Many people enjoy freedom and relaxation in their recreational vehicles. Unfortunately, freedom and relaxation end when a recreational vehicle accident causes a lifelong disability, chronic pain, or death.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Kansas or Missouri recreational vehicle (RV) accident, you need the help of a qualified Kansas City recreational vehicle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
The experienced injury lawyers at Peterson & Associates, P.C. understand the complex laws governing recreational vehicle accidents in Kansas and Missouri. We're here to help you get the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Types of Recreational Vehicles
There are several types of recreational vehicles. The different types of recreational vehicles that are most common in Kansas City, Missouri, include:
- Travel trailers
- Toy haulers
- Class A motorhomes
- Class B motorhomes (Campervans)
- Class C motorhomes
- 5th wheel trailers
- Sports utility RV trailers
- Folding tent trailer RVs
Causes of RV Accidents
An RV accident can be severe and even deadly because of the large size and weight of recreational vehicles. Some of the most common causes of RV accidents in Kansas City include:
Distracted Drivers
Distracted drivers are a significant cause of RV accidents in Kansas City and throughout Missouri and Kansas. When drivers are not entirely focused on the road, they can easily miss important traffic signals, fail to maintain a safe following distance, and swerve out of their lane. Common distractions include texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, and attending to passengers or pets. These actions increase the likelihood of accidents and can result in devastating consequences.
Drunk Drivers
When a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their reaction time and judgment are impaired, making it difficult for them to control their vehicle. Drunk driving can result in devastating accidents that can cause serious injuries or fatalities for RV drivers, passengers, and others on the road.
Tired Drivers
Tired drivers can also cause RV accidents in Kansas and Missouri. Driving while fatigued can result in slower reaction times, reduced awareness of surroundings, and impaired judgment. This can lead to errors in judgment, such as failing to notice essential traffic signals or veering out of the lane.
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced drivers, such as those who have recently obtained their driver's licenses or have little experience driving on highways, can also contribute to RV accidents. These drivers may not know how to pass or share the road with an RV. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as sudden lane changes or failure to yield, resulting in accidents. It is important for all drivers, including those with less experience, to exercise caution when driving near RVs and to be aware of their limitations.
Mechanical Failure
Mechanical failure may be caused by defective parts or improper RV maintenance. When a mechanical failure occurs, an RV driver may lose control, crash with another vehicle or object, or drive off the road.
Poor Weather and Road Conditions
Bad weather can cause poor visibility, slippery roads, and traffic delays. Additionally, roads that are poorly maintained, have sharp turns, or steep inclines may pose a threat to large vehicles, such as RVs. Any of these factors can lead to collisions between RVs and other vehicles.
RV Accident Injuries
RV accident injuries can be painful, life-changing, or fatal. Whether you are an RV driver or passenger, you should be aware of potential injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage or bleeding
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputations
- Paralysis
- Death
What to Do After a Recreational Vehicle Accident
After a recreational vehicle accident, it is essential to:
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing to do after an accident is to seek medical attention. Medical providers can treat acute injuries and help you manage your pain. Also, medical professionals can examine you for injuries that may not immediately show symptoms. Prompt medical attention can prevent further harm and provide documentation of injuries that can be important for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Contact the Police
It's essential to contact the police as quickly as possible after an RV accident. The police investigate the cause of the crash, collect evidence, and file a report that could be useful to you later.
Document Everything
Gathering the necessary evidence to help your personal injury claim is crucial. This could include but is not limited to photos and video from the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records.
Contact a Kansas City Recreational Vehicle Attorney
If you've been involved in a recreational vehicle accident, you should contact an attorney immediately. It's beneficial to speak with an attorney before filing a claim because they can help you gather all the information required for your case and help you avoid potentially costly mistakes.
Benefits of Hiring a Kansas City Recreational Vehicle Accident Lawyer
An RV accident injury can be traumatizing. At Peterson & Associates, P.C., we understand what you are going through, and we will fight for your fair recovery of damages for things such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Pain and suffering
Additionally, we will:
- Handle all of the paperwork for you
- Negotiate with the insurance companies
- Protect your rights in court
- Work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome
Our personal injury attorneys have decades of experience representing accident injury victims of auto accidents and will ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
