Penalties for Jaywalking in Missouri
Although jaywalking is technically a punishable offense, striking a jaywalker does not automatically exempt drivers from punishment. Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians who cross the road, even if the pedestrian does not cross in a legal location.
If you jaywalk in Missouri, you may have to pay a fine. Although this penalty is not as serious as other crimes, jaywalking can place you and others on the road in a dangerous position. For your safety, it is best to avoid jaywalking.
Who Is Liable for a Jaywalking Accident?
Since Missouri follows a fault insurance system for car accidents, liability is a complicated question in cases involving jaywalkers. Drivers who cause accidents generally have to pay for the damages of their victims, including pedestrians. However, if the pedestrian was jaywalking at the time of the accident, he or she may be at least partially liable for his or her damages.
In these situations, Missouri’s pure comparative fault laws will apply. This rule reduces the settlement amount by the portion of liability the victim shares. For example, if you suffered injuries while jaywalking, the court may assign 40% of the liability to you. If you ask for $20,000 in damages, the court will only award $12,000 after reducing your award.
