A motorcycle accident in St. Louis, Missouri, can result in serious, possibly life-threatening injuries. Due to the minimal protection motorcycles offer, riders are more exposed to the dangers of the road. Even minor collisions can lead to severe consequences, such as broken bones, head trauma, or spinal injuries.
With Missouri having more motorcycle accident fatalities in 2023 than ever before, the importance of understanding the risks involved with riding a motorcycle and consulting with an experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer after a crash has never been more important.
Imagine you are on I-64, coming back from a St. Louis Shadow Riders meeting and you are sideswiped by a distracted driver, throwing you off your bike at 70mph.
Or possibly you are on Grand Boulevard on your way to visit the Moto Museum and get t-boned at the intersection of Grand and Lindell Blvd by a drunk driver.
While these are hypothetical situations they underline the importance of having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in St. Louis, Missouri, on your side.
Do Motorcycle Accidents Occur Often in St. Louis, Missouri?
Motorcycle crashes are unfortunately common in St. Louis, Missouri, and the numbers paint a concerning picture. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the state has seen a troubling rise in motorcycle-related deaths, which have continued to climb year after year.
In 2023, Missouri experienced the highest number of motorcycle fatalities ever recorded, underscoring the growing dangers faced by motorcyclists on the road.
A significant and alarming factor contributing to this rise in fatalities is the repeal of Missouri’s Universal Helmet Law in 2020. Since the law was changed, allowing riders over the age of 26 to ride without a helmet under certain conditions, Missouri has seen a 47% increase in motorcycle deaths.
The decision to relax helmet requirements has sparked debate, with many pointing to the clear and grave correlation between the law’s repeal and the surge in fatalities. This change has not only impacted riders’ safety. Still, it has also placed a more significant strain on emergency services and healthcare systems dealing with the aftermath of these tragic accidents.
When you delve into the Missouri State Highway Patrol data, the statistics are even more staggering. According to their 2022 report, motorcycle crashes accounted for a significant portion of the state’s traffic accidents, with St. Louis County alone reporting a notable number of these incidents. In the same year, the report highlighted that there were 134 motorcycle fatalities across Missouri, marking a sharp increase from previous years.
These numbers serve as a stark reminder of the dangers motorcyclists face and the importance of promoting safety measures, such as helmet use and defensive riding practices. As the numbers continue to rise, it is crucial for motorcyclists in St. Louis and across Missouri to remain vigilant and prioritize safety on the roads.
For immediate legal assistance from a skilled and experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer contact our law firm today. We are never too busy to speak with and answer your questions.
What Are the Main Causes of These Motorcycle Accidents in St. Louis, Missouri?
Motorcycle accidents in St. Louis, Missouri, result from various factors, many of which are preventable. Understanding these causes is crucial to reducing the frequency and severity of these accidents.
- Aggressive Drivers: Aggressive driving behaviors are a leading cause of motorcycle accidents in Missouri. According to the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, in 2023 alone, there were over 1,200 crashes in Missouri linked to aggressive driving. These behaviors, including tailgating, speeding, and unsafe lane changes, significantly increase the risk of collisions with motorcyclists, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Speeding: Speeding is another critical factor contributing to motorcycle accidents. Data from the Louis Regional Safety Action Plan highlights that speeding was a factor in approximately 28% of all traffic fatalities in the St. Louis region in 2023. The higher the speed, the less time drivers have to react to unexpected situations, making accidents more likely and deadly.
- Young Drivers: Young and inexperienced drivers are more prone to errors that can lead to accidents. In Missouri, drivers aged 16-20 were involved in 15% of all motorcycle crashes in 2023. Their lack of experience and tendency to engage in risky behaviors make them a significant risk factor on the road.
- Impaired Driving: Impaired driving remains a serious issue in Missouri. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, alcohol-related crashes accounted for 25% of all motorcycle accidents in the state in 2022. These accidents are often more severe, leading to a higher likelihood of fatalities or life-altering injuries.
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a major contributor to motorcycle accidents. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety reports that distracted driving was a factor in 21% of all traffic accidents in Missouri in 2023. Distractions such as texting, using a GPS, or even eating while driving can take the driver’s attention off the road, leading to collisions with motorcyclists who are already harder to spot.
- Passenger Vehicles Failing to Yield the Right of Way: This can occur in situations such as left turns across traffic, where a driver might not see an approaching motorcyclist or misjudge their speed.
