Missouri Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Missouri's partial helmet law requires some riders to wear helmets while exempting others. Understanding exactly who is covered is important—both for compliance and for how it affects your injury claim if you're in an accident.

How Helmet Use Affects Your Claim

Even in states without helmet requirements, insurance adjusters often argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to head injuries, potentially reducing your compensation. An experienced attorney can counter these tactics.

Missouri allows lane filtering under specific circumstances—typically when traffic is stopped or moving very slowly. This is different from full lane splitting, as it's more restricted in when and how you can do it.

If you were filtering legally and were hit by another vehicle, you may have a strong case. The key is proving you were within the legal parameters at the time of the accident.

Statute of Limitations: 5 years

In Missouri, you have 5 years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could permanently bar you from recovering compensation.

Fault System: Pure comparative fault

Missouri uses pure comparative fault. You can recover damages even if you're partially at fault—your award is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. If you're 30% at fault for $500,000 in damages, you'd receive $350,000.

Minimum Insurance Requirements

Missouri requires minimum auto insurance coverage of $25,000/$50,000/$25,000. Unfortunately, these minimums often don't cover the full extent of serious motorcycle accident injuries. This is why it's important to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.