Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Attorney 

Understanding Motorcycle Accident Claims in Missouri 

Motorcyclists face greater risks on the road than most other drivers. Without the protection of a vehicle’s frame, airbags, or seat belts, riders are far more likely to suffer serious or even life-threatening injuries when accidents occur. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a crash, a Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyer from Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

Our firm proudly represents injured riders across Kansas City, MO, and surrounding areas. We understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face—from unfair bias in insurance claims to the devastating physical and financial impact of a serious accident. Our goal is to protect your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and help you recover full compensation for your losses.

Have you been involved in a motorcycle accident in Kansas City? Call (816) 542-5999 or contact us online for a free consultation and learn how we can help you navigate your claim!

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes can happen in an instant, often due to the carelessness of other drivers. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Inattention: Many drivers fail to check their blind spots or overlook motorcyclists when changing lanes or making turns.
• Left-Turn Accidents: A common and dangerous scenario occurs when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact in a collision.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers who fail to signal or properly check mirrors can sideswipe riders sharing the road.
• Following Too Closely: Motorcycles stop faster than cars, so tailgating can easily lead to rear-end collisions.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment remains a leading cause of serious motorcycle crashes.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Potholes, loose gravel, or debris can be far more dangerous for motorcycles than for passenger cars.

Determining the exact cause of your accident is critical for proving liability. Our legal team conducts a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties—whether it’s a negligent driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or even a government agency responsible for unsafe road maintenance.

Missouri Motorcycle Laws

Motorcyclists in Missouri are subject to specific laws designed to promote safety on the road. Understanding these regulations can be vital to your claim:

• Helmet Law: Missouri law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a helmet unless they are over 26 and carry health insurance coverage that meets specific requirements. Even so, wearing a helmet can strengthen your injury claim and reduce disputes over fault.
• Licensing Requirements: Motorcyclists must hold a valid Class M endorsement or license to operate a motorcycle legally.
• Insurance Requirements: Missouri riders must maintain minimum liability insurance, including bodily injury and property damage coverage.
• Lane Splitting: Lane splitting (riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic) is not legal in Missouri.
• Comparative Fault Rule: Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your total recovery is reduced by 20%.

Our Kansas City motorcycle accident attorney from Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman can explain how these laws affect your case and help ensure your rights are fully protected.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries due to minimal rider protection. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
• Broken Bones and Fractures
• Road Rash and Severe Lacerations
• Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage
• Amputations and Crush Injuries
• Psychological Trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)

These injuries can result in long-term disability, chronic pain, and significant medical costs. Our firm works with medical experts, life-care planners, and economists to calculate the full extent of your losses—both current and future.

Compensation for Injured Motorcyclists

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another’s negligence, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages: Income lost while recovering from injuries or if you are unable to return to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your motorcycle and riding gear.
• Loss of Consortium: Damages for how the injury has affected your relationship with your spouse or family.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If you lost a loved one in a fatal crash, surviving family members may recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.

At Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman, we aggressively negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your recovery. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, our trial-ready attorneys will take your case to court to fight for full justice.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Knowing what to do immediately after a motorcycle accident can protect your rights and aid in recovering damages:

• Ensure Safety: If possible, move to a safe area and call 911 to report the accident.
• Seek Medical Attention: Obtain a medical evaluation even if no injuries are immediately apparent, as some symptoms may manifest later.
• Gather Information: Collect contact and insurance details from all parties involved and document the scene with photos and witness information.
• Avoid Admissions: Refrain from apologizing or admitting fault, which can impact potential settlements.

Following these steps ensures a solid foundation for any legal proceedings and claims.

Additionally, contacting a motorcycle accident attorney in Kansas City as soon as possible enables timely evidence collection and early engagement with insurance companies. This can mitigate other parties' fabrication or misinterpretation of accident details, fortifying your position during negotiations or litigation.

How Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help 

Motorcycle accidents in Kansas City present unique challenges and risks, which require careful navigation of local traffic laws and street conditions. With its intricate roadways and bustling traffic, the city is a hotspot for motorcycle incidents. Specific routes such as I-435 and I-70 frequently see higher accident rates, primarily due to increased traffic flow and complex interchanges.

At Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman, our attorneys deeply understand the laws and regulations that impact motorcycle accident claims in Kansas City. The commitment to personalized service and legal acumen makes us the right choice for anyone seeking justice and recovery.

We offer:

• Comprehensive Legal Evaluation: Providing clients with a thorough assessment to identify the best legal strategies.
• Negotiation with Insurers: Skilled negotiators work tirelessly to secure settlements that reflect the actual value of your claim.
• Trial Representation: If necessary, our team is prepared to represent you in court, advocating for your rights and interests.

The focus remains on delivering outcomes that facilitate physical recovery and financial stability.

Our attorneys utilize a network of local experts, including accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, to build compelling cases that underscore the extent of injuries and financial losses incurred. This collaboration enhances the quality of evidence presented in negotiations and court proceedings.

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Missouri?

Missouri’s statute of limitations generally gives you five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s best to take action as soon as possible to preserve evidence and witness testimony.

What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during the crash?

You can still pursue compensation, but your recovery may be reduced if the defense argues that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries. Having an experienced lawyer can help minimize this impact.

The insurance company offered a settlement. Should I accept it?

Never accept an insurance settlement without consulting an attorney. Initial offers are often far below what your case is worth. A Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyer can evaluate your claim and negotiate for fair compensation.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Under Missouri’s comparative fault system, you can recover compensation even if you were partly responsible—as long as someone else also contributed to the crash.

How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?

At Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and no fees unless we win your case.

Contact Our Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today

Taking prompt action is crucial if you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in Kansas City. At Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman, our dedicated motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to provide the guidance and support you need. We prioritize your recovery, offering personalized service every step of the way.

Don’t delay getting the compensation you deserve. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your situation, prioritize your healing, and work towards securing financial stability. Your journey to recovery and justice begins here.

Don't wait to secure the compensation you deserve. Reach out to our Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyers now to begin your journey to recovery and justice!