Belmond Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the event of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become steadfast advocates for riders. Specializing in motorcycle accidents, they manage legal complexities to ensure injured riders receive fair justice and compensation.

Understanding the Complexities of Motorcycle Accident Claims and Recovering Compensation

Motorcycle accidents carry a high risk of serious injury due to the relative lack of protection for motorcyclists compared to passenger car drivers. Given the severe injuries often resulting from these accidents, it is essential to understand the signs of internal injuries, explore comprehensive motorcycle insurance coverage, and know the steps for recovering compensation, especially in cases of disfiguring injuries.

Recognizing Internal Injuries After a Motorcycle Accident

Internal injuries are a common consequence of motorcycle accidents and can sometimes be life-threatening. In mid-July 2014, an Iowa motorcyclist was severely injured after being run over by a motorist who fled the scene, highlighting the dangers motorcyclists face. Many motorcyclists are hospitalized each year for injuries that may require intensive care or surgery. Recognizing the signs of internal injuries can be crucial for timely medical intervention.

Types of Internal Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can lead to various internal injuries, including:
- Tears in the Aorta, Vena Cava, or Branches: These can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Trauma to Organs: The spleen, liver, and other organs can suffer tears or blunt trauma.
- Bleeding Around the Lungs: This can lead to respiratory complications.
- Intracranial Hemorrhage: Internal bleeding within the skull is particularly dangerous.

Signs of Internal Injuries

Awareness of internal injury signs is critical. Symptoms can range from obvious to subtle, including:
- Loss of Consciousness or Headache: May indicate internal brain hemorrhaging.
- Swelling or Pain in the Abdomen: Can signal internal bleeding.
- Discolored Skin: Deep purple skin discoloration suggests blood pooling beneath the surface.
- Light-Headedness or Fainting: Dizziness may result from internal blood loss.

If you experience any of these symptoms after a motorcycle accident, seek immediate medical attention. After treatment, consider consulting an attorney to explore compensation for medical bills, lost work time, and other damages.

The Importance of Comprehensive Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

In Iowa, motorcyclists must carry insurance as required by the Iowa Financial and Safety Responsibility Act. Without insurance, bikers risk losing their licenses and being held responsible for all repair and medical costs if found at fault in an accident. Comprehensive motorcycle insurance coverage can offer essential protection.

Optional Coverage Options

Consider these additional coverage options to enhance your insurance plan:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects against accidents caused by drivers with insufficient or no insurance.
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: Covers non-collision damages (e.g., flood, fire, vandalism) and repairs from collisions.
- Medical Expense Coverage: Pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
- Roadside Assistance Coverage: Provides towing and support for breakdowns or accidents away from home.

When Insurance Isn't Enough

Sometimes, the damages from an accident exceed the coverage limits. In such cases, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to recover the total cost of damages. In Iowa, claims must be filed within two years, according to Iowa Code 614.1.

Seeking Compensation for Disfiguring Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can result in severe and disfiguring injuries. In 2012, motorcycle accidents accounted for only 2 percent of all road accidents in Iowa but resulted in 12 percent of serious injuries and 14 percent of fatalities. Following the rules of the road and wearing a helmet can reduce risks, but accidents can still occur. If you suffer disfiguring injuries, you may be eligible for compensation.

Insurance and Third-Party Liability Claims

Ensure you have comprehensive coverage to handle medical and living expenses after an accident. If another driver's negligence caused the accident, you might file a third-party liability claim against their insurance.

Hiring an Attorney

After a serious accident, consult an attorney before settling with an insurance company. Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, so having legal representation ensures your interests are protected.

Types of Compensation

Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Bills and Long-Term Care: Covers hospitalization, caregivers, and physical therapy.
- Loss of Earnings: Compensates for lost income due to injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Accounts for emotional distress and physical pain, especially in cases of severe scarring or amputation.

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.