Iowa City Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When tragedy strikes, motorcycle injury attorneys become steadfast advocates for riders in their time of need. Specializing in the unique challenges of motorcycle accidents, these legal experts navigate the complexities of the law to ensure injured riders receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Motorcycle Safety Equipment You Might Not Know About

When you ride a motorcycle, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the safest gear available. While helmets, gloves, boots, and eye protection are well-known essentials, other pieces of motorcycle safety equipment might take you by surprise.

Motorcycle Airbag Jackets

A motorcycle airbag jacket is exactly what it sounds like a jacket with an airbag built in. Here’s how most airbag jackets work:

The airbag jacket typically features two cables and a CO2 cartridge. One of the cables is connected to the motorcycle. In the event of a crash, if the motorcyclist is thrown from the bike, the cable will disconnect and activate the CO2, inflating the jacket. The inflation process is incredibly fast, occurring within 100 to 300 milliseconds.

More advanced airbag jackets don’t require any cables or connections. Instead, they operate using sensors embedded within the jacket that detect changes in motion or impact. If a loss of control or a fall is detected, the jacket inflates in under 60 milliseconds, offering rapid protection to the rider.

Motorcycle Smart Helmets

One of the most significant dangers for motorcyclists is distraction, especially from handheld devices like cell phones and GPS units. Enter motorcycle smart helmets. These innovative helmets are equipped with Bluetooth headsets, microphones, music, and voice connectivity, and can connect to smartphones and GPS systems. They provide riders with crucial information and warnings, such as upcoming sharp turns, directly on their face shields. This integration helps to keep the rider’s focus on the road while still accessing important data.

Other Motorcycle Safety Musts

While the aforementioned gear is cutting-edge and beneficial, the most important piece of safety equipment remains the helmet. Whether it’s a smart helmet or a standard one, ensuring a proper fit and understanding helmet certifications is vital for every rider.

Can I File a Motorcycle Accident Claim Without a Valid Motorcycle License?

In Iowa, if you were involved in a motorcycle accident without a valid motorcycle license, you can still file a claim against the other driver. Lack of a valid license doesn’t necessarily determine fault and doesn’t bar you from seeking compensation if the other driver was responsible for the accident.

You may face penalties for riding without a license, but this doesn’t affect your ability to file an accident liability claim.

Establishing Fault

Iowa operates under a modified comparative fault system, allowing each driver to recover damages unless they are more than 51 percent responsible for the accident. Therefore, even if you were unlicensed, you can still recover damages if the other driver was primarily at fault.

Documenting the accident scene can help prove fault. Collect evidence such as:

- Photographs
- Witness testimonies
- Contact information for witnesses and the other driver
- The other driver’s insurance information

If the accident resulted in significant damage, injury, or death, fill out an Iowa Accident Report and submit it to the Iowa Department of Transportation within 72 hours, unless law enforcement has already done so.

Motorcycle Safety Tips to Be More Visible on Your Bike in Iowa

Ensuring visibility to other motorists is key to motorcycle safety. Here are some tips to make yourself more visible while riding in Iowa:

Wear Bright Colors

While black leather is iconic, it’s not the best for visibility. Opt for bright colors, especially at night, to make it easier for other drivers to see you.

Consider Reflective Gear

If bright colors aren’t your style, reflective gear or tape can help. Adding reflective elements to your bike, helmet, and clothing enhances visibility.

Avoid Blind Spots

Stay out of other vehicles' blind spots, particularly on the passenger side. Be aware of larger blind spots in trucks and pass other vehicles quickly and safely.

Use Your Lights

Iowa law mandates at least one headlamp for motorcycles made after 1977. Headlights improve your visibility to others and help you see the road ahead.

Use Your Horn

While often seen as aggressive, the horn can alert drivers to your presence, helping to prevent accidents.

What to Do if in a Motorcycle Accident in Iowa

If you are in an accident, seek medical attention immediately. If another party is at fault, contact a lawyer.

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.