Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Attorney

With the repeal of Missouri’s all-rider helmet law, which went into effect August 28, 2020, licensed motorcyclists 26 or older can ride without helmets in Missouri if they have proof of health insurance. Since August 2020, motorcycle accident fatalities in Missouri have steadily increased. The Missouri Department of Transportation writes that motorcyclist fatalities were up 33% within the first six months since the law’s repeal. While there’s a negative stereotype that motorcyclists are reckless riders, there are often times when an automobile or truck driver’s negligence is the cause of the accident.

Motorcyclists are vulnerable to serious, life-threatening catastrophic injuries due to the rider’s exposure to outside elements and objects. If you suffered injuries and property damage because of another person’s recklessness, you can seek compensation for your damages. When you work with an experienced attorney at the Hollis Law Firm, you’ll have legal representation you can trust. Kansas City personal injury lawyer understands the legal and financial challenges that come after a motorcycle accident and will do everything in power to protect your rights.

What Are Common Causes of Kansas City Motorcycle Accidents?

Many motorcyclists in Kansas City enjoy the scenery and beautiful roads. However, motorcycle accidents happen often and cause riders and others serious injuries. While there are many causes of motorcycle accidents, the following are a few common types:

• Speeding and reckless driving
• Fatigued and drowsy driving
• Distracted driving
• Impaired driving
• Defective equipment and gear
• Poor weather conditions
• Improperly maintained roads and road debris

Even though you may follow the rules and do everything to prevent severe accidents, others may disregard your health and safety with their careless behavior. Speak with our motorcycle accident attorney in Kansas City to learn what steps you can take for a successful personal injury lawsuit process.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Kansas City

The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, especially if you sustained injuries, but with the right steps, you can protect your rights, health, and legal claim. These important actions include the following:

Seek Medical Attention

Your first priority after a motorcycle accident should be checking for injuries and seeking medical treatment. Even if you feel fine, a medical professional can identify any underlying injuries or issues that require treatment. This helps protect your health and kickstart recovery while creating a record of your injuries, which serves as a crucial piece of evidence for your insurance claim.

Gather Evidence

If you are able, collecting evidence after your motorcycle accident can provide insight into whose negligence caused the collision and the damages involved. Taking photos and videos of your injuries, vehicle, and the surrounding area and documenting witness and insurance information can help strengthen your claim and achieve fair compensation.

Contact Law Enforcement

According to Missouri law, police must know about an accident if it results in injury, death, or over $500 of property damage. When police arrive, they create a police report containing unbiased information about the accident that could be valuable for your claim. Our motorcycle accident lawyer at Hollis Law Firm can help obtain this important document.

Seek Help From a Trusted Lawyer

After a motorcycle accident, you deserve to focus on recovery instead of dealing with insurance claim adjusters and the complicated legal process. Hiring a trustworthy motorcycle accident attorney allows you to do just that. At Hollis Law Firm, we handle every aspect of your claim with a high level of care and professionalism so you can have the best chance of achieving fair compensation and holding the liable party accountable for their negligence.

6 Essential Motorcycle Safety Gear All Riders Should Wear

Riding a motorcycle through Kansas City can be a thrilling, exciting experience, but safety should always come first. To limit the damage a motorcyclist may sustain in an accident, it’s critical to have the necessary safety gear. The following are six essential pieces of equipment all motorcyclists should wear to prevent severe injuries:

Helmets

While it may not be a requirement for certain individuals, it’s highly recommended that all motorcyclists wear helmets. Multiple types of helmets are available for riders, including full-face, skull caps, and open-face. Helmets protect the head from sustaining severe brain injuries or puncture wounds from the accident. When purchasing a helmet, look for the Department of Transportation-approved sticker and ensure it fits properly. A good helmet can be a life-saving piece of gear in preventing catastrophic injuries.

