Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Kansas City, MO: Protecting Cyclists’ Rights and Pursuing Justice

Cycling has become more popular in Kansas City. In 2023, RideKC Bike's bikeshare system reported a 25% increase in total trips year-over-year in Kansas City, Missouri. This choice is often driven by the desire to live a healthier, more sustainable life. 

However, another fact that comes with the increase in riding bikes is the possibility of bicycle accidents. This is because cyclists are more vulnerable compared to other motorists. When cyclists get hit by larger vehicles, they have a higher chance of fatality due to their minimal protection. Even what is considered a simple bicycle accident can cause serious injuries.

It is not easy to deal with the aftermath of a bicycle crash, especially if you or a loved one sustained injury in the incident. Insurance companies often downplay injuries or even try to blame the cyclist for the accident. If victims don't have good legal representation, they may not be able to get the compensation they need to recover.

At Bautista LeRoy LLC, we help bicycle accident victims in Missouri protect their rights. Our lawyers have been working on personal injury, wrongful death, and bicycle accident cases for decades. We know what cyclists go through after a terrible bike accident. We can help you get justice from liable parties and compensation from insurance companies.

You don't have to fight this battle alone if you or someone you love has been hurt in a bike accident. Bautista LeRoy LLC is here to help you and protect your rights.

Contact us today at 816-221-0382 or visit our Contact Us page for a free consultation.

 

Why Choose Bautista LeRoy LLC

The lawyer you choose can make a big difference in your recovery, both financially and personally, if you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident. At Bautista LeRoy LLC, we have decades of experience between us, a proven track record in personal injury law, and a reputation for always standing up for accident victims in Missouri.

 

Decades of Experience in Personal Injury Law

Our attorneys have been assisting clients with cases involving wrongful death and serious injuries for many years. You must understand both traffic laws and how to file an injury case against someone when it comes to bicycle accidents. Whether these cases involve reckless drivers, badly constructed roads, or disputes with insurance companies, we have successfully handled their challenges. This foundation enables us to anticipate legal challenges and develop effective, successful strategies tailored to the particular needs of each client. Here are some of our successful case results.

 

Focused Experience in Bicycle Accident Cases

Our law firm has handled hundreds of bicycle accident cases over the years. We have helped people who were hurt in bike accidents caused by careless drivers, dangerous intersections, broken bike parts, and more. We know how to determine who is responsible, how much damage was done, and the severity of the accident. 

 

Client-First Approach

We think that having a lawyer should make things easier, not more complicated. That's why we only charge our clients if we win their case. We also pay for all of the costs of the lawsuit, so you don't have to worry about the financial burden while your case is still ongoing. We believe that everyone should be able to get justice.

 

Proven Results and Trusted Advocacy

Bautista LeRoy LLC has helped accident victims get millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts over the years. We are most proud of the trust our clients have in us. Here are some of our client testimonials: 

When you choose Bautista LeRoy LLC, you choose a partner who will fight for you every step of the way to make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. 

Call us now at 816-221-0382 or visit our Contact Us page for a free consultation about your case.

 

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Kansas City

Even though many cyclists ride their bikes safely, accidents still happen. There are many circumstances that lead to a bicycle accident. Knowing the most common causes of most bicycle accidents in Missouri, can help you understand the problems that cyclists face and why they often need a lawyer.

Motorist Negligence

Most bicycle accidents are often caused by careless drivers. Motorists who text while driving, those who don't yield at intersections, pass cyclists without giving them enough room, or speed through communities where kids commonly ride their bikes, are mostly liable for bicycle accidents. 

Dangerous Road Conditions

Potholes and gravel on the road can make it hard for bicycle riders to keep their balance. Also, missing signage and bad street lighting make bike accidents more likely.

Defective Equipment and Bicycle Components

Although it rarely occurs, defective bicycles or bicycle parts can also cause serious accidents. Some examples of this are brakes that don't work or improperly manufactured frames. Even helmets and other safety gear can have problems that make them less effective at protecting a rider in an accident. If faulty equipment causes an accident, victims may be entitled to sue the companies that made it under product liability law.

Increased Risks for Child Cyclists

Children are at risk in different ways than adults when they ride bikes. Because they are smaller, drivers may not be able to notice them as much. Aside from that, children also ride in unpredictable ways. Sometimes drivers are also less attentive around neighborhoods and school zones, where children ride the most. This combination puts child cyclists at a higher risk of being injured.

