Clarion Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury lawyers stand as dedicated supporters for riders when calamity strikes. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents allows them to manage legal complexities and secure justice and compensation for injured riders.

How to Deal with an Aggressive Driver if You’re on a Motorcycle

Understanding the Risks

Riding a motorcycle exposes you to unique risks, especially when dealing with aggressive drivers. Whether through inattentiveness or intentional hostility, drivers of larger vehicles can pose serious threats to motorcyclists. Knowing how to handle such situations is essential for your safety.

Don’t Respond to Road Rage

Road rage can manifest in various ways, such as yelling, using obscene gestures, tailgating, or driving aggressively. While it might be tempting to respond in kind, doing so can escalate the situation and put you at greater risk. Instead, maintain your composure and distance from the aggressive driver.

Move Over if Being Tailgated

Tailgating is a common aggressive driving behavior. If a driver is following too closely, resist the urge to speed up or brake suddenly. Instead, safely change lanes to let the tailgater pass. This simple action can defuse the situation and help you avoid a potential accident.

Report the Driver

If an aggressive driver poses a serious threat, it may be necessary to pull over or exit the highway. Consider reporting the driver to local authorities. In Clarion, you can contact the Non-Emergency Communications Center at 515-283-4811, available 24 hours a day.

How Helmet Use May Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Iowa

Iowa’s Helmet Law and Liability

Iowa is one of three states without a motorcycle helmet law. However, not wearing a helmet can impact liability if you suffer a head injury in an accident. While legally you’re not required to wear one, failing to do so can be considered negligence.

Impact on Liability

Helmet use is relevant mainly in accidents involving head injuries. For example, if you suffer a leg injury, helmet use is irrelevant. However, if you sustain a head injury that could have been prevented by a helmet, you might be found partially liable.

Comparative Fault Laws

Iowa’s comparative fault laws reduce your compensation based on your degree of fault. If not wearing a helmet contributes to your injuries, your damages may be diminished proportionately. Proving the other party's fault and demonstrating that your injuries would have occurred regardless of helmet use is crucial.

Proving Negligence

To prove the other party’s negligence, gather evidence such as:
- Police reports
- Lab tests (if the other driver was impaired)
- Witness testimony
- Photo and video evidence
- Physical evidence

Consult with an attorney immediately after an accident to ensure your rights are protected.

Tips to Avoid Some of the Most Common Motorcycle Accidents

Drinking and Driving

Alcohol is a factor in 50% of motorcycle accidents. Avoid drinking and riding as alcohol impairs balance and coordination.

Car Turns Left in Front of You

This common accident occurs when a car turns in front of you at an intersection. To avoid it, look for signs a car may turn and be prepared to take evasive action.

Hitting Gravel in a Blind Corner

Riding on curvy roads can lead to hitting gravel unexpectedly. Ride at a pace that matches your vision and enter corners wide to increase visibility.

Entering a Corner Too Fast

If you enter a corner too fast, trust your bike’s capabilities and try to ride it out by leaning and remaining smooth on the controls.

Car Changes Lanes into You

Stay out of other drivers’ blind spots and watch for signs they might change lanes, such as turn signals or swerving.

Car Hits You From Behind

When stopping at an intersection, avoid the center of the lane, flash your brake light, and stay in gear to move quickly if needed.

Riding Buddies Are Careless

Ensure everyone in your riding group follows proper etiquette, such as riding in a staggered formation to prevent collisions.

Locking Up the Front Brake

Learn to use your front brake properly. Practice in a safe area to master its use and avoid panic stops.

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.