Eye Protection

Riders may need additional eye protection depending on the type of helmet they use. While full-face helmets include this gear, open-face and skull cap helmets do not. Wearing glasses or goggles protects the eyes from UV light, flying debris, and wind. If you accidentally get something in your eye while driving, you may suffer injuries in an accident. This gear is critical in avoiding further medical complications, especially if an accident leads to severe medical treatment.

Jacket

A motorcycle jacket covers more than your average winter. The material in riding jackets is thick and stands up to abrasion in a crash. When purchasing a motorcycle jacket, consider how you sit and the clothing’s material. Thick leather, kevlar, and other strong materials will protect your skin. If you are involved in a crash, a high-quality jacket may significantly reduce the severity of catastrophic injuries.

Gloves

Many individuals may find that gloves restrict their riding ability or make them feel uncomfortable. However, during the winter and summer months, insulated gloves can protect your hands from the heat and cold and your wrists from any debris that hits you while riding. In the unfortunate event of a crash, gloves also help prove negligence by showing the rider took precautions for safety.

Long Pants

Regardless of the weather, motorcyclists must wear long pants when riding. You may choose to wear jeans or your everyday clothing, but when wearing shorts, you’ll need to wear riding pants over them to protect your legs. Riders may also wear motorcycle pants specifically designed to keep their legs safe while being able to wear them over everyday clothing. Protecting your legs can significantly reduce the risk of severe injury victims in an accident.

Boots

Boots that cover the upper ankles offer extra protection to sensitive joints, guarding your feet against heat, debris, and possible sprains during a crash. Some boots offer non-skid soles that grip into the pavement for extra stability. In the case of an accident, boots are an essential part of reducing injury, especially when considering future medical expenses from an injury.

How Much Is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?

Determining the value of your motorcycle accident case involves analyzing numerous factors unique to your situation. While no attorney can guarantee an exact amount, understanding the elements that influence case value can help you set realistic expectations for your claim. At Hollis Law Firm, we carefully evaluate each case to pursue the maximum compensation possible for our clients.

In Kansas City motorcycle accident cases, injured riders may be entitled to various forms of compensation, which broadly fall into three categories:

Economic Damages

Economic damages represent tangible financial losses with specific dollar amounts attached. These are generally the most straightforward to calculate and may include:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Property damage, including motorcycle repairs or replacement
• Rehabilitation costs
• Adaptive equipment and home modifications
• Transportation to medical appointments

For long-term or permanent injuries, economic damages must account for future costs throughout your lifetime. Our motorcycle accident attorney works with medical and economic experts to accurately project these expenses.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses that significantly impact your quality of life but don’t have inherent monetary values. These may include:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Psychological trauma
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of consortium (impact on marital relationship)

Though harder to quantify than economic damages, non-economic damages often constitute a substantial portion of motorcycle accident settlements, particularly in cases involving severe injuries.

Punitive Damages

In rare cases involving especially egregious conduct by the at-fault party, courts may award punitive damages. Unlike compensatory damages (economic and non-economic), punitive damages aim to punish wrongdoers and deter similar behavior. These are typically only available when the defendant acted with malice or gross negligence.

What is the Statute of Limitations on Motorcycle Accident Claims in Kansas City

Understanding the deadline for filing your motorcycle accident claim is crucial to preserving your right to compensation. These strict legal time limits, known as statutes of limitations, vary depending on which side of the state line your accident occurred. At Hollis Law Firm, we ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame while focusing on building the strongest possible case.

Missouri Statute of Limitations

If your motorcycle accident occurred on the Missouri side of Kansas City, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible parties. This five-year period applies to most injury claims, including those seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

While five years may seem like ample time, postponing legal action can significantly weaken your case. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and surveillance footage may be deleted. Additionally, waiting to begin treatment can create “gaps in care” that insurance companies use to minimize your compensation.

Kansas Statute of Limitations

For accidents occurring on the Kansas side of Kansas City, the statute of limitations is significantly shorter. Kansas law generally provides only two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This compressed timeframe makes prompt legal consultation even more critical for Kansas motorcycle accidents.

