Studies estimate that unlicensed motorcycle riders are up to eight times more likely to be involved in motorcycle accidents than those with licenses. Other studies put the fatal crash risk of unlicensed riders at about double that of licensed riders. In either case, satisfying the motorcycle licensing requirements in St. Louis, MO, teaches riders to avoid crashes.
However, motorcycle accidents can happen due to driver negligence — even when riders do everything right. When this happens, a St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer from Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers can battle the negligent driver and their insurer for fair injury compensation.
If you’d like more information about how our personal injury law firm can help with your case. We offer a completely free case evaluation without any obligations reach us out at (314) 444-4444.
How Schultz & Myers St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help After An Accident In St. Louis, MO
Since 2010, Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers has represented clients in St. Louis, Missouri, against at-fault parties and their insurers. Our attorneys have successfully recovered over $100 million in injury compensation for accident victims like you.
We provide the following assistance after someone’s negligent or wrongful actions injure you:
- Evaluate your case and outline your options for compensatioAssemble your insurance claim and supporting documentation
- Negotiate with the insurer to resolve your claim
- Litigate against the at-fault party and their insurer if we cannot settle your case
Motorcycle accidents often cause severe injuries to the limbs and head that permanently disable riders. Contact Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a St. Louis motorcycle accident attorney to discuss how we can help you recover injury compensation.
What Factors Affect A Motorcycle Accident Claim’s Value?
The value of your injury claim will depend on the severity of your injuries and the evidence you have to prove the driver’s fault. If you suffer severe injuries, you will have greater losses and deserve greater compensation. If you have strong evidence of the other driver’s negligence, the insurer might not have much leverage in settlement negotiations.
What Compensation Can Motorcycle Crash Victims Recover?
You can seek compensation for economic losses, such as medical costs and missed wages. You can also pursue compensation for non-economic losses. These losses represent the erosion of your life due to pain and suffering, disability, and the other effects of your injuries.
How Much Do Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Charge?
Accident lawyers charge a contingency fee. You pay a percentage of your compensation to the lawyer after winning or settling your case. You pay no legal fees if you lose.
What Happens In Missouri If The Other Driver Blames Me For A Motorcycle Accident?
One effect of riding without a license is that the at-fault driver can more easily shift blame to you. Under Missouri law, you get a share of the blame if you contributed to the crash. Your compensation is reduced in proportion to your fault. Thus, if you lost your balance after a vehicle swerved toward you, the driver might argue you were at least partially to blame for your injuries.
What Are Some Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
Untrained motorcyclists face many dangers. They could lose control of their vehicles during a minor crash or near miss. If they lay down their motorcycle, they could suffer leg, shoulder, or head injuries when they hit the ground. Their leg could experience crushing injuries if it gets trapped under the motorcycle.
Unlicensed riders might also fail to appreciate the value of wearing a helmet. Riders can suffer permanent brain injuries when their unhelmeted heads strike a vehicle or the road.
Does Operator Inexperience Cause Motorcycle Accidents In St. Louis, MO?
Missouri’s Traffic Crashes report does not identify how many unlicensed motorcycle operators were involved in collisions. However, it does report two statistics that strongly imply that inexperience and lack of training affect crash risk.
Missouri requires motorcycle applicants to be at least 15 1/2 years old to apply for a motorcycle permit. This permit allows the rider to practice for their license exams. According to the Traffic Crashes report, ten motorcycle operators under 15 were involved in motorcycle accidents in 2022. Nine of them died.
Those with a little bit of experience did not fare much better. The state had 23 motorcycle operators who were 15 or 16 years old involved in accidents. 20 of them died, and two suffered injuries.
Missouri’s licensing requirements are meant to protect riders from inexperience. All applicants must pass written and road tests to receive their licenses. Riders under 16 must also take a motorcycle training course. Riders over 16 are not required to pass the course, but the state waives the road test if they do. Thus, every licensed rider must pass the course or a road test.
How Much Time Does Missouri Give Me To File A Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
Missouri gives accident victims five years to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, delaying a lawsuit might affect the outcome as memories fade and evidence gets lost. Thus, you should start your claim promptly after your accident.
Contact Our St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
A motorcycle crash can cause physical and financial trauma as you cope with your injuries. Contact Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation to discuss compensation after your accident.
