• Carroll Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys
  • Phone: 641-792-3595
  • Directions

When tragedy occurs, motorcycle injury attorneys act as dedicated champions for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents enables them to handle legal complexities and ensure injured riders receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Motorcycle riding offers a thrilling and economical alternative to driving a car. However, it comes with unique risks that all riders, especially beginners, need to be aware of. This guide will delve into essential safety tips for new motorcyclists, types of injuries common in motorcycle accidents, and the importance of legal assistance in the event of an accident.

Important Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

Motorcycles provide less protection than cars, making safety precautions crucial. Here are some essential tips for staying safe on the road:

Safety Measures

1. Ride with Your Lights On: Keeping your lights on at all times increases your visibility to other drivers.
2. Wear Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes to protect yourself in case of an accident.
3. Follow Traffic Laws: Adhering to traffic regulations helps prevent accidents.
4. Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and other drivers. Defensive riding can help avoid potential hazards.
5. Avoid Riding Under the Influence: Never ride if you have been drinking or are extremely tired.

Motorcycle Maintenance

Ensure your motorcycle is in good condition before riding. Check the lights, tire pressure, and brakes regularly to avoid mechanical failures during your ride.

Enjoy the Ride Safely

While enjoying the freedom and thrill of motorcycle riding, always prioritize safety to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Common Motorcycle Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can lead to various injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering. Understanding these risks can help riders take necessary precautions.

Types of Motorcycle Burn Injuries

1. Road Rash: This occurs when the skin scrapes along the road during an accident. It can range from mild to severe, requiring stitches and prolonged healing periods. Road rash can also lead to infections if not properly treated.
2. Exhaust Burns: Contact with the hot exhaust pipe can cause painful burns, often resulting in permanent scarring. These injuries are common among passengers.
3. Windburn: The force of the wind can damage the outer layer of skin, causing painful, dry, and itchy skin. A helmet with a visor can help mitigate this.
4. Burns from Collisions: Fires can result from mechanical issues or collisions, causing serious burns. These burns require immediate medical attention and can lead to complications like scarring and infections.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Motorcycle accidents are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries, which can result in partial or complete paralysis.

Causes and Types

- Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury site.
- Incomplete Injuries: Partial loss of function and sensation, with varying degrees of severity.

Complications

Spinal cord injuries can lead to numerous complications, including:

- Blood clots
- Breathing difficulties
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Increased risk of infections
- Muscle atrophy
- Chronic pain

Mental and Emotional Impact

Spinal cord injuries also have a significant mental and emotional impact. Many victims experience depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Gathering Evidence

To support your claim, gather essential records such as:

- Police Reports: These provide an official account of the accident and the officer's opinion on fault.
- Medical Records: These document your injuries and treatment costs.
- Driving Records: Evidence of the at-fault driver’s history can strengthen your case.

Conducting an Accident Investigation

An attorney can help conduct a thorough investigation, preserving crucial evidence and countering tactics used by insurance companies to diminish your claim's value.

Addressing Burn and Spinal Cord Injuries

For serious injuries like burns and spinal cord damage, an attorney can assist in navigating the medical and legal challenges, ensuring you receive adequate compensation for medical bills and other expenses.

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