Dubuque Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Following a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys act as resolute defenders for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents enables them to proficiently maneuver through legal intricacies, ensuring injured riders receive the justice and compensation they are entitled to.

Riding a motorcycle is inherently risky, particularly on crowded highways where aggressive and inattentive drivers pose constant threats. According to the Iowa Department of Public Safety, motorcycle accidents, while comprising only 2 percent of all road incidents in 2012, accounted for 12 percent of serious injury-related accidents and 14 percent of all fatalities. Despite these statistics, cautious riding and wearing a helmet can mitigate risks, but accidents still happen. If you suffer disfiguring injuries in a motorcycle accident, understanding your rights and the compensation process is crucial.

Understanding Insurance and Liability

Insurance Coverage:

To protect yourself, it is essential to maintain comprehensive motorcycle insurance. Accidents can occur without the involvement of other vehicles, necessitating coverage for medical and living expenses during recovery. If another driver caused your accident, you might file a third-party claim against their liability insurance.

Third-Party Claims:

In addition to your insurance, if another driver's negligence caused your injuries, you could pursue a third-party liability claim. Ensuring you have the right coverage and understanding the process can significantly impact your financial recovery.

Legal Representation

Hiring an Attorney:

After a serious motorcycle accident, consulting an attorney promptly is vital. Insurance companies aim to settle quickly, often offering amounts that may not fully cover long-term expenses. An attorney will represent your interests, ensuring you receive fair compensation while you focus on recovery.

Types of Compensation

Medical and Care Expenses:
Victims of disfiguring motorcycle injuries may be entitled to compensation for various costs, including:
- Hospital bills
- Long-term care
- Physical therapy
- Caregivers
- Loss of earnings

Pain and Suffering:
Compensation might also cover emotional distress, especially in cases involving severe scarring or amputations. Long-term complications and the need for continuous treatment should be considered.

Helmet Use and Legal Implications

Iowa Helmet Laws:
Iowa does not mandate helmet use for motorcyclists, which has sparked debates about safety. However, the lack of a helmet law means that riders not wearing helmets are not violating state laws. Nonetheless, not wearing a helmet can impact a compensation claim.

Comparative Negligence:
Iowa follows comparative negligence laws, meaning compensation can be reduced by the rider’s share of fault. If a motorcyclist suffers head injuries while not wearing a helmet, they might be considered partially at fault, reducing their recoverable damages. However, if the injuries are unrelated to helmet use, such as leg injuries, helmet use would not affect the claim.

Head Injuries and Long-Term Consequences

Types of Head Injuries:
Motorcycle accidents can result in various head injuries, from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Severe injuries might include intracranial hemorrhaging or penetrating brain injuries, requiring immediate and long-term care.

Long-Term Effects:
Head injuries can lead to:
- Cognitive and communication issues
- Mobility and balance problems
- Sensory impairments
- Emotional and mental health issues

Navigating Helmet Laws in Injury Claims

Helmet Use in Claims:
While not wearing a helmet may indicate contributory negligence in head injury cases, proving the other party’s liability is crucial. An attorney can gather evidence and counter arguments that helmet use could have mitigated the injury.

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.