- Sudden Lane Changes: Another common scenario is when drivers make abrupt lane changes without checking their blind spots, inadvertently colliding with motorcyclists, who are often less visible due to their smaller size. While unfortunate, these accidents are largely preventable with increased awareness and responsible driving.
Understanding these causes allows drivers and motorcyclists to be more vigilant and take proactive steps to reduce the risk of accidents, making St. Louis roads safer for everyone.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash in St. Louis, consulting with an experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and seek appropriate compensation.
What Are Some Common Types of Motorcycle Crashes in St. Louis?
Some specific types of motorcycle accidents frequently seen in St. Louis, Missouri, include:
- Intersection Collisions occur when motorcycles are hit by other vehicles at intersections. Often, drivers may not notice motorcycles when turning left or right, leading to dangerous side-impact collisions.
- Rear-End Crashes: In these accidents, a motorcyclist is struck from behind by a car or truck. This can happen when a vehicle fails to stop in time at a traffic light or stop sign, particularly if the motorcyclist is stopped or slowing down.
- Lane Splitting: While illegal in Missouri, lane splitting can sometimes lead to accidents. This is when a motorcyclist rides between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, risking collisions with vehicles that might unexpectedly change lanes or open their doors. Understanding the legal implications and potential risks of such actions is crucial for all road users.
- Road Hazards: Motorcyclists are more susceptible to road hazards such as potholes, debris, or wet conditions. These hazards can cause loss of control and result in crashes.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents: Sometimes, motorcyclists may crash due to their loss of control, which can be influenced by factors such as excessive speed, sudden maneuvers, or adverse weather conditions.
Understanding these types of accidents highlights the importance of vigilant riding and awareness from motorcyclists and other drivers.
To learn more about common types of accidents involving motorcycles in Missouri, reach out to our skilled and experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyers today. We are never too busy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have.
What Are Missouri’s Motorcycle Laws?
Understanding Missouri’s motorcycle laws is essential for riders to stay safe and legal. Missouri has specific regulations that every motorcyclist should know to ensure compliance and protect themselves.
Helmet Law:
- As of 2020, Missouri has a partial helmet law. Riders aged 26 and older with health insurance are not required to wear helmets.
- Riders under 26 and those without health insurance must always wear a helmet. This law change has contributed to a rise in motorcycle fatalities, making helmet use a critical consideration.
Required Safety Equipment:
- Motorcycles must have functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals.
- Rearview mirrors are required on both sides of the handlebars.
- Both wheels must have working brakes, and a muffler is required to reduce noise levels.
Operation Rules:
- Motorcycle lane splitting, or riding between slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes, is illegal in Missouri.
- Motorcycles are entitled to an entire lane; other vehicles cannot infringe on that space.
- Motorcyclists must adhere to the same traffic laws as other vehicles, including speed limits, traffic signals, and stop signs.
Following Missouri’s motorcycle laws helps reduce the risk of accidents and ensures that riders are legally protected while on the road. These laws are not just about compliance but safety and responsibility.
Missouri is an At-Fault State. How Will That Affect My St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Missouri operates under an “at-fault” system for motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle crashes. This means that the person responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for covering the damages resulting from it. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in St. Louis, the at-fault driver’s insurance is typically required to pay for your medical expenses, property damage, and other related costs.
In an at-fault state like Missouri, determining who is liable is crucial. After an accident, insurance companies will investigate to establish which driver was responsible. If the other driver is found to be at fault, their insurance should cover your losses.
However, if they do not have insurance or their coverage is insufficient, you may need to file a claim with your insurance company under uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. As we mentioned, Missouri’s at-fault system also means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced according to the percentage of your fault.
For more information on Missouri’s at-fault insurance laws, contact an experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer from our law firm today.
Who Can Be Held Liable For a Motorcycle Crash in St. Louis, Missouri?
Deciphering liability in a motorcycle crash in St. Louis involves identifying the legally responsible party. Depending on the unique circumstances of the incident, several entities can be held accountable.
Typically, the driver of a passenger vehicle may be at fault if they fail to yield the right of way, make unsafe lane changes, or drive negligently. However, the path to liability is unclear, and other contributing factors must be carefully considered.
- Other Drivers: In many cases, another driver’s negligence is the primary cause of a motorcycle accident. This includes situations where drivers fail to see motorcyclists, drive under the influence, or violate traffic laws. For instance, if a car driver turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle, causing a collision, the driver may be liable for the crash.
