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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.
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.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri
Motorcycle accidents in Missouri are often caused by a variety of factors, many of which are preventable. Below are some of the most common causes:
- Failure to Yield Right of Way: Many drivers fail to notice motorcycles or misjudge their speed, leading to serious accidents.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time, increasing the likelihood of crashes and the severity of injuries.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, phone calls, or other distractions take attention away from the road, posing a significant danger to motorcyclists.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time, contributing to crashes.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and icy roads reduce visibility and traction, making it harder for both drivers and motorcyclists to avoid accidents.
By understanding these common causes, both motorcyclists and drivers can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of accidents.
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:
- Wrongful death
- Medical bills
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- 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 Does Insurance Play a Role in Motorcycle Accident Claims in Springfield, MO?
In motorcycle accident cases in Springfield, MO, insurance plays a crucial role. When a motorcycle accident is caused by another motor vehicle, such as a car accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance company typically becomes the primary source from which victims seek to recover damages.
This includes compensation for hospital bills, doctor bills, prescription drugs, property damage, and other losses incurred.
Springfield motorcycle accident lawyers provide vital legal services in navigating the often complex interactions with insurance agents.
They assist in compiling necessary paperwork related to the claim, including the official police report, witness accounts, and medical expense documentation. Their legal guidance ensures that victims are fairly compensated for their injuries and losses.
However, dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. These companies often aim to minimize payouts. Experienced lawyers from reputable law offices, possibly members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, know how to negotiate effectively with insurance providers.
They work to ensure that the responsible party is held accountable and that their clients receive the full extent of compensation they deserve.
In the event of disputes or inadequate settlement offers, a personal injury case may proceed to court.
In such instances, having an attorney skilled in motorcycle accident cases is essential to navigate the legal system and fight for rightful compensation, covering everything from medical bills to emotional distress and property damage.
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.
Understanding Missouri’s Comparative Negligence Law
Missouri follows a “pure comparative fault” system that can significantly impact motorcycle accident claims. Under this rule, injured parties can recover damages even if they were partially at fault, but their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of responsibility.
For example, if you’re found 30% responsible for a motorcycle accident and your damages total $100,000, you would only recover $70,000.
Insurance companies often use this law to minimize payouts by attempting to assign greater fault to injured motorcyclists. This makes it crucial to have skilled legal representation that can accurately establish liability percentages through thorough investigation of accident scenes, witness statements, and expert testimony.
Even in cases where a motorcyclist might have minor responsibility, our attorneys work diligently to ensure fair fault determination and maximum compensation recovery.
Essential Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
- Ensure safety first. Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
- Call 911 immediately. Request police and medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, all vehicles involved, road conditions, traffic signs, and your injuries.
- Collect information. Exchange contact and insurance details with all drivers. Obtain contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid discussing fault. Do not admit guilt or make statements about who caused the accident.
- Seek medical attention promptly. Some serious injuries aren’t immediately apparent.
- Report to insurance. Notify your insurance company of the accident, but don’t provide recorded statements without legal counsel.
- Preserve evidence. Keep damaged gear, clothing, and your motorcycle in their post-accident condition.
- Track expenses. Save all medical bills, repair estimates, and records of lost wages.
- Contact a motorcycle accident attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters or accepting any settlement offers.
Following these steps creates a solid foundation for your case and helps protect your legal rights to fair compensation.
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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