Webster City Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In times of disaster, motorcycle injury lawyers become steadfast defenders for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accident cases allows them to navigate legal complexities and secure justice and compensation for injured riders.

Motorcycle Safety Equipment You Might Not Know About

When you ride a motorcycle, it’s crucial to ensure you're equipped with the safest gear possible. While the importance of helmets, gloves, boots, and eye protection is well-known, here are some lesser-known pieces of motorcycle safety equipment that might surprise you:

Motorcycle Airbag Jackets

A motorcycle airbag jacket is exactly what it sounds like – a jacket with a built-in airbag. Here’s how most airbag jackets work:

- Mechanism: The jacket includes two cables and a CO2 cartridge. One cable connects to the motorcycle. In the event of a crash, if the motorcyclist is thrown from the bike, the cable separates, activating the CO2 and inflating the jacket within 100 to 300 milliseconds.
- Advanced Versions: Some airbag jackets are cable-free, using sensors close to the body to detect a fall or loss of control. These jackets inflate in fewer than 60 milliseconds.

Motorcycle Smart Helmets

One of the significant dangers of riding a motorcycle is distractions, especially from handheld devices like cell phones and GPS units. New smart helmets aim to eliminate the need for these devices by integrating:

- Bluetooth Headsets: For hands-free communication.
- Microphones and Music: Allowing for voice connectivity and audio playback.
- GPS Connectivity: Enabling navigation without needing to glance away from the road.
- Warning Systems: Providing alerts for upcoming sharp turns and displaying maps and other data on the face shield.

Other Motorcycle Safety Musts

While high-tech equipment like airbag jackets and smart helmets are impressive, the most critical safety gear remains the traditional helmet. Ensure your helmet fits correctly and meets safety certifications. For more information, you can explore our blog on helmet fitting and certification.

Types of Special Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in Iowa

Iowa's financial responsibility requirement applies to motorcycles just as it does to cars. Motorcyclists must carry:

- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $40,000 per accident.
- Property Damage Liability: $15,000.

Each vehicle, including motorcycles, must have its own insurance policy. Here are additional insurance coverage options motorcyclists can purchase:

Optional Coverage Types

- Collision Insurance: Covers damages from accidents involving other vehicles, objects, or rollovers, regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Covers damage from non-collision events such as fire, weather, vandalism, theft, and animal damage.
- Medical Expense Insurance: Covers the policyholder's medical expenses regardless of fault, up to policy limits.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance (UM/UIM): Provides coverage if you're in an accident with an uninsured driver, if the at-fault driver's liability limits are exceeded, or if the driver flees the scene.
- Accessory Coverage: Covers modifications and enhancements to the motorcycle's appearance or performance.

Filing a Motorcycle Insurance Claim

After an accident, it's essential to:

- Save the accident report.
- Gather witness contact information.
- Obtain the other motorist's contact and insurance information.
- Take photographs of the accident scene and the bike.

Notify your insurance company and the at-fault driver's insurer about the accident. If you can't recover fair compensation from the other driver’s insurance, you may need to file a lawsuit. You can also seek compensation through your own insurance policy if you have applicable coverage.

Why is Iowa’s Motorcycle Death Rate 10 Times Higher than the National Average?

Motorcycles account for only 0.3% of all registered vehicles in Iowa, yet they make up 16.7% of road fatalities. In 2023, 63 out of 378 motor vehicle fatalities were motorcyclists. This stark statistic means that motorcycle riders in Iowa are 55 times more likely to be killed in a crash than other drivers. As of May 2, 2024, there have already been 11 motorcycle fatalities in Iowa.

Does Wearing a Helmet Help?

While Iowa doesn't require motorcyclists to wear helmets, the impact of helmets on safety is significant. During the brief period Iowa had a helmet law (September 1975 - July 1976), motorcycle deaths dropped by 40%.

Preventive Measures for Motorcyclists

- Training: Engaging in basic and advanced training courses can help reduce the risk of accidents by teaching situational awareness and evasive strategies.
- Visibility: Wearing brightly colored safety vests, keeping headlights on, and using flags can increase visibility and safety.
- Investigation: After a crash, investigate the cause, such as defective parts, debris, or other hazards.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash

If involved in a single motorcycle crash or one caused by another driver, seek legal advice to handle insurance companies, medical bills, and property damage. Here are some tips:

- Medical Care: Seek immediate medical attention and document all injuries.
- Documentation: Keep copies of medical records, accident reports, and maintain a journal of how your injuries affect daily life.
- Honesty: Be truthful about your injuries with medical providers to ensure accurate documentation and treatment.

Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

- Recorded Statements: Avoid providing recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal guidance.
- Settlements: Don't rush to settle your case; consult an attorney to ensure you receive fair compensation.

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.