Understanding Motorcycle Accident Claims: What Injured Riders Need to Know About Compensation Legal Rights

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This page has been researched, written, and reviewed in accordance with our editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy and relevance. This page has been reviewed and approved by Founding Partner, Tobias Licker. The last updated date reflects the most recent review of this content.

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the limited protection available to riders. Even when motorcyclists take appropriate safety precautions and follow traffic laws, they remain vulnerable to negligent drivers, hazardous road conditions, and other unexpected dangers.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Can Be So Serious

Unlike occupants of passenger vehicle, motorcyclists lack many of the safety features available in cars and trucks, such as airbags, seatbelts, and enclosed structures.

As a result, motorcycle accidents frequently lead to severe injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

• Spinal cord injuries

• Broken bones and fractures

• Road rash and soft tissue injuries

• Internal injuries

• Neck and back injuries

• Permanent disability

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are significantly more vulnerable to serious injury and death in traffic crashes compared to occupants of passenger vehicles.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can occur for many reasons, including;

Driver inattention

Many accidents occur because motorists fail to see motorcycle in traffic.

Left-Turn Collisions

A common type of motorcycle accident occurs when a vehicle turns left in front of an incoming motorcycle.

Unsafe Lane Changes

Drivers who fail to check blind spots may collide with motorcycles while changing lanes.

Distracted Driving

Texting, using mobile devices, and other distractions can prevent drivers from noticing motorcycles.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.

Hazardous Road Conditions

Potholes, loose gravels, debris, uneven pavement, and poorly maintained roads can present unique dangers to motorcyclists.

What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, taking the following steps may help protect your health and preserve important evidence:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

even if injuries appear minor, prompt medical evaluation is important because some injuries may not become apparent immediately.

Contact Law Enforcement

A police report can provide valuable documentation regarding how the accident occurred.

Document the Scene

If possible, take photographs and videos of:

• Vehicle damage

• The accident scene

• Road conditions

• Traffic signs and signals

• Visible injuries

Obtain Witness information

Independent witnesses may provide important information regarding liability.

Preserve Records

Keep copies of medical records, receipts, repair estimates, and communications with insurance companies.

Determining Fault in Motorcycle Accident Cases

Establishing liability often requires a detailed investigation.

Evidence used in motorcycle accident claims may include:

• Police reports

• Witness statements

• Surveillance or traffic camera footage

• Photographs and videos

• Vehicle damage analysis

• Medical Records

In some cases, insurance companies may attempt to argue that the motorcyclist contributed to the accident. Because fault determinations can affect compensation, it is important to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Potential Compensation in Motorcycle Accident Cases

Depending on the facts of the case and applicable law, injured riders may be able to pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses

• Future medical treatment

• Lost wages

• Loss of earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Permanent disability

• Property damage

• Other damages allowed by law

The amount and types of compensation available will depend on the specific facts of each case.

Comparative Fault in Missouri and Illinois

Both Missouri and Illinois apply comparative fault principles in personal injury cases.

Missouri follows pure comparative fault system, while Illinois follows a modified comparative fault system. The percentage of fault assigned to each party may affect the amount of compensation that can be recovered.

Because these laws can significantly impact a claim, understanding how comparative fault applies in important.

Contact A & L, Licker Law Firm, LLC

Motorcycle accidents can have life-changing consequences. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Missouri and Illinois, understanding your legal rights is an important first step.

The attorneys at A & L, Licker Law Firm, LLC represent injured individuals and families throughout Missouri and Illinois and can evaluate your circumstances and discuss your legal options.

References

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Motorcycle Safety: https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Motorcycle Safety: https://www.cdc.gov/transporationsafety/motorcycles

• Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT): https://www.modot.org

• Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT): https://idot.illinois.gov

DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change regularly and the application of any rule depends on the specific facts of each case. For guidance regarding your specific situation, please contact A & L, Licker Law Firm, LLC directly.