Motorcycle accidents are usually caused by lack of focus by other drivers, rather than recklessness of the operator. An accident most often starts when another vehicle moves into the rider's lane. It is often claimed by the driver of a car or truck involved in a motorcycle crash that the motorcycle was in his blind spot, so he could not see it. Of course, this really is no defense because drivers have a duty to be aware of their surroundings at all times. When other drivers are unaware, serious motorcycle wrecks can occur, resulting in serious injury. A motorcycle rider struck by another vehicle will often be thrown violently from this motorcycle, resulting in broken bones. Even worse are accidents involving semi trucks. Brain and head injuries often result from these wrecks.
One area of weakness that an accident lawyer will examine is how crashworthy the rider's helmet is. What many injury victims do not realize is that their helmet may have even contributed to their injuries. If the helmet is unreasonably dangerous for its purpose, there may also be a products liability claim against the manufacturer. If the motorcycle rider was not wearing a helmet to begin with, then this is a moot point. Riders should always wear helmets.
However, if you drive a motorcycle, you need to do a lot more than wearing a good helmet to protect yourself. From a medical standpoint, typical full coverage insurance is insufficient to make sure you can cover your medical expenses. Full coverage only covers liability and property damage. It is very possible that the driver who hit the motorcycle rider does not enough insurance to cover the motorcycle rider's medical expenses.
Nobody wants to think about being in a motorcycle accident, but you need to fully protect yourself. You need to carry uninsured (UM), underinsured (UIM), and medical payments (med pay) insurance coverage. Having all three of these types of insurance provides you with maximum protection in case you are injured. Many times, your insurance agent will not even tell you about these coverages - so ask for them specifically. Best of all, they are very cheap.
Josh Myers Law is a Missouri law firm that specializes in personal injury accidents, including those involving motorcycles. If you are injured in an accident, don't let yourself be at the mercy of the insurance companies! Don't sign anything until you speak to a
St. Louis injury lawyer. Visit
www.joshmyerslaw.com to arrange a free consultation.
