Missouri Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Proudly Representing Injured Riders in Missouri & Surrounding Areas

At the Law Office of Tom Wagstaff Jr., we treat your motorcycle accident case with the utmost care, as if we were representing a close friend or family member. Our compassionate and friendly approach is matched by our relentless determination to stand up against powerful defendants. Our trial attorneys are ready to step into the courtroom to secure a fair outcome for you after a motorcycle crash that wasn’t your fault.

The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, and navigating the legal process can be complex. Hiring an experienced lawyer from the start can significantly reduce the risk of errors that may cause procedural delays and other avoidable issues. Our Missouri motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to guiding you through this legal journey, providing trusted counsel and steadfast support every step of the way. We fight for your rights, just as we have done for countless others throughout the years.

Call (816) 597-4556 or contact us online to request a free initial consultation with our attorneys.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are often the result of another motorist's negligence, not the fault of the motorcycle rider. Common causes of motorcycle accidents where the motorcycle rider is not at fault include:

• Distracted Driving: When other motorists are not fully attentive to the road due to distractions like texting or eating, they may fail to notice motorcyclists, leading to accidents.
• Failure to Check: Motorists often fail to check for motorcyclists in their blind spots while changing lanes or merging.
• Drunk Driving: Accidents caused by drunk drivers are common, posing a significant risk to motorcyclists and others who share the road with them.
• Poor Road Conditions: Sometimes, the party at fault might not be a motorist at all. Government entities responsible for maintaining roads could be held liable for accidents caused by potholes, poorly marked construction zones, or other hazardous conditions that are disproportionately dangerous to motorcyclists.

Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles provide virtually no protection to riders in the event of an accident. Consequently, injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents are often catastrophic or life-altering. Four serious injuries often suffered by motorcycle riders in accidents are:

• Brain Injuries: Even with a helmet, a motorcycle rider can suffer severe brain injuries in an accident. These can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can lead to long-term cognitive issues.
• Back and Spine Injuries: The impact of a collision can cause serious back and spine injuries, including herniated discs and spinal cord damage, potentially resulting in partial or total paralysis.
• Broken Bones: The force exerted during a motorcycle accident often results in broken bones, such as fractures to the arms, legs, hips, ribs, and facial bones.
• Road Rash: When a rider is thrown from their bike, they can suffer road rash – severe skin abrasions that can lead to painful infections, scarring, and even nerve damage.

Motorcycle Accident FAQ

Do you have to wear a motorcycle helmet when riding in traffic?

The legal requirement to wear a motorcycle helmet when riding in traffic largely depends on the specific laws of your state. Regardless of the law, it's recommended to always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle as it significantly reduces the risk of serious head injuries in case of an accident.

Is lane-splitting allowed and is it safe?

Lane-splitting, the practice of a motorcyclist moving between lanes of cars, is unlawful across the United States, with California being an exception. The safety of lane-splitting is a topic of debate. Supporters argue that it can be a safer alternative to stop-and-go traffic and reduce congestion when practiced responsibly, particularly at speeds under 30 MPH. However, it can also be seen as risky due to potential driver negligence, such as not checking for a lane-splitting motorcyclist before changing lanes.

Why are motorcycle accident claims more difficult than most car accident claims?

Motorcycle accident claims can often be more challenging than car accident claims for a variety of reasons. One key factor is the bias that exists against motorcyclists. Many insurance companies and even jurors in a lawsuit may hold a stereotype that motorcycle riders are reckless or risk-takers, which can unfairly influence the claim process. This bias could potentially impact the assessment of fault in an accident, making it more difficult for motorcyclists to secure fair compensation. Furthermore, injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents are often more severe than those in car accidents, which can complicate the medical aspect of the claim.

Get Help Filing a Claim – Call Now

Our dedicated team of Missouri motorcycle accident lawyers is ready to stand by your side. We have the resources to help motorcycle accident claimants throughout the state. Skilled in both settlement negotiation and trial litigation, we are prepared to fight for the best possible outcome in your motorcycle accident claim. Trust us to diligently handle your case, giving it the attention it deserves, so that you can focus on what's most important: your recovery.

Talk to our team about your case. Please dial (816) 597-4556 today.