Clear Lake Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When tragedy occurs, motorcycle injury attorneys act as unwavering advocates for riders. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they proficiently manage legal challenges to ensure justice and compensation for the injured.

Broken Bones from a Motorcycle Accident in Iowa: Recovering Compensation for Your Damages

In 2012, there were over 1,000 motorcycle injury crashes in Iowa, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation. Injuries to a motorcyclist following a crash can be extremely painful, expensive to correct, and may require an extensive healing period. Among the most common injuries motorcyclists sustain in accidents are broken bones.

Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Bone

Intensive pain at the affected area is usually the most distinct characteristic of a broken bone. Other signs include swelling, bruising, bleeding, limited mobility, numbness, tingling, broken skin with a protruding bone, and an obviously misshapen or out-of-place limb or joint.

Bones Commonly Broken in a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcyclists have very little protection in the event of an accident, so any bone in the body is susceptible to breaking. The severity and type of break depend on multiple factors, including the severity of the accident, angle of impact, speed, and the part of the body impacted. Rib fractures, collarbone, leg, arm, spine, and pelvis breaks are common. The severity and type of break determine the healing and recovery time, as well as the risk for long-term complications.

Recovery Time for Broken Bones from a Motorcycle Accident and Long-Term Complications

Treatment for a broken bone varies greatly depending on the area and severity of the break. Cast immobilization is typically used for breaks in the limbs (arms, legs), while minor breaks may only require a functional cast or brace. Serious breaks may require surgery. Particularly traumatizing are breaks in the spinal column, which can cause permanent paralysis if the spinal cord is disturbed.

Broken bone injuries can cause future complications, such as post-traumatic arthritis, which may develop at the affected area.

Who’s Liable for Your Broken Bones from the Motorcycle Accident?

If another driver’s negligent or irresponsible actions caused your motorcycle accident, and therefore your broken bone injuries, that driver may be liable for your damages. Compensation can be awarded for medical expenses, future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

In Iowa, you must file a motorcycle injury case within two years of the injury occurring to recover damages. As such, it is crucial to speak with an attorney immediately.

Important Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

With today's economy, many people find motorcycles to be a useful and economical alternative to cars. Iowa's weather can affect when people ride, but in favorable years, there can be many months of motorcycle riding. While motorcycles offer benefits such as less environmental impact, they also come with significant risks. Motorcycles do not provide the same level of protection as automobiles. Therefore, taking safety measures is essential.

To reduce your risk while riding:
- Ride with your lights on at all times
- Wear protective clothing and gear, including a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes
- Follow all traffic laws
- Be aware of your surroundings and other drivers
- Never ride when you have been drinking or are extremely tired

Ensure your motorcycle is in good condition before riding by checking all lights, tire pressure, and brakes. Enjoy yourself, but always prioritize safety.

How Helmet Use May Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Iowa

Iowa is one of three states with no motorcycle helmet law. However, not wearing a helmet can impact your liability in an accident. Wearing a helmet can prevent traumatic brain and head injuries; not wearing one may be seen as negligence.

Accident Scenarios Where Helmet Use May Affect Liability

Helmet use may only impact liability if the injury is a head or brain injury. For example, if you suffer a leg injury, whether you wore a helmet is irrelevant. However, if you suffer a preventable head or brain injury, you may be considered partially negligent for not wearing a helmet. Conversely, wearing a helmet can demonstrate that you were exercising caution.

Comparative Fault Laws in Iowa

Under Iowa’s comparative fault laws, if you are found partially negligent for your injuries due to not wearing a helmet, the damages you can recover will be diminished in proportion to your fault. Therefore, proving the other party's fault and that your injuries would have occurred regardless of helmet use is essential.

How to Prove the Negligence of the Other Driver

To prove negligence, gather evidence such as police reports, lab tests (if the other driver was impaired), witness testimony, photo and video evidence, and physical evidence. Seeking medical attention and legal representation immediately after an accident is crucial.

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.