Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in St. Joseph, MO
Aggressive representation for victims of motorcycle accidents in Missouri
Motorcycles are the ride of choice for individuals who enjoy the freedom of the open road and the excitement riding a motorcycle brings. It is a riveting experience until you are involved in a motorcycle accident. These accidents are often more catastrophic than others due to the size of motorcycles compared to other vehicles on the road. Motorcycles do not have a roof, hood, or sides to protect them from other vehicles. Due to the lack of protection, a motorcycle rider is often thrown from their motorcycle, hitting the asphalt or other objects.
The team at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys understands how complex and traumatic these types of accidents are. We have our very own biker, James Roswold, leading the team for motorcycle accidents. He can empathize with your situation and will fight to ensure your rights are protected if you have been involved in an accident. Speak with a St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney today.
How common are motorcycle accidents in Missouri?
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has found that each year almost 2,000 people suffer injuries from motorcycle accidents and nearly 100 people die from these accidents. To make matters worse, there are a reported 1,800 motorcycle crashes each year.
What causes St. Joseph motorcycle accidents?
The most common way that a motorcycle accident occurs is when another driver is negligent in their actions. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Driving fatigued
- Distracted driving
- Not respecting the motorcyclist's right of way
- Speeding
- Traffic violations
- Not seeing motorcycles on the road
- Ignoring or not understanding a motorcyclist's hand signals
Motorcycle accidents are common, and they can happen nearly anywhere across Missouri. It is important that all drivers and motorcyclists know how to navigate the various terrain found across the state. The state is unique in that there are different kinds of roads you can encounter from paved roads to dirt roads. Typically, a paved road is easier to navigate than a dirt road but that is not to say that an accident cannot happen.
Other motorcycle drivers can also take actions that lead to an accident such as:
- Improper passing
- Improper or insufficient training
- Riding in two lanes
- Not knowing how to drive in bad weather
- Roadways that are damaged or dangerous such as uneven roads or portholes
- Motorcyclists not understanding how to control their bikes during turns or when carrying a passenger
Motorcycle riders often get a reputation for being reckless. The reality is that they enjoy a different form of transportation than others on the road. This should not mean that they are held responsible for an accident if it was not their fault. If you have been involved in an accident you will need to contact a St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your options.
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What are some common motorcycle accident injuries?
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious, life-altering injuries for riders. Others involved can also be injured but typically not as severely as a motorcycle rider. A motorcycle is no match for the size and weight of trucks or passenger vehicles. Some of the most common injuries after a motorcycle accident include:
- Spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injury
- Road rash
- Nerve damage
- Broken bones
- Loss of limb injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Knee and shoulder injuries
- Burns
Many times, a motorcycle accident will result in the death of a loved one. This is an unfathomable result that leaves many families aching and lost. If your loved one passes away after a motorcycle accident, you will need a St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney to file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the surviving family members.
Who can be held liable after a St. Joseph motorcycle accident?
Motorcycle accidents are difficult for anyone involved and a crucial element of any case is to determine who the liable party is. Any person or entity that caused an accident should be held liable for their actions; this includes:
- Truck drivers
- Passenger vehicle drivers
- Vehicle owners
- Defective parts manufacturers
- Other motorcycle riders
- Any Missouri government entity that could have caused the accident
Depending on how the accident occurred there may be other parties that can be held responsible. Liability is often complex, but it is one of the most important aspects of any case. Insurance companies may try to shift the blame after an accident, and it is essential that you have a St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney on your side to determine the liable party and protect your rights.
Are there motorcycle helmet laws in Missouri?
Each state has its own laws regarding motorcyclists and the protective equipment they should be using. One of the most common protective equipment laws is the helmet law. Missouri requires that any rider 25 years of age and younger should wear a helmet.
While this is the law, any rider should get into the habit of wearing safety gear regardless of age or experience. A motorcycle accident can happen to anyone, even the most experienced riders. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, a helmet may not only save your life but will also help with your case by showing you are a safe driver.
What damages can be claimed after a St. Joseph motorcycle accident?
A motorcycle accident often brings with it numerous bills and expenses. It can be difficult to pay for all these expenses and still focus on healing. This added stress can make the healing process more difficult. Your St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney will work to obtain compensation for:
- Property damage
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Medial costs
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Punitive damages
- Loss of consortium
We have a track record for successfully garnering results for our clients. In one motorcycle accident case, we were able to recover a $500,000 policy limits claim. Being involved in a motorcycle accident is a traumatic experience and riders are often left with catastrophic injuries. Many times, motorcyclists are unable to recover fully after an accident and may not be able to work or ride again. It is important that the negligent party who caused this accident are held liable for their actions.
A St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney from our firm will need to look at all the factors of your case to determine what compensation to seek. Once we have a clear picture of your damages will be able to determine the appropriate compensation to seek on your behalf.
Do you have a car accident attorney near me?
Our St. Joseph office is located at 2501 Frederick Avenue Suite 100 by appointment. We also see clients throughout Missouri and Kansas.
Contact a St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney today
After a motorcycle accident, it can be difficult to move forward with your life. You are left with a life-altering injury and with no idea what your next step is or should be. At Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys, we put our clients first. We understand how difficult it can be to go up against the insurance company. Do not fear having your claim denied due to the tactics that insurance companies implement.
Instead, let our experienced St. Joseph motorcycle accident attorney deal with the complex legal issues while you focus on your recovery. Call Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys at 816-290-7621, or submit our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer today.
St. Joseph Office
2501 Frederick Avenue, Ste. 100,
St. Joseph, MO 64506
