Motorcycle accidents can leave you injured, scared and perplexed about what to do next. What you’re doing after a crash in Missouri is critical. You want help. You want answers. You may even want to contact a skilled personal injury lawyer in Kansas City. This page will explain what happens after a motorcycle accident in Missouri and prepare you for what to expect, what to do next, and how to contact an attorney if necessary. Let’s get to it!
What to Do Right After the Crash
- If it is possible to do so, leave the scene of the incident.
- You should contact 911 for police and ambulance services.
- You should get the names and contact information for all other drivers and witnesses to your incident.
- You should take pictures of your bicycle, the road and injuries.
- Do not admit any fault in the accident, just state the facts.
- You should visit a doctor to get assessed even if you think you are ok.
Your health comes first. Always see a doctor. Some injuries take time to show. Adrenaline hides pain. You may feel fine at first but have serious damage. If someone else caused the crash, tell the police. That report helps your case. Ask how to get a copy later.
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Who’s At Fault?
Missouri follows a rule called “pure comparative fault.” That means both you and the other driver can be partly to blame. Even if you’re 99% at fault, you can still get 1% of the damages. But your payout drops based on how much blame you share. A lawyer can help prove your side and limit how much fault you get. Small facts matter. Photos, skid marks, or dash cams can tip the scale.
What the Law Says in Missouri
Motorcycle riders must follow all traffic laws. That includes:
- Wearing a helmet if under 26 or riding with a permit.
- Having insurance. Minimums: $25,000 for injury per person, $50,000 per crash, and $10,000 for property damage.
- Carrying a valid motorcycle license.
If the other driver broke the law, it helps your case. Speeding, texting, or drunk driving count against them.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
- Cars turning left into your path
- Drivers not seeing you in blind spots
- Road hazards: potholes, gravel, wet roads
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Drunk or distracted drivers
Most crashes happen because the other driver wasn’t watching for bikes. That’s not fair. You deserve justice. Missouri roads have risks. Some intersections are known for crashes. If poor road design played a part, the city or state might also share blame.
Injuries That Often Happen
Motorcycle riders have less protection. Injuries can be serious. Common ones include:
- Broken bones
- Road rash
- Head and brain injuries
- Back and spine injuries
- Loss of limbs
Even with a helmet and gear, riders get hurt badly. Some injuries last forever. Burns, nerve damage, and internal injuries also happen. Some riders need years of care or can’t work again.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Insurance companies try to pay as little as they can. They may blame you or deny your claim.
A motorcycle accident lawyer can:
- Investigate your crash
- Prove the other driver was at fault
- Handle insurance calls and paperwork
- Fight for fair money for medical bills, lost pay, and pain
You don’t pay a lawyer up front. Most work on “contingency.” That means they only get paid if you win. The lawyer speaks for you. That takes pressure off while you heal. They know the tricks insurers use.
What You Can Get Paid For
If you’re hurt, you may be owed money for:
- Medical bills
- Lost pay from missed work
- Damage to your motorcycle
- Pain and suffering
- Future treatment or rehab
Keep all bills, reports, and receipts. They help your case. Write down how your life changed. That can count too. Pain isn’t just physical. Emotional stress, anxiety, and lost freedom matter. A lawyer can add that to your claim.
How Long You Have to File a Claim
Missouri gives you five years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. This is called the “statute of limitations.” But don’t wait that long. The sooner you act, the better your case. Evidence fades. Witnesses forget. Videos get deleted. Start early so your lawyer has the best shot.
What If the Other Driver Has No Insurance?
If the driver has no insurance, you can still file a claim. You may be covered by your own “uninsured motorist” policy. Missouri requires this coverage by law. A lawyer can help you in the legal process to file a claim with your insurance and get paid. Also ask if you have “underinsured” coverage. That helps when the other driver’s limits are too low for your costs.
How to Pick the Right Lawyer
Look for a lawyer who:
- Handles motorcycle cases often
- Knows Missouri laws
- Offers free consults
- Will meet you in person or by phone
- Has good reviews
Ask questions. Make sure you trust them. Your case is personal. You need someone who listens. Check if they’ve won similar cases. Ask about past results. Choose someone who takes time to explain things.
What Happens During a Case
Most cases follow these steps:
- You meet with a lawyer.
- They investigate and gather proof.
- They talk to the insurance company.
- They try to settle.
- If no deal is reached, they file a lawsuit.
- Most cases settle before trial.
You don’t have to go to court unless it’s needed. Your lawyer handles most of it. You may have to give a statement or go to a doctor picked by the insurer. Your lawyer will prep you.
Don’t Wait Too Long
Your Body is hurt more than it was before. Your medical bills are going up. The insurance company is not going to wait. You should speak with an attorney as soon as possible after the crash. Even if you are certain you are not going to be suing anyone, a free consultation with an attorney can help you make sense of your rights. You only get one shot at this. If you settle too early, you may lose the chance to obtain fair compensation forever.
Final words
This was not something you asked for. The crash was not your fault. You should not have to suffer alone. A motorcycle crash in Missouri can change your life drastically. However, you do not have to do this alone, there is legal help available. So take that first step now and reach out! Call an experienced Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer today.
FAQs
1. What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet? Can I still file a claim? Yes. If you’re over 26, Missouri law doesn’t require a helmet. You can still seek damages.
2. How long does a motorcycle accident case take? Some cases settle in weeks. Others take months or more. It depends on how complex it is.
3. Will I need to go to court? Probably not. Most cases settle before trial. If court is needed, your lawyer guides you through it.
4. What if the other driver left the scene? That’s a hit-and-run. Call police right away. You may still have options through your own insurance.
5. Can I still get help if I was partly at fault? Yes. Missouri law allows you to recover money even if you’re partly to blame. Your payout is reduced based on fault.
