Dangerous Intersections for Motorcycle Accidents in St. Louis
Staying vigilant on the road is essential to preventing serious accidents and injuries. Some of the most dangerous intersections for motorcycle accidents in St. Louis include:
- Grand Blvd & I-64: This high-risk area experiences frequent congestion from nearby exit ramps and major arterial roads.
- McKnight Rd & I-64: High speeds and increased traffic volume due to nearby retail destinations make this intersection especially prone to accidents.
- Hampton Ave & Oakland Ave: This intersection has a high volume of traffic because of its proximity to the St. Louis Zoo and Forest Park.
- Arsenal St & McCausland Ave: Located near major roadways and ongoing construction projects, this intersection features complex traffic patterns and a high accident rate.
- Delmar Blvd & Skinner Blvd: This area is hazardous due to its location near the Delmar Loop and frequent pedestrian activity.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Common injuries in motorcycle accidents include:
- Broken bones & fractures: Motorcyclists often suffer broken bones when thrown from their bikes in a crash. Fractures in the arms, legs, and skull are particularly common in motorcycle accidents.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Even with helmets, motorcyclists may sustain life-changing head and brain injuries due to the intense impact. This frequently occurs when a rider’s head collides with the ground or another hard surface at high speeds.
- Road rash: Sliding across pavement after a crash can result in road rash—severe abrasions that require prompt medical care to prevent infection.
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs): Motorcycle collisions can cause serious spinal damage, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries happen when the back is forcefully twisted or compressed during an accident.
- Internal injuries: The blunt force trauma from a motorcycle crash can damage internal organs. Although these injuries may not be immediately visible, they are potentially life-threatening and require urgent medical treatment.
In addition to physical injuries, many motorcyclists experience psychological trauma following an accident. This can manifest in the form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, potentially inhibiting the victim's ability to return to normal activities. Addressing mental health is a critical component of recovery. Legal representation can assist in highlighting these impacts in compensation claims, ensuring fair recognition of the full spectrum of injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents, both physical and psychological.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle crashes can leave victims overwhelmed, in pain, and unsure where to turn. Understanding the necessary steps to take next is crucial for seeking justice and compensation. Some important steps to take after a motorcycle accident include:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you do not have visible injuries, obtaining medical care is vital to assess for underlying harm and to create an official record of your injuries.
- Report the accident: Be sure to notify local law enforcement if the accident has not already been reported. Securing an official police report can serve as valuable evidence for your claim.
- Exchange information: If possible, exchange contact and insurance details with all other parties involved, as well as any witnesses to the incident.
- Document the scene: Take photos or videos to record the accident site and your injuries—including vehicle damage, skid marks, and other key details to support your case.
- Seek sound counsel: A motorcycle accident lawyer in St. Louis can help you navigate the complex claims process, assemble evidence to build a strong case, and safeguard your rights against evasive insurers.
St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Laws & Regulations
Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding motorcycle use in St. Louis is essential for all riders. Missouri law mandates that all motorcycle operators and passengers must wear a helmet, a crucial safety measure that significantly reduces the risk of head injuries in accidents. Additionally, riders are required to have a valid motorcycle license and their bikes must be equipped with a functioning headlight, tail light, and rearview mirrors for safety.
Missouri also enforces lane-splitting laws that prohibit motorcycles from riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. This rule helps prevent accidents caused by sudden lane changes that drivers may not anticipate. Awareness and compliance with these regulations not only improve personal safety for motorcyclists but also enhance their legal protection and prevent penalization in the event of an accident.
Who Is Liable for a Motorcycle Accident in Missouri?
Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be liable for damages following a motorcycle accident. Common liable parties include:
- Other drivers: Drivers are often liable for motorcycle accidents when their negligence—such as speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield—contributes to a collision.
- Manufacturers: If a defective vehicle part played a role in the accident, the manufacturer can be held responsible.
- Government entities: Local government agencies may be liable if poor roadway maintenance or unclear signage contributed to the crash.
- Truck or rideshare companies: If a negligent employee, such as a truck driver or rideshare operator, caused the collision, their employer may be liable for failing to provide adequate training or safety measures.
Proving Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident Case
Sustaining an injury in a collision does not automatically entitle you to compensation. In Missouri, the burden of proof in motorcycle accident claims falls on the plaintiff, making it essential to demonstrate liability. Working with a capable motorcycle accident lawyer in St. Louis is crucial for meeting the burden of proof in your case and obtaining a fair settlement.
A qualified lawyer can help you prove negligence by establishing the following elements:
- Duty of care: The defendant owed you a duty, such as following traffic laws or checking blind spots before changing lanes.
- Breach of duty: The defendant breached this duty by acting negligently, such as driving recklessly or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Causation: The defendant’s negligence directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
- Damages: You incurred compensable harm (damages) because of the defendant’s negligent actions.
