Why Motorcycle Accident Claims Are So Complex In Missouri

Motorcycle riders face some of the most devastating injuries on Missouri roads. Unlike drivers protected by steel frames and airbags, bikers are completely exposed. A single impact can result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. But here’s the hard truth: motorcycle accident claims in Missouri are far more complex than other vehicle accident cases.

At Sansone & Lauber, our job is to cut through the excuses, the delays, and the insurance games. We’ve seen how insurers try to exploit these complexities to avoid paying riders what they deserve.

In this blog, we’ll break down exactly why motorcycle accident claims in Missouri are so complicated, and more importantly, how an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can level the playing field.

Missouri’s Pure Comparative Fault Rule Complicates Motorcycle Claims

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system. This means that if a motorcyclist is found even partially at fault for the crash — whether it’s 10%, 30%, or 60% — their compensation is reduced by that percentage.

Insurance companies exploit this law aggressively. They argue that bikers:

• Were speeding

• Failed to signal

• Weren’t wearing visible gear

• Or “should have been more careful”

In reality, these claims are often exaggerated or unfounded. But unless you have an aggressive accident lawyer fighting for you, these arguments can slash your recovery.

The Bias Against Motorcyclists

Jurors, police officers, and even insurance adjusters often harbor bias against bikers. Too many people buy into the stereotype that motorcyclists are reckless risk-takers.

This bias leads to:

• Police reports unfairly blaming riders

• Insurance companies lowballing claims

• Juries doubting injured bikers’ testimony

At Sansone & Lauber, we don’t let these stereotypes dictate your case. We use hard evidence, crash reconstruction, and aggressive advocacy to destroy bias in the courtroom.

The Severity of Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle crashes almost always lead to serious or catastrophic injuries, such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

• Spinal cord damage and paralysis

• Compound fractures and amputations

• Severe road rash and disfigurement

• Wrongful death

These injuries require lifelong care, multiple surgeries, and massive medical bills. Calculating future damages is not straightforward. It takes expert testimony, medical specialists, and an attorney who knows how to project long-term costs into settlement negotiations.

Insurance Companies Play Hardball in Motorcycle Cases

Unlike car accident cases, insurers take an even tougher stance on motorcycle claims. They know payouts are likely higher because injuries are catastrophic. Their playbook includes:

• Delaying claims until victims are desperate

• Offering insultingly low settlements

• Arguing that the rider assumed the risk of injury

• Sending surveillance teams to “catch” you living life

Sansone & Lauber doesn’t just push back — we go on offense. We file aggressive claims, prepare for trial from day one, and force insurers to face real consequences if they don’t negotiate fairly.

Helmet Laws and Their Impact on Claims

Missouri’s current helmet laws add another layer of complexity. Riders over 26 with health insurance can legally ride without helmets. But if you weren’t wearing one, insurance companies will argue you “contributed to your own injuries,” even if the other driver was 100% at fault.

We counter this by:

• Bringing in medical experts to show injuries would have occurred regardless

• Arguing that helmet choice doesn’t excuse another driver’s negligence

• Using Missouri case law to shut down bad-faith arguments

Complex Liability Issues

Motorcycle crashes often involve multiple liable parties:

• Negligent drivers

• Commercial trucking companies

• Government entities (unsafe road conditions, lack of signage)

• Manufacturers (defective motorcycle parts)

Each defendant brings in their own team of attorneys, making claims far more complex. Without a strong accident lawyer, riders get buried in finger-pointing and denied justice.

Proving Damages Beyond the Surface

Motorcycle accident claims in Missouri aren’t just about medical bills. Riders are entitled to every category of damages available under Missouri law, including:

• Past and future medical expenses

• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Loss of enjoyment of life

• Wrongful death damages for families

But proving these requires expert witnesses, detailed economic analysis, and aggressive courtroom strategies.

The Role of Expert Witnesses

Motorcycle accident claims often depend on expert testimony:

• Accident reconstruction experts prove how the crash happened.

• Medical specialists outline future treatment needs.

• Economic experts project lost income and future costs.

Sansone & Lauber works with top experts across Missouri and nationally to build bulletproof cases.

Missouri’s Statute of Limitations Adds Pressure

In Missouri, injured bikers generally have five years to file a personal injury lawsuit. That may sound like a long time, but insurers drag out claims for years to wear victims down.

If evidence isn’t gathered quickly, critical details — like skid marks, surveillance footage, and witness statements — disappear. That’s why you need an attorney on your case immediately.

Wrongful Death in Motorcycle Crashes

When a motorcycle accident claims a rider’s life, families are left with unimaginable grief and financial ruin. Wrongful death claims in Missouri are some of the most complex cases we handle. Damages can include:

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Loss of income the rider provided

• Loss of companionship and support

These cases require aggressive litigation against insurers and defendants who will fight tooth and nail to minimize payouts.

Record-Setting Motorcycle Verdict: $14.2 Million Affirmed by Missouri Court of Appeals

One of the most powerful demonstrations of Sansone & Lauber’s mastery in handling motorcycle accident claims came from our landmark case in Phelps County, Missouri. In March 2021, together with co‑counsel Brent Sumner, we secured a staggering $14.2 million verdict on behalf of clients who suffered catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle crash — making it the largest verdict in Phelps County history and the highest car‑crash verdict in Missouri for 2021.

The insurance defense immediately attempted to overturn this record-setting victory. But on September 30, 2022, the Missouri Court of Appeals unanimously affirmed the verdict, rejecting all claims of legal error. That affirmation was more than a legal win — it was a resounding vindication of our aggressive trial strategy and deep expertise.

Even more, during the protracted appeals process, we ensured that interest continued to accrue on the jury award. Our clients obtained over $1 million in additional interest — demonstrating that a true fight doesn’t stop at verdict, it extends until fairness is paid in full.

Why This Result Matters

• Record-setting victory: A testament to our ability to outwork and outperform at trial in motor vehicle injury litigation.

• Unshakeable verdict: Affirmed unanimously on appeal — insurance lawyers couldn’t dismantle the justice we achieved for our clients.

• Maximized recovery: Securing accrued interest showed that we’re not just about winning verdicts, but about actual compensation—including every dollar you’re owed.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Insurance Companies Exploit You

Motorcycle accident claims in Missouri are complex because insurers, defendants, and even juries are stacked against riders. But complex doesn’t mean impossible. With the right motorcycle accident attorney, you can turn the tables and fight for maximum compensation.

At Sansone & Lauber, we’ve secured millions for injured riders and grieving families. We prepare every case for trial, and insurers know we won’t back down. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, call us immediately for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Call Sansone & Lauber today at (314) 863-0500 — No excuses. No delays. Just results.

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