Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant. When they do, your injuries can be severe and long-lasting. If you were hurt in a Kansas City motorcycle accident, you need to get help. A professional attorney will guide you through the legal process and fight for you. This page details how a Kansas City motorcycle accident attorney can help you get the money you need to heal fast.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Unique
Motorcycle driving is riskier than driving a car. You’re not as safe on the road. Even a minor accident can leave you badly hurt. Insurers will try to blame the rider or trick you. Motorcycle cases typically need advanced training and experience. An experienced personal injury attorney in Kansas City will protect you from unfairness.
How a Kansas City Motorcycle Attorney Assists You
An experienced motorcycle lawyer will:
- Off-the-wall investigate your crash to find out who is liable
- Collect evidence such as police reports, photos, and witness statements
- Take care of the insurance negotiations for you so you don’t have to
- Estimate your damages, i.e., medical bills and lost income
- Negotiate on your behalf for a fair settlement or take it to court if it’s not an option
- Stay in touch with you during the negotiation process for your case
Having a lawyer with you minimizes stress and gives you a better chance of a successful outcome.
The Top Kansas City Lawyer: How to Choose Him
Choosing the best attorney is of utmost importance. Choose one who:
- Experience in dealing with motorcycle accident cases
- Good success record in winning or settling cases in favor
- Transparency and honesty in sharing information
- Being willing to answer your queries
- A payment method where you pay only if you win (also referred to as contingency)
Before you hire them, inquire about their experience and success rate. Employ somebody whom you like and feel comfortable with.
What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
If you were involved in an accident, your health is top priority. Do the following:
Seek medical attention immediately.
Even if you feel okay, some injuries will not be apparent until hours later.
Notify the police about the accident.
A police report confirms what has occurred.
Document details about the accident.
Take photos of the scene, your bike, and your injuries if possible.
Get contact info of witnesses.
Their statements can support your claim.
Don’t admit fault or apologize at the scene.
Insurance companies might use this against you.
Call a lawyer quickly
Early legal process helps protect your rights and evidence.
Common Injuries From Motorcycle Wrecks
Motorcycle crashes often cause:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head injuries, including concussions
- Road rash and burn of the skin
- Trauma of the back and neck
- Sprains, strains, and bruising
These injuries will heal in weeks or months. You will have to take a leave of absence from work or physical therapy. Your motorcycle accident attorney gets all the costs of your injury.
What Kind of Compensation Am I Eligible For?
You are eligible for compensation in the form of:
- Medical treatment and future care
- Loss of income or loss of ability to earn
- Pain and suffering because of your injury
- Repair or replacement of your motorcycle and gear
- Emotional distress because of the accident
Every case is different. Your lawyer will review your case and tell you what damages apply.
Why Not To Settle On Your Own
Insurance companies do not pay much money. If you negotiate your claim yourself, you stand to lose money. Attorneys know how to deal with insurance companies. Attorneys struggle to get you a reasonable settlement. Having an attorney increases the likelihood of receiving payment in full.
Time Limits Matter in Kansas City
Kansas also has a statute of limitations, or time restrictions, on claims for injuries. You usually have two years from the date of an accident to sue. If you wait too long, you lose your claim. An attorney gets you back on track and completes all the deadlines.
What If You Were At Fault?
Kansas is a comparative fault state. A nice way of putting it is if you are at fault, you are going to get paid. But your recovery can be reduced based on how much fault you are determined to be at. Let’s assume you are 30% at fault. Your recovery is reduced by 30%. An attorney explains that to you and protects your rights.
How Long Will My Case Take?
Cases are different. Some take a few months. Others take longer if they end up in trial. More complex cases will take longer to investigate and negotiate. Your lawyer will advise you and give you a quote on how long your case will take.
How much does a Motorcycle Lawyer cost?
The majority of Kansas City motorcycle lawyers handle the case on a contingency fee basis. That is, they do not get paid unless you get paid. They get only a percentage of your court settlement or award. This way, you do not pay even a single penny upfront and lose nothing in the transaction in case you lose.
Why are Motorcycle Accident Cases Complicated?
Motorcycle cases are complicated because:
- There are over one defendant at fault
- Insurance carriers can decline liability
- There are injuries that are hidden or delayed
- Medical fees are expensive and will likely be permanent
- Police reports are lacking
A lawyer familiar with such challenges can develop an excellent case in an attempt to achieve better results.
How to Protect Yourself Before Negotiating with Insurance
After you have crashed, your insurance adjuster will likely call you immediately. They want to close it out quickly or take an over-the-phone statement. Do not open your mouth without an attorney. Whatever you say will be used against you. Have these rehearsed by your attorney so you do not say something regrettable.
What Evidence Is Needed to Win a Motorcycle Accident Case?
Hard evidence wins the case. Get or have your attorney obtain:
- Police reports and tickets
- Photos or videos where the incident happened
- Medical bills and records
- Witness statements
- Bike and equipment repair estimates
This proof proves what happened and how bad your injuries are.
How Can a Lawyer Help You Recover Quicker?
Your lawyer does more than fight insurance companies. They help by:
- Referring you to doctors and rehab specialists
- Helping you collect benefits like workers’ comp or disability, if applicable
- Getting your advice on your financial and health choices
- Handling paperwork and deadlines so that you can heal sooner
This service helps you heal sooner without worrying about legal matters.
FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents and Kansas City Legal Representation
1. Do I need to get a motorcycle lawyer if I have been involved in an accident?
The earlier, the better. Early help protects your rights and evidence.
2. Can I resolve with the insurance company without a lawyer?
Yes, but you shouldn’t. You may be offered less money. A lawyer gives you a better chance of full reimbursement.
3. What if I was responsible for causing the accident?
If you are in Kansas, you can recover damages even when you are at fault in some way. Your award will be in proportion.
4. How long is it before I can settle my claim for injury?
Some adjust within a few months; others do take time. Your lawyer will advise you.
5. Do I have to pay anything if I lose my case?
Usually not. Most motorcycle lawyers represent on contingency fee, thus no expense to you if you lose.
Wrap Up
A motorcycle crash can flip your life upside down overnight. Hurt, hospital bills, and lost wages can bury you. Let it not. A skilled and affordable Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer will enable you to recover and fight for fair compensation. The sooner, the better hope of healing quickly. If you or someone you love has been injured in a Kansas City motorcycle accident, talk to a professional lawyer today. Good counsel is the start of taking back your life.
