Ely Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When accidents happen, motorcycle injury lawyers act as unwavering champions for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents allows them to handle legal challenges and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

Tips to Avoid Some of the Most Common Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are often preventable with the right knowledge and practices. Here are some common motorcycle accidents and how to avoid them, along with tips for staying safe on the road and dealing with potential injuries.

Drinking and Driving

According to the 1981 Hurt Report, alcohol is involved in 50 percent of motorcycle accidents. This is a major preventable cause of accidents.

How to Avoid It: Never drink and ride. Alcohol impairs balance and coordination, critical skills for safe motorcycle riding.

A Car Turns Left in Front of You

This is the most common motorcycle accident. Drivers often fail to see motorcycles or misjudge their speed, leading to collisions at intersections.

How to Avoid It: Be vigilant for signs that a car might turn in front of you:
- A car waiting to turn at an intersection
- Gaps in traffic near intersections or driveways

Slow down, cover your brakes, and be ready for evasive action. Look at the wheels of the car for early signs of movement. Never “lay the bike down”; instead, shed as much speed as possible while keeping the bike upright and using both brakes.

You Hit Gravel in a Blind Corner

Losing control after hitting gravel or sand in a corner can lead to a crash.

How to Avoid It: Ride at a pace where you can react to unexpected hazards. Use the “Slow In, Fast Out” rule: enter corners wide and at a manageable speed, accelerating only when you can see the exit.

You Entered a Corner Too Fast

Entering a corner too fast can cause you to lose control.

How to Avoid It: Ride only as fast as you can see. Use visual clues like telephone poles and road signs to anticipate road direction. If you find yourself too fast, trust your bike’s capabilities, reduce lean angle, and stay smooth on the controls.

A Car Changes Lanes into You

Motorcycles are often in drivers’ blind spots, leading to lane-change collisions.

How to Avoid It: Stay out of blind spots as much as possible. Be especially vigilant when traffic is slowing down and drivers are likely to switch lanes. Watch for cues such as turn signals, wheel movement, and drivers’ head movements.

A Car Hits You From Behind

Being rear-ended at an intersection can be fatal on a motorcycle.

How to Avoid It: Stop to the side of the lane, flash your brake light by tapping the brake lever, and keep your bike in gear with your right hand on the throttle. Stay aware of approaching traffic and be ready to move if necessary.

Your Riding Buddies are Careless

Accidents can happen when riding in groups if riders are not attentive.

How to Avoid It: Ensure everyone knows proper group riding etiquette and rides in a staggered formation. This improves visibility and reduces the risk of collisions within the group.

You Locked Up the Front Brake

Panicking and grabbing the front brake can lead to a crash.

How to Avoid It: Practice using the front brake in a controlled environment. Learn to apply it smoothly and progressively. Practice emergency stops until you can reliably use the maximum braking ability of your motorcycle.

Helmet Use and Safety

Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of fatal head injuries. Iowa does not require helmets, but wearing one is a personal safety choice that can make a critical difference.

Motorcycle Head Injuries and Consequences

Head injuries from motorcycle accidents can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. Consequences may include cognitive limitations, mobility issues, and emotional problems. Proper immediate and long-term care is essential for recovery.

What to Do if You or a Loved One Are in a Motorcycle Crash

If involved in a single motorcycle crash, investigate potential causes such as defective parts or road hazards. If another driver is at fault, seek professional advice for dealing with insurance and medical issues.

Tips for Handling Post-Accident Issues
1. Seek Immediate Medical Care: Document all injuries with medical professionals.
2. Keep Important Documents: Maintain records of medical treatments and police reports. 
3. Be Honest About Your Injuries: Fully disclose all injuries to medical providers.
4. Dealing with Insurance Adjusters: Avoid providing recorded statements. Consult with an experienced injury attorney before settling.

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.