Newton Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the event of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become dedicated champions for riders. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they skillfully handle legal complexities to ensure justice and compensation for injured riders.

Types of Special Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in Iowa

In Iowa, motorcyclists must adhere to the state's financial responsibility requirements just like motorists. The minimum coverage requirements include:

- $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person.
- $40,000 for bodily injury liability per accident.
- $15,000 for property damage liability.

This liability insurance covers damages suffered by other motorists in an accident caused by the policyholder. If a driver is involved in an accident or stopped by the police, they must show proof of meeting these financial responsibility requirements, or they risk having their license revoked.

It is important to note that auto insurance purchased for a car does not extend to motorcycles; each vehicle must have its own insurance policy.

Optional Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

While liability insurance is mandatory, motorcyclists in Iowa can purchase additional insurance to protect themselves in case of an accident. The following are some common types of optional coverage:

1. Collision Insurance
   - Covers damages to the policyholder’s bike from accidents involving other vehicles, objects, or in cases of rollovers or falls.
   - Provides funds to repair or replace the bike regardless of fault.

2. Comprehensive Insurance
   - Covers non-collision-related damages such as those from fire, weather events, vandalism, floods, theft, and animal damage.

3. Medical Expense Insurance
   - Covers medical expenses for the policyholder regardless of who is at fault in the accident, up to the policy limits.

4. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance (UM/UIM)
   - Covers the policyholder in accidents where the other driver is uninsured, underinsured, or if the at-fault driver flees the scene.

5. Accessory or Optional Equipment Coverage
   - For motorcyclists who have customized their bikes, this coverage protects against losses to modifications and enhancements to the bike’s appearance or performance.

Filing a Motorcycle Insurance Claim

After an accident, it's essential to take the following steps to ensure a smooth insurance claim process:

- Save the accident report, witness contact information, the other motorist’s contact and insurance information, and photographs of the accident scene and the bike.
- Notify your insurance company about the accident, providing details about who was involved and what happened.
- If another motorist is at fault, inform their insurance company about the accident as well.

If fair compensation is not received from the at-fault driver’s insurance, you may need to file a lawsuit. Additionally, you may be able to recover damages through your own insurance policy if you have applicable coverage like collision or medical expense insurance.

Emotional Trauma after a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcyclists are at high risk for severe injuries in accidents, which can include not only physical ailments but also emotional trauma. This emotional distress can be included in liability claims against negligent drivers.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD can develop after a traumatic event like a motorcycle accident. Symptoms fall into three categories:

- Re-experiencing: Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the incident.
- Avoidance: Emotional numbness, depression, difficulty remembering the event, and avoiding related activities.
- Hyperarousal: Startling easily, edginess, trouble sleeping, and intense anger episodes.

Head Injuries and Depression

Head injuries, a major concern for motorcyclists, are linked to depression. Studies have shown a high incidence of major depressive disorder and chronic stress among those with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). This stress may be related to the recovery process and other factors following a serious injury.

Emotional Trauma in Personal Injury Cases

Emotional trauma can be accounted for in a motorcycle accident claim, including:

- Mental health assessments
- Counseling
- Treatment
- Mental anguish

However, failure to wear a helmet might reduce the settlement if head injuries are involved, as the defense might argue that helmet use could have mitigated the injuries.

For legal assistance after a serious motorcycle accident, contacting an attorney can help navigate the complexities of such claims.

Properly Fitting Motorcycle Helmets

A well-fitting helmet is crucial for both safety and comfort. Here are some checks to ensure a proper fit:

1. Forehead Gap: There should be no space between your forehead and the helmet.
2. Lifting the Helmet: With the chin strap secured, the helmet should not lift from your head.
3. Red Marks or Pressure Points: The helmet should be snug but not cause red marks or indentations.
4. Side to Side Head Shake: Your skin should move with the helmet when shaking your head.
5. Room for Face Shields: There should be enough space between your face and the shield to avoid contact.

Never use a helmet involved in a previous accident, as unseen interior damage may compromise its effectiveness.

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.