Jefferson Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When accidents happen, motorcycle injury lawyers act as steadfast defenders for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents allows them to navigate legal intricacies and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

Motorcycle accidents pose a high risk of serious injury and emotional trauma for motorcyclists. From soft tissue injuries and fractures to spinal cord and head injuries, the physical impact can be severe. Additionally, motorcyclists involved in accidents may suffer from emotional trauma, especially in cases of severe injuries. In Iowa, motorcyclists can pursue liability claims or lawsuits against negligent drivers and factor emotional distress into their claims.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after traumatic events, such as motorcycle accidents. Previously known as shellshock in military contexts, PTSD can manifest for various reasons. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH), PTSD symptoms are categorized into three groups:

- Re-experiencing: This includes flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the incident.
- Avoidance: This involves avoiding reminders of the event, emotional numbness, feelings of guilt and depression, and difficulty remembering the event.
- Hyperarousal: This includes being easily startled, feeling edgy, having trouble sleeping, and experiencing intense anger.

Head Injuries and Depression

Head injuries are a significant concern for motorcyclists. While many states have implemented motorcycle helmet laws, Iowa has repealed its helmet laws. Despite this, safety groups strongly recommend helmet use. 

Research has shown a strong association between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and depression. For instance, a study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry in 2004 found that one-third of participants developed major depressive disorder within the first year after sustaining a TBI. Another study in the Journal of Nursing Scholarship in 2002 found a significant relationship between chronic stress and post-TBI depression, suggesting that the recovery process and related factors can contribute to emotional trauma.

Emotional Trauma in Personal Injury Cases

Motorcycle accident claims typically account for medical expenses related to physical injuries, such as head and spinal cord injuries. However, they also need to account for emotional trauma, which can include:

- Mental health assessments
- Counseling
- Treatment
- Mental anguish

It is important to note that not wearing a helmet might reduce the settlement amount if head injuries are involved. The insurance company or defendant might argue that helmet use could have prevented or lessened the severity of the injury. An attorney can provide guidance on how helmet use may affect your claim and the recovery of emotional or noneconomic damages.

Internal Injuries after a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, and internal injuries can be particularly dangerous as they might not be immediately apparent. Awareness of internal injury signs is crucial for motorcyclists.

Types of Internal Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Internal injuries can occur due to blunt trauma or penetration and may include:

- Tears in major blood vessels: such as the aorta, superior or inferior vena cava, or their branches.
- Trauma to organs: such as the spleen or liver.
- Bleeding around the lungs.
- Intracranial hemorrhage.

Signs of Internal Injuries

Recognizing internal injury signs is vital. Some symptoms are obvious, while others are more subtle. Common signs include:

- Loss of consciousness or headache: indicating possible internal brain hemorrhaging.
- Swelling or pain in the abdomen: suggesting blood accumulation.
- Discolored skin: indicating internal bleeding beneath the skin’s surface.
- Light-headedness or fainting: potentially due to internal blood loss.

Immediate medical attention is necessary if any of these symptoms are present after a motorcycle accident.

Valuing a Motorcycle Accident Claim with Permanent Injuries

Calculating the value of a motorcycle accident claim, especially involving permanent injuries, can be complex. Each case is unique, and factors such as the severity of injuries and their long-term impact differ.

Economic Damages

Economic damages include measurable expenses such as:

- Medical bills: incurred during treatment.
- Lost wages: during recovery.
- Future medical care: including long-term care needs.

Expert testimony may be required to estimate long-term costs and lost wages related to the accident and injuries.

Non-economic Damages

Non-economic damages cover subjective losses such as:

- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Disability

These damages are often calculated using a multiplier based on the severity of the injuries.

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.