• Pella Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys
  • Phone: 641-792-3595
  • Directions

When calamity hits, motorcycle injury lawyers act as devoted defenders for riders. Their specialization in motorcycle accident cases equips them to navigate legal complexities and secure justice and compensation for injured riders.

What Happens if I Am Partially at Fault in an Iowa Motorcycle Accident?

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, especially when they result in serious injuries or disfigurement. In Iowa, if you find yourself partially at fault in such an accident, the compensation you receive will be reduced by your degree of fault. However, this doesn't mean you are ineligible for compensation. Understanding Iowa’s comparative negligence rules and knowing your rights can make a significant difference in your case. 

Iowa’s Comparative Negligence Rules

Iowa follows a comparative negligence system when it comes to personal injury claims. This means that the amount of compensation you can receive is directly related to your degree of fault in the accident. If you are found to be partially responsible, your compensation will be reduced proportionally. 

For instance, if your total damages amount to $100,000 and you are deemed to be 25% at fault, you would receive $75,000. It’s important to note that as long as you are less than 51% at fault, you can still seek compensation. Proving fault and demonstrating the liability of the other party becomes crucial in such scenarios, often requiring the expertise of a skilled attorney.

Reducing Your Degree of Fault

One of the key strategies in maximizing your compensation is to minimize your degree of fault. This involves gathering evidence, presenting a strong case, and demonstrating that the other party was more liable for the accident. An experienced attorney can assist in collecting crucial evidence, protecting your rights, and presenting your case effectively.

Important Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

Motorcycles offer an economical and enjoyable alternative to cars, but they also come with increased risks. New riders, in particular, should take specific safety measures to protect themselves on the road. 

1. Ride with Your Lights On: Always keep your lights on to increase visibility.
2. Wear Protective Gear: This includes a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes.
3. Follow Traffic Laws: Adhering to the rules of the road is essential for your safety.
4. Stay Aware: Be vigilant about your surroundings and other drivers.
5. Avoid Riding Under the Influence: Never ride if you have been drinking or are extremely tired.

Ensuring your motorcycle is in good condition before each ride is also crucial. Regularly check your lights, tire pressure, and brakes to prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.

Recovering Compensation for Disfiguring Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe and disfiguring injuries, requiring extensive medical treatment and impacting your quality of life. If you have suffered such injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages.

Check Your Insurance Policy

Having comprehensive insurance coverage is vital. This not only covers accidents involving other vehicles but also incidents caused by weather conditions or driver error. Ensure your policy includes adequate medical and living expense coverage.

Consider a Third-Party Liability Claim

If another driver caused your accident, you might file a third-party claim against their liability insurance. This can help cover your medical bills, hospitalization, long-term care, and other related expenses.

Types of Compensation

Victims of serious motorcycle accidents may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Medical bills and hospitalization
- Long-term care and physical therapy
- Loss of earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress

In cases of severe disfigurement or amputation, compensation might also include future medical expenses and long-term emotional and physical therapy.

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