The two-year deadline applies to most motorcycle accident claims, including those against negligent drivers, municipalities for roadway defects, or manufacturers for defective motorcycle parts. Missing this deadline typically bars you permanently from seeking compensation.

Special Circumstances Affecting Filing Deadlines

Several situations may alter the standard statutes of limitations for motorcycle accident claims:

Claims Against Government Entities

If your accident involved a government vehicle or was caused by a roadway defect maintained by a government entity, special rules apply. In both Kansas and Missouri, claims against government entities typically require filing a formal notice of claim much sooner than the standard statute of limitations—sometimes as little as 90 days after the accident.

These government claims have specific procedural requirements and shorter timelines. Our motorcycle accident lawyer ensures all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time to preserve your right to compensation.

Minors and Incapacitated Victims

When the injured party is a minor or legally incapacitated, both Kansas and Missouri laws may “toll” (pause) the statute of limitations. For minors, the clock typically doesn’t start running until they reach the age of majority (18). However, relying on these exceptions can be risky, and consulting with an attorney promptly is always advisable.

Discovering Injuries Later

Some motorcycle accident injuries, particularly traumatic brain injuries or internal trauma, may not become apparent immediately after the crash. In limited circumstances, courts may apply a “discovery rule,” starting the statute of limitations when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered your injury rather than on the accident date.

However, this exception is narrowly applied, and establishing delayed discovery can be challenging. Seeking medical attention promptly after any motorcycle accident helps protect both your health and legal rights.

Why Choose an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Kansas City?

Filing a motorcycle accident injury claim comes with many confusing steps and terminology that may be challenging to understand for those unfamiliar with Kansas City law. However, our Kansas City motorcycle accident attorneys can help streamline this process and offer you the following services:

• Answering case-related questions
• Investigating your claim thoroughly
• Collecting medical records and documentation
• Interviewing eyewitnesses of your car accident
• Guiding you through the medical documentation process
• Discussing claims with insurance companies
• Negotiate settlement offers

Without dependable legal representation, you may not be able to recover maximum compensation. Our skilled legal team has the tools and resources to fight for your rights, protect your best interests, and seek the justice you deserve. If you have sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s driver negligence, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas Motorcycle Accidents

What should I do if I am involved in a Kansas City motorcycle accident?

After a motorcycle accident, your first priority should be seeking medical attention to ensure your health and safety. Even if you feel fine, some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or head injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. It’s also crucial to gather evidence, such as photos of the accident scene, witness information, and insurance details. Contacting law enforcement to file a report and seeking help from an experienced Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and achieve fair compensation.

How can an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer assist in motorcycle accident claims?

An experienced Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the complex legal process following a motorcycle crash. They can handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather necessary evidence, and help you document medical bills and other damages. This ensures that you are fairly compensated for your injuries, including those related to emotional distress, pain and suffering, and any serious injuries sustained.

What types of motorcycle accident injuries are common and how can they impact my claim?

Motorcycle crashes often lead to serious injuries due to the lack of protection for motorcycle riders. Common injuries include head and neck injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries. These injuries can result in significant hospital bills, long-term recovery, and emotional distress. Working with a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer is important to ensure that you get fair compensation for both the physical and emotional toll of these injuries.

How does distracted driving contribute to motorcycle accident cases in the Kansas City area?

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in the Kansas City area. When drivers are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions, they are less likely to notice a motorcyclist on the road. This negligence can lead to severe accidents, often resulting in motorcycle accident victims suffering serious injuries. If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by distracted driving, contacting a personal injury lawyer for a free consultation can help you understand your options for pursuing compensation.

Why is it important to consult a motorcycle accident lawyer after a crash?

Consulting a skilled Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights after a motorcycle crash. They can help you understand the legal complexities of motorcycle accident cases, deal with insurance companies, and ensure your claim is handled efficiently. A lawyer can also ensure that your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress are accounted for in your personal injury claim, allowing you to recover the compensation you deserve after a traumatic event.