Missouri Motorcycle Crash Attorneys
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St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Causes
There are many potential causes of a motorcycle accident. The injured victim of a crash may have to prove that the other motorist involved was at fault for the collision. Having an understanding of some of the common causes of Missouri crashes may help victims determine what led to their accident and if it will be possible to hold the negligent party accountable for the damages. For more information about how to pursue your legal rights after a motorcycle collision, please contact an experienced injury lawyer.
Missouri Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Serious motorcycle accidents are common in Missouri. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that in 2009 there were 1,843 motorcycle crashes that resulted in 85 fatalities and 2,182 injuries. Those numbers represent a slight decrease from the 108 fatalities and 2,284 injuries reported in 2008.
Causes of Missouri Motorcycle Accidents
There are many potential causes of an injury motorcycle crash. A few common causes are:
- Distracted drivers: Motorcyclists are often able to ride faster then the normal flow of traffic by riding alongside vehicles. When a car driver is distracted or inattentive in any way, there is a greater risk that a nearby motorcycle rider may go unnoticed until it is too late. Car drivers who are looking at their phone or texting while driving, for example, have an increased likelihood of letting their vehicle drift into a nearby lane and collide with a motorcycle.
- Defective parts: Parts known for causing motorcycle accidents include tires, brakes and accelerators. Motorcycle riders would be well-advised to stay abreast of the many recalls issued each year regarding parts on their motorcycles. If an accident does occur, the motorcycle should be preserved for a thorough inspection.
- Dangerous roadways: The governing body in charge of the roadway is legally obligated to provide safe conditions for motorcycle riders. Potholes, uneven surfaces and improperly designed roadways have been known to cause riders to lose control of their motorcycle. In such cases, the governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway may be held liable for the accident.
- Drunk driving: Car drivers, who are operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, have an increased chance of failing to see a motorcycle.
- Failure to yield right-of-way: The size of motorcycles often makes them hard to see. When a driver fails to yield right-of-way to an oncoming motorcycle at an intersection or while entering traffic, a serious motorcycle accident may occur. This type of collision may be minor or inconsequential to the car driver, but a motorcycle rider involved in this type of collision may suffer life-changing injuries.
Rights of a Motorcycle Accident Victim in Missouri
Immediately following a motorcycle crash, the victim should collect as much information as possible, contact the authorities, take photos, seek medical attention and call an experienced accident attorney. A skilled St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer at Page Law can help victims pursue financial compensation for their injuries, damages and losses. Call us today for a free, comprehensive and completely confidential consultation.
Missouri Motorcycle Accident Resource Center
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