Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Kansas City, Missouri

It’s no secret that having an accident while riding a motorcycle is far more dangerous than being in a car accident. More than 80% of all reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

According to government data, motorcycles make up only 3 percent of registered vehicles but accounted for 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2017. Fatalities among riders and passengers has more than doubled since 1997.

There are some things you can do to improve your safety while riding a bike. By far, the most important thing is to ALWAYS wear a helmet.

Here is some information to help you pick the right helmet:

According to the National Safety Council, here are other things you can do in addition to wearing a helmet:

• Choose a bike that fits you; "supersport bikes" have driver death rates about four times that of cruisers or standard bikes, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

• Invest in antilock brakes

• New riders should take a motorcycle safety course, and experienced riders should take refresher courses after being off their bikes for a while

• Know the rules of the road

• Be aware that riding with a passenger requires considerably more skill

• Never drink and ride

• Drive defensively, especially at intersections, where half of all collisions occur

• Watch for hazards like potholes, manhole covers, oil slicks, puddles, debris, railroad tracks and gravel

• Assume you are invisible to other motorists and position yourself to be seen

• Use headlights day and night

• Be courteous; don't weave in and out of lanes, or ride on the shoulder or between lanes

• Don't speed

• Wear bright and/or reflective clothing that is durable and boots that cover the ankles

• Wear goggles, glasses or use a face shield that is ventilated to prevent fogging, and make sure it's clear if riding at night

A case we handled several years ago shows the danger of motorcycle riding. Our client’s husband was a 72 year old man who was on a large cruiser bike, had the headlight on, was wearing a helmet and obeyed all of the traffic laws. A man driving a commercial vehicle decided to make a right turn from the middle lane of traffic and clipped the back of the bike. The man on the bike fell and landed on the street, dying of a brain hemorrhage a short time later. He did everything right and still lost his life. We were able to obtain for his widow a $3 million policy limits settlement for his tragic death.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, or if a loved one has died in an accident, we can help. Call us immediately for a free consultation.