How Do Motorcycle Accident Claims Differ from Other Vehicle Claims?

Every day, motorcycle riders take to the roads in Missouri, embracing the freedom and exhilaration that only riding on two wheels can provide. However, this unmatched thrill comes at a cost— while only 2.6% of registered vehicles in the state are motorcyclists, they make up 10% of all Missouri highway fatalities.

Unlike traditional vehicle accidents, motorcycle accident claims present an intricate web of legal, insurance-related, and societal issues that demand careful examination. By understanding these distinctions, the Missouri motorcycle accident lawyers at Cofman Townsley can help you seek fair compensation if you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by a negligent driver.

Differences Between Motorcycle Accident Claims and Other Vehicle Claims

Motorcycle accident claims are different from claims involving other vehicles. This is due to the motorcycles’ characteristics and the unique challenges motorcyclists face on the road. These differences include how motorcycle accidents happen, the severity of injuries, insurance coverages, and prejudices against riders:

• Rider vulnerability: Motorcycles lack protective barriers such as airbags, seat belts, and metal frames, exposing riders to direct impact during collisions. Motorcyclist deaths occur 24 times that of riders in cars and injuries are often more severe, leading to long-term disabilities, extensive medical expenses, and emotional trauma.

• Bias and perception: The societal bias against motorcyclists often portrays them as risk-takers or daredevils. This biased perception can influence insurance companies, jurors, and law enforcement when determining fault and assessing damages. These prejudices may affect the outcome of motorcycle accident claims, making it challenging for riders to receive fair compensation.

• Insurance coverage: In Missouri, all motorists are required to carry liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property. If the other motorist doesn’t have the necessary coverage, you may.

Motorcyclists are required to have a minimum of 25/50/10 in coverage. Both motorists and motorcyclists are required to have uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury per accident.  

Although motorists may have higher limits on their policy, the cost may exceed the driver’s coverage if you have severe injuries. This could leave you with out-of-pocket expenses for medical care and lost wages due to missed work.

Importance of Hiring an Attorney With Experience in Motorcycle Crash Claims

After a motorcycle crash, hiring a skilled lawyer with a deep understanding of motorcycle-specific claims and general car accident cases is crucial. Their expertise in these areas can impact the success of your claim, ensuring that you navigate the complexities of motorcycle accidents to receive the compensation you deserve.

Our motorcycle accident lawyers at Cofman Townsley have years of experience with auto and motorcycle accident cases. Our knowledge of motorcycle accident claims can offer the following benefits for your case: 

• Specialized knowledge: We are well-versed in Missouri’s motorcycle laws and can analyze factors unique to motorcycle accidents, such as helmet usage, driving maneuvers, or general traffic laws. For example, we can evaluate how a driver’s negligence when changing lanes contributed to your accident and determine the appropriate degree of liability.

• Collecting evidence: The preservation of evidence is crucial in motorcycle accidents. We will gather essential details, such as police reports, photos, or traffic cam footage, to bolster your case. We may also work with accident reconstruction experts to analyze vehicle dynamics and show how another driver’s negligence led to the collision.

• Navigating bias: Motorcycle riders can face biases from insurance adjusters and jurors, who may perceive them as inherently reckless. Our attorneys can counter bias with evidence showing you followed the law and using expert witness testimony to prove that external factors were the primary cause of the accident.

• Dealing with insurance companies: Our motorcycle accident attorneys are experienced in Missouri’s insurance regulations and can skillfully negotiate for a fair settlement. We will accurately assess damages, considering factors like lost wages, medical costs, and pain and suffering to help you receive the maximum compensation you are owed.

Schedule a Free Consultation for Your Motorcycle Accident Case

Get the best legal representation available if you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident. Our legal team at Cofman Townsley is skilled in dealing with motorcycle accident claims. We will use our experience and knowledge to protect your interests and get you the maximum settlement possible for your injuries.

Contact us today for a free consultation where you can discuss your case, ask us about our background motorcycle claims, and learn your next steps.