Wichita Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Protecting the Rights of Riders in Our City

As Wichita’s trusted motorcycle accident attorneys, the team at DiPasquale Moore is committed to providing strong legal support to motorcycle accident survivors and the families of motorcyclists who passed away in wrecks. With a long history of successful case results, we are dedicated to fighting for every penny that you deserve. Our attorneys combine extensive experience, comprehensive knowledge of Kansas law, and a tenacious approach to fighting for your rights. Begin your recovery journey with us.

Call (316) 888-7500 or contact us online today for a free consultation.

When Drivers Cause Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common, and a significant proportion of these accidents are caused by motorists in cars and trucks, rather than the motorcycle riders themselves. Motorcycles, due to their smaller size and less visibility compared to larger vehicles, often get overlooked on the road, leading to collisions. Many times, it’s the actions of other drivers that result in these wrecks, which is the opposite of what the average insurance company might argue.

The mistakes drivers make that can lead to motorcycle accidents include:

• Unsafe left-hand turns: This is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Drivers often misjudge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle or fail to see it at all, leading to collisions when they make left-hand turns without a green arrow.
• Tailgating motorcyclists: Due to their lighter weight, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars or trucks. When drivers tailgate motorcyclists, they may not have enough time to brake safely, resulting in rear-end collisions.
• Driving while texting: Distracted driving, especially texting while driving, significantly increases the risk of accidents. Failing to keep their eyes on the road, drivers often overlook motorcyclists, causing collisions.
• Opening car doors into traffic: “Dooring” accidents happen most often in urban areas with street parking. Drivers and passengers may open their car doors into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist without checking for traffic first.

Serious Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Wrecks

At DiPasquale Moore, we are not deterred by the complexity or severity of a case. We have a proven track record in handling catastrophic injury cases that many other law firms might find overwhelming. Our seasoned attorneys have the experience, resources, and determination to handle cases involving severe injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents. We understand the far-reaching impact these injuries can have on your life, and our goal is to secure the maximum compensation you need to recover.

Damages in a car accident Serious injuries that can be caused by a motorcycle accident include:claim can include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Even with a helmet, a motorcyclist can suffer a TBI in an accident. This can lead to long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, and personality changes.
• Neck injuries: Neck damage can range from whiplash to more severe injuries like fractures or spinal cord damage.
• Spine injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or full paralysis, requiring lifelong care and potentially leading to significant lifestyle changes.
• Broken bones: Motorcyclists often suffer from broken bones in accidents, particularly fractures to the arms, legs, or ribs. These injuries can require extensive recovery periods and sometimes result in permanent disability.
• Road rash: Road rash is a severe skin abrasion caused by sliding across the pavement during an accident, which can lead to dangerous infection and permanent scarring.

Who Pays for Your Losses?

After a motorcycle accident, the party found to be at fault for the accident is typically responsible for paying your losses, usually through their insurance company. If the at-fault party is uninsured, underinsured, or cannot be identified (as in a hit-and-run), you may need to seek compensation from your own insurance company if you have the appropriate coverage such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Of course, the process of getting the compensation they owe you will likely not be that simple. You can expect that the at-fault party will resist paying for your damages, even though they should rightfully pay them.

Some of the usual damages that can be claimed in a motorcycle accident include:

• Medical expenses: These include costs for immediate medical care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical expenses related to the accident.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you’ve lost during your recovery period. You might be able to recover future lost income, too.
• Pain and suffering: This type of non-economic damage considers the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the accident and the resulting injuries.
• Motorcycle repairs: The cost to repair or replace your motorcycle can also be included in your claim, but it can be considered a separate property damage claim.

Does Kansas Require Motorcycle Helmets?

In Kansas, the law regarding motorcycle helmets is age-specific. Riders who are 17 years old or younger are required by law to wear a helmet while operating or riding on a motorcycle. However, for riders who are 18 years old or older, wearing a helmet is optional and not mandated by state law. Despite this lax rule, it’s strongly recommended to wear a helmet at all times when riding a motorcycle given the significant protection they provide in case of an accident. Wearing a helmet can also help keep your liability lower if you are in a wreck.

Is Lane-Splitting Allowed in Kansas?

In Kansas, the practice of lane-splitting, where a motorcyclist rides between lanes of slow-moving or stationary vehicles, is not legally permitted. While the law does not explicitly mention lane-splitting, it’s generally interpreted under the state’s requirement for all vehicles to stay within a single lane as much as possible. Therefore, motorcyclists engaging in lane-splitting could potentially be cited for failing to drive within a single lane or reckless driving. If a crash occurs and the motorcyclist was lane-splitting at the time, then it could also increase the rider’s liability or fault.

Single-Vehicle Motorcycle Accident Claims

Not all motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle. Single-vehicle accidents, such as those caused by road defects or a defective motorcycle, can be just as devastating.

When a poorly maintained road or a defectively manufactured motorcycle is to blame for an accident, the government entity responsible for road maintenance or the motorcycle manufacturer could be held liable. These cases can be complex and challenging due to the involvement of large entities and the detailed investigations required. Or if a defective motorcycle part caused your wreck, then it might mean taking a case against the motorcycle manufacturer.

We’re Here to Support You – Call Today

Our Wichita motorcycle accident lawyers from DiPasquale Moore stand ready to support and guide you through the aftermath of a motorcycle wreck. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process, build a strong case, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Call (316) 888-7500 or contact us online today for a free consultation.