Denver Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In times of misfortune, motorcycle injury lawyers become resolute defenders for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents enables them to manage legal intricacies and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

Road Rash and Other Issues in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles symbolize the freedom of the open road and the thrill of riding, but they also come with a higher risk of severe injuries and fatalities in accidents. One of the most common injuries motorcyclists suffer is road rash, caused when skin is scraped across the road surface, leading to lacerations and abrasions.

Degrees of Motorcycle Road Rash

Motorcycle road rash can range from minor to severe and is categorized similarly to burns:

- First-degree road rash involves minor redness and abrasions and generally doesn't require major medical treatment. Cleaning the wound and applying antibiotic ointment at home is usually sufficient.
- Second-degree road rash is more serious, as the skin is broken. While painful, it often can still be managed with home care.
- Third-degree road rash is severe, affecting all layers of skin and possibly exposing underlying tissue, muscles, and structures. This level of injury often requires medical intervention such as skin grafting.

Skin Grafting for Severe Road Rash

Skin grafting is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia to treat third-degree road rash. Recovery can be extensive, with patients sometimes needing weeks in the hospital to monitor graft and donor sites. Post-surgery, movement can be restricted, delaying a return to normal activities and work.

Seeking Compensation for Motorcycle Road Rash

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another party, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Proving fault and documenting your losses thoroughly are essential for a successful claim.

Key steps to take after an accident include:
- Keeping meticulous records of all medical treatments, bills, and lost work time.
- Obtaining the police report and any witness statements.
- Providing your attorney with photos or notes about the accident.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim Without a Valid License

Even if you were riding without a valid motorcycle license, you can still file a claim if another driver was at fault. While you might face penalties for not having a license, this does not automatically preclude you from seeking compensation.

Proving Fault

Iowa's modified comparative fault law allows drivers to recover damages as long as they are not more than 51 percent responsible for the accident. To prove the other driver's fault, you should gather:
- Photographs from the accident scene.
- Witness testimonies and contact information.
- The other driver's contact and insurance information.

Filing an Iowa Accident Report is required if the accident resulted in death, personal injury, or property damage of at least $1,500. This report must be submitted to the Iowa Department of Transportation within 72 hours unless law enforcement investigated the scene.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies might try to argue that not having a valid license indicates your fault. It is crucial to present evidence showing the other driver is more responsible for the accident. Consulting an attorney can help navigate these challenges and deal with insurance adjusters.

The Importance of Motorcycle Insurance

Iowa law requires motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance: $20,000 for bodily injury per person, $40,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. Beyond the mandatory coverage, additional insurance options can provide better financial protection:

- Medical payments coverage helps cover medical costs regardless of fault.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can be vital if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance or in hit-and-run cases.

Impact of Insurance on Claims

Adequate insurance coverage is crucial, especially since motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries. For example, a motorcyclist hit by a drunk driver might need extensive treatment exceeding the at-fault driver's coverage limits. In such cases, the motorcyclist's underinsured motorist coverage can cover the remaining expenses.

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.