Sibley Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

A motorcycle accident can leave a Sibley rider and their family reeling. Motorcyclists have considerably less protection compared to other drivers, which can leave them vulnerable to catastrophic injuries like head trauma, spinal cord injuries, road rash, and fractures. They may face financial burdens and emotional damages as well. Understanding how to prove fault, what medical bills you are responsible for while a claim is pending, and what an attorney can actually do for your case are all essential pieces of protecting a Sibley rider's rights after a crash.

Establishing the Other Driver's Negligence

Some drivers may not account for motorcyclists when changing lanes and driving in general. For example, a driver may not check for bikes when turning left. If a motorcycle is coming straight through the intersection, it can lead to a serious collision.

To prove that the other driver acted negligently, your case must present valid evidence. This can include a police report that indicates the cause and circumstances of the collision, as well as any citations, such as an improper turn or speeding citation, issued to either driver. Other common types of evidence include photos of the scene and injuries, videos of the accident, eyewitness statements, and even the damaged vehicles involved in the crash.

Helmet use will not be a factor for a Sibley rider who suffers road rash on the leg, since a helmet would not have protected the leg from that injury. Talk to your attorney about the specific details of your case to get a better understanding of how helmet use, or the lack of it, may affect your claim.

Types of Damages Recoverable in a Sibley Motorcycle Claim

Economic damages in a motorcycle wreck can cover, but are not limited to, current and future loss of income and medical bills. Catastrophic injuries can require significant medical care in the future, such as home care for a brain or spinal cord injury or additional surgeries, so it is important to account for this when calculating losses. Noneconomic damages are also recoverable, which may include pain and suffering, mental anguish, reduced quality of life, and others.

Who Should Pay Your Medical Bills After a Sibley Motorcycle Accident

One of the biggest sources of confusion after a motorcycle crash is figuring out who is actually responsible for paying the medical bills while a claim is pending. It is rare for the other driver's insurance company to make payments for medical bills as they are incurred, even when liability is obvious. The other driver's insurance company is not required to make payments, and insurance companies routinely make payments only at the time of a final settlement when they can obtain a release. A Sibley rider should not expect the other driver's insurance company to pay medical bills along the way.

It is also important for Sibley residents to keep in mind that almost all insurance policies contain a subrogation provision. This means the insurer requires reimbursement if you obtain money for your medical bills from another party or insurance company, which is one more reason it helps to have an attorney reviewing the details of your claim.

What Can an Attorney Do for Your Sibley Motorcycle Case?

Depending upon the nature and severity of your injuries, you may or may not need an attorney in your case. However, it is always a good idea to at the very least consult with an experienced Iowa injury attorney and request information that may help you through the process and avoid common costly mistakes. Should you decide to work with an attorney, here are some of the tasks that will be handled on your behalf, generally at no risk to you, since payment is only owed if the case is successful.

If a Lawsuit Becomes Necessary

If a suit is filed, an attorney prepares the client, witnesses, and healthcare providers for depositions, prepares written questions, and takes the depositions of the defendant and other witnesses. A scheduling conference is conducted to set a trial date, and the attorney prepares medical, demonstrative, and other exhibits, files motions and briefs to determine what evidence will be allowed, and takes the case to trial with a jury in most personal injury cases. Afterward, the attorney reviews the verdict to determine whether either side has good grounds for appeal and makes a recommendation to the client about whether to move forward with one.