Humboldt Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the aftermath of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become unwavering supporters for riders. Specializing in motorcycle accidents, they proficiently navigate legal challenges to ensure justice and compensation for injured riders.

Recovering Compensation for Disfiguring Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Riding a motorcycle is inherently risky, especially with increasing traffic and aggressive drivers. According to the Iowa Department of Public Safety, while motorcycle accidents accounted for only 2 percent of all road accidents in 2012, they resulted in 12 percent of serious injury-related accidents and 14 percent of all accident fatalities. Following the rules of the road and wearing a helmet are essential, but even the most cautious riders can have accidents. If you suffer disfiguring injuries in a motorcycle accident, you may pursue compensation for damages.

Check Your Insurance Policy and Consider a Third-Party Liability Claim

It is crucial to maintain complete coverage for your bike to cover medical and living expenses during recovery. If you have been seriously injured or disfigured due to weather conditions or driver error, you are entitled to compensation from your insurance company, provided you have the appropriate motorcycle insurance coverage. Additionally, you may file a third-party claim against another driver's liability insurance if the other driver caused your accident.

Types of Compensation for Which You May Be Eligible

Victims of motorcycle accidents who suffer serious or disfiguring injuries may be entitled to compensation for:

- Medical bills, hospitalization, and long-term care
- Hiring of caregivers and physical therapy
- Loss of earnings and future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life

In cases of extreme scarring or amputation, both emotional and physical therapy may be necessary.

Broken Bones from a Motorcycle Accident in Iowa: Recovering Compensation for Your Damages

In 2012, over 1,000 motorcycle injury crashes occurred in Iowa, per the Iowa Department of Transportation. Injuries from these accidents can be extremely painful and expensive to treat, often requiring extended recovery periods. Common injuries include broken bones, which can lead to long-term complications.

Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Bone

The most distinct characteristic of a broken bone is intensive pain at the affected area. Other signs include:

- Swelling and bruising
- Bleeding and limited mobility
- Numbness and tingling
- Broken skin with a protruding bone
- Misshapen or out-of-place limb or joint

Bones Commonly Broken in a Motorcycle Accident

The bones most commonly broken depend on the accident's severity, angle of impact, speed, and the body part impacted. Motorcyclists might suffer rib fractures, collarbone, leg, arm, spine, and pelvis breaks. The severity of the break determines the healing time and risk for long-term complications.

Recovery Time and Long-Term Complications

Treatment varies based on the break's severity and location. Cast immobilization is typical for limb breaks, while serious breaks may require surgery. Spinal column injuries can cause permanent paralysis. Post-traumatic arthritis is a potential future complication.

Who’s Liable for Your Broken Bones?

If another driver's negligence caused your accident and broken bones, they might be liable for your damages. In Iowa, you must file a motorcycle injury case within two years of the injury.

Why is Iowa’s Motorcycle Death Rate 10 Times Higher than the National Average?

Motorcycles make up only 0.3% of registered vehicles in Iowa, yet account for 16.7% of fatalities on Iowa roadways. Despite the low number of motorcycles, riders are 55 times more likely than other drivers to be killed in a crash. As of May 2, 2024, there have been 11 motorcycle fatalities in Iowa this year.

Does Wearing a Helmet Help?

Iowa is one of three states without a helmet law, which includes children. During the brief period when Iowa had a helmet law (1975-1976), motorcycle deaths dropped by 40%. While helmets can reduce injury severity, visibility and hearing might be impaired, affecting alertness.

What Else Can You Do to Prevent Becoming a Statistic?

Training is crucial for reducing risk. Rider error, such as speeding and improper cornering, is a common cause of single motorcycle accidents. Basic and advanced training courses can improve situational awareness and risk evaluation. Increasing visibility with safety vests, headlights, and flags can also help.

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

Investigate the crash cause, whether it’s a defective part, tire blowout, or road debris. If another driver is responsible, seek good advice on dealing with insurance companies and medical providers.

- Seek Medical Care Immediately: Document all injuries and follow up with medical providers.
- Keep Important Documents: Maintain copies of medical records, accident reports, and a journal of your recovery.
- Be Honest About Your Injuries: Fully disclose your injuries to medical providers.

Tips for Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

- Recorded Statements: Avoid giving recorded statements without preparation.
- Settlements: Do not rush to settle your case without understanding its full value.

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.