Albia Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When disaster hits, motorcycle injury lawyers stand as unwavering defenders for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents allows them to manage legal challenges and secure the justice and compensation injured riders deserve.

Important Safety Tips and Legal Considerations for Beginner Motorcyclists

With today's economy, many people are finding motorcycles to be a useful and economical alternative to cars. In Iowa, weather can limit riding times, but during favorable years, like 2011, there can be many months of riding opportunities. Motorcycle riding offers several benefits, including less environmental impact, but it also comes with significant risks. 

Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

If you or a loved one has just purchased a motorcycle or is considering buying one, it's essential to understand the associated risks and safety measures. Unlike automobiles, motorcycles do not provide the same level of protection, leaving riders more vulnerable in the event of an accident. Here are some key safety tips to consider:

1. Ride with your lights on at all times: Increasing your visibility can help prevent accidents.
2. Wear protective clothing and gear: This includes a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes.
3. Follow all traffic laws: Adhering to traffic rules is crucial for your safety and the safety of others.
4. Be aware of your surroundings: Always stay alert to the movements of other drivers.
5. Never ride when impaired: Avoid riding when you have been drinking or are extremely tired.
6. Ensure your motorcycle is in good condition: Check all lights, tire pressure, and brakes before any ride.

Enjoying Motorcycle Riding Safely

Most importantly, enjoy the experience of riding, but always prioritize safety. Iowa personal injury attorneys Corey Walker and Erik Bair of Walker, Billingsley & Bair emphasize the importance of having the right information to protect yourself in case of an accident. They offer a free book on motorcycle safety and how to handle accident claims, which you can order to learn more from the comfort of your home.

Filing a Claim for Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Iowa

A motorcycle accident can leave victims and their families dealing with significant physical, financial, and emotional burdens. Motorcyclists, due to their lack of protection compared to car drivers, are vulnerable to catastrophic injuries such as head trauma, spinal cord injuries, road rash, and fractures.

Establishing the Other Driver’s Negligence

To recover damages after a motorcycle accident in Iowa, you must prove the other driver’s negligence. This involves demonstrating that the other driver breached their duty to drive safely, and this breach caused the accident. Evidence can include:

- Police reports: These can provide details about the cause and circumstances of the collision.
- Photos and videos: Visual evidence of the accident scene and injuries can be compelling.
- Eyewitness statements: Testimonies from witnesses can support your claims.
- Damaged vehicles: The condition of the vehicles involved can help establish fault.

Iowa's Helmet Laws and Negligence

Iowa does not have a helmet law, so motorcyclists are not required to wear helmets. However, not wearing a helmet can still impact an injury claim, especially if the injuries involve the head. Iowa follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning you can recover damages even if partially at fault, provided you are not more than 50 percent at fault.

For instance, if you weren't wearing a helmet and suffered a head injury, the court might assign a percentage of fault to you for not wearing a helmet. This percentage would reduce your damage award proportionally.

Types of Recoverable Damages

Economic damages can include medical bills, lost income, and future medical expenses. Catastrophic injuries often require long-term care, which should be considered when calculating your claim. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life, are also recoverable.

The Value of a Motorcycle Accident Claim with Permanent Injuries

Determining the value of a motorcycle accident claim is challenging, especially when permanent injuries are involved. No two cases are alike, and the severity and impact of injuries can vary widely.

Economic Damages from Permanent Injuries

Economic damages are easier to calculate and include:

- Missed wages: Compensation for income lost during recovery.
- Medical bills: Costs incurred for treatment.
- Long-term care: Expenses for ongoing medical needs, such as an in-home nurse.

Non-economic Damages from Permanent Injuries

Non-economic damages are more subjective and include:

- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Disability

An insurance company might use a multiplier based on the severity of the injuries to calculate these damages. For example, a severe head injury might result in higher non-economic damages compared to a knee injury.

Consulting a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The toll from severe motorcycle injuries can encompass substantial medical expenses and long-term care costs for victims and their families. Lost wages may compound matters, especially if employment becomes unrealistic for an extended period. Getting help from a motorcycle accident attorney allows the pursuit of comprehensive compensation, from financial damages and emotional distress such as pain and suffering.

Victims of these accidents should seek consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney, as damages may be extensive and recovery of compensation is important.

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our motorcycle accident attorneys can represent you in dealings with your insurance company, or when filing a personal injury claim. Set up your consultation now by calling 641-792-3595.