Monroe Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury attorneys serve as committed supporters for riders when calamity strikes. Specializing in motorcycle accidents, they navigate legal complexities to ensure injured riders receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Motorcycle accidents are a serious concern for riders and can result in life-threatening head injuries. Data from the Iowa Department of Transportation indicates that in 2013, there were 41 motorcycle fatalities, with 34 involving riders not wearing helmets. Despite helmets not being mandatory in Iowa, they can be a crucial factor in saving lives. This article provides an overview of the types of head injuries motorcyclists might sustain in accidents and the importance of consulting an attorney if you’ve been seriously injured in Iowa.

Types of Head Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can cause a range of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Here are some common head injuries that can result from motorcycle crashes:

1. Concussions: These are relatively mild brain injuries that can improve within days but require medical attention to prevent complications.
2. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These occur when the brain violently moves within the skull, potentially causing long-term damage or even permanent disability.
3. Penetrating Injuries: These involve an object embedding into the brain tissue, often resulting in severe damage.
4. Intracranial Hemorrhaging: This involves bleeding within the brain, which can cause pressure on brain tissue and restrict blood flow, leading to potentially fatal consequences if not treated immediately.

Victims of motorcycle accidents often require immediate medical care and long-term rehabilitation, which can lead to significant medical bills. These expenses may be pursued in an injury claim against an at-fault driver.

Long-term Consequences of Motorcycle Head Injuries

Severe head injuries from motorcycle accidents can have long-lasting effects, such as:

- Communication Problems: Difficulty in speaking or understanding language.
- Cognitive Limitations: Challenges with memory, concentration, and problem-solving.
- Mobility Issues: Trouble with balance and coordination.
- Motor Skill Limitations: Reduced fine motor skills.
- Sensory Problems: Issues with hearing and vision.
- Emotional and Mental Health Problems: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The severity and type of head injury significantly influence the long-term consequences, highlighting the importance of wearing a helmet and seeking immediate medical attention after an accident.

Helmets, Head Injury, and Motorcycle Accident Claims

While Iowa law does not mandate helmet use, not wearing one can impact a motorcycle accident claim involving head injuries. If a motorcyclist suffers a head injury while not wearing a helmet, the defense may argue that the motorcyclist's decision contributed to the severity of the injury. This could lead to a reduction in the damages recovered based on the degree of contributory negligence. If the motorcyclist is found to be more than 50% at fault, they may be barred from recovering any damages.

Why You Should Talk to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Monroe

After a motorcycle accident, dealing with injuries and recovery is overwhelming. However, consulting with a motorcycle accident attorney is crucial for the following reasons:

1. Handling Serious Injury Claims: Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, such as head injuries, broken bones, burns, and soft tissue injuries. An attorney can help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and other related costs.
2. Gathering Evidence: Proving fault requires substantial evidence, including accident scene photos, medical records, eyewitness testimony, and police reports. An attorney can help collect and present this evidence.
3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may offer settlements that are too low. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
4. Providing Legal Guidance: An attorney can answer all legal questions related to the accident, help file a personal injury lawsuit if necessary, and guide you through the state's statute of limitations.

Tips to Avoid Some of the Most Common Motorcycle Accidents

Many motorcycle accidents are preventable with proper riding techniques and safety measures. Here are tips to avoid common accidents:

1. Avoid Drinking and Driving: Alcohol is a factor in many motorcycle accidents. Do not drink and ride.
2. Watch for Cars Turning Left: This common accident occurs when a car turns in front of you. Slow down at intersections and look for signs that a car may turn.
3. Beware of Gravel in Blind Corners: Ride at a pace where you can react to unexpected obstacles, and enter corners wide for better visibility.
4. Avoid Entering Corners Too Fast: Pay attention to visual clues indicating the road's direction, and trust your bike's capability to handle corners.
5. Watch for Lane Changes: Stay out of drivers' blind spots and be alert for cues that a car may change lanes.
6. Prevent Rear-End Collisions: When stopping at intersections, stay to the side of the lane, flash your brake light, and be ready to move if needed.
7. Ride Safely with Buddies: Practice proper group riding etiquette, like staggered formation, to avoid collisions.
8. Learn to Use Your Front Brake: Practice using your front brake in a safe area to become familiar with its capabilities and avoid locking it up in emergencies.

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.