Lone Tree Personal Injury Attorneys

When accidents and injuries disrupt lives, personal injury lawyers become crucial allies. They advocate for those harmed by negligence, helping them secure proper compensation. This article discusses the vital role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in recovery.

The Dangers of Drinking and Biking

Just like drinking and driving, drinking and biking are a dangerous combination. Alcohol impairs cognitive and motor skills, slows reaction time, and affects judgment, increasing the risk of accidents. Despite these dangers, millions of people still choose to bike or drive under the influence of alcohol. In Iowa, approximately 3.2 percent of residents admitted to driving after drinking too much in the past 30 days, significantly higher than the national average of 1.9 percent according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Statistical Snapshot of Alcohol-Related Bike Accidents

Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlight the risks associated with alcohol and biking:
- In 34 percent of fatal bicycle accidents, either the cyclist or the driver was under the influence of alcohol.
- In 2013, 20 percent of bicyclists who died in traffic accidents had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 g/dL or higher, the legal limit for alcohol, and nearly one-quarter had a BAC of 0.01 g/dL.

Intoxication Affects Bike Accident Liability

Biking under the influence of alcohol not only endangers lives but also has legal repercussions. If you cause an accident while intoxicated, you may face criminal charges, including jail time, fines, and lost driving privileges. Additionally, intoxicated biking is considered negligence in accident claims or lawsuits. In Iowa, an at-fault insurance state, you could be held responsible for damages if found negligent.

Determining Fault in Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents

Determining fault in an accident where a vehicle makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle can be complex. Generally, the driver making the left turn may be found liable, as they are required by law to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic.

Common Causes and Legal Responsibilities

Motorists often find it difficult to see motorcycles, leading to collisions. Despite this, drivers are responsible for ensuring it is safe to make a left turn. Failure to do so can result in liability for any resulting accident. For example, if a driver makes a left turn at an intersection like E. 9th Street and E. University Avenue and collides with an oncoming motorcycle, they would likely be found at fault.

Exceptions to Left-Turn Liability

There are exceptions where the motorcyclist may share fault. If the motorcyclist was speeding or ran a red light, the driver's liability could be reduced or eliminated.

Should I Hire an Attorney for a Bicycle Accident?

Hiring an attorney after a bicycle accident is crucial, especially in light of Iowa’s comparative negligence laws. These laws allow for your compensation to be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. An attorney can help ensure that your fault is minimized, protecting your compensation.

Negotiating a Settlement Amount

Insurance companies often try to pay less than what you deserve. An attorney can help negotiate a fair settlement by proving that the other party was at fault and advocating for your full compensation.

Filing a Lawsuit

Sometimes, settlements are insufficient, or injuries are severe enough to warrant a lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit requires knowledge of state and federal laws, adherence to the statute of limitations, and dedication. An attorney can guide you through this process.

We Are Here To Help

Remember, you are not alone in recovering from your injuries. We have helped thousands of Iowans through their physical, emotional, and financial recoveries. If you have questions about what you are going through, feel free to call our office for your confidential injury conference. We will take the time to listen to you and give you our advice concerning your injury matter at no cost or risk to you.

Free Book at No Cost 

If you are not ready to speak with an attorney yet but would like to learn more about Iowa injury cases including tips about how you can avoid making common costly mistakes request a copy of our Iowa Personal Injury book which includes 14 myths about Iowa injury cases and 5 things to know before hiring an attorney.

If you have specific questions about your injury matter feel free to call our office to speak with our Injury team at 641-792-3595 or use our Chat feature by clicking here 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Your information will remain confidential and there is no cost or obligation.