Tom Dickerson
Tom Dickerson is a trial attorney and co-founder of Dickerson Oxton, where he focuses on personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury litigation. Since launching the firm with Chelsea Oxton Dickerson in 2010, Tom has helped recover millions of dollars for injured clients through aggressive advocacy and courtroom experience. Known for his client-first approach, he is dedicated to standing up for individuals and families against insurance companies and large corporations.
On May 1st, 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 50 percent of all those who die in traffic accidents are “vulnerable road users.” Motorcyclists fall into this broad category. While the WHO states that correct motorcycle helmet use can decrease the risk of death and brain injury, the factors that cause motorcycle accidents are often completely out of riders’ control. Negligent drivers frequently cause motorcycle accidents, and the victims of these crashes face life-altering injuries that may stay with them for the remainder of their lives.
After their accident, a victim might consider hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Kansas City to pursue compensation, closure, and accountability. How exactly can a motorcycle accident lawyer help? What are the advantages of hiring one of these legal professionals? A consultation with Dickerson Oxton may provide further insights into questions such as these. This personal injury firm has over eight decades of combined experience, with over $100 million recovered on behalf of injured victims. Take the conversation beyond online research by contacting Dickerson Oxton at (816) 542-6599.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Guide You Through the Entire Process
A motorcycle accident lawyer can guide a victim through the entire process of pursuing compensation. This includes gathering evidence, negotiating for a financial settlement, and (if necessary) going through a personal injury trial. Motorcycle lawyers can also help victims avoid common mistakes while adhering to strict deadlines. Without a motorcycle lawyer by their side, a victim might inadvertently receive insufficient compensation. While it is theoretically possible to navigate a motorcycle accident claim without a lawyer, the stakes are too high for most injured victims to risk losing out on crucial future compensation.
Summary of the Reasons to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Kansas City may help injured motorcyclists pursue compensation after crashes caused by negligent drivers, defective products, or other liable parties in Kansas and Missouri.
- Motorcycle accident lawyers evaluate whether a personal injury lawsuit is possible by identifying potentially liable parties, including negligent motorists, motorcycle manufacturers, and entities responsible for hazardous road conditions.
- Motorcycle accident lawyers gather evidence such as witness testimony, video footage, medical records, photographs, and employment records while using the discovery process to obtain additional evidence from defendants.
- Motorcycle accident lawyers assist with settlement negotiations, personal injury trials, statutes of limitations, and other procedural issues that may affect compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Dickerson Oxton is a personal injury law firm that serves motorcycle accident victims throughout Kansas and Missouri and provides information about legal options related to motorcycle accident claims.
Reason One: A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You Determine Whether a Lawsuit Is Possible
First, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help a victim determine whether a lawsuit is possible. They often impart this information during an initial consultation. When a victim schedules a consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer, they may have an opportunity to discuss their
accident in more detail, ask any pressing questions, and learn more about the process ahead.
During these initial discussions, a key question to address is whether any party contributed to the motorcycle accident. Sometimes, a motorcycle accident is clearly caused by a negligent driver, such as a drunk motorist or distracted trucker. In other situations, the involvement of negligent parties may be more subtle. For example, a motorcyclist may have been forced off the road by a drowsy driver who veered into their lane. Even if no contact occurred, a lawsuit could still be possible. Aside from motorists, other parties may also be liable for motorcycle injuries. For example, the accident may have been caused by a negligent motorcycle manufacturer or confusing road signs.
Reason Two: A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You Gather Evidence
A motorcycle accident lawyer can also help a victim gather evidence. This evidence might include witness testimony, video footage, medical records, pay stubs, photos of the crash scene, and much more. The most appropriate evidence depends on the unique circumstances of each case. During the pre-trial “discovery” phase, a lawyer can request and obtain relevant evidence from the defendant. A lawyer can also help a victim understand what type of evidence they actually need.
Reason Three: A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Negotiate on Your Behalf
According to the National Judicial College (NJC), juries decide fewer than half a percent of all civil cases in most jurisdictions. In other words, a motorcycle accident trial is a rare occurrence. Victims are much more likely to negotiate with insurance providers and defendants for financial settlements instead. Settlement negotiations still require careful attention, however, and a motorcycle accident lawyer can guide victims through this process. Often, victims unwittingly accept lowball settlements that do not cover their full damages. A motorcycle accident lawyer can push for a higher sum, potentially maximizing the settlement and ensuring the victim has enough to cover future lost wages, medical bills, and other damages.
