Anamosa Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury lawyers stand as resolute defenders for riders when disaster occurs. Their expertise in motorcycle accident cases allows them to handle legal intricacies and secure the justice and compensation injured riders deserve.

Recovering Compensation for Disfiguring and Spinal Cord Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Riding a motorcycle is inherently risky, with the increased traffic on our highways and aggressive driving behaviors of other motorists. According to the Iowa Department of Public Safety, motorcycle accidents accounted for only 2 percent of all road accidents in 2012, yet they resulted in 12 percent of serious injury-related accidents and 14 percent of all accident fatalities. Following the rules of the road and wearing a helmet can help, but even the most cautious riders can suffer severe injuries. If you have suffered disfiguring or spinal cord injuries in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for damages.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy and Third-Party Liability Claims

It is crucial to have complete coverage on your motorcycle, as accidents do not always involve other vehicles, and you need to cover medical and living expenses while recuperating. If you have been seriously injured or disfigured due to weather conditions or driver error, you are entitled to collect money from your insurance company, provided you have the right type of coverage. Additionally, if another driver caused your accident, you can file a third-party claim against their liability insurance.

Importance of Hiring an Attorney Immediately

After a serious accident, it is essential to consult an attorney before settling with an insurance company. Insurance companies have legal experts on their staff and aim to offer quick settlements, which might not be in your best interest. An attorney can represent you, ensuring that you receive fair compensation while you focus on recovery.

Types of Compensation for Disfiguring Injuries

Victims of motorcycle accidents who suffer serious or disfiguring injuries may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Hospitalization and long-term care
- Hiring caregivers
- Physical therapy
- Loss of earnings

In addition to these expenses, victims may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering and emotional distress. Disfiguring injuries, such as extreme scarring or amputation, often require both emotional and physical therapy. There may be long-term complications and future issues that need to be considered when discussing compensation.

Spinal Cord Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe injuries riders can sustain. According to a St. James University Hospital study published in the Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, approximately 11 percent of motorcycle accident victims suffer spinal cord injuries.

Causes and Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Motor vehicle accidents account for 40 percent of all new spinal injury cases. Upon collision, riders’ vertebrae can become crushed, compressed, or dislodged, causing spinal cord damage. Spinal cord injuries can be classified into two types:
- Complete Injury: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury site.
- Incomplete Injury: Some loss of sensation and function, with varying degrees of severity.

Patterns of Spinal Cord Injuries

The St. James University Hospital study identified patterns in motorcycle crash-related spinal injuries:
- Isolated spinal injuries: 23 percent
- Multiple vertebral level injuries: 42 percent
- Thoracic spine injuries: 54.8 percent
- Lumbar spine injuries: 30 percent
- Cervical spine injuries: 27 percent
- Neurologic injuries: 20 percent

Complications of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injury victims face numerous complications, including:
- Blood clots
- Pressure sores
- Breathing difficulties
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Increased risk of urinary and kidney infections
- Blood pressure problems
- Lung issues and pneumonia
- Muscle atrophy
- Weight issues
- Sexual and reproductive function issues
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nerve pain

Undiagnosed compression fractures can lead to serious long-term complications, such as kyphosis (curvature of the spine), chronic pain, reduced physical function, and depression.

Mental and Emotional Impact

Spinal cord injuries also lead to severe mental and emotional issues. According to a study published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, spinal injury victims are at increased risk of emotional disorders, including:
- Depression (37 percent)
- Anxiety (30 percent)
- Clinical-level stress (25 percent)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (8.4 percent)

Defenses Against Motorcycle Accident Claims

When pursuing a claim for damages, the insurance company or other driver may present defenses against your claim. Common defenses include:
- Violation of Motorcycle Regulations: If you violated motorcycle laws, it could jeopardize your claim.
- Speeding: If you were speeding or committed other traffic violations, your fault percentage could reduce your damages.
- Impairment: If you were impaired by drugs or alcohol, it might severely hinder your ability to recover damages.
- Helmet Use: Not wearing a helmet could increase your comparative negligence, especially if you suffered head or neck injuries.

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.