Riding a motorcycle offers a unique sense of freedom on the open road, but it also comes with increased vulnerability. Motorcycle accidents often result in severe, life-altering injuries due to the lack of protection compared to a car.
These crashes are frequently caused by other drivers failing to see motorcycles, and unfortunately, injured riders sometimes face unfair bias. Navigating the physical recovery is hard enough; dealing with insurance adjusters and legal complexities shouldn’t be something you face alone.
If you’ve been injured in a crash, you need a dedicated motorcycle accident lawyer in St. Louis who understands the specific challenges riders face. The Dixon Injury Firm is here to fight for your rights.
Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri: The Legal Landscape
Motorcycle accident cases have unique factors that differentiate them from typical car accidents. Here’s what’s important to know in Missouri:
- High Risk of Severe Injury: Motorcyclists are exposed, making injuries like road rash, broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage, and fatalities tragically common. The severity of these injuries means higher medical bills, longer recovery times, and potentially permanent disability, all of which impact the value of a claim.
- Common Causes and Driver Negligence: Many motorcycle accidents happen because drivers in cars or trucks fail to see motorcycles. This can involve turning left in front of a motorcycle, changing lanes without looking, or following too closely. Proving the other driver’s negligence is key, and in Missouri, drivers owe the highest degree of care (RSMo § 304.012).
- Fighting Bias: Insurance companies and even juries can sometimes have a bias against motorcyclists, assuming they were speeding or riding recklessly. Your lawyer needs to effectively counter these assumptions and focus on the facts of the other driver’s negligence.
- Complex Damages: Due to the severity of injuries, calculating full and fair compensation in a motorcycle accident case is complex. It needs to include not just immediate medical costs and lost wages but also future medical care, rehabilitation, lost earning capacity, and significant pain and suffering.
- Time Limits: Like other personal injury cases, motorcycle accident claims in Missouri are subject to a statute of limitations, generally five years from the date of the crash (RSMo § 516.120). However, investigating these complex accidents takes time, so acting quickly is essential.
- Missouri Motorcycle Laws: Missouri has specific laws regarding motorcycles, including helmet requirements (RSMo § 302.020 and § 302.026). While not wearing a helmet when required might impact a claim regarding head injuries, it doesn’t automatically mean the rider was at fault for causing the accident itself.
How The Dixon Injury Firm Supports Injured Riders
Chris Dixon & Greg Motil, St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcycle accident claims require a lawyer with specific experience who will aggressively advocate for you against insurance companies and potentially biased perceptions. The Dixon Injury Firm provides that strong representation.
As local members of the St. Louis community, we are easily accessible and understand the unique riding conditions and challenges in the area. We have a powerful track record, having recovered over $60 million for clients who have suffered serious injuries, demonstrating their capability in handling high-stakes cases like severe motorcycle accidents.
The team at The Dixon Injury Firm is committed to providing personal attention. You won’t feel lost in a large firm; you’ll have dedicated support who will get to know you and the details of your case. This client-focused approach is reflected in their over 150 5-star reviews.
We understand the severity of motorcycle injuries and the financial strain they cause. That’s why they work on a contingency fee basis: you don’t pay a dime unless they win for you. This allows you to pursue justice and needed compensation without upfront financial worries. We will handle the investigation, gather crucial evidence (including accident reconstruction if necessary), negotiate with insurers, and take your case to trial if needed to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Why You Need a St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents often come with unique consequences, making legal guidance crucial. The complexities of these accidents require the expertise of a St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer who can protect your rights, gather critical evidence, negotiate settlements, and represent you in litigation. Contacting a St. Louis motorcycle accident attorney soon after an accident greatly increases the chances of a successful outcome, as it allows for the timely collection of evidence and the building of a strong case. If you need assistance, consider reaching out to louis motorcycle accident lawyers for expert advice.
St. Louis motorcycle accident attorneys are dedicated to representing motorcyclists affected by crashes, leveraging their experience to navigate legal processes and negotiate with insurance companies to secure just compensation for victims.
A motorcycle accident attorney navigates the specific complexities of your case, maximizing your compensation. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney understands the nuances of motorcycle accident claims and knows how to effectively argue your case. This expertise prevents insurance companies from taking advantage of you, ensuring you receive full compensation.
