Eagle Grove Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In times of calamity, motorcycle injury lawyers become dedicated advocates for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents enables them to navigate legal intricacies and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

Why Are Motorcycle Crashes on the Rise?

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable rise in motorcycle accidents, resulting in more injuries and fatalities on our roadways. This trend is particularly alarming in Iowa, where motorcycles account for less than 1% of all vehicle miles yet make up a significant percentage of crashes—14% of fatalities and 16% of severe injuries annually. August is historically one of the worst months for motorcycle riders, correlating with increased numbers of motorcycles on the road, including more women purchasing and riding motorcycles.

Vulnerability of Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists are inherently more vulnerable on the road due to the lack of protection compared to car drivers. In the event of an accident, the consequences for motorcyclists can be severe. After a crash, injured riders must navigate complex interactions with medical providers and insurance companies. Contrary to common belief, if the other driver is at fault, their car insurance does not automatically cover all medical bills and expenses of the injured rider. Understanding how to protect oneself and one's claim is crucial for motorcyclists.

Protecting Yourself and Your Claim

Seek Immediate Treatment

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, seek medical treatment immediately. Delaying treatment can worsen your injuries and weaken your claim. Be sure to inform medical providers about all areas of pain and injury resulting from the accident.

Don’t Rush to Settle

Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that might seem tempting but are usually far less than what you deserve. Settling prematurely can result in out-of-pocket expenses for ongoing medical care. Consult with a qualified attorney before agreeing to any settlement.

Avoid Recorded Statements

Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can be used against you later. Giving a recorded statement can harm your case. Similarly, signing forms without understanding their implications can give the insurance company access to irrelevant information that may be used to devalue your claim.

Keep Detailed Documentation

Maintain copies of work excuses, verification of time off work, lost pay, medical bills, medical records, police reports, and a daily journal of your symptoms and limitations. This documentation is critical in supporting your claim.

Be Honest About Your Injuries

Exaggerating injuries can severely damage the credibility and value of your case. Accurate medical records, supported by thorough communication with your healthcare providers, are essential.

Consult an Experienced Attorney

Before considering a settlement, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can defend your rights and help navigate the complexities of dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and potential subrogation issues.

Legal Requirements for Motorcyclists in Iowa

The legal age to operate a motorcycle in Iowa is 14, but young riders face several restrictions. Riders aged 14 to 17 must obtain a motorcycle instruction permit and can only ride under certain conditions. At 16, they can obtain an intermediate license, and at 17, they can apply for a full license, provided they meet all requirements, including completing a motorcycle safety course.

Motorcycle Instruction Permits

Riders aged 14 to 17 can drive with a licensed parent or guardian, provided the guardian has a motorcycle endorsement. They can also ride with immediate family members who are at least 21 years old and have a motorcycle endorsement. For non-family members, the adult must be at least 25 years old with a motorcycle endorsement and the permit holder must have parental permission. The accompanying person must be within audible and visual communication distance and must supervise only one permittee at a time.

Intermediate Motorcycle License

After holding an instruction permit for six months, riders can apply for an intermediate license with parental permission. They must have at least 20 hours of street and highway driving, with two hours after sunset or before sunrise. Intermediate license holders cannot operate a motorcycle between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a qualified adult or riding to/from a school-related activity.

Full Motorcycle License

Riders aged 17 and older can obtain a full motorcycle license if they have held an intermediate license for at least a year and completed 10 hours of street or highway driving, including two hours after sunset or before sunrise.

Importance of Motorcycle Safety Courses

Riders under 18 must take a motorcycle safety course, which includes 15 hours of training—five hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of range activities. These courses, approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, teach essential riding skills such as riding in a straight line, turning, shifting, and stopping.

Consequences of Unlicensed Riding

Operating a motorcycle without the proper license or violating license terms can result in legal and civil consequences, especially if the unlicensed rider causes an accident. This can contribute to the rider’s comparative negligence in the event of a motorcycle accident.

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.