As a motorcyclist in Missouri, you know that nothing compares to the freedom of the open road. Unfortunately, you also know that many drivers do not look out for you as they should. When a motorcycle accident happens, the challenges often continue long after you leave the scene. Beyond the physical recovery, many riders face an invisible hurdle: "biker bias."
Understanding "Biker Bias"
Biker bias is the unfair assumption that motorcyclists are inherently reckless, speed-oriented, or "risk-takers." This prejudice isn't just a social annoyance; it can actively jeopardize your legal rights. Because motorcycles are less visible and offer less protection than passenger vehicles, insurance adjusters and even law enforcement officers may subconsciously—or sometimes overtly—blame the rider for "coming out of nowhere" or failing to avoid a collision.
This bias often manifests in several ways:
Unfair Police Reports: If a rider is transported to the hospital before they can give their statement, the police report may rely solely on the driver’s narrative, which often frames the motorcyclist as the aggressor.
Aggressive Questioning: Insurance adjusters may use leading questions about your speed, gear, or lane position to subtly shift the blame onto you.
Lowball Settlement Offers: Insurers may offer a lower settlement based on the idea that you "assumed the risk" simply by choosing to ride.
Missouri's Pure Comparative Fault Rule
The impact of this bias is particularly significant because of Missouri’s pure comparative fault system. Under this law, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but are found 20% at fault because an adjuster argued you were "speeding," your recovery is slashed to $80,000. Insurance companies exploit stereotypes to push that percentage as high as possible, even when the other driver was clearly negligent.
Protecting Your Right to Fair Compensation
To fight back against these assumptions, you need undeniable evidence. At Lowe Dreesen Miller, we understand that most motorcycle crashes are caused by motorists failing to yield the right-of-way or making dangerous lane changes. We treat every crash scene with the precision it deserves, gathering photographs, witness statements, and expert reconstructions to prove the truth.
Work with a Team That Knows the Road
You shouldn't be penalized for your choice of vehicle. If you've been injured in an accident, our team at Lowe Dreesen Miller is ready to challenge the stereotypes and fight for the full compensation you deserve. We offer free initial consultations and a track record of standing up to powerful insurance companies.
Contact us today at (573) 888-8888 to schedule your free case review.