According to a report from The Kansas City Star, a pedestrian was struck and killed in a tragic crash in Independence, Missouri. David Raines Jr, 41 years old, was identified as the victim of the hit-and-run wreck. Here, our Kansas City pedestrian accident attorney explains what we know about the collision and discusses the law for hit-and-run crashes in Missouri.
Hit-and-Run Crash Kills Pedestrian in Independence, MO
As confirmed by reporting from The Kansas City Star, a 41-year-old pedestrian named David Raines Jr. was killed in a hit-and-run crash in Independence on a Saturday night, shortly before 11:20 p.m. Local law enforcement responded to the crash scene at North M-291 Frontage Road and East 3rd Terrace Court North. First responders attempted life-saving measures, but tragically, Mr. Raines was pronounced dead at the scene.
Notably, local law enforcement authorities believe that Mr. Raines was walking in the neighborhood when a passing vehicle struck him and fled. As of the latest reports, police have not identified the driver or released a vehicle description. The Independence Police Department’s Accident Investigation Unit is investigating the crash. Police are seeking help from the public in identifying the hit-and-run driver.
Know the Law: Hit-and-Run in Missouri
Missouri law requires a driver involved in a crash that causes injury, death, or property damage to stop at the scene, or as close to the scene as safely possible. Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 577.060, the driver must provide identifying information, including name, address, vehicle registration information, and driver’s license number. When someone is hurt, the driver also must remain available so law enforcement and emergency responders can address the crash. Leaving the scene can lead to criminal charges even if the driver claims the collision was accidental.
The penalties depend on the severity of the crash. Leaving the scene is generally a Class A misdemeanor, but it can become a felony when the crash involves injury, death, significant property damage, or certain prior offenses. For victims and families, the criminal investigation may also support a civil claim. Every hit-and-run crash in Missouri should be thoroughly investigated by an experienced attorney.
Your Options for Compensation After Being Hit By a Hit-and-Run Driver
A hit-and-run driver should not escape accountability by fleeing the scene. If police identify the driver, the injured victim or the surviving family may bring a civil claim against that driver and any applicable insurance policy. A criminal case can punish the offender, but a civil claim seeks compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and other losses. If the driver is never found, there may still be options. Uninsured motorist coverage may apply to hit-and-run crashes in Missouri. A top Kansas City pedestrian accident attorney can help.
Call Our Kansas City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City pedestrian accident attorney is a compassionate, experienced advocate for justice. If you or your loved one was killed in a pedestrian crash, please do not hesitate to contact us today. Initial consultations are free and strictly confidential. With an office in Kansas City, we handle pedestrian accident cases in Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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