Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Claims in Wichita

Motorcycle accidents aren’t like fender benders in a sedan. They’re louder. Messier. More dangerous. And often, more misunderstood. 

One minute you’re riding down Douglas Avenue. The next, you’re in an ambulance wondering how long the hospital stay—and the bills—will last.

If you’ve been injured in a bike crash, you’re probably trying to make sense of what comes next. Unfortunately, it’s not always clear-cut. That’s why Wichita motorcycle accident lawyers spend a lot of time answering the same essential questions.

Let’s unpack the ones that matter most—before the insurance company tries to confuse you.

1. Do I Have a Valid Motorcycle Accident Claim?

If someone else’s negligence caused your accident—yes, you likely have a valid claim.

Common examples of driver negligence include:

• Failing to yield to a motorcyclist
• Distracted driving (hello, smartphones)
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Turning left across a rider’s path
• Following too closely

You don’t need to be 100% innocent to have a case. Kansas law allows injured parties to recover damages as long as they’re 50% or less at fault. If you were partially responsible, your compensation just gets reduced by your share of the blame.

2. What Should I Do Right After the Crash?

What you do in the moments and days after a motorcycle accident can shape your entire case.

Here’s a checklist:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical care, even if you feel “okay”
• Document everything—photos of the scene, damage, injuries, and road conditions
• Get witness information
• Avoid admitting fault (even casually)
• Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurer without legal advice

Oh—and keep that helmet. It may become evidence later.

3. What If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?

Kansas law requires motorcycle riders under 18 to wear helmets. For adults, it’s optional. So if you weren’t wearing one, that doesn’t automatically bar you from recovery.

However, the insurance company may argue that your injuries were worse because of the missing helmet. This is where having a lawyer helps—they can push back with medical experts and injury data to protect your claim’s value.

4. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Kansas?

You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Kansas.

That said, don’t wait. Building a strong case takes time, and evidence can disappear. Traffic footage gets erased. Witnesses move. Your own memory fades.

Starting early gives your legal team the best shot at securing full compensation.

5. What Compensation Can I Recover?

Your motorcycle accident claim could include damages for:

• Medical bills (ER visits, surgeries, therapy)
• Lost wages
• Future lost earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Disfigurement or permanent disability

Wichita motorcycle accident lawyers calculate these losses based on your unique situation—not just what the insurance adjuster is willing to offer.

6. Will I Have to Go to Court?

Not necessarily. Many motorcycle accident claims settle out of court during negotiations.

That said, if the insurance company won’t agree to a fair number—or disputes who was at fault—your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit. A strong case file can make all the difference in both scenarios.

7. Do I Really Need a Lawyer for This?

Technically? No. Realistically? Yes—especially with motorcycle claims.

Motorcyclists face bias. Insurance companies may view riders as reckless by default, even if the crash wasn’t their fault. And the injuries are often severe, meaning higher financial stakes—and more resistance from insurers.

Experienced Wichita motorcycle accident lawyers can:

• Gather evidence
• Work with accident reconstruction experts
• Handle aggressive insurance adjusters
• Make sure your rights—and your recovery—aren’t ignored

Final Word: Don’t Let Confusion Be the Roadblock

After a motorcycle crash, it’s easy to feel lost in paperwork, pain, and pressure. You didn’t ask for this mess—but you can take control of how it ends.

Getting clear answers is the first step. Getting the right help is the next.

Because the road to recovery shouldn’t be another obstacle course.