Springfield, MO Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Representing Injured Motorcyclists in Springfield, MO
Motorcycles offer a sense of freedom and excitement. However, that exhilaration comes with unavoidable risks. Riding a motorcycle increases the risks of serious injury if you are in an accident, and many drivers of enclosed vehicles fail to watch out for motorcyclists.
When you suffer injuries in a motorcycle crash, you should not wait to get legal advice, as you may be able to recover damages. At Bishop & Hayes, our goal is to help you secure the compensation you need to cover your losses and move forward. Our Springfield motorcycle accident lawyers dedicate almost 50 years of collective vehicular accident trial experience to helping victims of car, truck, and motorcycle accidents protect their rights and get justice.
By concentrating solely on this single area of practice, we have developed the refined skills and in-depth knowledge of the law needed to maximize your financial recovery. One of our partners will handle your claim, not paralegals or associates, so you can be confident that an experienced attorney has your back every step of the way. Case handling by a high-level partner is particularly important when dealing with the complex insurance matters associated with motorcycle coverage. We care about your situation and fight for the best results possible.
We can help you understand your legal options if you recently suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault! Call (417) 785-3410 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation today.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Springfield, Missouri
After a motorcycle collision, our Springfield motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to immediately investigate the wreck to determine liability and damages. We pursue theories based on skid marks, vehicle debris scatter, police reports, witness testimony, injuries, and your account of what happened. We look into whether the motorist was impaired by alcohol, distracted, texting, speeding, or driving carelessly at the time of the crash.
Understanding the intricacies of each accident is essential. Each case presents unique variables like weather conditions, road maintenance, and visibility issues, which can significantly impact liability and compensation. The city’s unique road layouts, including busy intersections and rural roads, present additional challenges that require thorough examination.
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by:
- Failure to yield. Motorcycles are often overlooked at intersections or when drivers are making turns, leading to situations where drivers illegally or unsafely claim the right of way.
- Distracted driving. Drivers who are not fully attentive to the road can fail to notice motorcycles due to their smaller size relative to other vehicles. Activities like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio can lead to catastrophic accidents.
- Speeding. Exceeding the speed limit reduces a driver’s reaction time and ability to see motorcyclists with enough time to avoid a collision. High-speed impacts are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.
- Intoxicated driving. Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol severely hampers judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the risk of missing visual or audio cues signaling a motorcycle’s presence.
- Following too closely. Tailgating any vehicle is unsafe. This reckless behavior poses a significant risk to motorcyclists, as riders are more vulnerable to injury.
- Poor lane usage. Swerving, drifting, or changing lanes without signaling can result in sideswiping a motorcycle that a driver hasn’t noticed.
OUR VERDICTS & SETTLEMENTS
MORE THAN $100,000,000 RECOVERED FOR OUR CLIENTS
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$1.5 Million Auto Accident Rollover
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$1.1 Million Motorcycle Accident
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$1 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$500,000 Semi-Truck Failure to Secure Load
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$400,000 Uninsured Motorist Red Light Accident
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$350,000 Semi-Truck Head-On Collision
The Keys to our success
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Exclusive Focus on Auto Accident Recovery Law
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Over $100,000,000 Total Recovered for Our Clients
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50 Years of Combined Experience in Car Crash Recovery
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Same-Day Returned Phone Calls and Emails from Our Clients
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Partners Who Handle Your Claim from Consultation to Recovery
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Springfield, Missouri
Every car is equipped with seat belts, airbags, a specially designed crush-proof roof, and an impact-absorbent metal body. These safety features are designed to protect drivers from serious injuries during a crash. Motorcycles, on the other hand, have nothing to restrain the rider from ejection or to absorb the impact of the crash.
In addition, a motorist often does not see the motorcyclist until the moment of impact. A motorist who did not expect to hit something takes no evasive actions, such as braking at too slow a speed or swerving to avoid a direct hit.
