Dyersville Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury attorneys act as steadfast defenders for riders when tragedy strikes. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they adeptly handle legal challenges to ensure justice and compensation for the injured.

Comprehensive Guide to Filing a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident in Iowa

Motorcycle accidents can have severe and long-lasting effects, both physically and financially. Understanding the steps to take after an accident and knowing your rights can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. This guide covers essential aspects of filing a claim after a motorcycle accident in Iowa, including medical considerations, policy review, filing deadlines, and the importance of legal assistance. It also delves into common motorcycle injuries, such as burn injuries and head injuries, to provide a thorough understanding of what to expect and how to protect your rights.

Seek Medical Attention and Save Records

The first and most crucial step following a motorcycle accident is to seek immediate medical attention. Regardless of the severity of your injuries, a medical evaluation is essential. Not only does it ensure your health and safety, but it also provides critical documentation for your claim. Save all medical records, bills, and receipts as these will serve as evidence of your injuries and associated expenses when filing your claim.

Review Your Insurance Policy

Iowa law requires all motorcyclists to carry proof of financial responsibility, typically in the form of motorcycle insurance. Review your policy as soon as possible after the accident to understand your coverage limits. If you were at fault and only have basic coverage, your policy might only pay up to that amount. However, additional coverage types, such as medical payments coverage, can provide more comprehensive compensation regardless of fault.

File Your Claim Promptly

Notify your insurance company of the accident immediately and file your claim as soon as possible. Adhering to the time requirements stipulated in your policy is crucial to avoid a denied claim. Additionally, if you need to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages, Iowa Code 614.1 allows you two years to do so.

Understanding Motorcycle Burn Injuries

Motorcycle accidents often result in various types of burn injuries, each with unique causes and treatment requirements. Common burn injuries include road rash, exhaust burns, windburn, and burns from collisions.

Road Rash Injuries

Road rash occurs when a rider’s skin scrapes along the road surface after being thrown from or dragged by the motorcycle. It can range from minor scrapes to severe avulsion injuries, where multiple layers of skin are damaged, requiring stitches, surgery, or skin grafting.

Exhaust Burns

Exhaust burns happen when a rider or passenger contacts the hot exhaust pipe, leading to painful and potentially scarring injuries. These burns typically occur below the knee and can affect passengers more frequently than riders.

Windburn

Windburn results from prolonged exposure to high-speed wind, damaging the skin’s outer layer. It can cause redness, pain, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Wearing a helmet with a visor can help mitigate windburn.

Burns from Collisions

Collisions can lead to burns from mechanical or gas fires. Explosions or combustion of leaking fluids can cause severe, sometimes life-threatening burns. Burn injuries are categorized into first-, second-, and third-degree burns, each requiring different levels of medical intervention.

Motorcycle Head Injuries and Concussions

Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of motorcycle accidents. The Iowa Department of Transportation reported that in 2013, 41 motorcyclists died in accidents, and 34 of them were not wearing helmets. While helmet use is not mandatory in Iowa, it can significantly reduce the risk of fatal head injuries.

Types of Head Injuries

Motorcyclists can sustain various head injuries, from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs occur when the brain moves violently within the skull, potentially leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments. Penetrating injuries, where an object embeds in the brain tissue, and intracranial hemorrhaging, where blood pools in the brain, are other serious injuries requiring immediate medical care.

Long-term Consequences

Head injuries can have lasting effects, including communication problems, cognitive limitations, mobility issues, fine motor skill challenges, sensory impairments, and emotional disturbances. The severity and type of injury largely determine these long-term consequences.

Helmets and Liability

While Iowa law does not mandate helmet use, not wearing one can impact the outcome of an accident claim. If a motorcyclist suffers a head injury without wearing a helmet, it might be argued that their decision contributed to the severity of the injury. This can affect the amount of compensation awarded if contributory negligence is established.

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.