- Motorcycle Riders: Sometimes, the motorcyclist may be partially or fully responsible for the accident. This can occur if the rider speeds, does not wear protective gear, or rides recklessly. Proving the rider’s fault requires showing that their actions contributed significantly to the accident.
- Road Authorities: In some cases, the liability may extend to local government entities or road maintenance authorities if poor road conditions or lack of proper signage contributed to the crash. For example, a motorcycle accident caused by a poorly marked construction zone or a hazardous road condition could involve a claim against the responsible authorities, thereby extending the potential for compensation.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: The manufacturer might be liable if a defect in the motorcycle or another vehicle contributed to the crash. This could involve issues with brakes, tires, or other critical components that failed during the accident.
Proving fault in a motorcycle accident necessitates a comprehensive investigation and collecting compelling evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies. It’s crucial to understand that while the car driver is often implicated, liability can sometimes lie with the motorcyclist, other drivers, or even third parties.
How Will Missouri’s Comparative Negligence System Affect My Motorcycle Accident Claim in St. Louis?
Missouri’s comparative negligence system is critical in determining compensation for motorcycle accident claims in St. Louis. Your level of fault in the accident directly influences the compensation you can recover. It’s important to note that Missouri follows a ‘pure comparative fault’ rule, which means that even if you are partially responsible for the crash, you can still recover damages, albeit reduced by your percentage of fault.
For instance, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but are found to be 30% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 30%, leaving you with $70,000.
This system ensures that each party is accountable for their contribution to the accident. Still, it also means that your potential recovery can be significantly affected if you are found to have caused the crash.
It’s crucial to understand that determining fault in a motorcycle accident is a complex process. Insurance companies may try to assign you a higher percentage of fault to reduce their payout. This is where a skilled St. Louis personal injury lawyer can be invaluable. They can help you gather the necessary evidence to challenge any unfair fault assessments, ensuring that your compensation accurately reflects your level of responsibility.
Moreover, Missouri’s comparative negligence system does not bar you from recovering damages even if you are partially at fault. The key is minimizing your fault percentage to secure the maximum possible compensation.
What Happens If Someone Dies in a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
Missouri has seen a significant spike in motorcycle fatalities, with 2023 marking the highest number of deaths ever recorded in the state. This tragic increase in fatalities underscores the importance of understanding the legal options available to families who have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident.
When a motorcycle crash results in a fatality, the family of the deceased may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim is a legal action that allows surviving family members to seek compensation for the loss of their loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing.
In Missouri, wrongful death claims can cover various damages, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and lost future income. These claims are significant because they hold the at-fault party accountable and financially support the deceased’s family.
When pursuing a wrongful death claim after a motorcycle accident in St. Louis, it’s crucial to be aware of Missouri’s statute of limitations. While the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a motorcycle accident is generally five years, the timeframe is shorter for fatal accidents.
The family has only three years from the date of the death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing the right to seek compensation.
Missouri’s legal code outlines this three-year statute of limitations under RSMo Section 516.120. Families must act quickly and consult a knowledgeable attorney to ensure all legal deadlines are met, and their claim is filed correctly.
Losing a loved one in a motorcycle accident is a devastating experience, but understanding the legal steps that can be taken may help provide some measure of justice and financial relief during a difficult time.
For a free consultation with an experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident attorney, contact our law firm today.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
Motorcycle crashes in St. Louis, Missouri, often result in significant financial and emotional losses. Following a successful claim, you may be compensated for:
- Pain and Suffering & Mental Anguish: This encompasses both the physical pain you’ve endured and the emotional toll of the accident. You may be compensated for the physical discomfort, scarring, and limitations caused by your injuries. Additionally, compensation can be awarded for emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD resulting from the accident.
- Permanent Injuries: Serious injuries can significantly impact your future. Compensation can help cover ongoing medical expenses and lost earning potential. If your injuries permanently limit your ability to work or perform daily activities, you may be entitled to compensation for future lost wages and the impact on your quality of life.
- Medical Bills: This includes past, present, and future medical expenses related to the accident. You can be compensated for ambulance rides, emergency room visits, doctor appointments, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any future medical care required due to your injuries.
- Here’s a reference: The average hospital stay following a motorcycle accident can cost over $50,000.
- Emotional Distress: The trauma from the accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. These emotional conditions can significantly impact your daily life. You may be entitled to compensation for the emotional distress you’ve experienced due to the accident.