 

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

A cyclist can get several types of injuries following an accident. This is due to the fact that bicyclists don't have steel frames, airbags, or seatbelts to protect them. They only have a helmet and reflective gear. Due to the minimal protection around them, injuries sustained in bicycle accidents often become life-changing.

Head Trauma & Brain Injuries

Head injuries are the most common and serious result of bicycle accidents. Even when with a helmet, a traumatic brain injury can still occur. However, helmets greatly lower the risk of death. Victims may often get concussions or even skull fractures. They may also have memory loss, have trouble with their concentration, or suffer from permanent disability. Here is more information about brain injuries.

Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis

A direct hit to the back or neck can hurt the spinal cord. This type of injury can cause paralysis in some or all of the body. Most of the time, surgery and rehabilitation is needed for recovery. Aside from the physical problems, they also have to deal with the financial stress because these kinds of injuries are some of the most expensive and life-changing medical conditions.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Broken bones and fractures are common after a bicycle accident. When a cyclist falls or is thrown off their bike, they reflexively reach out their arms to stop the fall. This commonly hurts the wrists and shoulders. Part of the rehabilitation process may be surgery or months of physical therapy. They might also have stiffness or chronic pain even after their bones have healed.

Road Rash and Lacerations

People who fall from their bikes might slide across the pavement, which can create road rash. Some people might say that these kinds of skin injuries are not very serious. But if you don't treat it, it can cause infections, nerve damage, and permanent scars. If the person who got hurt has some major cuts, they may need stitches, skin grafts, or surgery to fix the damage.

Wrongful Death Cases

Sadly, some bike accidents end in death. After a serious bike accident, families often have to deal with the loss of a loved one. In some cases, the family of the person who died may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to obtain compensation.

Emotional Trauma & Long-Term Rehabilitation

People who were hurt in an accident may develop post-traumatic stress disorder. They may now be afraid of riding bikes again. They might need therapy to help them get their life back on track and get over these emotional traumas.

Most of the time, bicycle accidents are not minor. The injuries that victims sustain often need ongoing medical care. Other than that, they also have to deal with emotional trauma and financial burdens. Victims and their families need skilled legal help after a bicycle accident to get a rightful compensation for their continous healing. 

Contact us today at 816-221-0382 or visit our Contact Us page for a free consultation.

 

Legal Rights and Compensation for Victims

Cyclists in Missouri have the same legal rights as drivers to use public roads. They are not "lesser" people who drive. According to the State's traffic laws, bicycles are identified as vehicles. It means that drivers must respect cyclists' right-of-way. However, when drivers neglect this truth, accidents happen, and cyclists get injured.

 

Liability After a Bicycle Accident

Determining liability depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Most of the time, the negligent drivers are the ones responsible for causing the accidents. Some examples of this are DUI drivers, speeding vehicles, and inattentive drivers. But other people may also share the responsibility:

• Government - If missing signs or hazards that weren't fixed, like potholes, caused the accident.

• Manufacturers - If a broken bike item or faulty safety gear made the injuries worse in a bike accident.

• Drivers and their Employers - If trucks, buses, or rideshare vehicles hit cyclists.

A thorough investigation is often required to know all possible sources of liability.

 

Types of Compensation Available

The goal of injury claims is to get victims back to the way they were before the accident as much as possible. Cyclists may be able to get compensation for:

• Medical bills: Medical treatment can be very expensive because it includes everything from emergency care to long-term rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: Injuries could keep victims from working for a short time or even forever.
• Pain and suffering: Bicycle accidents bring both physical and emotional suffering
• Wrongful death: Families who lost a loved one in a fatal bike accident may be entitled to obtain compensation for burial costs, lost wages, and emotional pain.

Every accident is different. The compensation should cover the victim's current costs as well as the long-term effects of the accident on their life and work.

 

Why Insurance Companies Resist Fair Payouts

Insurance companies promise to assist you, but their priority is profit rather than justice. Insurance adjusters frequently try to reduce payouts after a bicycle accident through the following:

• Blaming the cyclist for the accident, even then, the cause is clearly the driver's negligence.

• Doubting how bad the injuries are or saying they were not caused by the accident but by a preexisting condition.

• Making quick, lowball offers to settle before the full extent of medical needs is determined.

This is why victims need to talk to an experienced bicycle accident lawyer before they talk to their insurance company. An attorney can make things fair and help cyclists and their families get the rightful compensation they deserve.

