Manson Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When tragedy strikes, motorcycle injury attorneys act as unwavering supporters for riders. Their focus on motorcycle accidents enables them to manage legal complexities and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

Comprehensive Guide to Motorcycle Road Rash and Safety Tips

Motorcycles symbolize freedom, exhilaration, and fun. However, they also come with an increased risk of serious injury and death in collisions. One common injury associated with motorcycle accidents is road rash, which occurs when the skin is scraped across the road surface, causing lacerations and abrasions.

Degrees of Motorcycle Road Rash

Road rash injuries, much like burns, are categorized by their severity:

- First-Degree Road Rash: This minor form involves skin redness and generally does not require major medical treatment. Home remedies, such as cleaning the wound and applying antibiotic ointment, are usually sufficient.
- Second-Degree Road Rash: This more serious form breaks the skin, causing more pain and discomfort. While still treatable at home, it requires careful attention to prevent infection.
- Third-Degree Road Rash: This severe injury affects all skin layers, exposing underlying tissue and possibly damaging muscles and other structures. Medical intervention, such as skin grafting, is often necessary.

Skin Grafting for Severe Road Rash

Skin grafting is a surgical procedure performed in a hospital under general anesthesia. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring weeks of hospital observation and limited movement post-release. This makes returning to work or normal activities difficult for an extended period.

Seeking Compensation for Road Rash Injuries

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident due to another party’s fault, you might be entitled to compensation. This can cover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages during recovery, and pain and suffering. To pursue a successful claim, it is essential to:

- Prove fault by documenting all losses meticulously.
- Keep records of all medical treatments, bills, and lost work time.
- Obtain police reports and witness statements.
- Provide your attorney with any photos or notes about the accident.

Motorcycle Safety Tips to Enhance Visibility

Importance of Visibility

Being visible to other motorists is crucial for motorcyclists' safety. Here are some tips to increase visibility and avoid accidents:

- Wear Bright Colors: While black leather is iconic, it doesn’t enhance visibility. Wearing bright colors, especially at night, helps other drivers see you better.
- Use Reflective Gear: If bright colors aren’t appealing, use reflective gear or tape on your bike, helmet, and jacket.
- Avoid Blind Spots: Stay out of cars’ blind spots, usually on the passenger side. Larger vehicles have bigger blind spots, so pass quickly and safely.
- Use Your Lights: Iowa law requires motorcyclists to have at least one lighted headlamp. This helps both your visibility and your ability to see the road.
- Use Your Horn: While it can seem aggressive, using your horn can alert other drivers to your presence and prevent accidents.

Dealing with Aggressive Drivers

Strategies for Safety

Knowing how to handle aggressive drivers is essential for motorcyclists:

- Don’t Respond to Road Rage: Avoid responding to aggressive behavior from other drivers. Stay calm and keep your distance.
- Move Over if Being Tailgated: Change lanes to let tailgaters pass safely. Don’t speed up to appease them.
- Report the Driver: If an aggressive driver is dangerous, consider reporting them to the police.

Staying Safe on the Road

Beyond handling aggressive drivers, always practice general motorcycle safety. Wear a helmet, keep a safety kit, and follow other safety tips available on our blog.

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.