Reinbeck Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury attorneys become committed champions for riders when tragedy strikes. Their focus on motorcycle accidents equips them to manage legal intricacies and secure justice and compensation for injured riders.

When negligence leads to a motorcycle crash, the aftermath can bring about severe injuries such as fractures, road rash, and brain and spinal cord injuries. Understanding these injuries and the legal processes involved is crucial for victims seeking rightful compensation to alleviate the physical, emotional, and financial repercussions. This article provides an in-depth look at the common types of serious motorcycle injuries, the importance of legal representation, and the steps to take following an accident in Iowa.

Common Types of Serious Motorcycle Injuries

Fractures

In a motorcycle collision, nearly any part of the body is susceptible to fractures. Severe breaks where bones protrude through the skin increase the risk of infection and complications. Specific fractures might require prolonged immobilization, elevating the danger of blood clots or bedsores.

Road Rash

Road rash occurs when a motorcyclist’s body skids across the pavement, akin to a burn. Severe road rash can damage tissues and muscles beneath the skin, often necessitating skin grafts to aid healing and cover exposed areas. Complications such as infections are common, underscoring the need for medical attention and potential legal compensation.

Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from motorcycle crashes range from mild concussions, causing temporary confusion and headaches, to severe TBIs leading to lasting complications. These can include memory and concentration issues, personality changes, impaired movement, and psychological problems like anxiety and depression.

Spinal cord injuries vary in severity, from minor discomfort due to herniated discs to severe spinal cord damage resulting in chronic pain or paralysis. Such injuries often necessitate lifelong medical care and can result in permanent disability.

Consulting a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The financial burden from severe motorcycle injuries can be overwhelming, covering substantial medical expenses and long-term care costs. Lost wages can further complicate matters, particularly if long-term employment is unfeasible. A motorcycle accident attorney can help victims pursue comprehensive compensation, covering financial damages and emotional distress such as pain and suffering.

Evaluating Attorneys

Before consulting an attorney, it's advisable to check reviews on platforms like Avvo and Google. Attorneys should provide evidence of past results on their webpage. Walker, Billingsley & Bair, for example, offers client testimonials and case results to help you make an informed decision.

Filing a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident

Filing a claim after a motorcycle accident involves several critical steps to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Seek Medical Attention and Save Records

Immediately seek medical attention following an accident and keep all relevant documentation. Proof of injuries and medical expenses will be required when filing a claim with the insurance company.

Review Your Insurance Policy

Review your motorcycle insurance policy to understand the coverage available. Basic coverage might not be sufficient, and additional coverages like medical payments may offer more compensation regardless of fault.

File in Time

Notify your insurance company about the accident promptly and file your claim quickly to avoid missing stipulated time requirements, which could result in a denied claim. In Iowa, you have two years under Iowa Code 614.1 to file a personal injury lawsuit.

How Helmet Use May Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Iowa is one of three states without a motorcycle helmet law. However, not wearing a helmet could impact your claim, particularly if you suffer a head injury.

Impact on Liability

If a head or brain injury could have been prevented by wearing a helmet, you might be considered partially negligent. Conversely, wearing a helmet can demonstrate caution and care, potentially aiding your claim.

Comparative Fault Laws in Iowa

Iowa's comparative fault laws mean that if you are partially negligent, your recoverable damages will be reduced in proportion to your fault. It's crucial to prove that the other party's negligence caused your injuries and that your injuries would have occurred regardless of helmet use.

Proving Negligence

To prove the other party's negligence, gather evidence such as:
- Police reports
- Lab tests (e.g., for impaired driving)
- Witness testimony
- Photo and video evidence
- Physical evidence

Seek medical attention immediately after an accident and secure legal representation to build a strong case.

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.