If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, understanding the tactics insurance companies use can make the difference between a fair settlement and an unjust denial of your injury claim. Navigating insurance companies and legal jargon can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and emotional trauma from an accident.

You don’t have to go it alone, we’re here for you and ready to help.  Contact us today at 816-203-0143 for a free confidential consultation with our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys.

Understanding Motorcycle Insurance in Missouri & Kansas

Insurance companies are businesses first and foremost.  Their primary objective is to minimize payouts and maximize profits.  They employ a variety of strategies and tactics designed to limit their financial exposure, especially after motorcycle accidents where injuries are often severe and long-lasting.  

As a motorcycle rider, understanding these tactics is the first step to protecting yourself and ensuring you receive the full and fair compensation you’re entitled to.

Common Insurance Tactics Against Motorcycle Riders in Missouri & Kansas

  • motorcyle helmet on ground in accident with carPlacing Blame on the Rider:  One of the most common insurance tactics we see at our personal injury law firm is placing the blame on the motorcyclist. Insurers may argue that the rider was speeding, not wearing a helmet, or engaging in other risky behaviors at the time of the accident.  They may even try to exploit societal biases against motorcyclists, playing on the notion that riding a motorcycle is inherently risky behavior.
  • Rushing Settlement Offers:  In the immediate aftermath of an accident, insurance companies may rush to make a settlement offer.  They hope that, in your vulnerable state, you’ll accept their offer before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and damages.  These initial offers are often far less than what you are entitled to under Missouri or Kansas law.
  • Denying Liability:  The insurer may outright deny their policyholder’s liability, even when evidence suggests otherwise.  They may dispute the facts of the accident, assert that their policyholder’s actions did not cause your injuries, or claim that the accident was unavoidable due to factors outside their policyholder’s control.
  • Delaying the Claim Process:  The insurance company may deliberately drag out the claim process, hoping you’ll grow impatient and accept a lower settlement.  Additionally, delays can bring you closer to the statute of limitations, potentially barring you from legal recourse at all.
  • Misinterpreting Medical Records:  Insurers may try to use your medical records against you, suggesting pre-existing conditions were the cause of your injuries or that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.

How to Protect Yourself After a Kansas City Motorcycle Crash

  • Retain our Personal Injury Attorney:  Hiring our motorcycle accident attorney will provide invaluable assistance in navigating the claims process and countering insurance company tactics.  

Our personal injury attorney is experienced in handling Kansas and Missouri injury cases involving motorcycles and will:

- investigate the crash and establish liability

- help evaluate and estimate the value of your claim

- negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf

  • Maintain Detailed Records:  Document everything related to the accident, including photos of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, medical records, and receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses.  These records are important evidence in proving your claim.
  • Do Not Accept the First Offer:  The initial settlement offers are often lowball amounts designed to quickly close the case.  Consult with our personal injury attorney before accepting any offer.
  • Pursue Immediate and Consistent Medical Attention:  Immediate medical attention is not only crucial for your health but also creates a medical record of your injuries directly linked to the accident.  Following medical advice and keeping all appointments helps to avoid claims of exaggerated injuries.
  • Be Cautious in Your Communications:  Anything you say to the insurance company can be used against you.  Let our personal injury attorney handle all communications with the insurance company after the motorcycle crash.

Riding a motorcycle should not place you at a disadvantage when dealing with insurance companies.  If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t become a victim of insurance tactics designed to minimize your compensation.  

Reach out to our personal injury attorney today at 816-203-0143 for the knowledge, professional help and compensation you deserve.

 

Call Us Today, Our Attorneys in Missouri & Kansas Can Help

If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, you need to talk with our personal injury attorneys who understand the complexities of motorcycle accident claims.   Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys are licensed in Kansas and Missouri and can help you navigate the insurance claims process, handle the insurance company, and fight for your rights to fair compensation.

Our firm is dedicated to ensuring our clients receive the compensation they deserve.  We understand the challenges you’re facing and are committed to providing the support and representation you need.  

Don't face the insurance companies alone. Reach out to us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Call us at 816-203-0143 or fill out our online contact form.  You can also instantly download our free e-book Crash Course:  9 Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Injury Claim.  Together, we can protect your rights.

 

Kevin J. McManus
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Kevin McManus is an accident injury and disability lawyer in Kansas City, MO, and Overland Park, KS