Hawarden Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

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

Important Safety Tips and Legal Considerations for Beginner Motorcyclists

With today's economy, many people are finding motorcycles to be a useful and economical alternative to cars. In Iowa, the weather affects when people can ride, but in nice years like 2011, there can be many months of motorcycle riding. People choose motorcycle riding for various reasons. While there are many benefits, such as less impact on the environment, there are also significant risks involved. If you or a loved one has just purchased a motorcycle or is considering buying one, it is crucial to understand these risks and take necessary precautions.

Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

Motorcycles do not provide the same level of protection as automobiles. There is no outward shell to protect the rider in case of an accident. To reduce your risk when riding, consider taking the following safety measures:

- Ride with Your Lights On: Keep your lights on at all times to increase visibility.
- Wear Protective Gear: This includes a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes to protect against injuries.
- Follow Traffic Laws: Adhering to all traffic laws reduces the risk of accidents.
- Stay Aware: Be vigilant of your surroundings and other drivers.
- Avoid Impairment: Never ride when you have been drinking or are extremely tired.

Maintaining your motorcycle is as important as safe riding practices. Ensure your bike is in good condition by checking all lights, tire pressure, and brakes before setting off on a long ride. Most importantly, enjoy yourself, but always prioritize safety.

What Happens If I Was Partially at Fault in an Iowa Motorcycle Accident?

If you are found at partial fault in an Iowa motorcycle accident, the amount of compensation you are eligible to recover will be reduced. It’s important to realize that being partially responsible for the accident does not mean you can’t seek compensation with the help of injury attorneys at Walker, Billingsley & Bair.

Iowa’s Comparative Negligence Rules

In Iowa, when courts, attorneys, and insurance adjusters calculate settlement packages, they abide by a rule known as comparative negligence. This rule stipulates that the amount of compensation you can collect will be reduced by your degree of fault in the accident. As long as you were less than 51 percent responsible, you can still pursue financial compensation for a motorcycle accident.

For example, if your settlement totaled $100,000 and you were found to be 25 percent at fault, you would receive only $75,000 in damages. Proving fault, negligence, and other legal issues is critical in these cases. Reducing your degree of fault and demonstrating the other party’s liability is essential for a successful claim. This is where Iowa injury attorneys can be instrumental. They help collect evidence, protect your rights, and present your case effectively to adjusters or the courts.

Defenses Against Motorcycle Accident Claims in Iowa

If you have been in a motorcycle accident in Iowa and are pursuing a claim for damages, the insurance company or other driver will likely present arguments against your claim. Familiarizing yourself with common defenses and hiring an attorney are crucial to ensuring your case is solid.

Common Defenses Against Motorcycle Accident Claims

1. Violation of Motorcycle Regulations: Another driver might argue that you violated specific motorcycle laws at the time of the accident. For instance, carrying a package that restricts the use of both hands (Iowa Code 321.275(6)) or riding more than two abreast in a lane (Iowa Code 321.275(4)). If they prove such a violation caused the accident, your claim might be jeopardized.
   
2. Speeding: The other side might argue that you were speeding or committed other traffic violations, such as an illegal lane change. If proven, this could partially or fully attribute the fault to you, reducing or barring your recovery of damages.
   
3. Impairment: If you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your ability to recover damages could be severely hindered. Your fault percentage would be calculated, affecting your compensation.
   
4. Not Wearing a Helmet: While Iowa doesn’t require helmet use, not wearing one might be an issue if you suffered head or neck injuries. The defense might argue that helmet use would have mitigated the injuries, thus reducing the damages you can recover.

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.