Urbandale Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury lawyers become steadfast advocates for riders when misfortune strikes. Specializing in motorcycle accident cases, they expertly guide injured riders through the legal system to secure the justice and compensation they deserve.

Determining the value of a motorcycle accident claim, especially when permanent injuries are involved, is a complex process. Each case is unique, and the severity of injuries, economic and non-economic damages, and circumstances surrounding the accident vary significantly. This comprehensive guide explores the factors influencing your claim, from calculating damages and understanding skin graft procedures to addressing licensing issues.

Calculating Economic Damages

One of the fundamental aspects of an injury claim is the calculation of economic damages. This process involves:

- Lost Wages: Calculating the income lost during recovery and potential future earnings if the injury impacts your ability to work.
- Medical Expenses: Including immediate medical costs and long-term care needs, such as in-home nursing.
- Additional Expenses: Any other costs directly related to the accident and resulting injuries.

Permanent injuries often lead to lifelong expenses. An expert witness may be required to estimate the long-term financial impact, including ongoing medical care and loss of productivity. For instance, a 2010 Health Council study highlighted that motorcycle-related injuries accounted for $12 billion of the $99 billion in total lifetime costs from motor vehicle injuries.

Assessing Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and disability, are more challenging to quantify. Insurance companies often use a multiplier based on the severity of injuries to estimate these damages. For example, a severe head injury may warrant higher compensation than a permanent knee injury.

Skin Grafts for Burns After a Motorcycle Accident

Severe burn injuries from motorcycle accidents, such as third-degree burns, may require skin grafts. This procedure involves:

- Source of Skin: Taking skin from another part of the patient's body or using donor skin.
- Preparation: Cleaning the wound and removing debris and dead tissue.
- Types of Grafts:
  - Split-Thickness Skin Grafts: Used for burns affecting the epidermis and some dermis layers, with a healing time of several days.
  - Full-Thickness Skin Grafts: Needed for more severe burns affecting both skin layers, requiring longer recovery.

Complications can arise, such as graft failure due to infection or improper wound preparation. Beyond physical recovery, victims often face psychological trauma, including depression.

Filing a Claim Without a Valid Motorcycle License

In Iowa, not having a valid motorcycle license does not prevent you from filing a claim if the other driver caused the accident. While you may face penalties for riding without a license, fault determination and claim filing follow standard procedures.

Establishing Fault

Iowa operates under a modified comparative fault law, allowing you to recover damages if you are less than 51 percent responsible for the accident. Key steps include:

- Documentation: Gather evidence such as photographs, witness testimony, and contact information.
- Accident Report: Complete and mail the Iowa Accident Report to the Department of Transportation within 72 hours if required.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies may argue that not having a license indicates fault. It's crucial to present compelling evidence that you were not primarily responsible for the accident. Legal assistance can be invaluable in navigating these disputes and ensuring you receive fair compensation.

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.