To get a free consultation about your case, contact us today at 816-221-0382 or visit our Contact Us page.

 

Challenges in Bicycle Accident Claims

Bicycle accidents deserve fair treatment. However, getting compensation after a bicycle crash often has its own set of unique challenges. Here are some of them:

Insurance Company Bias Against Cyclists

Even when drivers are clearly at fault, adjusters may claim that riders are the ones who are careless. They may say that since cyclists are more vulnerable on the road, they "should have been more careful." Because of this bias or claims, victims often get low settlements. 

Proving Fault When Liability Is Disputed

Determining liability is not that easy. The driver can say that the cyclist swerved without warning or went through a red light. If there isn't clear evidence, such as witness testimony or traffic footage, it may be challenging for victims to prove who was at fault.

Delayed Onset of Injuries and Proving Damages

Traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and internal bleeding are just a few of the injuries that may not be obvious right away after a bicycle accident. Insurance companies often use these delays to claim that the accident was not the cause of these types of injuries. It takes a lot of paperwork and input from medical experts to show how the accident is related to long-term medical needs.

Comparative Negligence in Missouri 

Missouri uses a comparative negligence system.  This means that if the cyclist is partly at fault, he will receive less compensation for sustained injuries. One example of this is if a cyclist did not wear reflective gear at night or ran a stop sign. When this happens, insurance companies might say that the cyclist is at fault for the accident. To keep these arguments to a minimum and protect the victim's recovery, the victim needs a good lawyer.

Complexities When Children Are Injured

When a child is injured in a bicycle accident, the legal process is more complicated. Courts and insurance companies treat these cases with special care. Also, the deadlines are different from those applied to adults.

 

Overcoming the Challenges 

Bicycle accident claims can be won despite these hindrances if you have the right legal representation. Our skilled legal team at Bautista LeRoy LLC knows how to fight insurance bias. We are to help bicycle accident victims get the full compensation they deserve in spite of these challenges.

 

About Bautista LeRoy LLC

Bautista LeRoy LLC was established in 2011. For more than ten years, the firm has been recognized as one of the leading personal injury law firms in Kansas and Missouri. In order to better serve our clients in the eastern side of Missouri, we opened a new office in the St. Louis Metro area in 2024.  Our commitment to personal attention and proven, award-winning service sets us apart from other personal injury law firms. Here is our complete list of awards and recognitions.

Our legal experience, however, goes back even further. Long before founding Bautista LeRoy LLC, we have been representing personal injury clients in Kansas City since the 1990s. Over the years, we have helped individuals and families recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and long-term suffering caused by the negligence or misconduct of others. We are currently representing injury clients and in active litigation in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Illinois, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Our results speak for themselves. We are recognized for taking on and winning cases against major corporations and institutions, including Norfolk Southern Railway, Wal-Mart, Toyota Motor Corporation, Uber Technologies, the Missouri Department of Transportation.

 

FAQs About Bicycle Accident Claims in Kansas City

When you are injured in a bike accident, you have countless questions. These are some of the answers to the most frequently asked questions that individuals in Kansas City ask following a bicycle accident.

 

What should I do if a car hits me while biking in Kansas City?

First, you need to call the police so that there is record of the accident since this is crucial for your claim. Then, get medical attention right away, even if you feel okay. Most injuries do not have immediate symptoms, and you should have a medical checkup. Obtain the driver's phone number and insurance information. Also, get some witness statements and photographs of the accident scene. Lastly, talk to a skilled bicycle accident lawyer before you speak with someone from the insurance company.

 

Can I still file a claim if I was not wearing a helmet during a bicycle accident?

Yes. Even if you were not wearing a helmet, you may still file for compensation. The defense may, however, make an argument that your lack of protective equipment aggravated your injuries. A good attorney can disprove these claims and make sure that you are not blamed unjustly.

 

Who can be held liable if the road itself caused the accident?

Poor design of roads, potholes, or dangerous bike lanes can all lead to accidents. Government agencies responsible in such cases can be held liable. However, it's important to act quickly because claims against government agencies are more complicated. Aside from that, these claims often have shorter deadlines.

 

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Missouri?

The deadlines are different in each state:

In Missouri, you generally have five years from the accident date to file a claim for personal injury.  That differs from Kansas, however, where the personal injury statute of limitations is only two years.

