Denison Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When calamity hits, motorcycle injury lawyers act as unwavering champions for riders. With expertise in motorcycle accidents, they skillfully manage the legal system to secure the justice and compensation injured riders deserve.

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

In 2012, over 1,000 motorcycle injury crashes occurred in Iowa, as reported by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Injuries sustained by motorcyclists in these accidents can be incredibly painful, costly to treat, and may require extensive recovery periods. Among the most common injuries are broken bones, which can have long-term implications for victims. If you’ve suffered broken bones from a motorcycle accident in Iowa caused by another party, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.

Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Bone

Intense pain at the injury site is the most recognizable sign of a broken bone. Other symptoms may include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Limited mobility at the site
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Broken skin with a protruding bone
- Misshapen or out-of-place limb or joint

Commonly Broken Bones in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists, who have minimal protection in crashes, can sustain fractures in various bones depending on factors such as the severity of the accident, the angle of impact, speed, and the part of the body impacted. Common fractures include ribs, collarbones, legs, arms, spines, and pelvises. The type and severity of the break determine recovery time and potential long-term complications.

Recovery Time and Long-Term Complications

Treatment for broken bones varies. Cast immobilization is typical for limb fractures, while serious breaks may require surgery. Spinal fractures, especially those affecting the spinal cord, can result in severe, permanent injuries like paralysis. Broken bones can also lead to future complications such as post-traumatic arthritis.

Liability for Broken Bones from Motorcycle Accidents

If another driver’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident and resulting injuries, they might be liable for your damages. Compensation may cover medical expenses, future medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In Iowa, you must file a motorcycle injury case within two years of the injury.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim Without a Valid License

If you were unlicensed during a motorcycle accident, you could still file a claim against the other driver if they were at fault. In Iowa, you can recover damages unless you are more than 51 percent responsible for the accident. Documentation such as photographs, witness testimony, and contact information is crucial in proving fault.

After the accident, file an Iowa Accident Report if necessary, and contact the other driver’s insurance company to report the accident and present your evidence. Although the insurance company may try to blame you for not having a license, you can still pursue compensation with the right evidence and legal assistance.

Iowa's High Motorcycle Death Rate

Motorcycles constitute only 0.3% of all registered vehicles in Iowa, but motorcycle deaths account for 16.7% of roadway fatalities. This disparity highlights the dangers motorcyclists face. In 2023, 63 out of 378 motor vehicle fatalities in Iowa involved motorcycles, making riders 55 times more likely to be killed in a crash.

Helmet Use and Safety Training

While Iowa does not require helmets, wearing one can significantly reduce the risk of death in an accident. Training courses, both basic and advanced, can help motorcyclists improve their skills and awareness, reducing the likelihood of accidents. Wearing brightly colored safety vests, keeping headlights on, and using flags can also increase visibility and safety on the road.

Post-Accident Steps

If involved in a motorcycle crash, investigate the cause, especially if it's a single-vehicle crash. If another driver is involved, seek legal advice to handle insurance companies and medical bills. Using health insurance for medical expenses is advisable to avoid unpaid bills, and you may qualify for financial assistance from hospitals or medical payments coverage on your motorcycle insurance.

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.