The #1 Motorcycle Accident Lawyer St. Louis

How Can Our St Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Help You?

At TorHoerman Law, our St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyers understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face after an accident and are committed to providing personalized, comprehensive representation.

We take a team-based approach, with attorneys skilled in various areas of personal injury law working together to build a strong case tailored to your specific needs.

Our firm excels at gathering crucial evidence, such as police reports and expert witness statements, to demonstrate fault and the full extent of your injuries.

We also handle all negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring that you are not shortchanged and receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

With a deep understanding of Missouri’s legal system and the unique aspects of motorcycle accident cases, we are prepared to take your case to court if needed.

Beyond the legal work, we offer compassionate support throughout the process, helping you focus on your recovery while we handle the details of your claim.

Meet Our St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Eric Terry leads the St. Louis Motorcycle Accident legal team at TorHoerman Law (THL).

With his extensive experience in personal injury law and a focus on motor vehicle accidents, Eric has built a reputation for his attention to detail and aggressive pursuit of justice and compensation for his clients.

Eric and the team work together to provide comprehensive legal strategies, ensuring that every client receives personalized attention and dedicated representation.

At THL, our attorneys bring a wealth of expertise and a collaborative approach to each motorcycle accident case.

We understand the unique risks that motorcyclists face on the road, and we use that knowledge to advocate fiercely on their behalf.

Our St. Louis motorcycle accident attorneys are not just legal professionals; they are dedicated advocates committed to securing justice for every injured rider.

Here’s a closer look at the attorneys who will be fighting for you:

• Steve Davis: With over 30 years of experience in personal injury law, Steve Davis has represented clients in a wide range of accident cases, including catastrophic injuries. His extensive trial experience makes him a strong advocate for injured motorcyclists.
• Ken Brennan: Bringing over 20 years of experience, Ken Brennan is known for his deep understanding of legal strategies and his ability to prepare airtight cases. His expertise in personal injury law, combined with his focus on defense tactics, ensures clients receive strong representation.
• Chad Finley: Chad Finley brings a unique blend of medical and legal expertise to THL, allowing him to accurately assess the long-term impact of motorcycle injuries. His scientific approach helps ensure clients receive fair compensation for both current and future medical needs.
• Tyler Schneider: As managing partner, Tyler Schneider plays a pivotal role in overseeing the client experience. He has more than a decade of legal experience and focuses on refining processes to improve outcomes and satisfaction for all motorcycle accident clients.
• Alexis Robinson: A recent graduate of Saint Louis University School of Law, Alexis Robinson assists in all stages of litigation. Her attention to detail and dedication to supporting senior attorneys make her an essential part of the motorcycle accident legal team.

Our Founder: Tor Hoerman

Our Founder, Tor Hoerman, is a nationally recognized attorney with over two decades of experience in personal injury law and mass tort litigation.

Under his leadership, TorHoerman Law has secured more than $4 billion in verdicts and settlements for clients, holding some of the largest corporations accountable for their negligence.

Tor’s dedication to justice is evident in his commitment to helping individuals who have been harmed through no fault of their own.

He has been named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer and has served on the Executive Board of the Mass Torts Trial Lawyers Association.

Tor is deeply passionate about using the law to bring about meaningful change for victims, and his work in high-profile cases has made a lasting impact for thousands of people.

His hands-on approach ensures that every client receives the personalized attention and expert representation they deserve.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

At TorHoerman Law, hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer costs you nothing upfront.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay legal fees if we successfully recover compensation for your case.

If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing, ensuring there is no financial risk for you.

This structure allows victims to pursue justice and compensation without worrying about upfront legal costs.

What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in St Louis

Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps to take in the moments following the crash is crucial for your safety and any future legal claim.

Taking the appropriate actions immediately after a motorcycle accident can protect your health and strengthen your case if you decide to pursue compensation for your injuries.

It’s important to prioritize your well-being, gather necessary information, and ensure proper documentation of the incident.

Following these steps will also help protect your legal rights as a motorcycle accident victim.

Steps to take immediately after a motorcycle crash include the following:

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 to request emergency medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor, as some may not be immediately apparent.
2. Call the Police: Always report the accident to law enforcement. A police report will document important details and help establish fault.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance details with the other driver.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault: Be cautious about what you say at the scene. Avoid statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, as this may harm your ability to recover compensation.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider promptly, but stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries.
6. Consult a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Contact an experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your rights and next steps in pursuing compensation for your injuries.

