Windsor Heights Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the wake of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become dedicated supporters for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accident cases equips them to handle legal challenges and ensure the justice and compensation injured riders deserve.

How Does Motorcycle Insurance Help Injured Riders in Iowa?

Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries and significant financial burdens. In Iowa, motorcyclists are required to have insurance, but understanding the types of coverage available and how they can protect you is crucial. This article will delve into the importance of insurance coverage, optional coverages that can provide additional protection, common defenses against motorcycle accident claims, and the role of an attorney in navigating these complex situations.

Mandatory Insurance Coverage in Iowa

Iowa law requires all drivers, including motorcyclists, to carry minimum liability insurance. The required minimum liability coverage amounts are:

- $20,000 for bodily injury per person
- $40,000 for bodily injury per accident if multiple people are injured
- $15,000 for property damage

This coverage is intended to pay for damages you may cause to others in an accident. However, if another driver is at fault, you would need to pursue a claim against that driver's liability insurance.

Importance of Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

While meeting the minimum required amounts is necessary, it may not be sufficient to cover all expenses in the event of a serious accident. For better financial protection, many motorcyclists opt for higher coverage limits and additional types of insurance.

Medical Payments Coverage

Medical payments coverage is no-fault insurance, meaning it covers medical costs regardless of who is at fault for the accident. This can be particularly beneficial if there are delays in determining fault or if negotiations with insurance companies are prolonged. This coverage ensures that medical bills are taken care of promptly.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Not all drivers comply with insurance laws, and some may have insufficient coverage. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you are injured by a driver who has no insurance or insufficient insurance. This coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses when the at-fault driver’s insurance falls short.

Comprehensive and Collision Coverage

- Comprehensive Coverage: Pays for damages to your motorcycle from non-collision events such as fire, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.
- Collision Coverage: Covers the cost of repairs to your motorcycle if you collide with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault.

Roadside Assistance and Trip Interruption Coverage

Roadside assistance coverage can provide towing services if you have an accident, run out of gas, or experience a breakdown. Trip interruption coverage offers additional benefits, such as lodging, food, and transportation, if an accident occurs far from home.

Impact of Insurance Coverage on Motorcycle Accident Claims

Having adequate insurance is crucial, especially given the potentially catastrophic nature of motorcycle accidents. Severe injuries often result in high medical costs and long recovery periods, and in some cases, permanent disability.

For example, if a motorcyclist is struck by a drunk driver and sustains significant injuries, the at-fault driver’s minimum liability coverage may not be enough to cover all expenses. The motorcyclist’s underinsured motorist coverage can help cover the remaining costs up to the policy limits.

Defenses Against Motorcycle Accident Claims

If you pursue a claim for damages after a motorcycle accident, the at-fault driver or their insurance company may present various defenses to reduce or deny your claim. Common defenses include:

- Violation of Motorcycle Regulations: If you were violating motorcycle-specific laws at the time of the accident, this could be used against you. For example, carrying a package that restricts the use of both hands or riding more than two abreast in a lane.
- Speeding: If you were speeding or committing other traffic violations, the defense may argue that you were partially or wholly at fault.
- Impairment: If you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it could significantly impact your ability to recover damages.
- Not Wearing a Helmet: Although Iowa doesn’t require helmets, not wearing one can be argued as contributing to the severity of your injuries, potentially reducing the compensation you can recover.

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.