What Compensation Is Available in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to recover several types of compensation. Common types of damages include:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for past and future medical bills related to your injuries, including hospital visits, surgeries, therapy, and other healthcare needs.
- Lost earnings: If your injuries forced you to miss work, you may be able to recover lost wages for the duration of your recovery.
- Lost earning capacity: Permanent disabilities or injuries that affect your ability to work in the future allow you to seek compensation for lost earning potential.
- Pain and suffering: If the accident caused significant emotional or mental distress, you can pursue compensation for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
Qualities to Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Choosing the right attorney can have a major impact on your case outcome. When seeking legal representation for a motorcycle accident in St. Louis, look for the following qualities:
- Experience: It is important to select a lawyer with substantial experience handling motorcycle accident cases in St. Louis similar to yours.
- Results: Firms with a strong, successful record in claims similar to yours can greatly enhance your likelihood of a favorable settlement.
- Reviews: Reading testimonials from past clients can provide insight into the lawyer’s approach, communication, and professionalism.
- Reputation: Considering a law firm’s awards and accolades can help identify attorneys dedicated to serving the local St. Louis community.
How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit Take to Settle?
Because every case is unique, the duration of a motorcycle accident claim can vary significantly depending on factors such as the severity of the injuries, potential liability disputes, and the level of cooperation of involved parties. Some claims are settled outside of court within a few months, while more complex cases can lead to litigation and longer wait times.
While it can be frustrating to have your case prolonged by litigation, going to trial may be necessary to recover full compensation for your injuries. Unfortunately, insurance companies have a reputation for pushing lowball offers to protect their bottom line, robbing victims of just payouts. Our St. Louis attorneys are committed to pursuing a timely resolution in your case while preventing you from settling for less than you deserve.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim is five years from the date of the accident. Although certain exceptions may apply, failing to file within the deadline generally results in forfeiture of your right to recover damages. This highlights the importance of seeking prompt legal counsel after an injury. Your motorcycle accident attorney in St. Louis can help you understand your options and ensure your claim is filed within the required timeframe.
FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents
What Should I Do If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
In Missouri, dealing with an uninsured driver can complicate the aftermath of a motorcycle accident. If you find yourself in such a situation, first ensure your safety and seek medical attention if needed. You should report the accident to the police, making a note of the uninsured status of the other driver. Obtaining a police report will be a crucial piece of evidence in any subsequent claims. It's advisable to contact your own insurance company to discuss your coverage; many policies include uninsured motorist coverage which may help to cover your medical expenses and damage to your vehicle.
It's also critical to contact a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney promptly. Legal counsel can provide guidance on negotiating with your own insurance company and, if necessary, exploring options for pursuing additional compensation from the uninsured driver. Your attorney can help navigate these complexities, ensuring you take the correct steps to seek full compensation for your losses.
What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule, meaning that being partially at fault does not necessarily bar you from recovering compensation. However, it will reduce the compensation you might receive, proportional to your degree of fault. For instance, if you were determined to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced by that percentage.
Working with a skilled attorney is invaluable in such situations. Your lawyer can help negotiate the degree of fault assigned and challenge any assessments that unfairly attribute a higher degree of fault to you. By carefully gathering and presenting evidence, your attorney aims to minimize your liability and maximize your compensation, ensuring the best possible outcome under the circumstances.
Should I Speak to the Insurance Company After a Motorcycle Accident?
It’s important to be cautious. Insurance companies often attempt to protect their own interests and may try to get you to settle quickly or provide statements that can reduce your claim. Before speaking with any insurance adjuster, it’s wise to consult with a Missouri motorcycle accident lawyer. Your attorney will guide you on what to say and handle communications to protect your rights.
What If My Motorcycle Accident was Caused by a Mechanical Defect?
If a defective motorcycle part or manufacturing flaw contributed to your accident, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or dealer. Missouri law allows injured parties to pursue such claims, but these cases often require expert witnesses to prove the defect and causation. An experienced attorney can investigate your motorcycle’s condition and advise on the best course of action.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney in St. Louis Today
The last thing you need after a wrongful injury is more stress. If you were harmed by someone else’s negligence, our compassionate attorneys can pursue justice aggressively on your behalf. Our award-winning attorneys have protected the rights of the wrongfully injured for over 40 years, giving you peace of mind that your case is in trusted hands. No matter your legal circumstances, you can trust Sedey Harper Westhoff to give your case the time and personalized attention it deserves.
Our St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and secure the settlement you need to recover. Whether your injuries are severe or minor, we’re here to guide you through every step of the claims process with personalized attention and aggressive representation. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward getting your life back on track. Your road to justice starts here.
Hit by a negligent motorist in St. Louis? Turn to a nationally recognized firm with a proven track record of results. Call (314) 819-0963 to schedule a consultation with our St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer.
