Laurens Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

When tragedy strikes, motorcycle injury lawyers act as dedicated advocates for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents allows them to navigate legal challenges and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

Important Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

With today's economy, many people are finding motorcycles to be a useful and economical alternative to cars. In Iowa, weather conditions affect riding schedules, but in favorable years like 2011, there can be many months of enjoyable motorcycle riding. People choose to ride motorcycles for various reasons, from the thrill and freedom it offers to its environmental benefits. However, riding a motorcycle also comes with significant risks.

Motorcycles lack the protective shell that cars have, making riders more vulnerable in the event of an accident. To mitigate these risks, consider the following safety measures:

1. Ride with Your Lights On at All Times
   - Keeping your lights on ensures greater visibility to other drivers, reducing the risk of accidents.

2. Wear Protective Clothing and Gear
   - This includes a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes. Protective gear is crucial as it can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a crash.

3. Follow All Traffic Laws
   - Adhering to traffic laws helps prevent accidents and ensures safer roads for all users.

4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
   - Stay vigilant about the movements of other drivers and potential hazards on the road.

5. Never Ride When Impaired
   - Avoid riding if you have been drinking or are extremely tired, as impaired judgment and delayed reactions can lead to accidents.

6. Maintain Your Motorcycle
   - Regularly check all lights, tire pressure, and brakes before riding. Ensuring your motorcycle is in good condition can prevent mechanical failures that might lead to accidents.

Legal Considerations and Motorcycle Helmets

While many motorcyclists in Iowa prefer riding without helmets, which is their legal right, it can lead to severe injuries during accidents. Statistics indicate that 83 percent of motorcyclists killed in crashes in Iowa over the past five years were not wearing helmets. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head and spine injuries, which can result in high medical costs and long-term rehabilitation.

Iowa Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Iowa does not mandate helmet use for motorcyclists. While this allows for personal freedom, it also introduces debates about safety and the potential for saving lives. Importantly, not wearing a helmet is not illegal in Iowa. However, it can influence the outcome of compensation claims due to the state's comparative negligence laws.

Comparative Negligence in Iowa
Iowa's comparative negligence system assesses the fault of all parties involved in an accident. If a motorcyclist is found more than 50 percent at fault, they are ineligible to recover any compensation. For instance, not wearing a helmet could be considered negligence if it contributes to the severity of head injuries, potentially reducing the damages awarded.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, especially if not wearing a helmet, it is crucial to seek legal advice. Attorneys specializing in motorcycle accidents can help navigate the complexities of comparative negligence and helmet laws. 

Motorcycle Apparel to Prevent Burn Injuries

In addition to head injuries, motorcyclists are at risk of burn injuries from road rash, exhaust pipes, mufflers, or chemical spills. Proper apparel can significantly reduce the risk of burns and other injuries.

Recommended Motorcycle Apparel
- Heavy-Duty Jacket, Pants, and Gloves: These provide all-over body coverage and are made from materials like leather, which offer better protection against abrasions.
- Motorcycle Boots: These provide better protection than regular footwear.
- Specialized Clothing: Some apparel comes with integrated armor or impact-resistant materials for additional safety.
- Eye Protection: Essential for keeping out debris and protecting against chemical spills that can cause eye injuries.

Comfort and safety can go hand-in-hand with the wide variety of motorcycle apparel available today. Ensuring you are fully protected from head to toe can minimize physical harm 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.