Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Speak To An Attorney
meet our Attorneys
Look for a motorcycle accident attorney with experience handling motorcycle accident cases. Relevant experience is key.
An experienced attorney knows the intricacies of motorcycle accident law and has a proven track record of getting clients the compensation they deserve. They’ll know how to investigate your accident, deal with insurance companies, and determine fault. Their knowledge of motorcycle laws will assist them in handling your case.
Laws regarding motorcycles can differ from standard traffic laws. An attorney well-versed in motorcycle law will understand issues like helmet requirements, lane splitting, and liability. They can determine if any laws were broken and how that may impact your case.
Our Proven Results
Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
After a motorcycle accident, you’re going to have a lot on your plate. Between recovering from injuries, dealing with insurance companies, and handling medical bills, the situation can quickly become overwhelming. This is why hiring an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is so important.
- A motorcycle accident attorney understands the challenges riders face after a crash and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. They can handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on your recovery. An attorney will review the details of your accident and determine who is at fault, filing a claim against negligent parties on your behalf.
- Even if you think you can handle the insurance company yourself, think again. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible on claims. An attorney knows how to stand up to pushy insurance adjusters and demand fair compensation for all your accident-related expenses like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Motorcycle accident cases can also involve complex legal issues that are difficult to navigate alone. An attorney has the knowledge and experience to address legal technicalities and work with experts to build a strong case. They understand liability laws and can determine if other factors like defective roadways or vehicle parts contributed to your crash.
The bottom line is that a motorcycle accident lawyer is your advocate and protector. While you’re recovering, they’ll handle phone calls, paperwork, and negotiations so you can focus on what really matters—getting back to health and back on your bike. Though you may feel overwhelmed in the aftermath of an accident, with the right attorney by your side, you can feel confident your legal rights are in good hands.
Statute of Limitations
- Missouri: Personal injury claims must be filed within five years of the incident.
- Kansas: A shorter window of two years applies, necessitating prompt legal action.
Comparative Fault
- Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning that an injured party’s compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, even if a victim is found to be 99% responsible for their injury, they can still recover 1% of the amount awarded.
- Kansas follows a modified comparative fault rule, where victims can only recover damages if they are found to be less than 50% at fault for their injury.
Economic Damages
Economic Damages – financial losses that can be objectively verified, such as:
- Medical bills: The total cost of hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, medical devices, etc.
- Lost wages: Income lost due to inability to work during recovery and treatment. Calculate based on your salary and the time missed.
- Future lost earning capacity: If injuries will impact your ability to work in the future, the lost value of your diminished earning potential. An economic expert can help calculate this.
Non Economic Damages
Non-Economic Damages – more subjective losses, including:
- Pain and suffering: The physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from injuries. Difficult to put an exact price on but can be a significant portion of a settlement.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in hobbies, social activities and daily tasks that previously brought you joy and fulfillment.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement: Any lifelong impacts to physical functions, mobility, senses or appearance. Even with treatment, these effects remain.
Caps on Damages
Both Missouri and Kansas do not have a cap on economic or non-economic damages in most personal injury cases. However, Missouri imposes a cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases, and there are arguments in Kansas for potential application of caps in wrongful death cases, which can limit compensation for pain and suffering.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
As a motorcyclist, you’re much more exposed and vulnerable than drivers of larger vehicles. Unfortunately, this also means you’re at higher risk of an accident. Some of the most frequent causes of motorcycle crashes our motorcycle accident attorneys have seen include:
- Distracted Drivers: Distracted driver’s inattention puts you in danger. Be extremely cautious around other vehicles, especially at intersections or in heavy traffic. Assume other drivers don’t see you.
- Lane Changes: Watch out for vehicles changing lanes, especially into the lane you’re in. They may not check their blind spot or signal before swerving over. Maintain a safe distance from other cars and be ready to react quickly if someone cuts you off.
- Left Turns: Left turns are tricky on a bike and account for a large percentage of motorcycle accidents. When turning left, you have to navigate oncoming traffic as well as vehicles behind you. Only turn left when you have a safe gap in traffic from both directions. If you feel rushed, it’s better to miss your turn than end up in a crash.
- Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, wet or icy roads can easily cause you to lose control of your motorcycle. Ride cautiously on less-than-ideal road conditions, especially when first learning. Slow down, avoid sudden braking or turning, and leave extra distance between you and other vehicles.
The road can be unforgiving, so as a motorcyclist, you need to take every precaution to ensure your safety. Always wear proper safety gear, follow the rules of the road, and remain vigilant of the challenges that cause motorcycle accidents. With caution and experience, you’ll gain confidence as you cruise the open road. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact us today. Contacting our team of motorcycle accident lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that you receive the support and advocacy you need during this difficult time.
Dealing With Auto Insurance Adjusters
Once the police report has been filed following a motorcycle accident, the insurance adjuster will contact you. Their job is to gather information about the incident and determine liability and the amount of damages for which each party is responsible. It is in your best interest to be courteous but cautious when dealing with the adjuster. Here are some tips from our car accident lawyers:
You Are Not Obligated To Give a Recorded Statement
- Politely tell the adjuster you prefer to discuss the details of the accident in person.
- Written statements can be misinterpreted and used against you.
- Arrange to meet at a location of your choosing.
- You may want to consult with a personal injury lawyer prior to the meeting. They can advise you on your rights and ensure the adjuster does not take advantage of you during the process.
Provide only factual information about the events leading up to and following the collision.
- Do not speculate about the cause of the accident or accept blame.
- Be very careful with your wording.
- What you say can affect a future insurance settlement or lawsuit.
Get Estimates For Repairs & Medical Bills As Soon As Possible
- The adjuster will want to see documentation supporting any claims you make regarding injuries or damage to your vehicle.
- Ask if the insurance company will accept only original receipts and records from licensed professionals.
An insurance adjuster’s job is to save the company money. They are not looking out for your best interests. Having a motorcycle accident lawyer on your side helps ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. Do not feel pressured into signing any release or settlement agreement until you have consulted with legal counsel regarding its terms. Your health and financial security depend upon making an informed choice.
Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers You Can Trust
- Witnesses: Were there eyewitnesses to the accident?
- Physical Evidence: Is there evidence that requires expert analysis, such as accident reconstruction?
- Serious Injuries: Do the injuries involve complex medical issues, future disability, or lost income?
- Special Vehicles: Were commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, or other “common carriers” involved, requiring knowledge of specific regulations?
- Fatalities: Did the accident result in a death?
In these situations, specialized experts and laws may apply. No motorcycle accident case is ever truly “simple.” You need an experienced car accident lawyer who understands the intricacies of these claims and has the expertise to secure the maximum financial recovery you deserve—no matter the circumstances.
Determine The Value Of Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
You may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages in a motorcycle accident claim, including:
- Medical expenses: Ambulance fees, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, etc.
- Lost wages: Income lost due to missing work during recovery and rehabilitation.
- Property damage: Repairs or replacement of your motorcycle, helmet, protective gear, etc.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, etc.
- Loss of consortium: Damages for the impact the accident has on your relationship with a spouse or family member.
- Punitive damages: Additional damages meant to punish the at-fault party in cases of reckless or intentional harm.
Your motorcycle accident attorney can help determine which damages may apply in your unique situation. The total compensation will depend on the severity of your injuries, losses, and the degree of fault of the other parties involved.