Benefits of Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
A motorcycle accident lawyer gathers critical evidence to prove liability and support your claims. This involves obtaining footage, witness statements, police reports, and expert testimony to establish negligence. Thorough evidence collection is crucial for building a strong case and demonstrating the extent of your injuries and losses.
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer also effectively negotiates with insurance companies to secure fair settlements. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, but a skilled lawyer will negotiate aggressively on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. This personalized legal representation focuses on maximizing recovery for motorcycle accident victims.
Additionally, lawyers help injured victims understand their coverage options and secure financial payouts without upfront costs. They assist clients in filing claims, submitting necessary documentation, and navigating the legal process, ensuring no financial barriers to obtaining legal assistance.
Common Misconceptions About Motorcycle Accident Claims
One common misconception is that motorcyclists have fewer rights on the road than drivers of traditional vehicles. This belief is entirely false; motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as any other driver. Unfortunately, insurers often exploit this misconception, blaming a motorcyclist’s lifestyle to deny or undervalue claims. Unrepresented claimants face significant challenges with insurers who may deny claims until liability is proven.
Another myth is that wearing a helmet can fully protect motorcyclists from all injuries. While helmets are crucial for preventing life-altering and fatal traumatic brain injuries, they cannot prevent all types of injuries in a serious crash. Even with protective gear, motorcyclists can suffer severe injuries, and their claims should be taken seriously.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only receive payment if you win your case. This fee structure ensures that victims can access legal representation without the burden of upfront costs. If the lawyer does not win the case, you owe nothing, making it a low-risk option for those seeking justice.
Clients can also benefit from a complimentary case evaluation to discuss their legal options without any initial fees. This allows victims to understand the potential of their motorcycle accident claim and the steps involved in pursuing compensation.
Ultimately, hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer involves no financial risk, as attorneys get paid only after clients recover financial compensation from their accident claims.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis
Taking immediate steps after an accident is crucial to protect your health and legal rights. After a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to follow a set of steps to ensure your safety and strengthen your claim.
In St. Louis motorcycle accidents, common causes include distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield, and potential damages recoverable from insurers can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
These steps include seeking medical attention, gathering evidence at the scene, and notifying your insurance company. Each of these actions plays a vital role in protecting yourself and your claim after a motorcycle crash.
Seeking Medical Attention
Prioritizing your health and safety immediately after a motorcycle accident is essential. Adrenaline can mask pain, and injuries can worsen over time, making it crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Common medical facilities in St. Louis that treat injuries from motorcycle accidents include Kindred Hospital, SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital, and Barnes Jewish Hospital. If your symptoms change after the accident, it’s important to contact your doctor’s office immediately.
Victims may also experience mental and psychological issues like anxiety, depression, and flashbacks. Addressing these issues is as crucial as treating physical injuries. Ensuring that you receive comprehensive medical care will not only aid your recovery but also provide necessary documentation for your personal injury claims.
Gathering Evidence at the Accident Scene
Collecting evidence at the accident scene is essential for establishing fault and demonstrating the extent of your injuries, crucial for fair compensation. If you are too injured to gather information, family members or legal representatives should step in to collect the necessary details. This evidence can include photos of the accident scene, witness contact information, and any relevant documentation.
Storing paperwork related to the motorcycle accident is also essential as it helps support your case for compensation. This can include medical records, police reports, and repair estimates. Having a well-documented case will strengthen your position when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.
Notifying Your Insurance Company
Reporting the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible is a critical step in the claims process. However, it’s important not to contact the liable carrier directly after crashes or let insurance companies minimize your injuries or undervalue your claims.
Promptly notifying your insurance company initiates the claim process and protects your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Understanding Motorcycle Accident Claims in Missouri
Knowing the steps involved in a motorcycle accident claim in Missouri is crucial for accident victims. Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means that you can recover damages even if you share fault for the accident. Your compensation may be lowered. This reduction is determined by your percentage of fault.
It’s also important to be aware of the insurance system in Missouri, which is fault-based, meaning the at-fault party’s insurance is responsible for covering damages.
