How Motorcycle Accident Claims Differ from Car Accident Claims in Missouri

Being in a car accident is a terrifying experience and one that can be potentially fatal. Being in a motorcycle accident is equally as terrifying, but may be even more likely to cause serious injuries and loss of life. How is a motorcycle accident claim different from a car accident claim in Missouri? The differences lie in the type of injuries and the stigma involved in the process. A Springfield motorcycle accident attorney can help you file a claim.

Riders Are More Vulnerable

One of the most important distinctions is the risks involved. A motorcycle rider has far fewer protections around them than a person in a vehicle. There is no car to protect them and absorb even some of the force and shock after the incident. The risk of serious injuries is much higher without protective barriers, like the metal frame and seat belts.

A person’s body is likely to take more of the direct impact in a motorcycle accident. This is why it is 24 times more likely for a person to die in a motorcycle accident than in a car accident. Even if they do not perish, the risk of serious and catastrophic injuries is much higher. This often means:

• More significant and life-saving medical care is needed
• Longer recovery time
• More chance of permanent disability and losses
• Higher risk of having catastrophic injuries like spinal cord trauma or traumatic brain injuries
• The need for ongoing medical care is much higher

These factors increase the value of a motorcycle accident claim substantially. Remember, too, that motorcycle accident injuries take longer to recover from, which means you may not be able to file a quick claim to recover the damages owed to you.

Motorcycle Bias and Stigma

Another way that motorcycle accident claims differ from a car accident claim in Missouri is the level of stigma. Anyone can be in a car accident, and being involved in one, even as a driver, rarely has any connotation of being due to reckless behavior. However, motorcycle riders face a constant battle of showing they were not the ones that were driving aggressively, recklessly, or without care.

Motorcycle riders are often thought of as being daredevils and willing to take risks. Public perception bleeds into every facet of this case, from the insurance adjusters to the jury making a decision about the compensation owed to you. This can impact insurance claims significantly.

Insurance Coverage Differences

All motorcycle riders and car drivers are required to maintain insurance in the state of Missouri. Both must have at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage. Car drivers must have $25,000 per accident in property damage while motorcyclists carry just $10,000 in property damage. Both drivers and riders must carry uninsured motorcycle coverage as well.

The value of insurance is critical to both parties. One of the biggest considerations here is the limit of $25,000 on liability insurance for bodily injury. Serious motorcycle accidents can easily double or triple the cost, leaving the rider without the financial compensation they need.

For these and other reasons, hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Missouri is critical if you have been in an accident. Let your attorney help you determine what your claim should include and when to file it.