- Loss of Income: If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, lost wages can be recovered. This includes compensation for missed workdays and any future lost wages due to your injuries.
- Punitive Damages: In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party for egregious behavior. Punitive damages are not intended to compensate you for your losses but rather to send a message and deter similar behavior in the future.
- Wrongful Death: If you tragically lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. This allows surviving family members to seek compensation for their loss, including funeral expenses, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.
Who Covers My Medical Bills After a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
After a motorcycle accident in St. Louis, Missouri, figuring out who will cover your medical bills can be a significant concern. Unlike car insurance policies that often include Personal Injury Protection (PIP) to cover medical expenses, motorcycle insurance policies generally do not offer the same benefits. This means you should not count on your motorcycle insurance to cover your medical bills automatically.
In Missouri, since it is an at-fault state, the party responsible for the accident is typically liable for covering the injured party’s medical expenses. This is usually handled through the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. However, proving fault can take time, which might delay the payment of your medical bills. In the meantime, you may have to rely on your health insurance to cover immediate medical costs.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, recovering the total amount of your medical expenses can be even more complicated. In such cases, you might need to turn to your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, if you have it, or explore other legal avenues to recover the necessary funds.
Additionally, if you do not have health insurance, you may need to pay out of pocket initially or work out an arrangement with your healthcare providers. They might agree to defer payment until your personal injury claim is settled, but this depends on the provider and the specifics of your situation.
To learn more about who pays for medical bills after a motorcycle accident, reach out to an experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer at our law firm today. We offer free case evaluations.
Is Lane-Splitting Legal in St. Louis, Missouri?
Lane-splitting, a practice in which motorcyclists ride between slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes, is controversial in many states. In St. Louis, Missouri, this practice is explicitly prohibited. Under Missouri law, motorcyclists must adhere to the same traffic rules as other vehicles, including staying within a designated lane.
Missouri’s stance on lane-splitting is outlined in Missouri Section 304.015, Part 5, which mandates that all vehicles, including motorcycles, must be driven entirely within a single lane. Motorcycles are entitled to an entire traffic lane, as other vehicles cannot infringe upon this space. This regulation means that motorcyclists are not allowed to move between lanes or pass other vehicles within the same lane, a practice known as lane-splitting.
The rationale behind banning lane-splitting in Missouri is primarily focused on safety. The practice can be hazardous for motorcyclists, who are at greater risk of being struck by vehicles that might change lanes unexpectedly or fail to notice them. Lane-splitting can also lead to accidents, especially in heavy traffic or high speeds, where the margin for error is minimal.
Despite the ban, some motorcyclists argue that lane-splitting can reduce traffic congestion and shorten commute times, particularly in densely populated areas like St. Louis. However, the current law reflects a preference for maintaining clear traffic lanes and minimizing the risk of accidents.
Violating this law can result in fines and other penalties, making it crucial for motorcyclists to comply with the regulations. The potential consequences of violating the law should not be underestimated, as they can have severe financial and legal implications.
Why Should I Hire a St. Louis Motorcycle Lawyer When I Can Potentially Handle My Own Case?
Motorcycle accidents are vastly different from car accidents. Unlike occupants in a car, motorcyclists are exposed, leaving them vulnerable to severe injuries.
Our legal team understands the complexities of motorcycle accidents. Attorneys Paul Beck and John Beck have extensive experience investigating these cases, identifying the causes, and holding negligent drivers accountable.
We leverage our knowledge of motorcycle safety regulations, insurance policies, and Missouri personal injury laws to maximize your compensation.
Handling a motorcycle accident claim yourself can be overwhelming. You’ll likely be dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Hiring a skilled lawyer allows you to focus on recovering while we handle the legal complexities of your case.
What Are Some Injuries Related to Motorcycle Crashes in St. Louis, Missouri?
Motorcycle accidents in St. Louis, Missouri, can result in a variety of serious injuries, including:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Head injuries are a common and often severe consequence of motorcycle accidents. These can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs can result in long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments, significantly impacting a victim’s quality of life.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries are devastating and often life-altering. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility, sensation, and bodily functions. The impact on a victim’s independence and overall well-being is profound.
- Broken Bones: Fractures are common in motorcycle accidents due to the high-impact forces involved. Broken bones can occur in any body part and may require surgery, casting, or other medical interventions. The healing process can be lengthy and painful and may result in permanent limitations.
- Road Rash: Road rash or abrasion injuries can be extensive and painful. These injuries occur when the body slides across a rough surface during a crash, causing damage to the skin. Road rash can lead to infections, scarring, and significant pain.
