Rain-Slick Roads Wet weather is common in autumn. Rain reduces visibility for riders and vehicles sharing the road. It also creates slippery surfaces. Ensure adequate tread on tires and reduce speed when faced with rain. Leaves and Debris Fallen leaves and debris can accumulate on roadways in the fall. These hazards are slick when wet and can cause loss of control, especially around turns. Scan ahead and use care navigating covered sections. Sun Glare and Visibility Issues The low sun angles in fall can cause glare and make it hard for motorists to see. Use reflective gear, keep headlights on, and avoid riding directly into the sun. More Commuter Traffic Patterns Back to school and more structured schedules often increase daytime traffic in the fall. Be alert for congestion and vehicles changing lanes. Maintain safe spacing around other commuters. Stay Vigilant Against Drowsy Drivers Shorter days and disrupted sleep routines make drowsy driving more likely. Watch for drifting vehicles and keep your distance from erratic drivers. Ride Defensively As Seasons Shift By anticipating and adjusting to weather and traffic pattern changes, riders can maintain safety despite fall hazards. Remain alert to traction loss, slick roads, and limited visibility. Defensive riding reduces accident risks. Our Kansas City Area Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help Our expert motorcycle accident attorneys have seen it all and will be there to help you through every step of the process. Contact MSB Law today for a free consultation.

Highways facilitate efficient long-distance travel, but they also carry considerable risks that every driver must recognize. Inattentiveness, speeding, and hazardous conditions contribute to thousands of highway deaths annually across the country. Many deadly car accidents happen in highway zones. Below are several danger areas and tips on how to stay safe: Complex interchanges: Poorly designed interchanges, busy merges, and highway transitions create prime conditions for serious wrecks. These areas require rapid decisions and have significant speed differentials between lanes. Approach carefully, reduce speed ahead of time, and keep attention focused to navigate these accident-prone zones safely.  Rural highways: Empty rural highways might seem safer, but statistics show they have some of the highest fatality rates. Excessive speed, passing maneuvers, lack of lighting, animals in the roadway, and cross-median crashes are chief risks.  Urban highways: These roads can be incredibly congested and have frequent lane changes. On top of this, many rarely follow speed limits in these areas. Use signals, follow people at a distance, and scan ahead.  Mountain roads: These roads require extra caution due to steep grades, sharp curves, and drop-offs. Maintain a safe speed, use lower gears, and don’t outdrive sight lines. Roads in poor conditions: Poor weather can make any road dangerous. Postpone unnecessary trips if you can, but reduce speed if you must travel. Increase your following distance and avoid abrupt steering or braking. Our Car Accident Attorneys are Here to Help By knowing the risks and adjusting your driving habits, you can help reduce the chances of an accident. Drive attentively and defensively every time you get behind the wheel. If you are injured in a highway accident, contact one of our experienced attorneys at MSB Law to discuss your legal options.

Accidents can happen anywhere, even on someone else’s property. When injuries occur due to hazardous conditions, the legal concept of premises liability comes into play. At MSB Law, we’re here to shed light on this topic and guide you through your legal options. Understanding Premises Liability: Premises liability makes property owners responsible for accidents on their premises caused by the property owner’s negligence. That can include accidents ranging from slips, trips, or falls to dog bites to inadequate security. Types of Hazards: Hazards like wet floors, hard-to-see defects, and poor lighting can lead to accidents in various places. Proving Negligence: Successful claims hinge on proving the property owner’s negligence in maintaining safe conditions. Your Rights and Compensation: You have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. After an Injury: Prioritize safety, seek medical help, document the scene, gather witnesses, and consult an attorney. Expert Legal Guidance: Navigating these cases is complex – experienced attorneys are needed to build a strong case. Timely Action: Remember, premises liability claims have time limits; contact an attorney promptly to find out if you are within the statute of limitations. Our Kansas City Area Personal Injury Attorneys Are Here to Help For expert support in premises liability cases, contact MSB Law. We’re here to help you seek justice and rightful compensation. Reach out for a free consultation and take the first step toward holding negligent property owners accountable.