While motorcycle accidents and car accidents may have similarities, motorcycle crashes often present their own unique issues. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney understands that these crashes create distinct legal challenges and knows how to navigate them to help motorcycle accident victims receive the greatest amount of compensation possible. This article reviews some of the most critical issues to consider if you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Missouri.
Injuries are Often More Serious
Injuries incurred in a motorcycle accident are frequently more severe in nature than the injuries that result from passenger vehicle accidents. This is because motorcyclists lack most of the protection that motor vehicle drivers have. And this is only likely to increase given that Missouri no longer requires helmets to be worn by motorcyclists. Due to the more devastating nature of most motorcycle accidents, these cases frequently involve a greater range of damages including lost wages, past and future medical costs, and emotional distress.
Bias Against Motorcyclists
Bias against motorcyclists is unfortunately common, so when motorcyclists are injured as the result of another driver’s mistake, they may have trouble getting the compensation they deserve. The change in Missouri’s law will actually make this even harder because jurors may not want to award compensation to a motorcycle rider who was not wearing a helmet, even if they were obeying the law.
Lane Sharing and Lane Splitting
Lane sharing refers to when two motorcyclists ride next to each other while traveling in the same lane. Lane splitting, however, occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two adjacent lanes of traffic. The state of Missouri does not directly prohibit lane splitting, but the state also does not condone this activity. Many motorcycle accidents occur as a result of lane splitting.
Visibility Accidents
Motorcycles are much smaller than passenger vehicles. Not only does this mean that motorcyclists are harder to spot, but they are also more likely to end up in larger vehicles’ blind spots. As a result, motor vehicle operators often claim that they cannot see motorcyclists, which leads to accidents. Similarly, it can be more difficult for motorcyclists to avoid all of the hazards they encounter because obstacles that might seem small for passenger vehicle drivers can end up causing devastating motorcycle accidents. For example, some of the small obstacles known to cause serious motorcycle accidents include oil slicks and debris on the road.
Motorcycles Require More Skill to Operate
Some estimates have found that motorcycles are five times more difficult to operate than passenger vehicles. Motorcycles require riders to have both more skill as well as physical coordination than car drivers. Many motorcycle accidents occur because motorcyclists either fail to respond appropriately to hazards that arise on the road suddenly or they lack basic riding skills.
Speak with an Experienced Motorcycle Crash Lawyer
If you or a loved one was involved in a Missouri motorcycle accident, you are likely facing serious complications. When these accidents occur due to the fault of someone else, remember that you have a right to pursue compensation. Contact House Law LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Tags: Missouri laws, motorcycle crash
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