Rockwell City Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When tragedy occurs, motorcycle injury attorneys act as committed defenders for riders. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they adeptly handle legal challenges to ensure justice and compensation for injured riders.

Comprehensive Guide to Motorcycle Head Injuries, Insurance, and Safety in Iowa

Data from the Iowa Department of Transportation indicates there were 41 motorcycle fatalities in 2013, 34 of which involved motorcyclists who were not wearing helmets. While wearing a helmet is a critical safety measure that can save lives, it is not mandatory in Iowa. Below is an overview of the types of head injuries motorcyclists might sustain, their long-term consequences, and the importance of legal recourse if you suffer serious injuries in an accident in Iowa.

Types of Head Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can result in various head injuries, ranging from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Common head injuries include:

- Concussions: These can range from mild to severe, with symptoms that may resolve in a few days or persist longer.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These occur when the brain moves violently within the skull or is penetrated by an object, potentially leading to long-term damage.
- Intracranial Hemorrhaging: This involves bleeding in the brain, which can increase pressure on brain tissue and restrict blood flow, often requiring immediate and extensive medical intervention.

Long-term Consequences of Motorcycle Head Injuries

The impact of a head injury from a motorcycle accident can be profound and long-lasting. Victims may experience:

- Communication problems
- Cognitive limitations
- Mobility and balance issues
- Fine motor skill impairments
- Hearing and vision problems
- Loss of sensation in parts of the body
- Emotional and mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety

The severity and type of head injury significantly influence the extent of these effects. Victims often require long-term care and rehabilitation, leading to substantial medical expenses.

Helmets, Head Injury, and Motorcycle Accident Claims

Although Iowa does not mandate helmet use, choosing not to wear one can impact a motorcycle accident claim. Not wearing a helmet might be considered contributory negligence, which can reduce or eliminate the compensation you receive for head injuries. For instance, if a motorcyclist suffers a head injury and is found partially at fault for not wearing a helmet, the compensation awarded may be reduced by their degree of fault. If the motorcyclist is more than 50 percent at fault, they cannot recover damages at all.

An attorney can help prove the other party's liability and address any claims of contributory negligence related to helmet use.

Seeking Legal Help for Head Injuries

If you or a loved one has suffered a severe head injury in a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to seek legal advice to pursue compensation for your damages. An attorney can help collect evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation. Contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair at (888) 435-9886 for a confidential consultation.

Default May Not Be Enough: Explore Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

In Iowa, motorcyclists without insurance risk losing their licenses and being held financially responsible for all accident-related costs. To avoid such outcomes and ensure a safer riding experience, it is essential to explore the various coverage options offered by motorcycle insurance companies.

Essential Motorcycle Insurance Coverage Options

1. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you're involved in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance to cover your damages.
2. Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision-related damages, such as those caused by floods, fires, or vandalism.
3. Collision Coverage: Pays for repairs if your motorcycle collides with another object.
4. Medical Expense Coverage: Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who caused the accident.
5. Roadside Assistance Coverage: Provides towing and support if you experience a breakdown or accident, often paired with excursion diversion insurance for accidents occurring far from home.

When Insurance Coverage Is Not Enough

Sometimes, the damages from an accident exceed the coverage limits of your insurance policy. In such cases, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to recover the total cost of all incurred damages. Iowa law stipulates a two-year timeframe for filing such claims under Iowa Code 614.1. Walker, Billingsley & Bair can assist with insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits to ensure you receive adequate compensation.

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

Motorcyclist visibility is crucial for safety and accident prevention. Here are some tips to enhance your visibility while riding in Iowa.

Tips for Increased Visibility

- Wear Bright Colors: Opt for bright clothing to make yourself more noticeable to other drivers, especially at night.
- Use Reflective Gear: Add reflective tape to your bike, helmet, and clothing to improve visibility.
- Avoid Blind Spots: Stay out of cars' "no zones" or blind spots, usually on the passenger side of vehicles.
- Use Your Lights: Ensure your motorcycle’s headlamp is on to improve your visibility to other drivers.
- Use Your Horn: Judicious use of your horn can alert drivers to your presence and prevent accidents.

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.