Bettendorf Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury attorneys serve as dedicated supporters for riders in the face of tragedy. Focusing on motorcycle accidents, they expertly handle legal intricacies to secure the justice and compensation injured riders deserve.

Motorcycle burn injuries can arise from various causes, including road rash, exhaust burns, windburn, and fires. Each type of burn injury involves different circumstances and requires immediate medical attention due to its serious nature.

Road Rash Injuries

Road rash injuries, also known as road burn injuries, are common in motorcycle accidents. These injuries occur when a rider’s skin scrapes against the road after being thrown from or dragged by the bike. The severity of these injuries can range from minor scrapes to severe wounds that require hospitalization and long periods of healing.

Types of Road Burn Injuries

1. Deep Scrapes: When a rider’s body scrapes on the pavement at high speeds, the wounds may require stitches. Such open wounds have a high risk of infection, necessitating special care to prevent or treat infection.
2. Bruising and Compression Injuries: If the rider gets caught between the bike and the road, serious bruising and crushing injuries can occur.
3. Avulsion Injuries: Several layers of skin may be damaged, exposing and damaging underlying muscle or fat tissue. These serious skin burns may require surgery and skin grafting.

Exhaust Burns

Exhaust burns occur when the rider or passenger accidentally contacts the exhaust pipe. These injuries can be extremely painful and cause permanent scarring. A study conducted by researchers at Athens University Medical School in Greece and published in Burns compiled data on exhaust burn injuries from motorcycle accidents:
- Most exhaust burn injuries occurred below the knee on the right leg.
- More than 70 percent of the injuries were sustained by passengers, not riders.
- Over 65 percent of victims sustained second-degree burns.

Windburn

Windburn happens when the force of the wind damages the outer layer of skin, causing it to burn more easily in sunlight. This can result in painful, dry, itchy skin. Wearing a helmet with a visor can help protect the face from windburn while riding.

Burns from Collisions

Mechanical or gas fires can cause severe burn injuries in motorcycle accidents. Upon collision, gasoline or other fluids can ignite, leading to explosions that cause life-threatening injuries. Combustion, fluid leaks, and faulty wiring are common factors in motorcycle fires.

Categories of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries are categorized into first-, second-, and third-degree burns. Tending physicians treat them based on the severity. Riders who have sustained burns should consult with their doctors about potential complications, including scarring, infections, and nerve damage.

Filing a Claim for Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Iowa

Motorcycle accidents can leave victims with catastrophic injuries such as head trauma, spinal cord injuries, road rash, and fractures. These injuries often lead to significant financial and emotional burdens. To recover damages in an injury claim after a motorcycle accident in Iowa, it is essential to prove that the other driver was at fault.

Establishing Negligence

To establish that the other driver was negligent, you must present valid evidence. This can include:
- Police Reports: Indicating the cause and circumstances of the collision, as well as any citations issued.
- Photos and Videos: Of the accident scene and injuries.
- Eyewitness Statements: Providing accounts of the accident.
- Medical Records: Documenting injuries and treatments.

Iowa Helmet Laws and Negligence

Iowa does not have a helmet law, meaning motorcyclists are not in violation of any laws if they do not wear a helmet. However, failure to wear a helmet may affect an injury claim, especially if the rider sustained a head injury. Iowa follows a modified comparative negligence system, allowing claimants to recover damages even if partially at fault, provided they are no more than 50 percent responsible. Damage awards are reduced by the individual's percentage of fault.

Recovering Compensation for Disfiguring Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can result in disfiguring injuries, and it is crucial to have proper insurance coverage to cover medical and living expenses during recovery. Victims may also file third-party claims against another driver's liability insurance if the other driver caused the accident.

Types of Compensation

Victims of motorcycle accidents with serious injuries may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical Bills: Including hospitalization and long-term care.
- Loss of Earnings: Covering both current and future income.
- Pain and Suffering: For emotional distress and reduced quality of life.

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. 

Contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair

For help with your motorcycle accident claim in Iowa, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair at (888) 435-9886 for a free and confidential consultation. Our team of experienced attorneys will work towards securing the best settlement for you, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.