Missouri Valley Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the event of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become steadfast champions for riders. Specializing in motorcycle accidents, they handle legal intricacies to ensure injured riders receive fair justice and compensation.

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

Motorcyclists face unique challenges on the road, primarily due to their smaller size compared to other vehicles. Ensuring visibility is essential for safety. If you’re a motorcyclist in Iowa, here are some crucial tips to make yourself more visible and reduce the risk of accidents.

Wear Bright Colors

While the classic motorcyclist look often involves black leather, dark colors can be hard to see. Wearing bright colors improves visibility, making it easier for other drivers to spot you. This is particularly important at night when visibility is even worse.

Consider Reflective Gear

If neon jackets aren't your style, reflective gear or tape can significantly enhance visibility. Add reflective tape to your bike, helmet, and jacket to make yourself more noticeable to other motorists.

Avoid Cars’ Blind Spots

Always avoid riding in a car’s blind spot, typically on the passenger side but larger vehicles like trucks have more extensive blind spots. Pass other vehicles quickly and safely to avoid lingering in these dangerous zones.

Use Your Lights

Iowa law requires motorcyclists to have at least one lighted headlamp for motorcycles manufactured after 1977, as per Iowa Code Section 321.275(5). A headlamp not only helps you see but also makes you more visible to other drivers.

Use Your Horn

While using a horn can sometimes seem aggressive, it can be an effective way to alert drivers to your presence, preventing potential accidents.

How Does Motorcycle Insurance Help Injured Riders in Iowa?

Insurance laws in Iowa mandate minimum liability coverage amounts for all drivers, including motorcyclists:

- $20,000 bodily injury (for one person)
- $40,000 bodily injury (for more than one person)
- $15,000 property damage

These minimums help cover costs if a motorcyclist is at fault. However, in an accident caused by another motorist, injured riders can claim against that motorist’s liability coverage.

Importance of Insurance Coverage for Motorcyclists

While meeting minimum coverage requirements is beneficial, many motorcyclists opt for higher coverage for better financial protection. This is crucial since motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable, and accidents often result in severe injuries.

If another driver is at fault, motorcyclists rely on the at-fault driver’s insurance. However, not all drivers have insurance or adequate coverage. Therefore, motorcyclists may benefit from additional insurance options such as:

- Medical Payments Coverage: This no-fault coverage pays for medical costs regardless of who is at fault.
- Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage is essential if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance. It can cover medical bills, lost earnings, and other accident-related expenses.

How Insurance Coverage Can Impact a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Adequate coverage is critical due to the potentially catastrophic nature of motorcycle accidents. For instance, if a motorcyclist is struck by a drunk driver and incurs significant medical bills, the at-fault driver’s minimum insurance may not be enough. In such cases, the rider’s underinsured motorist coverage could cover the excess costs.

Additionally, in hit-and-run scenarios, uninsured motorist coverage can provide necessary compensation until the responsible party is found.

Be Aware of Internal Injury Signs after a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents pose a high risk of severe injuries. Internal injuries, in particular, may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening. Recognizing the signs of internal injuries is crucial.

Types of Internal Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Common internal injuries include:

- Tears in major blood vessels (e.g., aorta)
- Organ damage (e.g., spleen or liver)
- Bleeding around the lungs
- Intracranial hemorrhage

Internal Injury Signs to Know

Signs of internal injuries can be subtle or severe. Be aware of symptoms such as:

- Loss of consciousness or headache: This can indicate internal hemorrhaging in the brain.
- Swelling or pain in the abdomen: This may signal internal bleeding.
- Discolored skin: A deep purple hue can indicate bleeding beneath the skin.
- Light-headedness or fainting: These can result from internal blood loss.

If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, seek immediate medical attention.

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.