What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Columbia
If you are wondering what to do after a motorcycle accident in Columbia, the attorneys at The Law Office of Chris Miller are here to help. Our compassionate motorcycle accident attorneys have helped injured riders across mid-Missouri recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering — and we can help you too.
We handle every motorcycle accident case on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover for you. Your first consultation is free.
Call (573) 499-0200 or contact us online for a free consultation today.
Step 1: Call 911 and Prioritize Safety
Health and safety come first. Call 911 immediately after the crash. If it is safe to do so, move away from traffic to prevent further harm. Do not move anyone with a suspected head or neck injury unless they are in immediate danger — movement can worsen spinal injuries.
Stay on the line with the 911 operator. They will request your location and details about those involved, and may guide you through managing bleeding or preventing shock. Emergency services will arrive as quickly as possible.
A police report will be taken at the scene. This report is one of the most important pieces of evidence in your case — make sure your account of what happened is documented accurately. You can obtain a copy of the crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol after the investigation is complete.
Step 2: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are physically able to do so, gather evidence before leaving the scene. This includes:
Photographs of the crash site, vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs
Photos of your visible injuries
The other driver’s name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number
Names and contact information of any witnesses
Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company at the scene or in the days immediately following. You are not required to do so, and anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.
Step 3: Get Medical Treatment — Even If You Feel Fine
Seek medical treatment as soon as possible, even if you do not feel seriously hurt. Many motorcycle accident injuries — including internal bleeding, soft tissue damage, and traumatic brain injuries — are not immediately apparent. Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or even days after a crash.
Getting prompt medical care creates a documented record linking your injuries to the accident. If you wait days or weeks to see a doctor, the insurance company will argue that your injuries were not caused by the crash or that they were not serious enough to require immediate attention.
Follow all treatment recommendations from your doctors, attend every follow-up appointment, and keep records of every medical visit, prescription, and out-of-pocket expense related to your injuries.
Step 4: Do Not Settle With the Insurance Company Before Talking to a Lawyer
Insurance adjusters will often contact motorcycle accident victims quickly with a settlement offer. These early offers are almost always far less than what you are actually owed. Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you cannot go back and ask for more — even if your injuries turn out to be more serious than initially thought.
Before you speak with any insurance representative, contact a Columbia personal injury lawyer. An attorney can review any offer, advise you on its fairness, and negotiate on your behalf to pursue full compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Motorcycle Accident in Columbia?
Missouri law allows injured motorcycle riders to recover damages for all losses caused by a negligent driver. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses — past and future, including emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, and medication
Lost wages and lost earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work
Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional distress
Property damage to your motorcycle and gear
Permanent disability or disfigurement
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule, meaning your recovery may be reduced if you are found partially at fault — but you can still recover even if you were partially responsible for the crash. An experienced attorney will work to minimize any fault attributed to you.
You should also be aware that Missouri requires all auto insurers to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. If the at-fault driver had inadequate insurance or no insurance at all, your own policy may provide additional compensation — another reason to have an attorney review your full coverage picture before settling.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Early
The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. Evidence disappears. Witnesses’ memories fade. Surveillance footage gets recorded over. Missouri’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally five years from the date of the accident, but waiting to act weakens your case.
At The Law Office of Chris Miller, we step in immediately to preserve evidence, handle the insurance companies, and protect your rights. You focus on recovering — we handle the fight.
Frequently Asked Questions: What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Columbia
What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?
Call 911 and make sure everyone involved receives medical attention. Once it is safe, gather evidence at the scene, document your injuries, and get the other driver’s information. Do not speak with the at-fault driver’s insurance company without first consulting an attorney.
Do I need a lawyer if the other driver was clearly at fault?
Yes. Even in clear-cut cases, insurance companies will look for ways to reduce or deny your claim. An attorney makes sure the full extent of your damages — including future medical needs and lost earning capacity — is properly valued and pursued.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Missouri law requires motorcycle riders to wear helmets. If you were not wearing one, the insurance company will try to use that against you. However, under Missouri’s comparative fault system, you can still recover compensation — your award may be reduced in proportion to any fault assigned to you. An attorney can help minimize this argument.
How long does a motorcycle accident claim take in Columbia?
Most claims are resolved within several months to a year, depending on the severity of injuries and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Cases involving serious or long-term injuries often take longer because it is important to understand the full scope of your medical needs before settling.
What does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident attorney?
At The Law Office of Chris Miller, we handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs and no hourly fees.
Call The Law Office of Chris Miller After Your Motorcycle Accident
Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident in Columbia can protect your life and your legal rights. From the moment you reach out, our team will investigate the crash, gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Do not wait to get the help you need. Contact The Law Office of Chris Miller today for a free consultation.
Call (573) 499-0200 or contact us online. No fee unless we recover for you.