In many motorcycle accidents, victims may be too injured to complete these steps on their own.

In such cases, family members or legal representatives should step in to gather information and seek legal counsel, allowing the injured person to focus on their recovery while an experienced attorney handles the legal aspects of the case.

Gathering Evidence for Motorcycle Accident Claims

Collecting evidence is a critical part of building a strong motorcycle injury claim.

The right evidence can help establish fault, demonstrate the extent of your injuries, and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Without sufficient evidence, it can be difficult to prove liability or the full impact of the accident on your life, making it essential to act quickly and thoroughly when gathering information.

Possible evidence in a St Louis motorcycle accident claim may include:

• Medical Records: Detailed records of your injuries and treatments, crucial for demonstrating the impact of the accident.

• Police Reports: Official documentation of the accident, including fault determination and witness statements.
• Photos and Videos: Images of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from individuals who saw the accident or its aftermath, providing valuable insight.
• Expert Testimony: Input from accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals to support your claim.
• Insurance Correspondence: Communications between you and insurance companies, documenting the process and any settlement offers.

Damages in Motorcycle Accident Cases

In legal terms, “damages” refer to the financial compensation awarded to a victim for the losses suffered as a result of an accident.

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to recover various types of damages, which are designed to cover both the economic and non-economic impacts of the crash.

Damages aim to make the victim financially whole again, addressing everything from medical expenses to emotional suffering.

Possible damages in motorcycle personal injury lawsuits may include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past, current, and future medical bills related to the injury, including surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Recovery for income lost during recovery, as well as potential future earnings if the injuries prevent returning to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages awarded for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath.
• Property Damage: Compensation for repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact of the injuries on relationships, particularly the loss of companionship with a spouse.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: Damages for lasting physical impairments or visible scarring that affect the victim’s quality of life.

The Legal Process for St Louis Motorcycle Accident Claims

The legal process after a serious motorcycle accident can be overwhelming for people dealing with severe injuries and substantial damages.

A motorcycle accident claim involves not only determining who was at fault but also proving the extent of your injuries and losses to ensure you receive fair compensation.

In Missouri, motorcycle accident claims often fall under personal injury law, which requires victims to demonstrate that the at-fault party was negligent and that their negligence directly caused the accident and injuries.

When a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, victims may pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit, which is a legal action taken to resolve disputes between private parties.

The goal of a civil lawsuit in a motorcycle accident claim is to recover financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Understanding the steps involved in a lawsuit is crucial for accident victims as they move forward with their claims.

The legal process following a motorcycle accident in St Louis includes the following steps:

1. Consult with a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Contact an experienced attorney to assess the viability of your claim and discuss legal options.
2. Case Investigation: Your lawyer will gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build your case.
3. Filing the Claim: Your attorney will formally file the claim with the responsible party’s insurance company and attempt to negotiate a settlement.
4. Filing a Lawsuit: If settlement negotiations fail, a formal lawsuit is filed in civil court, and the legal process begins.
5. Discovery Phase: Both parties exchange relevant information, including depositions, interrogatories, and documents that support their case.
6. Settlement Negotiations or Trial: The case may settle at any point before trial. If not, both sides present their arguments, and the case is decided in court.

How Long Do You Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Missouri?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit is generally five years from the date of the accident.

The specific law in Missouri regarding the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including motorcycle accident lawsuits, is found under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 516.120.

This means that victims have five years to initiate legal action or they risk losing the right to seek compensation for their injuries and damages.

There are certain exceptions that could extend the deadline, such as if the injured party is a minor or if the defendant leaves the state.

It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame.

Motorcycle Laws and Insurance Requirements in Missouri Explained

Understanding Missouri’s motorcycle laws and insurance requirements is important for all riders to ensure their safety and compliance with state regulations.

Missouri imposes specific rules regarding helmet use, insurance coverage, and equipment standards to protect both motorcyclists and others on the road.

Motorcycle riders in Missouri should also be aware of the licensing process and legal obligations when operating a motorcycle in the state.

Failing to follow these laws can result not only in fines but can also jeopardize a rider’s ability to seek compensation if they are involved in an accident.

Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Missouri:

• Riders aged 26 and older with a valid Class M license or endorsement can operate a motorcycle without a helmet if they have health insurance that covers motorcycle accident injuries.
• All passengers, regardless of age, must wear DOT-compliant helmets.

Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Missouri:

• Motorcyclists must carry at least:
  • $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person
  • $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
  • $25,000 in property damage liability per accident
• Uninsured motorist coverage is also mandatory, with minimums of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.

Motorcycle Licensing in Missouri:

• A Class M motorcycle license or permit is required to operate a motorcycle on public roads.
• Riders can apply for a temporary instruction permit at 15½ years of age.

Motorcycle Lane Splitting Laws in Missouri:

• Missouri law does not explicitly permit or prohibit lane splitting. However, engaging in lane splitting may impact fault determinations in the event of an accident.

Motorcycle Equipment Requirements in Missouri:

• Motorcycles must be equipped with:
  • Headlights
  • Taillights
  • Horn
  • Muffler
  • Brake lights
  • Front and rear brakes

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents pose a unique and serious risk to riders due to the lack of protection compared to other vehicles on the road.

Even with helmets and safety gear, motorcyclists are highly vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of a crash.

Motorcycle accidents can happen suddenly and are often unpredictable, whether caused by other drivers’ negligence, road hazards, or unexpected weather conditions.

The physical impact of a motorcycle accident can be devastating, leaving riders with long-term medical challenges and a difficult road to recovery.

Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken or fractured bones
• Road rash and severe skin abrasions
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Severe lacerations
• Disfigurement or amputations
• Soft tissue injuries
• Whiplash
• Nerve damage
• Facial injuries, including fractures and dental trauma
• Burns from fires or fuel spills
• Pelvic and abdominal injuries
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Reach out to our team of experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorneys for a free consultation if you’ve been harmed in a motorcycle crash at no fault of your own.

We understand the serious injuries and life-altering consequences related to St Louis motorcycle accidents, and we are here to help you through the legal process.

Contact us today or use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for a motorcycle accident claim.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can happen under a variety of circumstances, many of which are unpredictable and beyond the rider’s control.

Unlike car accidents, motorcyclists are more exposed and thus face higher risks when encountering road hazards, negligent drivers, or sudden changes in weather conditions.

The causes of these accidents often stem from a combination of factors, including other drivers’ failure to notice motorcycles or improper road maintenance.

Understanding the common types and causes of motorcycle accidents can help both riders and others on the road become more aware and take steps to prevent such dangerous situations.

Common types and causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Left-Turn Collisions: These occur when a vehicle making a left turn fails to see an oncoming motorcycle, resulting in a collision. This is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents.
• Head-On Collisions: In these accidents, a motorcycle crashes head-on with another vehicle. Due to the lack of protection for the motorcyclist, head-on collisions are often fatal or lead to severe injuries.
• Lane-Switching Accidents: When a vehicle changes lanes without noticing a motorcycle in its blind spot, the sudden shift can lead to a serious crash.
• Rear-End Collisions: Even a low-speed rear-end collision can cause a motorcyclist to be thrown from their bike, leading to serious injuries.
• Cornering Accidents: Motorcycles are more vulnerable to losing control on sharp turns or corners, especially when road conditions are poor or if the rider misjudges the turn.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents: In some cases, motorcyclists may lose control of their bike due to road hazards like debris, potholes, or slick surfaces, leading to accidents that don’t involve other vehicles.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed or dangerous driving behavior can lead to loss of control or decreased reaction time, increasing the risk of an accident.
• Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers pose a significant threat to motorcyclists, and riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs can drastically reduce a rider’s ability to operate safely.
• Distracted Driving: Motorists who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted may fail to see motorcycles, leading to dangerous collisions.
• Doored Accidents: When a driver or passenger opens a car door into traffic without checking for motorcycles, it can result in a direct collision with a passing motorcyclist.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or snow can create slippery roads and reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of a motorcycle crash.

TorHoerman Law: Your St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer

At TorHoerman Law, our team of St. Louis Personal Injury Attorneys have decades of experience seeking compensation for motorcyclists injured at no fault of their own.

Our experienced team understands the short- and long-term impacts of motorcycle crash injuries and promises to work hard in order to secure the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care.

If you have suffered injuries or if your loved one has tragically passed away in a fatal motorcycle accident, you may be eligible to file a claim and seek compensation.

Reach out to our law firm for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page for a free case evaluation to find out if you qualify for a St Louis motorcycle accident claim instantly.