Missoula Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Many motorcyclists live throughout the state and ride for their daily commute and recreational purposes whenever the weather permits. While bikers have many advantages on these vehicles, they also have a higher risk of suffering severe or fatal injuries when accidents occur with cars or trucks.

Knowing your rights and responsibilities to the roadways is the most effective way to protect yourself. When crashes happen because of another negligent motorist, you have the right to seek damages. One of our Missoula motorcycle accident lawyers could help you pursue compensation from the negligent party or negotiate a settlement offer. Schedule a meeting with one of our diligent personal injury attorneys for more information.

What Causes Motorcycle Crashes?

A wide range of issues can cause motorcycle crashes, and bikers need to be aware of the potential risks before going on the road. Driver carelessness can quickly turn into any vehicle collision, and some of the most typical causes of those involving motorcycles include:

  • Cars changing lanes without seeing the motorcycle or using their blinker
  • Vehicles making left turns without seeing the biker traveling in the opposite direction or misjudging the speed it is traveling
  • Running red lights, stop signs, or failure to yield
  • Sudden stops
  • Speeding and reckless driving
  • Aggressive driver actions, such as following too closely and weaving in and out of traffic

The most common cause of these accidents, however, is negligence. If a driver is distracted, texting while driving, or operating a vehicle under the influence, they could easily hurt a biker on the road.

A Missoula attorney could help by investigating the cause of the motorcycle crash and gathering the evidence to build a solid claim and prove liability.

Rules and Regulations

Motorcycle operators under 18 must always wear safety helmets. Studies prove that wearing protective headgear decreases the risk of life-threatening and fatal injuries, and federal and state agencies highly suggest that bikers of all ages use it. However, helmets are optional for riders over 18. The regulations require all motorcycles to have the following equipment:

  • A headlight illuminating at least 500 feet and must be on during the day and while traveling at night
  • A foot or hand break with a light reaching a minimum of 100 feet
  • Footrests for the operator and a second set for those wishing to carry passengers
  • A rearview mirror to ensure the biker can see behind them for a minimum of 200 feet
  • A working horn audible for at least 200 feet
  • A license plate verifying registration

Bikers must also obtain a driver’s license endorsement and insurance coverage before operating motorcycles throughout the state.

Motorcycle Endorsements

A driver’s license endorsement is a legal requirement for those wishing to travel on all state roads and highways on a motorcycle or motor scooter. Drivers must pass a written test and a road test and keep their license current.

Insurance Requirements

Motorcycle owners must obtain an insurance policy for lawful operation in the state. The suggested coverage amounts include $25,000 per person, with $50,000 per accident total to cover bodily harm and $10,000 for property damage. During the consultation, one of our motorcycle wreck lawyers in Missoula could answer specific questions about the process and statutes.

Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Missoula Today

Motorcycle operators enjoy freedom and other advantages other passenger cars fail to provide. However, unlike other vehicle drivers, bikers do not benefit from reinforced metal cages, seatbelts, or airbags when collisions occur and may sustain severe and life-altering bodily injuries.

You could be eligible to collect a settlement and hold the at-fault party responsible if someone else caused a crash. Schedule a consultation with one of our Missoula motorcycle accident lawyers for answers to your questions and to review your case and options.