According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a motorcyclist is 4 times more likely to be injured in a traffic accident than a person in a car. Given these significant numbers, all motorcyclists should understand the laws of their state, their rights in an accident, and how a lawyer can help. To shed more light on this subject, below are answers to common questions about motorcycle laws and accidents in the state of Missouri.

Answers to Common Questions About Missouri Motorcycle Laws & Accidents

Are motorcyclists required to wear helmets?

Yes. Missouri state law dictates that anyone on a motorcycle—operator or passenger—must wear a helmet whenever the bike is in motion. Though not a legal requirement, additional precautions are always a good idea; wear long pants, leather protective gear, and bright colors.

What are some common types of motorcycle accidents?

The majority of motorcycle crashes are head-on collisions, most of which involve a car hitting the front of a motorcycle. Cars making left-hand turns are also common accident scenarios; the car hits the motorcyclist when the bike goes straight through the intersection or passes or tries to overtake the car. Lane-splitting, which means operating a motorcycle between lines of slowed or stopped traffic, is not expressly prohibited by Missouri law but is the source of many accidents.

I was injured in an accident, but I wasn't wearing a helmet. Can I still seek compensation?

In most cases, yes. Missouri is a comparative negligence state. This means that the amount of damages you collect are reduced by a certain percentage commensurate with your responsibility in the accident. In most cases, a motorcyclist who was breaking the law by not wearing a helmet will still have a legal claim, but their compensation will be lowered because they were technically breaking the law at the time of the crash.

How can a lawyer help?

A lawyer who focuses on personal injury cases can help you build a strong claim and advocate for your rights. They will investigate the accident, review police and medical reports, complete and file the necessary paperwork, and communicate on your behalf to insurers, attorneys, and other parties involved in the crash. They will also negotiate a settlement that gets you the needed resources and compensation.

The lawyers at Henry & Williams P.C., are here to help. They have more than 60 years' combined experience representing the Howell County, MO, area. They handle all manner of personal injuries, including car and motorcycle accidents, workers' compensation claims, and medical malpractice cases. Call (417) 256-8133 or visit them online to schedule a free consultation today.