Dallas Center Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury lawyers stand as unwavering advocates for riders when disaster strikes. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents allows them to navigate legal challenges and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

How Motorcycle Insurance Helps Injured Riders in Iowa

In Iowa, all drivers, including motorcyclists, must meet the state’s minimum liability coverage amounts:
- $20,000 for bodily injury per person,
- $40,000 for bodily injury per accident,
- $15,000 for property damage.

Motorcyclists must adhere to these requirements. In the event of an accident caused by another motorist, injured riders can pursue claims against the other driver’s liability coverage.

Importance of Insurance Coverage for Motorcyclists

Meeting the state’s minimum coverage is essential, especially if a motorcyclist is at fault in an accident. However, for enhanced financial protection, many riders opt for higher coverage amounts. While liability coverage helps if the rider is responsible, it does not aid if another driver is at fault. Therefore, other forms of coverage can be beneficial:

Medical Payments Coverage

Medical payments coverage is no-fault insurance, meaning it covers medical costs regardless of who caused the accident. This coverage is beneficial when there are delays in determining fault or in settlement negotiations, as it ensures immediate payment of medical bills.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

This type of coverage is crucial as not all drivers carry adequate insurance. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.

Impact of Insurance Coverage on Motorcycle Accident Claims

Adequate insurance coverage is vital for motorcyclists, given the potentially catastrophic nature of motorcycle accidents. If the at-fault driver has only the minimum required insurance, the rider’s underinsured motorist coverage can help cover expenses exceeding the other driver’s policy limits.

Uninsured motorist coverage also provides critical protection in hit-and-run scenarios, ensuring that the rider can receive compensation even if the responsible driver is not identified.

Common Motorcycle Accidents and Prevention Tips

Many motorcycle accidents are preventable with proper riding techniques and safety measures. Here are some common accidents and tips to avoid them:

Drinking and Driving

Alcohol is a factor in 50% of motorcycle wrecks. Riders should never drink and ride as alcohol impairs balance and coordination, critical for motorcycle operation.

Left-Turning Cars

The most common motorcycle accident occurs when a car turns left in front of a motorcycle. Riders should be vigilant at intersections, look for potential turning vehicles, and be prepared to take evasive action.

Hitting Gravel in a Blind Corner

When encountering gravel in a blind corner, riders should ride at a pace that allows for quick reactions. Entering corners wide and at a slower pace improves visibility and control.

Entering a Corner Too Fast

Riders should only ride as fast as they can see and use visual clues to judge road direction. If entering a corner too fast, trust the bike’s capabilities, lean appropriately, and maintain smooth control.

Lane Changes by Cars

Motorcycles often go unnoticed in drivers’ blind spots. Riders should avoid staying in blind spots and watch for cues indicating a car might change lanes.

Rear-End Collisions

To avoid being hit from behind at intersections, riders should stop to the side, flash their brake lights, and be ready to move quickly if necessary.

Group Riding Incidents

Riders should follow proper group riding etiquette, including staggered formation, to prevent accidents caused by sudden stops.

Locking Up the Front Brake

Riders must learn to use the front brake effectively. Practicing in a controlled environment can help riders develop the skill to use the front brake safely and efficiently.

Helmet Use and Its Impact on Claims

Iowa has no mandatory helmet law. However, not wearing a helmet and sustaining a head injury may result in partial liability for the injury. While helmet use does not impact liability for non-head injuries, it can demonstrate caution and care, potentially influencing a claim.

Comparative Fault Laws in Iowa

Under Iowa’s comparative fault laws, if a rider is found partially negligent (e.g., not wearing a helmet during a head injury), the compensation amount can be reduced proportionally. Therefore, proving the other driver’s negligence and demonstrating that injuries would have occurred regardless of helmet use is crucial.

Proving Negligence

Proving negligence is vital in motorcycle accident claims. Evidence such as police reports, lab tests, witness testimonies, and photo or video evidence can help establish the other driver’s fault.

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.