# Actions to Take if You Are Partially Responsible in a Missouri Motorcycle Injury Case
Motorcycle collisions can be distressing and significantly impact your life, and the situation can become even more challenging if you think you might share some responsibility. In Missouri, personal injury claims involving motorcycles can be intricate, particularly when fault lies with multiple parties. Knowing the appropriate actions to take if you are partially responsible can safeguard your rights and secure just compensation for your losses and injuries.
## 1. **Obtain Prompt Medical Care**
Your health and well-being should always come first. Regardless of whether you feel you are partially responsible, it is vital to obtain medical care without delay following the accident. Some injuries may not be immediately visible, and a healthcare professional can accurately evaluate your situation. Moreover, medical documentation will be crucial evidence in your personal injury claim.
## 2. **Capture the Accident Scene**
If you are in a position to do so, document the accident scene as comprehensively as you can. Take pictures of the location, including vehicle positions, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Gather contact details from witnesses, and note any comments made by the other party involved. This evidence will be essential in assigning fault and negotiating a settlement.
## 3. **Notify Authorities About the Accident**
In Missouri, it is mandatory to report any vehicle collision that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. Reach out to local law enforcement or the highway patrol to file an accident report. When supplying your statement, be truthful and objective, but refrain from admitting fault or speculating about the incident’s causes.
## 4. **Seek Legal Advice from a Personal Injury Attorney**
If you think you may have some responsibility, it is crucial to seek legal counsel from a personal injury attorney specialized in motorcycle incidents. Missouri employs a “pure comparative fault” doctrine, meaning your compensation is adjusted according to your share of the fault. A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal proceedings, evaluate your case’s viability, and negotiate with insurance firms on your behalf.
## 5. **Familiarize Yourself with Missouri’s Comparative Fault Regulation**
Missouri’s pure comparative fault statute permits you to seek damages even if you are partially responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be lowered by your fault percentage. For instance, if you are deemed 30% responsible and the total damages are $100,000, you would receive $70,000 ($100,000 minus 30%).
It’s also important to understand that the other party may also share some responsibility, which can further influence the damage allocation. Your attorney will strive to lessen your fault percentage and enhance your compensation.
## 6. **Exercise Caution When Communicating with Insurance Companies**
Following the accident, you are likely to hear from insurance companies representing both your interests and those of the other party. Be wary when conversing with insurance adjusters, as they may try to minimize your injuries or place more blame on you. It’s wise to let your attorney manage all communications with insurance providers to protect your rights.
## 7. **Collect and Maintain Evidence**
Beyond the documentation you gathered at the accident scene, compile and safeguard any other evidence that could substantiate your claim. This may include medical documentation, repair quotes, receipts for personal expenses, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Keep a detailed log of your injuries, treatments, recovery journey, and any ramifications the accident has had on your daily activities.
## 8. **Refrain from Discussing the Accident on Social Media**
In this digital era, sharing personal experiences on social media is common. However, it is vital to steer clear of discussing the accident, your injuries, or any case specifics online. Insurance firms and opposing parties might monitor your social media for information that could be used against you. Even posts or comments that seem harmless could be misinterpreted and negatively affect your case.
## 9. **Get Ready for Settlement Discussions or Trial**
In numerous personal injury situations, parties manage to achieve a settlement prior to trial. Your attorney will negotiate with the other party’s insurance provider to arrive at a just settlement that reflects your injuries, damages, and level of blame. If a settlement is unattainable, your case may move to trial, where a judge or jury will make a determination.
## 10. **Remain Informed and Engaged**
Throughout the legal journey, stay updated and actively involved in your case. Keep in touch with your attorney, ask questions, and provide any extra information or documents as necessary. Being proactive and engaged will contribute to achieving the best outcome possible.
## Conclusion
Being partially accountable in a Missouri motorcycle accident does not preclude you from obtaining compensation for your injuries and damages. By