Filing Initial Claims with Auto Insurance Companies
After a motorcycle accident, promptly notifying your insurance company initiates the claim process. Gather relevant documentation like police reports, photos from the scene, and witness statements when filing your claim. This evidence will support your claim and help establish fault.
Consulting a St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer significantly enhances your ability to navigate the claims process and avoid pitfalls. One common challenge in filing insurance claims is ensuring that you do not inadvertently admit fault to your insurance company. A lawyer can guide you through this process, ensuring your rights are protected.
Filing Secondary Claims with Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Policies
Many riders in St. Louis maintain uninsured and underinsured motorcycle insurance policies to protect themselves in case of an accident. This coverage applies when the liable driver is uninsured, flees the scene, or the policy can’t adequately compensate for losses. In such cases, motorcycle accident attorneys usually recover the policy amount from liable insurers and then demand overages from personal coverage for uninsured motorist claims.
Bodily injury insurance adjusters often try to shift blame from negligent drivers to riders, complicating the claims process. A skilled attorney will navigate these challenges, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Suing Negligent Parties for Damages
Motorcycle accident cases are typically based on negligence or products liability claims. To bring a motorcycle accident case, it must be proven that the other party played a role in causing the accident and injuries. Lawyers can file personal injury lawsuits against negligent drivers, vehicle owners, or employers.
Most motorcycle accident claims settle with insurers without needing a lawsuit. However, if damages exceed the at-fault party’s insurance limits, you may need to file a lawsuit or seek benefits from your own insurance provider. The goal of a civil lawsuit in a motorcycle accident claim is to recover financial compensation for damages, which can include settlement agreements or jury awards.
How to Prove Negligence After a Motorcycle Accident
Proving negligence after a motorcycle accident is crucial to securing fair compensation for your injuries and damages. As a motorcycle accident victim, you have the right to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prove negligence after a motorcycle accident:
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Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant evidence related to the accident, including:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- Photos and videos of the accident scene
- Expert witness statements
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Establish Duty of Care: Show that the at-fault party had a duty of care to you, the motorcycle rider. This can be established by:
- Proving the at-fault party was driving recklessly or negligently
- Showing the at-fault party failed to follow traffic laws or regulations
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Breach of Duty: Demonstrate that the at-fault party breached their duty of care, resulting in the accident. This can be done by:
- Proving the at-fault party was distracted or impaired while driving
- Showing the at-fault party failed to yield or follow traffic signals
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Causation: Establish a direct link between the at-fault party’s breach of duty and the accident. This can be done by:
- Proving the at-fault party’s actions directly caused the accident
- Showing the at-fault party’s actions contributed to the accident
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Damages: Document all damages resulting from the accident, including:
- Medical bills and expenses
- Lost wages and income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
By following these steps, you can build a strong case to prove negligence after a motorcycle accident. It’s essential to work with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you navigate the complex process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in St. Louis
Driver negligence is one of the primary causes of motorcycle accidents, often manifesting in behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, and illegal turns. Poor road conditions, like defects, dangerous road design, and other hazards, significantly contribute to the risk of motorcycle accidents.
The combination of negligent driver behaviors and inadequate road conditions creates a hazardous environment for motorcyclists, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Driver Distraction and Inattention
Distractions while driving, such as using mobile devices, significantly raise the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists. Driver negligence involves actions like not seeing riders in blind spots.
Another driver’s negligence often causes serious injuries to motorcyclists in motorcycle crashes.
Poor Road Conditions
Inadequate road upkeep, including potholes and poor signage, can greatly contribute to motorcycle accidents. Poor road conditions pose significant risks to riders, leading to severe injuries or fatal accidents when encountered unexpectedly. Legal implications surrounding a fatal motorcycle accident in St. Louis include the potential eligibility for compensation for families who have lost a loved one in such incidents.
Violations of Traffic Rules
Motorcyclists often face increased danger from other drivers ignoring traffic signals, which can lead to severe accidents. Traffic rule violations significantly threaten motorcycle safety and contribute to frequent accidents. Violations of traffic rules can result in collisions that cause serious injuries or fatalities to motorcyclists.
Motorcyclist safety can be significantly improved through strict compliance with traffic rules by all motorcycle riders.
