In Need of a Bicycle Accident and Injury Lawyer?
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, we are dedicated to advocating for the rights of bicyclists across Missouri. Jerry and his wife bike on a regular basis and have enjoyed many trails such as the Katy Trail, Prairie Spirit Trail, and others. You Need a bike injury attorney who understands the care which should be given to bikers. You need Jerry. Our personal injury law firm is committed to combining clear communication, compassionate service, and aggressive representation to ensure clients feel supported and empowered throughout their legal journey.
This is crucial for Missouri residents because bicyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. According to the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, there were 15 bicyclist fatalities and 438 injuries resulting from 522 traffic crashes in the state last year. Many of these incidents were preventable, with speed, distraction, and impairment identified as the primary contributing factors.
In addition, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that most bicyclist fatalities (83%) occur in urban areas, and 29% take place at intersections, underscoring the dangers bicyclists face and the importance of skilled legal representation to address these issues.
With decades of combined legal experience and a proven track record of representing over 1,000 clients in trials, mediations, and settlements, our team is uniquely equipped to handle even the most complex personal injury cases. Our Missouri bicycle accident attorneys focus on securing maximum compensation for victims while holding negligent parties and insurance companies accountable for their actions.
If you or a loved one has been injured—or if you are grieving the loss of a loved one due to a preventable accident—our dedicated legal team is here to provide the support and guidance you need. We offer free consultations, allowing you to share your story and explore your legal options without financial obligation. Our contingency-based representation ensures you only pay if we win your case, making justice accessible to everyone.
Contact Wallentine Injury Law, LLC today to schedule your free consultation. Let us guide you through the legal process with care, determination, and an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
What Laws Protect Bicyclists in Missouri?
Missouri bicyclists are protected by state laws and local ordinances designed to ensure their safety and rights on the road. These laws establish the responsibilities of both bicyclists and motor vehicle drivers, aiming to reduce accidents and promote safe roadway sharing.
They include:
- Equal Rights and Responsibilities
Under Missouri law, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers when operating on public roadways. This means they are entitled to use the road and must obey traffic signals, stop signs, and other traffic control devices.
- Safe Passing Law
Motorists are required to pass bicyclists at a safe distance. While Missouri does not specify a minimum passing distance, drivers are expected to provide enough space to prevent collisions and ensure the cyclist’s safety.
- Use of Bike Lanes
When designated bike lanes are available, bicyclists are encouraged to use them. However, they are not legally required to do so and may use the road when necessary, especially if the bike lane is unsafe or obstructed.
- Prohibition of Harassment
Missouri law prohibits motorists from harassing or endangering bicyclists. Actions such as throwing objects, driving aggressively, or intimidating cyclists can result in legal consequences.
- Helmet Requirements (Local Ordinances)
Missouri does not have a statewide helmet law for bicyclists. However, some cities and municipalities, such as St. Louis and Columbia, have local ordinances requiring helmets, particularly for minors. While not always mandated, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended to reduce the risk of head injuries.
- Lighting and Equipment Requirements
Bicyclists are required to have proper lighting and reflectors when riding at night. This includes a front white light visible from at least 500 feet and a rear red reflector or light visible from 600 feet. These measures help improve visibility and prevent accidents.
- Use of Roadways
Bicyclists may ride on the roadway but should stay as close to the right-hand side as practicable, except when making a left turn, avoiding hazards, or when the lane is too narrow to share safely with a motor vehicle.
As part of the state’s safety initiatives, the Show-Me Zero plan emphasizes the protection of vulnerable road users, including bicyclists. This program encourages safe driving practices, improved infrastructure, and increased public awareness about sharing the road. However, not everyone is following the action plan, and riders are still being catastrophically injured or killed by negligent motorists. Our experienced Missouri bicycle accident attorneys can help ensure all applicable laws are considered when seeking compensation for your injuries.
How Can I Prove Negligence in a Missouri Bicycle Accident Case?
Proving negligence in a Missouri bicycle accident case requires demonstrating that the at-fault party failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in the accident and your injuries. This process involves collecting evidence and building a compelling argument based on the legal elements of negligence.
Here’s how to establish a strong case:
- Duty of Care
You must show that the at-fault party owed you a duty of care. In Missouri, all drivers are legally obligated to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly to avoid harming others, including bicyclists. This duty extends to obeying traffic laws, avoiding distractions, and respecting cyclists’ rights on the road.
- Breach of Duty
Next, you must prove that the at-fault party breached their duty of care by acting negligently or recklessly.
Examples of breaches include:
- Failing to yield to a bicyclist at an intersection.
- Driving while distracted, such as texting or using a phone.
- Speeding or driving aggressively.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Failing to provide sufficient space while passing a bicyclist.
Although not an exhaustive list, these are some of the most common ways bicyclists are hurt or tragically killed in Missouri.
- Causation
You must establish a direct link between the at-fault party’s breach of duty and the accident that caused your injuries. Evidence is critical to demonstrate that their actions—or inactions—were the primary cause of the crash. For example, if a driver ran a red light and struck you while you were legally crossing an intersection, their negligence directly caused your injuries.
- Damages
Finally, you must show that the accident resulted in tangible damages.
These may include:
- Medical expenses for treating injuries.
- Lost wages due to time missed from work.
- Property damage, such as a damaged bicycle.
- Pain and suffering from physical and emotional trauma.
Key Evidence to Prove Negligence
Gathering strong evidence is essential for a successful claim.
Helpful evidence includes:
- Police Reports: Official accident documentation, including witness statements and the officer’s observations, can support your case.
- Photographs or Videos: Images of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage can provide visual proof of what happened.
- Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from individuals who saw the accident can corroborate your version of events.
- Traffic Camera or Surveillance Footage: Video evidence can clearly show the at-fault party’s actions leading up to the crash.
- Expert Testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can provide professional analysis to demonstrate how the at-fault party caused the crash.
- Medical Records: Detailed records of your injuries and treatment help prove the extent of the harm caused by the accident.
Proving negligence requires a thorough understanding of Missouri traffic laws and the ability to build a strong case with credible evidence. Our experienced Missouri bicycle accident attorneys and support staff can investigate the accident, collect the necessary evidence, and advocate to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. By partnering with our skilled legal professionals, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your case.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas in Missouri:
Contact Our Experienced Bicycle Accident and Injury Attorneys in Missouri for Help Today
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, our Missouri bicycle accident attorneys are committed to delivering exceptional results through thorough case evaluations and dedicated advocacy. During your free consultation, we’ll take the time to understand your unique situation, provide honest advice, and outline the steps you can take to move forward. Our contingency-based approach ensures you don’t pay any upfront fees—we only get paid if we win compensation for you.
Our firm takes pride in making every client feel supported and informed at each stage of the legal process. When you work with Wallentine Injury Law, you’re not just another case—you’re a valued individual who deserves justice and the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been injured and don’t know where to turn, we’re here to help. Contact our compassionate and experienced Missouri personal injury attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us answer your questions, guide you through the process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us now at (816)-934-6333 or contact us online to take the first step toward recovery—your path to justice starts here.
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