For these reasons, motorcycle accidents tend to cause catastrophic injuries, including:
- Brain injuries. Brain injuries are among the most severe consequences of motorcycle accidents, often resulting from the significant force of impact during a collision. Even with helmet use, the sudden deceleration or acceleration of the head can cause the brain to move violently within the skull, potentially leading to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can range from mild concussions, which might result in temporary disorientation or unconsciousness, to more severe cases like contusions or hemorrhages, which can have long-lasting and life-altering effects. Our Springfield motorcycle accident attorneys can accurately assess the complete impact a brain injury has had on your life so we can seek full and fair compensation.
- Spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries occur when the delicate nerves within the spinal column are bruised, stretched, or severed as a result of sudden blows or cuts common in vehicular collisions. For motorcyclists, who lack the surrounding protective structure that an automobile provides, the risk of a spinal injury is notably increased. The aftermath of these injuries can range from partial loss of motor functions, known as paraplegia or quadriplegia, to complete paralysis. Even with protective gear, the spine is vulnerable to the torque and impact forces of an accident, leading to life-changing disabilities that require extensive rehabilitation and support.
- Crush injuries. Crush injuries occur when extreme force or pressure is exerted on a part of the body, often when a rider is pinned under a vehicle or debris. These types of injuries can be particularly catastrophic as they may cause severe damage to underlying tissues, bones, and organs. The crushing force can lead to fractures, bleeding, lacerations, and compounding complications like compartment syndrome, where increased pressure within a muscle area impedes blood flow and can result in permanent tissue damage.
- Bone fractures. Bone fractures are a common and often severe outcome of motorcycle accidents given the exposed nature of the rider and the force of impacts involved. When a motorcyclist is thrown from the bike or collides with an object, the body absorbs significant kinetic energy, which can easily break bones. The most frequent fracture sites include the limbs, pelvis, collarbone, and ribs – areas with less muscular padding that are prone to direct trauma during a crash.
- Road rash. This injury is a form of abrasion that occurs when a motorcyclist’s skin forcefully slides across the pavement, essentially being “sanded” away by the rough road surface. Depending on the speed at the moment of the accident and the distance of the slide, road rash can range from mild, with damage to only the outer layer of skin, to severe, where multiple layers of skin are stripped away, exposing muscles and bones.
- Eye injuries. Particles from the road like dirt, gravel, or debris can be propelled at high speeds during a collision, creating a risk of scratching or penetrating the eye and possibly triggering permanent vision damage. Moreover, the sheer force of a motorcycle accident can cause blunt trauma to the eye area, resulting in conditions like orbital fractures or retinal detachment.
- Amputations. In the chaos of a collision, motorcyclists face the risk of having a limb crushed, severely burned, or pinned under heavy objects or wreckage, which can compromise blood flow and lead to necrosis – the death of body tissue. In such cases, medical professionals may have no other option than to perform an amputation to prevent the spread of infection or to save the individual's life. Furthermore, accidents at high speeds can result in direct traumatic amputations, where a limb is severed instantaneously due to extreme force.
- Facial injuries. A motorcyclist’s face is particularly exposed to direct contact with the road, other vehicles, and debris during a collision. Even with a full-face helmet, the intense impact can lead to fractures in the jaw, cheekbones, nasal bones, or orbital sockets. The skin and soft tissues of the face are particularly susceptible to deep cuts, lacerations, and abrasions, which may result in not only immediate trauma but also long-term cosmetic and functional complications. High-velocity impacts can cause severe dental trauma, including the loss or fracturing of teeth, which may necessitate complex reconstructive dental surgery.
Hear from our clients
WE PUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AND YOUR RECOVERY FIRST
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“If you need an attorney that is going to look out for your needs give them a call first.”- Jen F.
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“Two times now we have needed them.”- Kasandra S.
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“There aren't enough words to say how much I appreciate my first meeting with Tim Hayes!!”- Jeanette B.
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“Professional, caring, answered every question, staff very understanding, and they made it easier going thru an accident.”- Campbell C.