Typical Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accident victims often endure serious injuries, including motorcycle accident injury. This is largely attributed to the inadequate protection offered by helmets and clothing. These injuries can result in serious disabilities or fatalities. A motorcycle accident victim may face disproportionately serious and fatal injuries compared to other vehicle operators.
Factors like unprotected rider positions, negligent drivers, and second-impact injuries contribute to the severity of common motorcycle accident injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) are serious consequences of motorcycle accidents that can lead to life-altering effects. Long-term effects of TBIs include cognitive impairments, emotional changes, and difficulties in physical abilities.
One significant factor increasing the risk of severe injury or death in motorcycle accidents is not wearing a helmet. Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of severe TBIs in motorcycle accidents.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can result in varying degrees of paralysis, fundamentally altering a person’s mobility and independence. These injuries can be life-changing, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. The impact on the victim’s quality of life and financial stability can be profound, underscoring the need to seek compensation for these severe injuries.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Treatment for fractures from motorcycle accidents often involves surgery, extended rehabilitation, and may lead to chronic pain. Surgery may be necessary to properly align and stabilize fractured bones. Extended rehabilitation is often required to restore function and strength in the affected area after surgery.
Chronic pain often develops following a fracture, impacting long-term recovery and quality of life.
Recoverable Damages in Motorcycle Accident Claims
Victims can recover various types of damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Economic damages include quantifiable financial losses, whereas non-economic damages cover emotional pain and suffering.
Determining the value of a motorcycle accident claim is challenging due to factors like non-economic damages, future costs, and overall financial losses.
Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs
Medical bills often become a significant financial burden following severe injuries from a motorcycle accident. Examples of economic damages from motorcycle accidents include calculable accident-related expenses like medical bills and rehabilitation costs.
These costs accumulate quickly, making it essential to include them in your personal injury claim.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
Lost wages refer to income an injured individual could not earn due to their injuries from a motorcycle accident, affecting their financial stability.
Loss of earning capacity refers to the decreased ability of an individual to earn income in the future due to lasting injuries from a motorcycle accident. Compensation claims for lost wages and loss of earning capacity typically involve gathering medical documentation and evidence showing the impact of injuries on the victim’s ability to work.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages account for the physical and emotional distress experienced by victims post-accident. Insurance companies often determine pain and suffering damages by applying a multiplier to the total economic damages. This method helps in assessing the compensation amount.
Traumatic brain injuries from motorcycle accidents can lead to permanent cognitive impairments and significant lifestyle changes, further contributing to pain and suffering damages.
How We Help Motorcycle Accident Victims
Chris Dixon of The Dixon Injury Firm in St. Louis
A motorcycle accident disrupts everything. We get that. Our approach? Comprehensive, client-focused. We aim to ease your burdens and secure fair compensation.
First, we investigate. Thoroughly. We gather evidence to establish liability. Police reports, medical records, witness statements. We even consult accident reconstruction experts when needed.
Next, we handle the insurance companies. All communications. We protect you from lowball offers and aggressive tactics. Our negotiators? Skilled. They maximize your recovery. We’re ready for trial, if needed.
We pursue all damages. Medical expenses. Lost wages. Pain and suffering. Property damage. We leave no stone unturned.
Personal attention matters. We keep you informed. We advocate fiercely for your rights. We fight for the compensation you need. To recover. Physically, emotionally, financially.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I hire a St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer?
Hiring a St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer is essential as they can protect your rights, gather crucial evidence, negotiate favorable settlements, and effectively represent you in court, thereby enhancing your chances for a successful outcome.
What are the costs associated with hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer?
Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer typically involves contingency fees, meaning you only pay if you win your case. This arrangement minimizes upfront costs and aligns the lawyer’s interests with yours.
What steps should I take immediately after a motorcycle accident?
Immediately seek medical attention, gather evidence at the accident scene, and notify your insurance company to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
What types of damages can I recover in a motorcycle accident claim?
In a motorcycle accident claim, you can recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. It is essential to document all these losses to ensure a comprehensive claim.
How can The Dixon Injury Firm help me with my motorcycle accident claim?
The Dixon Injury Firm can assist you with your motorcycle accident claim by providing personalized representation and leveraging their proven track record of securing significant settlements, all while offering free consultations without any upfront fees.
