Columbus Junction Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

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

Comprehensive Guide to Motorcycle Burn Injuries, Insurance, and Legal Claims

Motorcycle accidents can result in a variety of injuries, among which burn injuries are particularly severe. Understanding the types of burn injuries, the role of insurance, and the legal steps involved in filing a claim is crucial for injured motorcyclists. This guide covers how motorcycle burn injuries occur, how insurance can aid injured riders, and the process of filing a motorcycle accident claim, even without a valid motorcycle license.

How Do Motorcycle Burn Injuries Occur?

Motorcycle burn injuries can arise from several situations during an accident. The primary types include road rash, exhaust burns, windburn, and burns from collisions.

Road Rash Injuries:
Road rash occurs when a rider's skin scrapes against the pavement after being thrown from or dragged by the bike. There are three main types of road rash injuries:
1. Deep Scrapes: High-speed contact with the pavement can result in severe wounds that require stitches and carry a high risk of infection.
2. Bruising and Compression Injuries: These occur when the rider is caught between the bike and the road, causing significant bruising and potential crushing injuries.
3. Avulsion Injuries: This involves the removal of several layers of skin, exposing muscle or fat tissue, often requiring surgery and skin grafting.

Exhaust Burns:
These burns happen when a rider or passenger accidentally touches the exhaust pipe. Most injuries occur below the knee on the right leg, and more than 70 percent affect passengers. Over 65 percent of exhaust burns are second-degree burns, which can cause severe pain and permanent scarring.

Windburn:
Windburn results from the force of the wind damaging the outer layer of the skin, causing pain, dryness, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Wearing a helmet with a visor can help protect against windburn.

Burns from Collisions:
Accidents can lead to mechanical or gas fires. Gasoline or other fluids may ignite upon collision, causing severe, sometimes life-threatening burns. These burns can be categorized as first-, second-, or third-degree, each requiring different medical treatments and carrying risks such as scarring, infections, and nerve damage.

How Does Motorcycle Insurance Help Injured Riders in Iowa?

Iowa law requires motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance coverage: $20,000 for bodily injury per person, $40,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. This insurance is essential for covering damages if a motorcyclist is at fault in an accident.

However, when another driver is responsible, injured riders can file a claim against that driver’s liability coverage. Motorcyclists can also opt for additional coverage to better protect themselves, including:

Medical Payments Coverage:
This no-fault coverage pays for medical expenses regardless of who is at fault. It helps manage immediate medical costs if there is a delay in determining fault or settling the claim.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage:
This coverage is crucial if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance. It helps pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses when the at-fault driver's insurance is inadequate.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim Without a Valid License

Motorcyclists in Iowa can still file an accident claim even if they were unlicensed at the time of the accident. The absence of a valid motorcycle license does not automatically determine fault in the accident.

Establishing Fault:
Iowa operates under a modified comparative fault system, allowing drivers to recover damages unless they are more than 51 percent responsible for the accident. Documentation such as photos, witness testimony, and accident reports can help establish the other driver's fault.

Filing the Claim:
After the accident, victims should:
- Complete and submit an Iowa Accident Report if the accident resulted in death, personal injury, or significant property damage.
- Contact the at-fault driver's insurance company to report the accident and present evidence of the other driver’s fault.

Insurance Company Challenges:
Insurance companies may try to argue that being unlicensed indicates fault. It's crucial to present strong evidence that you were less than 51 percent at fault. An experienced attorney can assist in this process, ensuring that your rights are protected and helping to counter any unfair arguments from insurers.

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.