Over the last ten years motorcycles have become a popular method of transportation. Over 700,000 motorcycles were registered in the U.S. in 2000 whereas only about 300,000 were registered in 1990. Although there has been a dramatic increase in the number of new motorcycle riders, the fact remains that over 80% of motor vehicle accidents involving a motorcyclist are not the bike rider's fault.

Due to the lack of protection motorcycle riders have, motorcycle accidents can result in disastrous injuries such as quadriplegia, traumatic brain injury and death. Usually riders are left with permanent injuries, large amounts of medical expenses and emotional damages as a result of another driver's negligence in a motorcycle accident.

Typically, motorcycle accidents occur due to the negligence of one or more participants. Motorcycle riders are especially open to being overlooked by other drivers due to their small size compared to other vehicles. Because there are many laws regarding motorcycle accidents, it is a good idea to contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in motorcycle accidents.

A motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to advise you as to your rights and options in a motorcycle accident case.

If you can prove three things about the negligent driver in your motorcycle accident, the other driver may be liable for compensating you for your injuries and losses.

First, you have to prove that the driver was negligent in the motorcycle accident. In other words, prove that the driver failed to use prudent care when operating his vehicle.

Next, you have to prove the cause of the motorcycle accident.

Finally, you have to prove that your damages and losses were a result of the motorcycle accident. Often, you will be able to file a personal injury claim that includes any property damage as well as physical damage such as pain and suffering which resulted from the motorcycle accident.

It is possible that you also may be able to claim any future losses, such as future loss of income and continuing medical expenses due to the motorcycle accident. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the negligent driver was malicious in their actions which led to the motorcycle accident.

You may be able to recover damages even if you are injured in a single vehicle motorcycle accident. Motorcycle and motorcycling equipment manufacturers have a responsibility to provide you with a safe product. They may be liable for any damages that you sustain resulting from a defect in their product that causes a motorcycle accident.

In order to gain compensation for a motorcycle accident resulting from defects in motorcycle equipment, you must prove three key elements.

First, you must prove that the product was defective.

Next, you must prove that the defect existed prior to the manufacturer releasing it for purchase.

Third, you must prove that the defect caused the motorcycle accident, which in turn caused the damages you have suffered.

Most bikers consider riding a motorcycle a lifestyle and sport that non-riders will never understand; however, motorcycling does not come without risks. It is interesting to note that over 80% of injuries to motorcyclists involved in a multi-vehicle motorcycle accident are the fault of the other driver.

Although you may have adequate insurance coverage, the party responsible for the motorcycle accident may not. In this case, an experienced personal injury lawyer with knowledge of motorcycle accident law will be beneficial in determining how you will be compensated for your losses.

There are many elements which may play a role in a motorcycle accident; therefore, it is sometimes very difficult to determine exactly how a motorcycle accident occurred. The average citizen does not have the proper resources to investigate the motorcycle accident to determine what parties may be liable for the motorcycle accident.

An attorney experienced in motorcycle accident law can effectively and beneficially investigate the motorcycle accident as well as make the victim aware of his or her legal options.

If you are contacted by the other driver's insurance company, know that you are not required to give a statement. You should refer them to your lawyer, or seek an attorney if you do not have one. If you, or someone you love, have sustained injury due to a motorcycle accident in Kansas or Missouri, please do not hesitate to contact our office for a free consultation and case evaluation.