Motorcycle crashes can bring pain, stress, and confusion. If you’ve been hit, you might not know what to do next. This guide will help you understand your rights in Missouri. You may have a strong case, even if you think you don’t. Let’s break it all down. No legal talk. No big words. Just the facts you need to protect yourself.
Why Knowing Your Rights Helps You
If the crash wasn’t your fault, the law can help. You have the right to ask for money to cover:
- Doctor and hospital bills
- Lost time at work
- Repairs to your motorcycle
- Pain, stress, or emotional harm
You don’t need to take the blame if it wasn’t your fault. But acting fast helps your case.
Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri
You can ride safely and still get hit. Most crashes happen because of other drivers.
Here are some common causes:
- A car turns left in front of a bike
- A driver changes lanes without looking
- Someone drives too fast
- Someone is on their phone
- A driver follows too close
- Road has gravel, oil, or potholes
- Bad weather reduces visibility
In many of these cases, the rider isn’t at fault. But you’ll need to prove that to get paid.
What You Should Do Right After a Crash
If you’re in a crash, your actions matter. Stay calm. Protect yourself and your case.
1. Get safe
Move out of traffic if you can. Don’t take off your helmet too fast if you feel dizzy.
2. Call 911
You’ll want the police to make a report. This helps later.
3. Take pictures
Show damage, injuries, road signs, and anything else that helps your story.
4. Talk to witnesses
Ask for names and phone numbers. Witnesses can back up your version of events.
5. Get medical help
Don’t assume you’re fine. Some injuries show up later.
6. Don’t admit fault
Say as little as possible to the other driver. Let the facts speak for themselves.
7. Don’t talk to their insurance
Let a lawyer handle that. They may use your words against you.
Legal Rights in Missouri After a Motorcycle Accident
Missouri lets injured people file a personal injury claim. That means you can ask for money if:
- Someone else caused the crash
- You were hurt
- You have bills, losses, or stress because of it
You can also ask for money if your motorcycle was damaged or totaled. You may even get paid for pain that’s hard to measure. Like missing events, feeling anxious, or living with long-term injuries.
What Is Comparative Fault?
In Missouri, you can get money even if you were partly at fault. This rule is called comparative fault.
Here’s how it works:
If you were 20% at fault, you can still collect 80% of the total value of your case.
Example:
If your case is worth $10,000, but you were 20% to blame, you may get $8,000. A lawyer can help you fight for a fair split. Insurance companies may try to say you were more at fault than you really were.
What If You Didn’t Have a Helmet?
In Missouri, riders 26 and older don’t have to wear helmets if they have health insurance. But if you weren’t wearing one, insurance companies might use that against you. They may say your injuries were worse because of the missing helmet. That could lower your payout. But a lawyer can argue your side and show that the crash, not the helmet, caused your harm.
Dealing With Uninsured Drivers
Sometimes the driver who hit you has no insurance. That makes things harder—but not hopeless.
Here are your options:
- Use your uninsured motorist coverage
- Sue the driver (this works only if they have money or assets)
- Look at other possible causes (maybe a car defect or road hazard played a role)
Your own insurance policy may help cover the gap. But you must act fast and follow the rules of your plan.
Watch the Clock: Filing Deadlines in Missouri
You usually have 5 years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit in Missouri.
But don’t wait that long. Here’s why:
- Evidence disappears
- Memories fade
- Medical records get harder to collect
The longer you wait, the harder your case becomes. Talking to a lawyer early helps you build a strong case while details are fresh.
What a Lawyer Can Do for You
A good personal injury lawyer in Kansas City does more than just file papers. They can:
- Talk to the insurance company
- Help gather proof
- Push for a fair deal
- File a lawsuit if needed
- Guide you step-by-step through the process
Most motorcycle accident lawyers don’t charge upfront. They work on a contingency fee. That means they only get paid if you win.
How Insurance Companies May Treat You
Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible. They may:
- Blame you for the crash
- Claim your injuries aren’t serious
- Delay your payment
- Offer a low amount and pressure you to take it
You don’t have to accept their first offer. A lawyer can push for what’s fair.
Ways to Protect Yourself Before a Crash
You can’t control what others do. But you can lower your risk by taking simple steps:
- Wear a helmet
- Use bright or reflective gear
- Don’t ride tired or upset
- Keep your bike in top shape
- Carry strong insurance, including uninsured coverage
- Take a rider safety course
Safe habits won’t stop every crash. But they help protect you and your case.
FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri
1. Can I still get paid if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Missouri lets you collect money even if you share some blame. Your payout will be reduced based on how much you were at fault.
2. Do I need a lawyer?
You don’t have to get one, but it helps. A lawyer knows how to deal with insurance companies and can fight for full value.
3. How long will my case take?
Some settle in weeks. Others take months. If your case goes to court, it may take longer. But waiting often brings better results.
4. What if I don’t feel hurt right away?
Go to a doctor anyway. Some injuries show up later. Getting checked helps your health and your case.
5. How much money can I get?
It depends on your injuries, lost work, and more. A lawyer can give you a better idea after reviewing your case.
Don’t Wait. Take the First Step Today.
The moments after a crash are scary. But you don’t have to go through it alone. An experienced Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyer can help protect your rights, deal with the paperwork, and fight for the money you deserve. The sooner you act, the more options you have. Talk to someone who knows Missouri law and helps riders like you every day.