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“My husband, family and I are very grateful for the compassion and the help in navigating all the parts.”- Renee T.
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“They made it so easy! Super friendly staff and beautiful office!”- Allie E.
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“They guided me through a confusing time and went above and beyond to help me.”- Bailey D.
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“Their service, communication and professionalism, that's what makes them great!”- Vlad L.
Our Attorneys Can Help You Recover Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Springfield, MO!
In Missouri, you typically have five years from the date of your motorcycle accident to bring a personal injury claim against the negligent party. This may seem like a long time, but it is in your best interest to promptly start the legal process. Doing so allows for the timely collection and preservation of evidence that is key to building a strong case. Plus, you deserve to recover compensation as quickly as possible. Our dedicated team at Bishop & Hayes is here to help you recover everything you are entitled to under the law.
Our Springfield motorcycle accident attorneys can fight to get you just compensation for economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Lost earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Understanding the types of damages you may claim is vital in comprehending the full spectrum of compensation owed to you. Economic damages cover tangible losses such as ongoing medical expenses and necessary future treatments, often overlooked by initial settlements. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, include the psychological impact, like trauma and anxiety, which can manifest long after physical injuries have healed. Recognizing these facets ensures comprehensive claims, advocating for support beyond immediate medical needs.
You do not have to go through this alone! You owe us nothing unless we win your motorcycle accident case, so call (417) 785-3410 or contact us online today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents
What Immediate Steps Should I Take After a Motorcycle Accident?
In the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident, your primary concern should be your safety and health. First, move to a safe location if you are able and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and ensure that medical assistance is dispatched if needed. While waiting for emergency services, document the scene if it is safe to do so. Take photos of your motorcycle, other vehicles involved, and the surroundings to provide evidence of the accident. Gather contact information from any witnesses and obtain the insurance details of the other parties involved. It's essential not to admit fault or provide detailed statements to anyone other than law enforcement. Once the scene is cleared, contact Bishop & Hayes P.C. to discuss your legal options and begin the process of preserving evidence to strengthen your potential claim.
Do I Need a Police Report for My Motorcycle Accident?
A police report is an important document when it comes to motorcycle accidents. This official account of the incident provides a neutral assessment of how the accident occurred, which can be invaluable in legal proceedings or insurance claims. Police reports typically document details such as the date, time, and location of the crash, as well as statements from involved parties and eyewitnesses. Though not always required to file an insurance claim, a police report strengthens your position significantly. It often serves as key evidence to support your account of the events and helps refute any claims or allegations made by the other party. At Bishop & Hayes P.C., we strongly recommend ensuring an officer is called to the scene to document the accident, even for seemingly minor incidents.
How Is Liability Determined in a Motorcycle Accident?
Liability in a motorcycle accident is determined by identifying the party or parties who were negligent and whose actions directly caused the accident. This process often involves reviewing evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness testimonies. In Springfield, establishing negligence may consider factors like speed, right of way adherence, and road conditions at the time of the accident. Legal professionals may also consult accident reconstruction experts to offer analysis and insights into how the accident occurred and who was at fault. It's important to be aware that Missouri follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that even if you are partially at fault, you may still recover damages, adjusted according to your degree of fault. Consulting Bishop & Hayes P.C. will provide you with a personalized strategy to navigate these complexities and to strive towards securing deserved compensation.
What Can I Do to Expedite My Compensation Process?
Expediting the compensation process largely depends on thorough documentation and timely action. Begin by gathering as much evidence as possible immediately following the accident. This includes photos, medical records, and witness contacts. Contact Bishop & Hayes P.C. promptly to ensure your claim is filed without delay and all procedural requirements are met efficiently. Be detailed in your account of the accident and provide all necessary documentation requested by your legal team. Regular communication with your attorney can also help accelerate responses to any insurance company queries or counterclaims. Additionally, patience and cooperation throughout this proactive approach generally lead to a faster resolution.
