Motorcycle riding is exciting but not safe. Accidents can happen in Missouri at any time. A careless driver can alter your life in seconds. If you were injured in a Missouri motorcycle accident, you might be facing medical expenses, lost income, and pain. A Kansas City personal injury lawyer can guide you through this difficult period. You don’t have to go through insurance companies and legal procedures on your own. This website informs you what you should do if you’ve been in an accident, how Missouri law is applied, and why you should hire an attorney.
Why Missouri Motorcycle Crashes Are So Hazardous
Motorcycles provide little protection such as cars. The riders may touch the ground or another vehicle straight away. A slow-speed crash can cause serious damage.
Some of the top reasons for motorcycle accidents in Missouri include:
- Distracted motorists who are unable to see motorcyclists
- Speeding motorists who guess distances incorrectly
- Hazardous roads such as potholes or road debris
- Drivers who do not yield at intersections
A Kansas City personal injury attorney understands these risks and helps in the legal process to mitigate. They can possibly battle for your entitlement to a fair settlement.
What to Do If There’s Been a Motorcycle Accident in Missouri
Being in the right when the accident happens can safeguard your well-being and your lawsuit.
1. Get Medical Treatment Right Away
Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, don’t present themselves. A doctor’s word also helps your case to the law.
2. Call the Police
A police report will serve to determine fault. It’s good fodder for your lawyer, too.
3. Take Evidence
Take pictures of the scene of the accident, injuries and damage to vehicles.
4. Take Witness Information
Phone numbers and names can be used to authenticate your testimony.
5. Get a Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer
The earlier you get an attorney, the stronger your case can be.
How a Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer Helps
An experienced Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer can assist with your case so you can focus on recovery. They can:
- Investigate the reason for the accident
- Uncovers evidence like traffic cam footage
- Talks to experts to determine blame
- Estimates fair compensation for your loss
- Negotiates with the insurance company
- Represent you in court if case goes to trial
Insurance adjusters will try to settle for less than you are owed. A lawyer can protect your rights and negotiate a better settlement.
Missouri Motorcycle Laws You Should Know About
Know the laws so you can stay safe and protect your legal rights. Riders 26 and older and under must wear a helmet.
- Riders above 26 years are permitted to ride without helmets but must be insured under health insurance.
- Lane splitting is prohibited as well.
- Motorcycles must be equipped with operating lights and mirrors.
Disobedience may not ensure that you do not get compensation, but it might decrease the amount.
Injuries Common in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents also have a high rate of causing severe injury, such as:
- Broken ribs, legs, and arms
- Road rash that may cause infection
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Internal injuries
Such types of injuries might need surgery, physical therapy, or medical attention for the rest of your life. An attorney at a personal injury lawyer firm in Kansas City will help you pursue compensation for all medical treatment.
Understanding Compensation in Missouri
Missouri is a pure comparative fault state. That’s in your favor. Even if you were to some extent to blame, you can still recover funds. Your award is only decreased by your share of fault.
Damages may include:
- Medical bills
- Fees for physical therapy
- Lost income for time missed from work
- Pain and emotional suffering
- Repair or replacement of the bicycle
Your attorney will monitor all damages so nothing slips through the cracks.
Insurance Companies After an Accident
Insurance firms are nice initially, but they would prefer to save money. They will:
- Give you a low offer right away
- Ask you to give a recorded statement
- Try to put the blame of the accident on you
The lawyer will take care of all the interactions with the insurance firm. This prevents you from making a statement that will kill your claim.
The Need to Act Quickly
In Missouri, you have five years from the accident to pursue a personal injury claim. That is the statute of limitations. Waiting too long will be detrimental to your case. Witnesses’ memories fade, and evidence disappears. Visit a Kansas City personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Selecting The Best Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer
When selecting an attorney, keep in mind:
- Experience with motorcycle accident cases
- Good client reviews
- A history of having successfully negotiated fair settlements
- Open and honest communication
The majority of attorneys provide free consultations. This is your chance to get questions answered and see if they are the attorney for you.
Safety Tips for Missouri Motorcyclists
You can’t control others but can minimize your risk:
- Always wear protective gear
- Road hazards awareness
- Give yourself plenty of room between yourself and other automobiles
- Don’t drive in the rain or fog
- Use your headlights in the daytime as well
Taking these precautions can reduce the chances of an accident happening.
How Legal Representation Can Help
You will not get enough money to cover all the costs if you are not represented by a lawyer. Insurers will settle with claimants who handle their cases personally for less money. A seasoned Kansas City personal injury attorney will be able to build a strong case. Your attorney will fight to get you the compensation due to you so you can focus on getting better.
FAQs
1. Can I recover if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes. You are entitled to recover under Missouri law, but not having on a helmet can cause your award to be less because you were contributorily negligent for the injury.
2. How long do I have to file a claim?
You typically have five years from the date of the crash to file your claim in Missouri.
3. What if my hit-and-run driver doesn’t have insurance?
Your lawyer can recover on your uninsured motorist coverage.
4. Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle without going to trial, but your lawyer can prepare your case to go to trial if that is needed.
5. How are personal injury lawyers compensated?
Most work on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay them if they win your case.
Final Words
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident in the state of Missouri, contact a local skilled Motorcycle Accident Lawyer near me in Kansas City today. They will fight for your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and obtain the compensation you are entitled to.