- Internal Injuries: Internal injuries are often hidden and can be life-threatening. These injuries may involve damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. Diagnosis and treatment can be complex, requiring immediate medical attention.
The severity of these injuries can significantly affect the compensation you may receive. A skilled legal representative can help you understand the full extent of your injuries and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What is the Value of My Motorcycle Accident Claim in St. Louis, Missouri?
The value of your motorcycle accident claim in St. Louis, Missouri, depends on several factors. Key considerations include the type and severity of your injuries, with more severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage leading to higher compensation. Financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and future medical costs, also significantly determine your claim’s value.
Additionally, non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, are considered. The circumstances of the accident, including who was at fault, can further impact the amount you may recover. Missouri’s comparative negligence laws could reduce your compensation if you were partially at fault.
St. Louis, Missouri
Missouri’s “Show Me Zero” program is a statewide initiative to reduce traffic fatalities to zero. The program focuses on four key areas: wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions, driving sober, and obeying speed limits. Promoting safe driving habits, “Show Me Zero” seeks to make Missouri’s roads safer for everyone, including motorcyclists, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic.
The program has garnered attention for its comprehensive approach to tackling road safety issues in St. Louis, Missouri, emphasizing that every life lost on the road is one too many.
In addition to “Show Me Zero,” Missouri strongly emphasizes motorcycle safety through its Motorcycle Awareness campaign. This initiative aims to raise awareness about motorcyclists’ unique challenges on the road, particularly during Motorcycle Awareness Month. The campaign encourages motorcyclists and drivers to share the road responsibly, highlighting the importance of visibility and cautious driving.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in St. Louis, there are a lot of helpful resources to assist in your recovery including:
- Widman Motorcycle – is a full service motorcycle repair shop who also carries a wide range of parts and accessories.
- Flying Tiger Motorcycles – their service shop can handle repairs of modern and vintage bikes. They can do repair or regular maintenance and specialize in vintage motorcycles.
- Just Hawgs – can repair your bike or completely customize it. In addition to repair and maintenance they also offer custom frames, motors, and paint jobs.
- St Louis Riding Clubs – these guys keep St. Louis riders informed of interesting events, check them out.
Experienced Motorcycle Lawyers in St. Louis, Missouri
At Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers, our skilled legal team understands the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face in St. Louis. We also understand the complexities of motorcycle accident cases and the tactics insurance companies may use to minimize your claim.
Our aggressive approach ensures your voice is heard and your case is valued fairly. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery.
Some of the locations in and around St. Louis which our legal team serves include Florissant, Carr Square, Cheltenham, Clifton Heights, Columbus Square, College Hill, Clayton-Tamm, Compton Heights, Dutchtown, Fountain Park, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Will it Take to Settle My Motorcycle Accident Claim in St. Louis, Missouri?
Filing a motorcycle accident claim in Missouri involves several steps:
- Investigation: Gathering evidence and building your case.
- Filing the Claim: Submitting your claim to the at-fault party’s insurance company.
- Negotiation: Attempting to reach a fair settlement with the insurance company.
- Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, take the case to court.
The time it takes to resolve a claim can vary widely, from a few months to several years, depending on the complexity of the case and the parties’ willingness to settle.
Can I File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Missouri If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Yes, you can still file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet during the accident. However, not wearing a helmet may affect the compensation you receive, mainly if it contributes to the severity of your injuries.
Missouri law requires all riders to wear helmets, so this could be considered contributory negligence, which might reduce your compensation.
I Was in a Motorcycle Crash in St. Louis, What Do I Do?
- Your Health is Paramount: Your health is paramount. Even if you feel okay, getting a thorough medical examination is essential. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact the St. Louis Police Department: Report the accident to the officers at the St. Louis Police Department as soon as possible. A police report is crucial evidence for your claim.
- Document the Scene Where the Accident Occurred: Take photos of the accident, including the damaged motorcycle, the vehicles involved, and road conditions.
- Exchange Information With the Other Parties Involved: Exchange information with the other parties involved, including names, contact details, and insurance information.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident. Be careful not to provide detailed statements about the incident.
- Consult with a Lawyer Specializing in St. Louis Motorcycle Accidents: A skilled and experienced St. Louis motorcycle lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you recover maximum compensation.
Contact our legal team today for a free consultation. We understand your challenges and are committed to helping you recover.
