Motorcyclists have a duty to ride responsibly, but many people prioritize adrenaline over safety. Stunting in traffic, ignoring speed limits, and weaving between lanes might seem impressive in the moment, but these choices can lead to devastating collisions. If you were injured by a reckless rider, a Kansas City motorcycle accident attorney can help you seek justice.
Common Reckless Riding Behaviors in Kansas City
Kansas City’s expansive highways and busy urban streets unfortunately provide ample opportunity for motorcyclists to engage in dangerous behaviors. Common reckless riding behaviors may include:
- Excessive speeding
- Lane splitting and weaving through congested traffic
- Performing wheelies or other stunts on public roads
- Tailgating larger vehicles
- Operating motorcycles while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Ignoring traffic signals and stop signs
- Riding without proper safety gear
Legal Options for Those Injured by Reckless Motorcyclists
If you were involved in a traffic accident and a reckless motorcyclist is to blame, you have the right to pursue legal action. However, auto accident attorneys in Kansas City explain your options differ depending on which side of the state line the incident occurred. Missouri follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning you can file a claim directly against the at-fault motorcyclist’s insurance company. You may also pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit filed in civil court.
Kansas operates under a no-fault insurance system, requiring you to first file through your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage regardless of who caused the accident. However, you can step outside this no-fault system and pursue a third-party claim or lawsuit against the reckless motorcyclist if you meet specific thresholds:
- Your accident-related medical bills total $2,000 or more.
- You suffered serious injuries as defined by state law.
Kansas defines serious injuries as any of the following:
- Permanent disfigurement
- Fracture of weight-bearing bone
- Compound, compressed, or displaced fracture of any bone
- Permanent injury
- Permanent loss of a body function
Comparative Negligence in Reckless Riding Cases
If you’re accused of contributing to a motorcycle accident through your own reckless behavior, you may face repercussions when filing a legal claim. In Kansas, you can recover damages if you were less than 50% responsible for the accident, but your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation from other parties involved.
In Missouri, you can recover damages even if you were 99% at fault for the accident. However, your award will still be reduced by your share of fault. It is essential to work with a specialized personal injury attorney in Kansas City who can defend you against accusations of fault and protect your right to full and fair compensation.
Get Legal Help After a Reckless Motorcycle Accident
If you were injured by a reckless motorcycle rider, navigating these complex cases requires skilled legal representation. Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe can put our skills, knowledge, and resources to work for you.
Our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience investigating and litigating motorcycle accidents throughout Kansas City. We’re committed to uncovering the truth and securing fair compensation for victims. Contact us today at (816) 876-2600 for a free consultation and learn how we can guide you through this challenging time.