Carlisle Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the wake of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become committed defenders for riders. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they adeptly handle legal complexities to ensure justice and compensation for the injured.

Are There Age Restrictions for Operating a Motorcycle in Iowa?

In Iowa, the legal age to operate a motorcycle is 14, but young riders face specific restrictions. Those between 14 and 17 must obtain a motorcycle instruction permit, which comes with limitations on with whom they may ride. At 16, riders can obtain an intermediate motorcycle license, still under certain restrictions. A full license is available at 17, provided other requirements are met. Additionally, riders under 18 must complete a rider’s education course before legally operating a motorcycle.

Motorcycle Instruction Permits

Riders aged 14 to 17 who obtain a motorcycle instruction permit can ride with a licensed parent or guardian, provided the adult has a motorcycle endorsement. They may also ride with an immediate family member over 21 who holds the endorsement. With parental permission, they can ride with another licensed adult over 25 with a motorcycle endorsement. 

These rules also apply to permit holders aged 18, though they do not need parental permission to ride with a non-family member who is 25 or older and properly licensed. Iowa law requires the accompanying person to be within audible and visual communication distance from the permittee and to supervise only one permittee at a time.

Intermediate Motorcycle License

After holding a motorcycle instruction permit for six months and with parental permission, individuals can obtain an intermediate motorcycle license. They must have logged at least 20 hours of street and highway driving, including two hours after sunset or before sunrise. Intermediate license holders cannot ride between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m. without a qualified accompanying individual, except when traveling to or from a school-related extracurricular activity.

Full Motorcycle License

At 17, riders who have held an intermediate license for at least a year can obtain a full motorcycle driver’s license. They must have completed at least 10 hours of street or highway driving, with two hours after sunset or before sunrise.

Motorcycle Safety Course Requirement

Young riders must complete a motorcycle safety course before receiving their instruction permit. The course includes 15 hours of training: five hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of range activities. The training covers essential skills such as riding in a straight line, turning, shifting, stopping, and other necessary riding skills. These courses are approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and held at certified facilities across Iowa.

Consequences for Unlicensed Motorcyclists in Accidents

Riders who operate a motorcycle without the proper license or in violation of their permit conditions may face legal and civil consequences, particularly if involved in an accident. Lack of proper licensing can contribute to comparative negligence in the event of a motorcycle accident, potentially affecting the rider's ability to claim damages.

Motorcycle Safety Tips to Be More Visible on Your Bike in Iowa

Visibility is crucial for motorcyclists to avoid accidents. Here are some tips to enhance your visibility:

Wear Bright Colors

Bright clothing can significantly improve your visibility to other motorists, especially at night. While black leather is popular among riders, it doesn’t enhance visibility. Opt for bright colors to ensure you are seen.

Consider Reflective Gear

If bright colors aren't your style, use reflective gear or tape on your bike, helmet, and jacket. This reflective material can make you more visible to other drivers, particularly in low-light conditions.

Avoid Cars’ Blind Spots

Stay out of other vehicles' blind spots, often on the passenger side. Larger vehicles like trucks have more extensive blind spots. Pass vehicles quickly and safely without lingering in these no-zones.

Use Your Lights

Iowa law requires motorcycles to have at least one lighted headlamp for models made after 1977. Headlights not only help you see the road but also make you more visible to others.

Use Your Horn

Using your horn can alert other drivers to your presence, potentially preventing an accident. It’s an effective way to gain necessary attention in critical moments.

What to Do If in a Motorcycle Accident in Iowa

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident despite taking these precautions, seek medical attention immediately. 

How Helmet Use May Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Iowa

Iowa is one of three states without a motorcycle helmet law. However, not wearing a helmet can affect a motorcyclist's liability and compensation in the event of a crash.

Accident Scenarios and Helmet Use

Helmet use typically impacts liability only if the injuries are head or brain injuries. For example, if a rider suffers a leg injury in a crash, helmet use is irrelevant. Conversely, if the injury is a head or brain injury that could have been prevented by a helmet, the rider may be considered partially negligent.

Wearing a helmet, even though not legally required, can demonstrate that the rider was exercising caution and care, potentially supporting their claim.

Comparative Fault Laws in Iowa

Negligence does not necessarily equate to illegal actions but failing to exercise proper care. In the context of helmet use, the defense might argue that a reasonable person would wear a helmet, and not doing so shows a lack of care. If found partially negligent, the damages recoverable by the rider will be reduced proportionally to their degree of fault.

Proving the Negligence of the Other Driver

To build a strong case, it’s crucial to gather evidence proving the other driver's negligence. This evidence can include:
- Police reports
- Lab tests (for intoxicated driving)
- Witness testimony
- Photos and videos
- Physical evidence

Seek medical attention immediately after an accident and secure legal representation to strengthen your case.

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.