Dangerous Intersections for Motorcycle Accidents in St. Louis
Staying vigilant on the road is imperative to preventing serious accidents and injuries. Some of the most dangerous intersections for motorcycle accidents in St. Louis include:
- Grand Blvd and I-64: This high-risk area sees frequent congestion from nearby exit ramps and arterial roads.
- McKnight Rd and I-64: The high speeds and increased traffic due to nearby retail destinations make this intersection prone to accidents.
- Hampton Ave and Oakland Ave: This intersection has a high traffic volume due to its proximity to the St. Louis Zoo and Forest Park.
- Arsenal St and McCausland Ave: This intersection is in close proximity to major roadways and construction projects, leading to complex traffic patterns and a high accident rate.
- Delmar Blvd and Skinner Blvd: This hazardous area is located near the Delmar Loop, resulting in frequent pedestrian traffic.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Common injuries in motorcycle accidents include:
- Broken bones and fractures: Motorcyclists frequently suffer broken bones when they are thrown from their bikes during a crash. Fractures in the arms, legs, and skull are especially common in motorcycle accidents.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Even with helmets, motorcyclists can suffer life-altering head and brain injuries due to the force of impact. This often occurs when the rider’s head strikes the ground or another hard surface at high speeds.
- Road rash: Sliding across the pavement can lead to road rash. This injury refers to severe abrasions caused when a rider's skin scrapes against rough surfaces, necessitating prompt medical treatment to prevent infection.
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs): Motorcycle collisions can cause severe damage to the spine, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries happen when the back is forcefully twisted or compressed during a crash.
- Internal injuries: The blunt force trauma from a motorcycle accident can damage internal organs. While these injuries may not be immediately visible, they can be life-threatening and require urgent medical attention.
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 of where to turn. Knowing what steps to take next is paramount to seeking justice and compensation for your injuries. Some important steps to take after a motorcycle accident include:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you lack obvious injuries, seeking medical treatment is essential to rule out underlying harm and create a formal record of your injuries.
- Report the accident: Be sure to report the accident to local law enforcement if no one has done so already. Obtaining a copy of the official police report can be valuable evidence to support your claim later on.
- Exchange information: If possible, exchange contact and insurance information with other involved parties at the scene, including any witnesses who saw the accident occur.
- Document the scene: Take photos or videos to document the accident and your injuries, including any vehicular damage, skid marks, and other relevant details that may strengthen your case.
- Seek sound counsel: A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the claims process, gather evidence to build you a robust case, and protect 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 legal circumstances, various parties may be liable for damages in a motorcycle accident. Common liable parties include:
- Other drivers: Other drivers on the road are often liable for motorcycle accidents when their negligence contributes to the collision, such as speeding, failing to yield, or operating a vehicle while distracted.
- Manufacturers: If a defective part contributes to the accident, the manufacturer of the faulty vehicle may be held liable for the crash.
- Government entities: Local government bodies may be responsible for a motorcycle accident if poorly maintained roadways or unclear signage contributed to the collision.
- Truck or rideshare companies: If a negligent employee, such as an Uber driver or a truck operator, caused the crash, the employer may be liable if they failed to provide sufficient training or safety equipment.
Proving Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident Case
Suffering an injury in a collision isn’t enough to recover compensation in a motorcycle accident case. In Missouri, the plaintiff bears the burden of proof in motorcycle accident claims, meaning that you are responsible for proving liability. Partnering with a knowledgeable attorney is critical to meeting the standard of proof in your case and recovering 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 of care, such as obeying traffic laws or checking blind spots before changing lanes.
- Breach of duty: The defendant breached their duty by acting negligently, such as driving recklessly or operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Causation: The defendant’s negligence directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
- Damages: You suffered compensatory harm (damages) as a result 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 various types of compensation for your injuries. Common recoverable damages include:
- Medical expenses: This covers past and future medical bills related to treating your injuries, such as hospital visits, surgeries, therapy costs, and other healthcare costs.
- Lost earnings: If your injuries caused you to take time off work, you may be eligible to recoup lost wages during your recovery period.
- Lost earning capacity: If your injuries result in permanent disability or significantly impact your ability to earn income in the future, your lawyer can help you seek compensation for lost earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: If the accident caused you significant emotional or mental distress, the court may award compensation for non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
Qualities to Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Partnering with the right attorney can significantly affect the outcome of your case. When seeking legal representation, here are some important qualities to look for:
- Experience: It’s important to hire an attorney who is experienced in handling cases that are similar to yours.
- Results: Choosing a firm with a successful track record of results in similar claims can improve your chance of recovering a fair settlement.
- Reviews: Evaluating testimonials from former clients can give you a better idea of the lawyer’s preferred approach and communication style.
- Reputation: Reviewing a firm’s professional awards and accolades can help you choose a reputable lawyer who is dedicated to serving their 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 St. Louis?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing for a motorcycle accident claim is five years from the date of the accident. While some exceptions may apply, failure to file within this timeframe can result in ineligibility to recover damages. This is one of many reasons why seeking sound counsel is crucial after a wrongful injury. Your motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your legal options and file your claim within the appropriate deadline.
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.
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 advocates can aggressively pursue justice 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.
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.
