Kansas City Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Kansas City Bicycle Accident Attorney

In the aftermath of a bicycle collision, it is easy to be overcome with uncertainty about how you will afford medical treatments or pay for missed time from work. A Kansas City bicycle accident lawyer can guide you through the injury process so you receive the full range of damages that you are owed. An attorney can assess your case and explain your options so you understand how you can reclaim the financial losses you suffered.

A Trusted Injury Firm Serving Injured Bicyclists in Kansas City

Following a bicycle injury in Kansas City, you are likely facing multiple challenges. The team of personal injury lawyers at Ley de lesiones de Northland has served the people of Kansas City for almost 30 years and can help you navigate your injury claim. We understand the tricks and games insurance companies play to minimize settlements, and we rely on our decades of combined legal experience to hold at-fault parties accountable for the physical and emotional harm they caused.

With over 60 years of combined legal experience, attorneys Eric E. Bartlett and Stephen L. Mowry have built a strong reputation for handling complex injury cases across Missouri. Both have been named Missouri/Kansas Super Lawyers and recognized among the region’s top attorneys by KC Magazine. Their decades of courtroom experience and consistent professional honors reflect the trusted, results-driven advocacy they provide to every client.

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Bicycle Collision Statistics for Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri, spans a vast network of more than 6,000 miles of paved streets, including 2,700 miles of primary and connecting roads and 3,300 miles through residential areas. Neighborhoods like Brookside, Ivanhoe, and the Historic Northeast face increased cyclist risk due to high-traffic corridors and limited bike infrastructure.

Nationwide, an estimated 46,195 cyclists were injured in 2022. Locally, on May 20, 2025, a 19-year-old cyclist was seriously injured after being struck by a car on U.S. Route 24 at Dover Drive in Independence, part of the Kansas City metro. These incidents underscore the need for improved safety on the streets for cyclists.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Accidents involving bicycles often happen when drivers fail to notice or respect cyclists on the road. One of the most common causes is a motorist turning in front of a bicyclist at an intersection or when exiting a driveway or parking lot.

Dooring accidents, where a driver opens a car door into a cyclist’s path, are another frequent source of injury, especially in urban areas. Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield are also major contributors.

In some cases, crashes happen because drivers misjudge a cyclist’s speed or because a driver runs a stop sign or red light. Many of these accidents occur on roads without bike lanes or clear markings, leaving cyclists more exposed. Understanding the cause of your accident can help determine who is legally responsible and what compensation may be available for your injuries and related losses.

Compensation You May Be Owed

Following a collision with a vehicle, injured cyclists may be eligible for compensation for their medical bills, future treatments, and lost wages while they recover. These damages are often paid by the at-fault party’s insurance carrier through a settlement. However, insurance settlements may not always reflect the full value of your financial losses, especially when injuries are severe or long-lasting.

If your attorney takes the at-fault driver to court, you may be eligible for compensation for non-tangible losses, such as pain and suffering. A serious injury can potentially lead to temporary or permanent loss of mobility, which can be accounted for in your court settlement. If the injury claim goes to trial, the courts may assess punitive damages against the defendant.

Understanding Missouri’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rules

Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence system when determining fault in personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents. This means that even if you were partially responsible for the crash, you can still recover compensation for your injuries.

However, the amount you receive from a settlement or favorable court verdict will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your total compensation would be reduced by 20%.

This rule is largely favorable to injured parties because it allows injured cyclists to pursue a claim even when they may have contributed to the collision, such as failing to use a bike lane or not wearing reflective gear. Insurance companies are well aware of this legal framework. They may try to shift the blame onto injured cyclists to reduce their payout.

Why You Need Legal Representation

Following a collision with a driver, it is critical to seek legal representation as soon as possible. An attorney is more than a representative. They are trusted advisors who have your interests at heart. They can review the evidence to evaluate the strength of your claim and advise you on your next steps accordingly.

Our attorneys are skilled negotiators. With the backing of strong evidence supporting your claim, they can pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier. If the negligent driver is underinsured or uninsured, they can take the driver to court through the filing of a civil claim. This would likely take place at the Jackson County Courthouse at 415 East 12^th Street in Kansas City.

The ultimate goal of our injury attorneys is to see that you are financially restored following a personal injury. Having a trusted ally during a difficult time can greatly reduce the stress and strain that you are under following a personal injury.

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Tips for Finding the Right Legal Representation

Finding the right injury attorney to take your case can play a critical role in the outcome of your injury claim. When choosing a lawyer after a bicycle accident, look for someone with experience handling injury claims involving cyclists.

Ask about their track record with similar cases and whether they have trial experience in the event that a settlement cannot be reached. Make sure the attorney is familiar with local traffic laws and has strong negotiation skills to deal with insurance companies.

Their client reviews, responsiveness, and communication skills should also be considered. A good lawyer should explain your options clearly and stay focused on maximizing your compensation throughout the process.

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How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a Bicycle Accident?

In Missouri, the compensation you receive depends on your injuries, lost wages, and the other party’s negligence. Missouri uses a pure comparative fault system, so you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Medical records, witness statements, and crash reports can all play a role in building your case.

Who Is Typically at Fault in a Bicycle Accident?

In Missouri, the person who violated traffic laws or acted negligently is often at fault. Drivers are often found at fault for failing to yield, turning without signaling, or distracted driving. Cyclists can also share responsibility if they disobey traffic signals. Police reports, witness accounts, and crash scene evidence can all be used to determine fault. The percentage of fault can affect your ability to recover compensation under Missouri law.

Does Insurance Cover Injuries from a Bicycle Accident?

Yes. In Missouri, the at-fault driver’s auto insurance usually covers a cyclist’s injuries. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own auto policy may provide coverage through UM/UIM benefits. Health insurance may also apply. Gathering evidence and filing a timely claim ensures you get the full benefits available. Always review all insurance policies involved after a bicycle accident.

Can I Recover Money for Injuries in a Bicycle Accident?

Yes. Missouri law allows injured cyclists to seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain. The key to securing compensation is documenting your injuries and collecting evidence that shows the driver’s negligence. This helps strengthen your claim and improve your chances for a favorable outcome in negotiations or court.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Missouri?

After a bicycle accident in Missouri, call 911 and request a police report. Get medical care right away, even for minor injuries. Exchange contact and insurance details with the driver. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and damaged gear. Don’t admit fault. These steps protect your health and create strong documentation that can help you recover damages if you decide to file a legal claim.

Connect with Northland Injury Law for Experienced Legal Support

A bicycle accident can leave you with lasting injuries, medical bills, and serious financial stress. If you were hit by a vehicle in Kansas City, you need legal representation from an attorney who understands how to hold drivers accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Northland Injury Law brings decades of experience representing injury victims across Kansas City and the surrounding areas. We know how to build strong claims that financially restore you from the physical, emotional, and financial harm you suffered. To work with a team that is trusted for honest advice, consistent results, and personal service from start to finish, contact our legal team today to schedule your free consultation.