Johnston Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When calamity hits, motorcycle injury lawyers are dedicated champions for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents allows them to navigate legal intricacies and secure the justice and compensation injured riders are entitled to.

Age Restrictions and Licensing for Motorcyclists in Iowa

Iowa law allows individuals as young as 14 to operate a motorcycle but with several important restrictions. Understanding these regulations is crucial for young riders and their guardians to ensure safety and compliance with the law.

Motorcycle Instruction Permits

Riders aged 14 to 17 must obtain a motorcycle instruction permit. This permit comes with specific conditions:
- Supervision: Riders can only operate a motorcycle when accompanied by a licensed parent or guardian with a motorcycle endorsement. Alternatively, they can ride with an immediate family member over 21 years old who has a motorcycle endorsement.
- Non-Family Supervision: With parental permission, they may ride with a licensed adult over 25 with a motorcycle endorsement.
- Proximity Requirement: The supervising adult must be within audible and visual communication distance from the permit holder and accompany them in or on a different vehicle.

For riders aged 18 and older, the same supervision requirements apply, but parental permission is not needed.

Intermediate Motorcycle License

At 16, riders can obtain an intermediate motorcycle license if they have held an instruction permit for six months and logged 20 hours of driving, including two hours at night. Intermediate license holders face a curfew, prohibiting motorcycle operation between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m., unless riding to or from school-related activities or accompanied by a qualified supervisor.

Full Motorcycle License

A full motorcycle license is available to riders 17 and older who have held an intermediate license for at least one year and completed 10 hours of driving, including two hours at night. Riders under 18 must also complete a motorcycle safety course, which involves 15 hours of training, split between classroom instruction and practical range activities.

Consequences of Unlicensed Riding

Operating a motorcycle without the proper license or violating permit conditions can lead to legal consequences and impact liability in accidents. Unlicensed riders involved in accidents may face challenges in claims due to comparative negligence.

Motorcycle Accidents and Spinal Cord Injuries

Motorcycle accidents are a significant cause of spinal cord injuries, which account for approximately 11 percent of all motorcycle accident injuries. These injuries can result in severe physical and emotional consequences, requiring substantial medical care and support.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

- 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.

Common Injury Locations

According to research, the thoracic spine is the most commonly injured area, followed by the lumbar and cervical regions. Neurological injuries are also prevalent in these cases.

Complications and Long-Term Effects

Spinal cord injury victims may face numerous complications, including:
- Blood clots, pressure sores, and breathing difficulties.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, increased risk of infections, and chronic pain.
- Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Rise in Motorcycle Crashes

The past decade has seen a rise in motorcycle accidents, with motorcyclists accounting for a significant percentage of road fatalities and severe injuries despite representing a small fraction of total vehicle miles traveled. Factors contributing to this increase include:
- More motorcyclists on the road, including a rise in female riders.
- Vulnerability due to lack of protection compared to other vehicles.

Protecting Yourself and Your Claim

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, it's crucial to take specific steps to protect your health and legal claim:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Document all injuries and treatments to avoid complications and support your claim.
2. Avoid Quick Settlements: Do not rush to settle with insurance companies without understanding the full extent of your injuries and expenses.
3. Be Cautious with Insurance Adjusters: Avoid giving recorded statements or signing forms without consulting an attorney.
4. Keep Thorough Documentation: Maintain records of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
5. Do Not Exaggerate Injuries: Provide accurate information to medical providers to avoid damaging your case.
6. Consult an Experienced Attorney: Before settling your case, speak with a knowledgeable injury attorney to understand your rights and options.

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.