Parkersburg Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

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

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, the amount of compensation you are eligible to recover will be reduced. It's important to understand that even if you bear some responsibility for the accident, you can still seek compensation with the help of experienced injury attorneys like those at Walker, Billingsley & Bair.

Iowa’s Comparative Negligence Rules

In Iowa, courts, attorneys, and insurance adjusters calculate settlement packages using a rule known as comparative negligence. This rule stipulates that the amount of compensation you can collect will be reduced by your degree of fault in the accident. As long as you are less than 51 percent responsible for the accident, you can pursue financial compensation.

For example, if your settlement totaled $100,000 and you were found to be 25 percent at fault for the accident, you would receive only $75,000 in damages. Proving fault and negligence is critical in these cases, and an Iowa injury attorney can help you collect evidence, protect your rights, and present your case effectively.

Recovering Compensation for Disfiguring Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can result in serious and disfiguring injuries due to the vulnerability of riders. In 2012, motorcycle accidents accounted for only 2 percent of all road accidents in Iowa but resulted in 12 percent of serious injury-related accidents and 14 percent of all fatalities. If you have suffered disfiguring injuries in a motorcycle accident, you may pursue compensation for damages.

Types of Compensation

Victims of motorcycle accidents who suffer serious or disfiguring injuries may be entitled to compensation for:

- Medical Bills: Covering immediate and long-term care.
- Hospitalization and Long-Term Care: Including the hiring of caregivers and physical therapy.
- Loss of Earnings: Compensating for current and future lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Addressing emotional distress and the impact of disfigurement on quality of life.

In cases of extreme scarring or limb amputation, victims may need both emotional and physical therapy to heal. Long-term complications and future issues should also be considered when discussing compensation.

The Role of Insurance

Having adequate motorcycle insurance is crucial for financial protection. Iowa law requires motorcyclists to meet minimum liability coverage amounts:

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

Meeting these minimums is essential, but higher coverage amounts are advisable for better protection. Additional coverage options include:

- Medical Payments Coverage: No-fault coverage that pays for medical costs regardless of who was at fault.
- Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Covers medical bills, lost earnings, and other expenses if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.

For example, if a motorcyclist is struck by a drunk driver with only the minimum required insurance, but the medical bills exceed this amount, the rider’s underinsured motorist coverage could cover the excess costs.

Filing a Third-Party Liability Claim

If another driver caused your motorcycle accident, you may file a third-party claim against their liability insurance. This can provide compensation for your medical and living expenses while you recover. It's important to consult with an attorney before settling with an insurance company, as they may offer a quick settlement that is not in your best interest.

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.