- Cedar Falls Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys
- Phone: 641-792-3595
- Directions
When accidents occur, motorcycle injury lawyers are the unwavering champions for riders. Their specialization in motorcycle accident cases allows them to skillfully manage legal complexities, ensuring justice and compensation for the injured.
Motorcycle Head Injuries and Concussions
Motorcycle accidents can result in various head injuries, ranging from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Common types of head injuries include:
- Concussions: Mild TBIs that usually improve within a few days.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Severe injuries where the brain moves violently within the skull.
- Penetrating Injuries: Injuries where an object pierces the brain tissue.
- Intracranial Hemorrhaging: Bleeding within the brain, leading to pressure on brain tissue and restricted blood flow.
Immediate and long-term medical care is essential for these injuries, often resulting in extensive medical bills that may be recoverable through injury claims.
Long-term Consequences
Severe head trauma can have life-altering effects, including:
- Communication Problems
- Cognitive Limitations
- Mobility and Balance Issues
- Fine Motor Skill Limitations
- Hearing and Vision Problems
- Emotional and Mental Health Issues (e.g., depression, anxiety)
The impact varies based on the injury's severity and type, affecting each individual differently.
Helmets, Head Injury, and Accident Claims
While Iowa law does not mandate helmet use, not wearing a helmet can complicate injury claims. If a motorcyclist suffers a head injury, the lack of a helmet might be considered contributory negligence, potentially reducing the damages recoverable.
Proving Liability
An attorney can help prove the other party's liability and address allegations of contributory negligence due to helmet non-use. Legal representation is vital to ensure fair compensation for injuries.
Skin Grafts for Burns After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe burn injuries from hot bike parts, chemical spills, or road rash. Third-degree burns can damage skin and deep tissue, requiring skin grafts for treatment.
Skin Grafting Process
- Harvesting Skin: Skin is taken from another body part or a donor.
- Cleaning and Debridement: Removing debris and dead tissue from the burn area.
- Graft Application: Donated skin is placed over the burn and secured with dressings or sutures.
Complications
Skin grafts can fail due to infection, swelling, or improper wound preparation. Psychological trauma, such as depression, often accompanies severe burn injuries.
Types of Special Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in Iowa
Iowa requires motorcyclists to carry liability insurance, with minimum requirements of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $40,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. Additional coverage options include:
- Collision Insurance: Covers damages from accidents, regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Covers non-collision damages like fire, weather, vandalism, and theft.
- Medical Expense Insurance: Covers medical costs for the policyholder, regardless of fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance (UM/UIM): Covers accidents involving drivers without sufficient insurance.
Custom motorcycle owners might consider accessory coverage for modifications and enhancements.
Filing a Motorcycle Insurance Claim
After an accident, gather essential documents and evidence:
- Accident Report
- Witness Contact Information
- Other Motorist's Contact and Insurance Information
- Photographs of the Scene and Damage
Notify your insurance company and, if applicable, the other driver's insurer. If compensation is inadequate, legal action might be necessary.
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.