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Are You in Need of a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Springfield, MO?
The number one cause of death for teenagers and young adults is motorcycle accidents, while it is the third-leading cause of death for people aged 20 to 29.
Motorcycle accident attorneys in Springfield, MO, represent clients injured in motorcycle accidents. Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien is a law firm that can represent your best interests after such an event if you need one.
The law firm is one of the rare offices in the area with a practice dedicated to motorcycle crash law. If you or someone close to you has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Missouri, contact an attorney immediately to get started with your case.
What Happens in a Motorcycle Accident?
In a motorcycle collision with another vehicle or object, the rider and the motorcycle may be thrown off into the air. It is also possible for the bike to strike the rider while they are in the air, causing further injury.
Motorcycles don’t provide much protection to the rider or their passenger. As a result of a sudden stop on a bike, the rider may forcibly strike other objects or the ground.
Motorcycle accident victims stand a great chance of serious injuries, which can cause permanent damage. Fractures, broken bones, head and neck injuries, as well as spinal cord and brain injuries, are just some of the most common injuries motorcycle riders can incur. Scares, road burns, and possible internal organ injuries can also occur.
Motorcycle accident injuries are also known as catastrophic injuries because they can result in different complications and demand long and complex medical treatment. Additionally, these injuries can be expensive to treat since accident victims may need frequent physical therapy and doctor visits.
Determining who was at fault can be crucial in a motorcycle accident. It is essential that you contact an experienced motorcycle attorney to investigate the causes of the accident and determine liability.
What Are Common Factors Contributing to Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle crashes may be attributed to several factors, but inexperience or failure to appreciate the motorcycle’s inherent characteristics are the most common. Hence, motorcyclists are advised to take extra precautions and practice defensive driving. Most motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur at intersections, so motorcycle riders must be extra vigilant at these locations.
Motorcycle accidents caused by other drivers turning into the motorcycle’s path account for more than a third of all multi-vehicle accident reports. Unlike drivers of other vehicles, motorcyclists must always remain visible, alert, and anticipate what might happen.
Other common factors include:
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Distracted driving
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Drinking and driving
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Use of cell phones and other devices while driving
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Speeding
Additionally, certain road conditions make it harder for motorcycles than cars to maneuver. Examples are wet pavement, potholes, gravel roads, and other hazardous roadways.
CDC Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Approximately 80% of reported motorcycle collisions result in injuries or fatalities for the riders. A total of 2.2 million people are injured in motorcycle accidents each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
A collision with a passenger vehicle accounts for more than half of all motorcycle-related wrongful death cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The risk is even greater for riders between 18 and 29, who are involved in nearly seven out of 10 fatal motorcycle crashes.
How Does a Personal Injury Claim for a Motorcycle Accident Work?
As with a personal injury claim for an auto accident, a motorcycle accident victim must prove the other driver’s fault and that the driver’s negligence caused the accident.
The law requires that to be successful in a personal injury lawsuit, the plaintiff must show the following:
- They were injured.
- Someone else’s negligence caused them harm.
- They have suffered damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, motorcycle accident lawyers in Springfield, MO, can help you with your personal injury claims. Contact Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien for a free initial consultation.
Our team of experienced attorneys will assess your case, determine liability, and start the process to help you get the compensation you deserve. With decades of experience, we understand the unique challenges that motorcycle accident victims face and will work hard to ensure you get a fair outcome.
What Are the Steps of a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
Filing a lawsuit after a motorcycle accident involves three main steps that a skilled attorney typically handles. These steps include:
- In the investigation stage, the plaintiff must gather evidence and information to prove their case.
- The settlement stage is where the plaintiff and defendant negotiate an agreement for settlement.
- The trial phase takes place to determine whether or not the defendant was negligent if no settlement can be reached.
If you want to significantly increase your chances of winning a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Missouri, consider hiring an attorney who understands how the court system works. It is also essential to know what damages you are entitled to and how much your case might be worth.
What Is the Compensation for a Springfield Motorcycle Accident?
Your legal counsel may assess your medical bills, which vary based on the severity of a serious crash, to determine how to get maximum compensation to cover medical expenses. A serious accident could give rise to compensation for losses incurred as a result of the accident, including:
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Wrongful death
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Medical bills
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Mental anguish and emotional distress
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Loss of income
You may retain ongoing assistance dealing with your motorcycle accident claims by developing a strong attorney-client relationship with respected motorcycle accident lawyers. Reach out to experienced motorcycle injury lawyers to schedule a free consultation
How Can Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Springfield, MO, Help After a Crash?
A personal injury attorney in Springfield, MO, can help with a motorcycle crash by taking in all the information and deciding what needs to be done. They will ensure the client understands their rights and options, and they will also help with any legal paperwork that is required.
An experienced Springfield motorcycle accident attorney may be able to provide a free case evaluation to determine what fair compensation would be for the medical costs.
Should You Hire a Springfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
In the unfortunate event that you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you may wonder if you should hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in Springfield, MO.
In these situations, it is essential to know your legal rights. In Missouri, you are entitled to compensation if the other driver was at fault and your damages exceed $1,000. Getting fair compensation can be challenging without the help of a lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents are caused by various factors, many of which can be avoided with proper safety precautions. Common causes are improper bike maintenance and improper use. This includes drinking or using drugs, riding at night, or in bad weather conditions.
What Should You Do If You Are in a Motorcycle Accident?
In a motorcycle accident, it is essential to remain calm and assess the situation as quickly as possible. Look for any injuries. If you can’t find any injuries, your next step should be to call for help and wait for emergency responders to arrive at the scene.
In the event of an injury sustained in a motorcycle accident, move away from traffic and await medical attention.
How Can You Prevent Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
When it comes to motorcycle accidents, wearing a helmet can significantly reduce your chances of incurring severe head injuries. Motorcycle riders should also wear protective clothing such as jackets, pants, gloves, and boots. While these items may not deflect every blow, they will reduce the chances of injury.
What Are the Most Common Types of Motorcycle Injuries?
The most common types of injuries incurred in a motorcycle accident are spinal cord injuries, broken bones, brain and head injuries, lacerations and bruises, road rash, and whiplash. Taking the necessary precautions to protect your body can help reduce the risk of serious injuries.
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