Van Meter Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In times of misfortune, motorcycle injury lawyers become dedicated advocates for riders. Specializing in motorcycle accidents, they handle legal intricacies to ensure justice and compensation for injured riders.

Important Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

With today's economy, many people are finding that motorcycles are a very useful and economical alternative to cars. In Iowa, the weather affects when people can ride, but in nice years like 2011, there can be many months of motorcycle riding.

People choose motorcycle riding for various reasons. There are many benefits to riding a motorcycle, including less impact on the environment. However, there are also many risks associated with getting on a bike. If you or a loved one has just purchased a motorcycle or is considering buying one, you should take into account the risks involved. Motorcycles do not provide the same level of protection that an automobile does. There is no outward shell to protect the rider in the event of an accident.

To reduce your risk when riding, consider taking the following safety measures:

- Ride with your lights on at all times: This makes you more visible to other drivers.
- Wear protective clothing and gear: Always wear a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes.
- Follow all traffic laws: Adhering to traffic regulations is crucial for your safety.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant and pay attention to the drivers around you.
- Never ride under the influence or when tired: Alcohol, drugs, and fatigue impair your ability to ride safely.

Just like a car, you need to ensure your motorcycle is in good condition before riding. Check all your lights, tire pressure, and brakes before taking off on a long ride. Most importantly, enjoy yourself, but always prioritize safety.

Motorcycle Accidents & Spinal Cord Injuries

In 2011, nearly 1,000 motorcyclists were injured in crashes in Iowa, and another 34 died in motorcycle crashes, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation. Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious injuries riders can sustain, affecting approximately 11 percent of motorcycle accident victims, according to a St. James University Hospital study published in the Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery in 2002.

Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for 40 percent of all new cases, according to the Mayo Clinic. In motorcycle accidents, the vertebrae can become damaged upon collision, leading to spinal cord injuries.

Types of Motorcycle Accident-Related Spinal Cord Injuries

There are two basic types of spinal cord injuries:

- Complete: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury site.
- Incomplete: Partial loss of sensation and function below the injury site. The extent of the injury can take weeks or months to fully determine.

Patterns and Statistics of Spinal Cord Injuries

The St. James University Hospital study found:

- Isolated spine injuries occurred in over 23 percent of riders.
- Multiple vertebral levels were affected in over 42 percent of riders.
- The thoracic spine was the most commonly injured area (54.8 percent).
- The lumbar spine was injured 30 percent of the time.
- The cervical spine was injured in 27 percent of cases.
- Neurologic injury occurred in nearly 20 percent of accidents.

Complications That Spinal Cord Injury Victims Face

Spinal cord injuries can lead to numerous health complications, including:

- Blood clots
- Pressure sores
- Breathing difficulties
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Increased risk of urinary infections, kidney infections, and bladder stones
- Blood pressure problems
- Susceptibility to lung problems and pneumonia
- Muscle atrophy
- Weight issues (both weight loss and obesity)
- Sexual and reproductive function issues
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nerve pain

The Dangers of Undiagnosed Vertebrae Fractures

Undiagnosed compression fractures can lead to serious long-term complications, such as kyphosis, or curvature of the spine, which causes deformity and compresses organs. Other complications include chronic pain, reduced physical function, impaired lung function, decreased ability to perform daily activities, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

If you suspect a compression fracture after a motorcycle accident, seek medical attention immediately. Consulting a lawyer can also help you navigate workers’ compensation claims.

Mental and Emotional Impact of Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries often lead to severe mental and emotional issues. According to a study published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, nearly half of spinal injury patients suffer from mental health problems, including:

- Depression (37 percent)
- Anxiety (30 percent)
- Clinical-level stress (25 percent)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (8.4 percent)

How to Deal with an Aggressive Driver if You’re on a Motorcycle

Dealing with aggressive drivers is an unfortunate reality for motorcyclists. Drivers may run you off the road due to inattentiveness or a sense of power behind the wheel. Knowing how to handle such situations is crucial for your safety.

Don’t Respond to Road Rage

Avoid responding to aggressive drivers. Engaging in road rage can be dangerous. Instead, keep your distance and stay calm.

Move Over if Being Tailgated

If you are being tailgated, change lanes to let the aggressive driver pass. Don’t speed up to accommodate them, as this can be dangerous.

Report the Driver

If necessary, pull over or exit the highway to avoid the aggressive driver. Consider reporting the driver to the authorities. In Van Meter, you can report aggressive drivers to the Non-Emergency Communications Center at 515-283-4811, which is staffed 24 hours a day.

Know How to Stay Safe While Riding

Staying safe on a motorcycle involves more than just handling aggressive drivers. Always wear a helmet, carry a motorcycle safety kit, and follow other safety tips. If you are in an accident, contact an attorney to discuss your compensation and recovery options. 

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.