Dustin Long hit, killed near Kansas Expressway Springfield

PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Despite laws designed to protect them, pedestrians remain among the most vulnerable road users. Each day, individuals are seriously injured or killed in accidents involving drivers who may be distracted, impaired, or fail to follow traffic warnings.

According to a Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) report, 142 pedestrians were killed in Missouri in 2024, marking an increase of nearly 11 percent compared to the previous year.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal and an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.

“Factors such as road conditions, lighting, and visibility are carefully reviewed as part of the investigation,” Bond explained.

“In many cases, accident reconstruction specialists are brought in to help determine exactly what occurred. These efforts are crucial in helping victims and their families pursue compensation for losses,” added Bond, a national legal analyst for Accident Injury News.

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. The family of Dustin Long may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.

“Families of wrongful death victims can seek compensation for loss of income, companionship, emotional suffering, funeral costs, and other damages resulting from a tragic accident,” Formica stated.

An experienced attorney can provide support during this difficult time while ensuring that the family’s legal rights are protected.

“Insurance companies often attempt to settle quickly for far less than what a claim may truly be worth,” Formica added. “Legal representation helps ensure victims’ families are treated fairly and receive proper compensation.”

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)