It is extremely crucial to contact an attorney immediately when injured from a bike accident caused by someone else's negligence, because failure to meet these deadlines might disqualify you from receiving compensation.

 

What if the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance?

You might still have options if the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance. A lot of cyclists are covered by their own car insurance or by the policy of a family member who lives with them. An attorney can help you find all possible sources of compensation.

 

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Missouri is a comparative negligence state.

Even if you were mostly to blame, you can still get compensation in Missouri. However, your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Compare that with Kansas, where recovery is barred if you are 50% or more at fault.

In these situations, it is very important to have a lawyer by your side because insurance companies often make a cyclist's share of responsibility seem bigger to lower payouts.

 

How long will my case take?

Every case is different. Some claims may be settled in a few months. Yet for others, especially those that go to trial, it may probably take a year or more. The timeline can change based on other circumstances, like how complicated the accident was. Your lawyer will fight for a quick resolution. However, they will never tell you to settle for compensation less than what you deserve.

 

What is the cost of hiring a lawyer for a bike accident?

Bautista LeRoy LLC and most other personal injury lawyers often work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not have to pay anything up front. The lawyer will only get paid if they win the case.

 

Conclusion 

Bicycle accidents in Kansas City are not minor accidents; the results can often change someone's life forever. Often, victims have to face serious injuries, high medical bills, and uncertainty about the future. Cyclists have little protection from large vehicles, so even a minor collision can cause a lot of damage. Unfortunately, a lot of riders have difficulties with insurance companies that try to downplay claims or shift blame.

That is why it is vital to have good legal representation. A lawyer who has handled a lot of bicycle accident cases can protect your rights. They can gather important evidence and talk to your insurance company on your behalf.  The right lawyer will ensure you do not have to deal with the financial and emotional stress on your own.

But time is not on your side. Skid marks and witness memories are all examples of evidence that can fade quickly. There are also strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits in both Missouri. In order to get the right compensation, you need to act quickly.

If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a bicycle accident, do not wait to get help. Call Bautista LeRoy LLC at 816-221-0382 right now or send us a message through our Contact page to get your free consultation.

Summary

Bicycles have become popular in Kansas City, as they can be a convenient type of transportation or equipment for exercise. With the increasing interest in people, there can also be a rise in bicycle accidents. When this happens, injuries that a cyclist might sustain can be severe because bicycles do not have the protection a vehicle can offer. 

Its medical and legal aftermath can be overwhelming to handle, especially if the injured victim is still recovering. This is where Bautista LeRoy LLC can help. We can handle the legal matters and represent clients to secure proper compensation and justice after an accident.

• Many bicycle accidents stem from:
• Distracted drivers
• Dangerous road conditions
• Defective bicycle
• Increased risks involving child cyclists

The law recognizes that cyclists have the same rights as other motorists. When tragedy strikes on the road, they can pursue legal action, especially if the cause of the accident was negligence. Cyclists can recover damages such as expenses from medical treatments, the wages an injured victim has lost and the pain they have suffered physically and mentally.

The attorneys of Bautista LeRoy LLC can guide injured clients. Bicycle accident cases also involve a complicated process that involves insurance companies, opposing parties and severe injuries. Our legal team has years of experience in handling these issues effectively. Call 816-221-0382 or visit their Contact page for clear guidance.

 

What Should I Do Right After A Bicycle Crash?

It can be hard to remain calm after being involved in a bicycle accident, but it can help you to think rationally and take these steps to protect your health and rights:

• Check for injuries
• Call emergency
• Get medical help
• Report the accident to the police
• Take photos of the scene and injuries

Can I Still Recover Compensation If I Was Partly At Fault?

In many states, such as Missouri, injured individuals can still recover damages even if they share responsibility for an accident. Compensation will be reduced depending on the level of your fault.

What Kinds Of Damages Are Available In A Bicycle Injury Case?

• Medical bills
• Payment for lost wages
• Reduced earning ability
• Property damage 
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term care or 
• Rehabilitation costs

How Do I Prove The Other Party Was At Fault?

In a personal injury case related to bicycle accidents, pieces of evidence are still important to prove that your injuries direcrty connected to the accident resulting from negligence. The legal authorities assess:

• Photos
• Witness statements
• Police reports 
• Medical records

Do I Need A Lawyer For A Bicycle Accident Claim?

Yes, especially when the legal process becomes complicated. For example, you suffered catastrophic injuries or disputes of liability arise.