- Coralville Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys
- Phone: 641-792-3595
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When tragedy strikes, motorcycle injury attorneys emerge as devoted supporters for riders. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they skillfully manage legal challenges to ensure injured riders receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Motorcycle Helmet Safety Tips
Even minor motorcycle accidents can cause significant yet invisible damage to a helmet. While small scratches or dents might not seem alarming, they often fail to reflect the internal damage to the helmet's protective padding. Therefore, it's crucial to replace a helmet involved in any accident.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation advises that if your head struck anything during a motorcycle accident, your helmet likely absorbed some impact shock. This diminishes the helmet's effectiveness in future accidents, necessitating its replacement.
Manufacturers can inspect and repair helmets, but when in doubt, purchasing a new one is usually the safest option. The same applies if a helmet is dropped from a significant height or a moving vehicle. Such impacts can damage the helmet's interior or shell, reducing its protective capabilities.
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need accurate information. The lawyers at Walker, Billingsley & Bair offer complimentary case evaluations to discuss your options. They also provide a free copy of their book, the Iowa Consumer’s Guide to Motorcycle Crashes. Call (641) 792-3595 to set up an appointment or request your free copy today.
How to File a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident in Iowa
Filing a claim after a motorcycle accident involves establishing injury or property loss, adhering to the statute of limitations, and hiring a lawyer. Here are steps to successfully file a claim:
Seek Medical Attention and Save Records
If injured in a motorcycle accident, the first step is to seek medical attention. Gather all documentation related to your medical care. When filing your claim with the insurance company, you'll need proof of your injuries and expenses.
Review Your Insurance Policy
All Iowa motorcyclists must carry proof of financial responsibility, typically in the form of motorcycle insurance. Review your policy immediately after an accident. Default insurance coverage may not be sufficient. If at fault, your policy will cover up to its limit. Additional coverage types, like medical payments coverage, might provide more money regardless of fault.
File Your Claim Promptly
Notify your insurance company immediately following the accident and file your claim quickly. Missing time requirements can result in a denied claim. If filing a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages, you have two years under Iowa Code 614.1.
What Motorcycle Apparel to Wear to Avoid Burn Injuries
Motorcycle helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in accidents. Equally important is wearing appropriate motorcycle apparel to prevent burn injuries, which can result from road rash, heat burns (contact with exhaust pipes or muffler), or chemical burns (like gasoline).
Types of Motorcycle Apparel to Prevent Burn Injuries
Motorcyclists can’t always prevent crashes, especially due to another driver’s negligence. However, the right apparel can make a significant difference in preventing burn injuries. Here’s what to consider:
- Full Body Coverage: Wear heavy-duty jackets, pants, and gloves made from leather or other sturdy materials to protect against deep abrasions.
- Motorcycle Boots: Provide better protection than regular footwear.
- Special Clothing: Apparel with impact-resistant material or integrated armor protects riders during accidents.
- Eye Protection: Protects against debris and chemical spills that can cause significant eye injuries.
Comfort and safety should go hand-in-hand. Choose apparel that offers protection from head to toe to reduce physical harm, including burn injuries, in the event of an accident.
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.