- Asbury Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys
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In the aftermath of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become dedicated champions for riders. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they skillfully navigate legal challenges to ensure injured riders receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection compared to passenger vehicles. Understanding the signs of internal injuries, dealing with partial fault, and addressing emotional trauma are crucial for victims. This comprehensive guide explores these aspects and provides insights into how legal assistance can help.
Recognizing Internal Injury Signs After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents carry a high risk of serious injury. For example, in mid-July 2014, an Iowa motorcyclist was run over by a motorist who fled the scene, causing the biker severe injuries, reports the Des Moines Register. Motorcyclists often suffer internal injuries, some of which might not be readily apparent. Knowing the signs of internal injuries is crucial.
Types of Internal Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Internal injuries are common in motorcycle accidents and can include:
- Tears in major blood vessels: Aorta, superior or inferior vena cava, or their branches.
- Organ trauma: Tears, cuts, or blunt trauma to organs like the spleen or liver.
- Bleeding around the lungs: Can cause severe respiratory issues.
- Intracranial hemorrhage: Bleeding within the brain.
These injuries often result from blunt trauma or penetration during the accident.
Signs of Internal Injuries
It’s important to recognize signs of internal injuries, as they may not always be immediately obvious:
- Loss of consciousness or headache: Could indicate internal hemorrhaging in the brain.
- Swelling or pain in the abdomen: May signal internal bleeding.
- Discolored skin: Deep purple skin may indicate internal bleeding.
- Light-headedness or fainting: Can be a result of internal blood loss.
If any of these symptoms are present, immediate medical attention is necessary. After receiving treatment, victims may need legal assistance to recover compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
Navigating Partial Fault in an Iowa Motorcycle Accident
If you are partially at fault in an Iowa motorcycle accident, your compensation will be reduced. Iowa follows comparative negligence rules, which means your compensation is adjusted based on your degree of fault.
Iowa’s Comparative Negligence Rules
In Iowa, the amount of compensation you can collect is reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found 25% at fault and your settlement is $100,000, you would receive $75,000. Proving fault and negligence is critical, and an attorney can help demonstrate the other party's liability.
Addressing Emotional Trauma After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can cause not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma. This trauma can significantly impact the victim’s life and should be considered in any liability claim.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a common condition following traumatic events like motorcycle accidents. Symptoms are grouped into three categories:
- Re-experiencing: Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts.
- Avoidance: Emotional numbness, guilt, depression, and memory issues.
- Hyperarousal: Edginess, sleep disturbances, and intense anger.
Head Injuries and Depression
Head injuries, a major concern in motorcycle accidents, are often linked to depression. Studies have shown a significant correlation between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and major depressive disorder. Chronic stress from the recovery process can exacerbate this condition.
Emotional Trauma in Personal Injury Cases
Emotional trauma can be included in a motorcycle accident claim, covering:
- Mental health assessments
- Counseling
- Treatment for mental anguish
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.