Motorcycle accidents will always be a surprise and end up in serious injury most times. Missouri roads, particularly around Kansas City, are barely safe for motorcyclists. If you do end up in an accident, you should know when to seek a lawyer. An experienced Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer will be in a position to advocate for your rights and ensure that you’re compensated fairly.
Why Missouri Motorcycle Accidents Are Different
It is a different feeling to ride a motorcycle compared to riding in an automobile. Motorcycles provide very little protection. When one has an accident, the motorcyclist gets more injured. Most times, it is because the other automobiles fail to notice motorcycles, drive recklessly past them, or drive too close behind them. Missouri law protects motorcyclists. With that information, even if the law is in your favor, the insurance companies will always try to pay you less. They might possibly label you partly responsible or your injuries aren’t quite as bad. That’s why you need to seek the services of a Kansas City personal injury attorney in case of an accident.
What To Do Immediately Following a Kansas City Motorcycle Crash
Your well-being is foremost. If safe, move off the road to avoid another crash. Call 911 and have medical help and an officer dispatched. Seek medical care whether you think you are okay or not. Document the accident by taking pictures or video of the location where the accident occurred, your injury, and damaged vehicles. Get down the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of everyone involved. Also, get contact details of any witnesses. Put into words what occurred as long as it is fresh in your mind. Don’t describe the wreck or apologize to anyone other than the police or your lawyer.
Warning Signs You Should Call a Kansas City Personal Injury Attorney
Not all accidents require an attorney. But you must hire one if:
- You are severely hurt and in need of medical treatment.
- Someone else caused the accident.
- The insurance company is denying or delaying your claim.
- You lost wages or have exaggerated medical expenses.
- You have no idea what to do next or are in shock.
A lawyer will take the time to sit down with you and discuss your case at no cost. They will inform you of your rights and your limitations.
What A Lawyer Can Do After Your Missouri Motorcycle Accident
Your personal injury attorney knows Missouri law and the Missouri courts. They get police reports, medical records, and witness statements as proof that will help in the legal process. They handle all the talking to insurance agencies and negotiate for the greatest settlement that can be had on your behalf. Attorneys also prevent you from doing something illegal. For instance, signing papers or accepting quick settlements harm your case later. Your attorney ensures you are treated justly. Most of the Kansas City injury lawyers work on a “no win, no fee” basis. What that means is that you won’t be paying anything if you get paid.
Reasons for Most Missouri Motorcycle Accidents
Most motorcycle accidents are the result of:
- Motorcycles not being visible to drivers at intersections or when drivers are changing lanes.
- Speeding or aggressive driving by vehicles or motorcycles.
- Poor roads with potholes, loose gravel, or poor pavement.
- Rain, fog, or ice covering roads and making them slippery.
- Motorcyclists not wearing a helmet or protective gear.
Missouri only mandates helmets for riders younger than 26, but it is highly recommended that all riders wear one. Helmets decrease your likelihood of head injury and death.
Stay Safe Riding in Kansas City
Always wear protective gear and a helmet. Wear either reflective material or bright color that can be seen easily. Always follow traffic rules and never exceed the speed limit. Signal to turn and keep a proper distance from other cars. Never ride in the blind spot of a truck or vehicle. Always have your eyes open to danger and prepared to respond. In the event of an accident, do not accept payment or sign insurance company papers without talking to a lawyer.
Missouri Laws Related to Motorcycle Accidents
Missouri is a “comparative fault” state. That is, if you are even partially to blame in the event of an accident, your award will be reduced by the amount of fault. That is, if you are 20% at fault, your payment will be reduced by 20%. That is why it is such an imperative that you have an attorney who will be able to plead on your behalf and reduce your fault.
In addition, Missouri has a five-year statute of limitation on claims of injury. What that is saying is that you have five years from the date the accident occurred when you can pursue your lawsuit. Waiting too long will forfeit your right to sue.
What Can You Recover After a Missouri Motorcycle Accident?
If someone else injured you, you can recover for:
- Medical bills, including hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, and medication.
- Lost wages if you missed time from work as the result of your injury.
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress.
- Damage to property for bicycle and equipment repair.
- Future care if your injuries are permanent.
A Kansas City personal injury lawyer can calculate all your damages and negotiate a full recovery.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
The insurance companies will attempt to give you as little money as they can. They will attempt to get you to give them a recorded statement or sign away something that takes away your rights. Don’t guess until you’ve consulted with your attorney. An attorney is familiar with the insurance company games and can perhaps represent you.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Missouri Motorcycle Accidents and Injury Lawyers
1. When to engage a personal injury lawyer after a motorcycle accident?
Call an attorney if you were severely injured, lost wages at work, or the other motorist caused the accident. Call an attorney if the insurance company is not cooperating.
2. How much time do I have to make a motorcycle injury claim in Missouri?
You normally have five years from the date of your injury to make a claim. Hire an attorney early to protect your rights.
3. What if I partially caused the accident, too?
Missouri is a comparative fault. Your settlement may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. An attorney can reduce your percentage of fault.
4. Will insurance cover all my medical expenses?
They won’t insure anyone. They can try to cut payments. A lawyer will obtain you your fair compensation.
5. What does it cost to hire a Kansas City personal injury attorney?
Most of them do it on a contingency fee, meaning that you don’t pay if you lose the case. Legal services are made affordable that way.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle accidents can turn your life around. If you or a family member was injured on a highway in Missouri, get legal help right away. You don’t have to worry; a skilled Kansas City personal injury lawyer will guide you through the process and will help obtain the money you need to recover and start your life again.
