Manchester Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When disaster hits, motorcycle injury lawyers serve as committed advocates for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accident cases equips them to handle legal intricacies and secure fair justice and compensation for injured riders.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim as an Injured Passenger

As a motorcycle accident victim injured while riding as a passenger on a friend’s bike, you have the right to file an injury claim against the at-fault party. This could be the motorcyclist’s insurance or another party involved in the accident, such as the driver of a passenger vehicle. The responsible party and type of coverage available will determine the specifics of the claim.

Understanding Minimum Motorcycle Insurance in Iowa

In Iowa, motorcyclists are required to carry minimum insurance coverage that includes:
- $20,000 in bodily injury liability for one person,
- $40,000 bodily injury liability for all injuries in one accident, and
- $15,000 for property damage.

If the motorcyclist is at fault, their insurance might cover the damages for the injured passenger. Conversely, if another party is at fault, the passenger can file a claim against that party’s insurance. It's worth noting that many motorists carry higher insurance coverage and some even have medical payments coverage, which can cover medical costs regardless of fault. Passengers may use their own insurance initially to cover costs before recovering compensation from the at-fault party.

Dealing with Insufficient Insurance Coverage

There are cases where the at-fault party’s insurance coverage is insufficient. For example, if a driver runs a red light and collides with the motorcycle, injuring both the passenger and the motorcyclist, the minimum bodily injury liability coverage of $40,000 may not suffice. In such scenarios, filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party may be necessary. Legal representation is often essential in these situations to navigate the complexities of the lawsuit.

Damages Recoverable by a Motorcycle Accident Passenger

Passengers injured in a motorcycle accident may suffer severe injuries, leading to substantial medical and hospital costs, which can be claimed or addressed in a lawsuit. Additional damages that may be recoverable include:
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages due to being out of work during recovery

Road Rash from Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can result in road rash, a common and often severe injury where the skin is scraped against the road surface, causing lacerations and abrasions. Road rash can be categorized by degrees of severity:
- First-degree (minor) road rash involves skin redness and can typically be treated at home.
- Second-degree road rash involves broken skin and more discomfort but still may be manageable at home.
- Third-degree road rash is severe, affecting all skin layers and potentially damaging muscles and other tissues, often requiring medical intervention such as skin grafting.

Skin Grafting for Severe Road Rash

Skin grafting is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia to treat severe road rash. Recovery can be lengthy and challenging, often requiring weeks of hospital observation and limited movement post-discharge, which can delay the return to normal activities and work.

Seeking Compensation for Road Rash Injuries

Victims of motorcycle accidents caused by another party may be entitled to compensation for damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering

Proper documentation of losses and proving fault are essential for a successful claim. Maintaining records of medical treatments, bills, lost work time, police reports, and witness statements can support the case. An attorney can help organize these documents and build a strong claim.

Motorcycle Safety Tips for Increased Visibility

Visibility is crucial for motorcycle safety. Here are some tips to enhance visibility on the road:
- Wear bright colors to increase visibility to other drivers, especially at night.
- Use reflective gear or tape on your bike, helmet, and clothing to enhance visibility.
- Avoid blind spots of other vehicles, especially larger ones like trucks.
- Use your lights as required by Iowa law to ensure you are visible to others.
- Use your horn when necessary to alert other drivers of your presence.

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.