Park View Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the wake of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become committed defenders for riders. Specializing in motorcycle accidents, they adeptly handle legal challenges to ensure injured riders receive fair justice and compensation.

Motorcycle Safety Equipment You Might Not Know About

When you ride a motorcycle, it’s crucial to be equipped with the safest gear possible. While you’re likely familiar with the importance of helmets, gloves, boots, and eye protection, some advanced motorcycle safety equipment might surprise you.

Motorcycle Airbag Jackets

A motorcycle airbag jacket functions just as its name implies – a jacket with an airbag built-in. These jackets feature two cables and a CO2 cartridge. One cable connects to the motorcycle. In the event of a crash where the motorcyclist is thrown from the bike, the cable disconnects, activating the CO2 and inflating the jacket within 100 to 300 milliseconds.

Some advanced airbag jackets are self-contained, operating without cables. Instead, sensors in the jacket detect loss of control or a fall, inflating the jacket in under 60 milliseconds.

Motorcycle Smart Helmets

Distractions are a significant danger for motorcyclists, especially those from handheld devices like cell phones and GPS units. Smart helmets are being developed to eliminate the need for handheld devices. These helmets come with Bluetooth headsets, microphones, and music and voice connectivity, allowing connection to smartphones and GPS devices. They can provide riders with warnings about sharp turns and display maps and other data directly on the face shield.

Essential Safety Gear

Despite these technological advancements, the most critical piece of safety equipment remains the helmet. For more information on fitting a motorcycle helmet and understanding helmet certifications, visit our blog.

What Happens if I Was Partially at Fault in an Iowa Motorcycle Accident?

If you are found partially at fault in an Iowa motorcycle accident, your compensation will be reduced proportionally. Iowa’s comparative negligence rule stipulates that your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. 

Understanding Comparative Negligence

In Iowa, comparative negligence affects how settlement packages are calculated. If you are less than 51 percent at fault, you can still pursue compensation. For example, if your settlement is $100,000 and you are 25 percent at fault, you will receive $75,000. Proving fault and negligence is crucial, and reducing your degree of fault can be pivotal for a successful claim.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim as a Passenger

If you were a passenger on a friend’s motorcycle and were injured in an accident, you could file an injury claim against the at-fault party, either under the motorcyclist’s insurance policy or against another party’s insurance, depending on fault and coverage.

Understanding Insurance Coverage

Iowa motorcyclists must carry a minimum of 20/40/15 insurance:
- $20,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $40,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $15,000 for property damage

Some motorcyclists carry higher coverage. If the motorcyclist is at fault, their insurance might cover damages. If another party is at fault, the passenger can file a claim against that party’s insurance. Medical payments coverage can initially cover costs regardless of fault.

Insufficient Insurance Coverage

If insurance coverage is insufficient, such as in cases of severe injury, passengers may need to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. This often requires legal representation.

Recoverable Damages

Passengers in a motorcycle accident can recover:
- Medical and hospital costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Emotional distress

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.