In Need of a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, we understand that motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences, leaving victims and their families facing emotional, physical, and financial challenges. That’s why our Missouri motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to providing compassionate, client-focused representation. With clear communication and unwavering support, we strive to ensure our clients feel heard and empowered every step of the way.
This is crucial for riders, as the roadways in Missouri have seen a troubling increase in motorcycle-related fatalities. Last year marked a record high of 172 motorcyclist deaths, accounting for 17% of all traffic fatalities statewide. The Missouri Department of Transportation emphasizes that motorcyclists remain among the most vulnerable road users, with limited protection in collisions. To address this alarming trend, drivers must recognize motorcycles as equal vehicles, always give them a full lane width, and remain vigilant for motorcyclists in blind spots. Unfortunately, not all motorists are doing their part to keep riders safe.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or loss due to a motorcycle accident in Missouri, Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, is here to provide the personalized and aggressive legal care you need. Contact us for a free consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your future. We operate on a contingency basis, so you can focus on recovery while we handle the rest.
What Challenges Do Motorcyclists Face When Filing Insurance Claims?
Motorcyclists encounter distinct and often frustrating challenges when navigating the insurance claims process after an accident. These obstacles stem from a combination of factors, including insurance companies frequently scrutinizing motorcycle claims more aggressively than other vehicle-related claims, leveraging these challenges to reduce their financial liability.
Motorcycle accidents also tend to involve more severe injuries and damages than typical car accidents, adding another layer of complexity to the claims process. Furthermore, motorcyclists may face difficulties in proving fault or countering insurance companies’ efforts to diminish or deny their claims based on contributory negligence or other technicalities.
They include:
- Bias Against Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists are often stereotyped as reckless or aggressive drivers, which can lead insurance adjusters to scrutinize their claims unfairly. Insurers may attempt to assign a more significant share of fault to the motorcyclist, even if the evidence suggests otherwise.
- Severity of Injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, leading to substantial medical bills. Insurers may resist covering long-term treatment costs or rehabilitation. It can be challenging to document the full extent of injuries, especially for conditions like traumatic brain injuries or chronic pain.
- Comparative Fault Rules
In states like Missouri, which follow a pure comparative fault rule, motorcyclists can still recover damages even if they are partially at fault. However, insurers often try to increase the motorcyclist’s fault percentage to reduce payouts.
- Policy Exclusions and Limitations
Some policies may exclude certain types of motorcycle-related claims, such as those involving customized parts or certain kinds of riding. If the at-fault driver has inadequate insurance, motorcyclists may need to rely on their uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which may have lower limits.
- Lack of Comprehensive Evidence
Accident reports can sometimes reflect bias or fail to accurately portray the motorcyclist’s perspective. Motorcyclists may find collecting evidence to prove another driver’s negligence more challenging, particularly if there are no witnesses.
- Insurance Company Tactics
Insurers often undervalue motorcycle claims, knowing motorcyclists might need immediate financial relief. Insurers may intentionally drag out the claims process, hoping the motorcyclist will settle for less.
- Helmet Law Complications
If a motorcyclist is under 26 or operating under a permit and isn’t wearing a helmet, insurers may argue contributory negligence, even if helmet use wouldn’t have prevented injuries.
- Emotional and Financial Strain
Severe injuries can leave motorcyclists physically and emotionally drained, making it harder to focus on the complexities of the claims process. Mounting medical bills and lost income can pressure motorcyclists into accepting lowball offers.
Successfully navigating these challenges requires preparation, strategic action, and a thorough understanding of the claims process. By addressing these issues head-on and being aware of common insurance company tactics, motorcyclists can strengthen their claims and improve their chances of receiving fair compensation. Our skilled Missouri motorcycle accident and injury attorneys can help, starting with a free consultation.
What Should I Do If a Loved One Was Fatally Injured in a Missouri Motorcycle Accident?
If a loved one was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident, it can be an incredibly emotional and overwhelming time. While no action can undo the loss, there are steps you can take to ensure justice is pursued, financial support is secured, and your loved one’s memory is honored.
Steps to take after a fatal motorcycle accident in Missouri:
- Notify the Authorities: Ensure the accident is reported to law enforcement. Police reports are crucial for understanding the crash’s circumstances and establishing liability.
- Preserve Evidence: Collect and preserve all available evidence of the accident, including photos, witness contact information, and any documents such as police reports or medical records.
- Consult a Wrongful Death Attorney: Speak with our experienced attorneys focusing on motorcycle accidents and wrongful death cases. We can help investigate the accident, identify liable parties, and guide you through the legal process.
- Understand Your Legal Rights: Family members, such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents, may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Our attorneys can clarify your eligibility under state laws.
- File a Wrongful Death Claim: A wrongful death claim is designed to hold the at-fault party accountable while seeking compensation for various damages. These damages may include the costs associated with funeral and burial arrangements, medical expenses incurred before the death, and the financial support the deceased would have provided. Additionally, it addresses the profound emotional impact on surviving family members, including the loss of companionship and the emotional suffering caused by the untimely loss of a loved one.
- Communicate with Insurance Companies: Avoid making detailed statements without consulting our attorneys, as insurers may try to minimize the claim. Allow our law firm to do the talking for you and your family.
- Seek Grief Counseling: Losing a loved one unexpectedly is a traumatic experience. Professional counseling or support groups can help you and your family process the loss and the emotional aftermath.
These steps can help you seek justice for your loved one, hold responsible parties accountable, and secure the financial resources necessary to support your family during this challenging time.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas in Missouri:
Contact Our Dedicated Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Missouri
With decades of experience and a proven track record of successfully resolving thousands of cases, our Missouri motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to securing the maximum compensation you deserve. We take on insurance companies that undervalue claims, ensuring justice for those impacted by negligence.
At our firm, every case is treated with dignity and respect. We provide compassionate, results-driven representation, thoroughly reviewing each case and offering honest guidance during your free consultation. You won’t pay anything upfront—we work on a contingency basis, so you only pay if we win your case.
If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, don’t face it alone. Contact our trusted Missouri personal injury team today for a free consultation. Call us at (816)-934-6333 or connect online to start your journey toward justice and recovery. You Need Jerry
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