Motorcycle Accident Victims Need Extra Support
Even with a helmet and leathers, people on motorcycles are vulnerable to severe injuries or death. Adding insult to injury, the motorcyclist is often blamed for the crash. Still worse, the at-fault driver’s insurance may not cover all the damages.
The law firm of Barbara E. Hecht, P.C., can help. We advocate for victims of motorcycle accidents throughout the greater Kansas City area. Our experienced representation helps to right the wrongs and secure compensation for the long road to recovery.
We handle motorcycle cases in Missouri and Kansas. Call 913-766-5793 for trusted legal support.
What Caused The Motorcycle Crash?
People often presume that “bikers” caused their accidents by speeding or doing something reckless. But often car and truck drivers don’t see motorcycles or cause accidents through their own negligence, such as:
- Turning left into the path of a motorcycle going straight
- Abrupt lane changes
- Tailgating
- Running a stop sign or traffic light
- Pulling onto the roadway without looking
- Distracted driving or aggressive driving
- Crossing the centerline or forcing the motorcycle off the road
Barbara Hecht oversees a prompt and thorough investigation of the crash to put the blame where it lies.
What If The Rider Wasn’t Wearing A Helmet?
In Kansas, adults are not required to wear motorcycle helmets. In Missouri, adults age 26 or older do not need a helmet if they have medical insurance and motorcycle insurance. However, Kansas and Missouri are comparative fault states. This means a person’s compensation can be reduced if they were partly at fault for an accident. Failure to wear a helmet might reduce compensation if the victim suffered a head injury. But it would not matter for other injuries such as a broken leg – wearing a helmet would not have prevented such an injury. We focus on the primary negligence of the other driver that caused or contributed to the crash.
Many Car Drivers Are Not Properly Insured
What if the other driver was not insured or carried only the minimum coverage? The damages in a motorcycle case often exceed the at-fault driver’s limits. You might be protected under your own motorcycle insurance/auto insurance. An uninsured/underinsured motorist policy (UM/UIM) covers the difference, but it can be a fight to get your own insurance company to pay. We pursue every source of insurance to get the compensation you need.
Serious And Catastrophic Injuries On Motorcycles
In four out of five motorcycle crashes, the operator and/or passenger suffer injury. This includes permanent and catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury (TBI), broken bones, amputated limbs and severe road rash abrasions. We work with victims, families, doctors and other professionals to understand the extent of recovery and the hardships our clients face.
Barbara Hecht pursues compensation for past and future medical care, past and future income loss, disability, disfigurement, and pain and suffering, plus damage to your bike. She understands that the money must cover long-term needs. If the insurance company will not settle for a fair amount, she is prepared and willing to fight for her clients at trial.
Get A Trusted Firm On Your Side
Barbara Hecht has practiced law for 50 years. She is licensed in both Kansas and Missouri. If you or a loved one suffered a motorcycle accident, you can count on us for strong representation and compassionate support throughout your recovery. To arrange a free initial consultation at our offices in Overland Park or North Kansas City, call 913-766-5793 or email us today.