Reason Four: A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Represent You During a Trial
While civil trials might be exceedingly rare, they are not impossible. If negotiations break down for whatever reason, your motorcycle accident lawyer can represent you during the ensuing personal injury trial. This process is complex, and it is subject to more rules and regulations than the more informal settlement negotiation process. A motorcycle accident lawyer can handle opening/closing arguments, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and much more. The goal is to secure a positive “verdict” from the jury, ensuring enough compensation to cover all damages.
Reason Five: A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You Avoid Common Mistakes
Finally, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help a victim avoid various common mistakes during this legal process. One of the most problematic issues for victims is the statute of limitations. If a victim waits too long after their motorcycle accident, they may lose the right to sue and obtain compensation. A lawyer can keep a victim informed about these deadlines. Another common mistake is to accept a lowball settlement offer, and a lawyer can push back while counter-offering a higher sum.
Learn More About Motorcycle Accident Lawyers With Dickerson Oxton
While hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Kansas City offers many universal advantages, the specific benefits of legal counsel largely depend on the lawyer the victim chooses. Some lawyers are more experienced than others. Some may have handled motorcycle accident cases in the past, while others may be relatively new to this particular practice area. Some may be more comfortable during trials, while others may be more adept during settlement negotiations. Due to these variable factors, it makes sense for a victim to discuss their unique circumstances, goals, and priorities with motorcycle accident lawyers instead of relying entirely on online research. To take this conversation further, consider contacting Dickerson Oxton at (816) 542-6599. We serve motorcycle victims in Kansas and Missouri.
Common FAQs About Motorcycle Accident Law, Liability for Motorcycle Crashes, and Personal Injury Lawyers
The following frequently asked questions address common legal issues related to hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer after a motorcycle accident in Kansas City, Kansas, or Missouri.
Why Do People Hire A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer After A Crash?
Many people hire a motorcycle accident lawyer after a crash because motorcycle accident claims often involve complex liability questions, significant injuries, insurance disputes, and procedural deadlines. A motorcycle accident lawyer may assist with investigating the collision, identifying liable parties, and pursuing compensation for damages.
Can A Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit Be Possible Even If The Vehicles Never Touched?
Yes, a motorcycle accident lawsuit may still be possible when another party’s negligent actions force a motorcyclist into a crash without direct vehicle contact. Evidence showing that a negligent driver created a hazardous situation could support a personal injury claim in some circumstances.
What Evidence Is Important In A Motorcycle Accident Case?
Important evidence in a motorcycle accident case may include witness statements, photographs, video footage, medical records, employment records, police reports, and physical evidence from the crash scene. The specific evidence required often depends on the circumstances and legal issues involved in the motorcycle accident claim.
Why Do Most Motorcycle Accident Cases End In Settlements?
Most motorcycle accident cases end in settlements because negotiated agreements generally resolve personal injury claims without requiring a civil trial. Settlement negotiations often focus on compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other accident-related damages.
What Happens If A Motorcycle Accident Case Goes To Trial?
A motorcycle accident trial involves presenting evidence, examining witnesses, making legal arguments, and asking a jury or judge to determine liability and damages. Motorcycle accident lawyers may represent injured individuals throughout the litigation process and address procedural requirements in court.
Why Is The Statute Of Limitations Important In A Motorcycle Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations is important because it establishes the deadline for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit and may limit the ability to seek compensation if the deadline expires. Statutes of limitations vary by jurisdiction and can significantly affect personal injury claims in Kansas and Missouri.
How Can A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help During Settlement Negotiations?
A motorcycle accident lawyer may help during settlement negotiations by evaluating damages, communicating with insurance companies, reviewing settlement offers, and negotiating for compensation that reflects the losses associated with the motorcycle accident. Legal representation may also help individuals avoid accepting insufficient settlement offers.
Can a Personal Injury Law Firm Help After A Motorcycle Accident In Kansas City?
Consider visiting with an experienced attorney at Dickerson Oxton to learn more about legal options that may be available after a motorcycle accident in Kansas City, Kansas, or Missouri. The attorneys at Dickerson Oxton work to ensure individuals understand their legal rights and possible avenues for pursuing compensation related to motorcycle accident injuries.