- Woodward Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys
- Phone: 641-792-3595
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In times of misfortune, motorcycle injury lawyers serve as dedicated champions for riders. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents enables them to handle legal challenges and secure justice and compensation for injured riders.
How Does Motorcycle Insurance Help Injured Riders in Iowa?
Insurance laws in Iowa require drivers, including motorcyclists, to meet minimum liability coverage amounts. These minimum amounts are:
- $20,000 for bodily injury to one person,
- $40,000 for bodily injury to more than one person,
- $15,000 for property damage.
In the event of an accident caused by another motorist, injured bikers may pursue a claim against that motorist’s liability coverage.
Importance of Insurance Coverage for Motorcyclists
Meeting the minimum required amounts is essential, but many motorcyclists choose higher amounts of coverage for better financial protection if they are at fault for an accident. However, in the event another driver is liable for the accident, riders cannot recover from their own liability coverage and must file a claim against the other driver.
Not all drivers carry insurance, or their coverage may be insufficient to pay for all damages. Therefore, some motorcyclists rely on additional coverage options:
- Medical Payments Coverage: This no-fault coverage pays for medical costs regardless of who caused the accident. It ensures that medical bills can be taken care of promptly, even if insurance companies take time to assign blame or if settlement negotiations stall.
- Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage is critical when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. It can cover medical bills, lost earnings, and other accident-related expenses.
Impact of Insurance Coverage on Motorcycle Accident Claims
Adequate insurance coverage is crucial for motorcyclists, especially since motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries requiring long-term recovery or causing permanent disability. For instance, if a motorcyclist is struck by a drunk driver and the at-fault motorist has only the minimum required insurance, the rider’s underinsured motorist coverage could cover the additional costs beyond the $20,000 limit, up to the policy limits.
In hit-and-run cases, uninsured motorist coverage can provide compensation for damages until (and if) the responsible driver is found.
If you're purchasing motorcycle insurance, discuss these options with your insurance agent. If you struggle to recover compensation from your or the at-fault driver’s insurer after an accident, consider consulting with an attorney.
Motorcycle Safety Equipment You Might Not Know About
When riding a motorcycle, it's vital to be equipped with the safest gear. While helmets, gloves, boots, and eye protection are well-known essentials, other safety equipment can significantly enhance rider protection:
Motorcycle Airbag Jackets
Motorcycle airbag jackets contain airbags that inflate in the event of a crash. These jackets typically have two cables connected to a CO2 cartridge. When a motorcyclist is thrown from the bike, the cable activates the CO2, inflating the jacket in 100 to 300 milliseconds. More advanced jackets use sensors to detect a fall and inflate in under 60 milliseconds.
Motorcycle Smart Helmets
Smart helmets integrate technology to reduce distractions. These helmets come with Bluetooth headsets, microphones, music and voice connectivity, and GPS integration. They can also provide warnings about sharp turns and display maps and other data directly on the face shield.
Other Motorcycle Safety Musts
Despite technological advancements, the most crucial safety equipment remains the helmet. Proper fitting and certification are essential for maximum protection.
What Motorcycle Apparel to Wear to Avoid Burn Injuries
Motorcycle helmets are crucial for reducing the risk of head injuries, but motorcycle apparel can also prevent burn injuries. Burns can result from road rash, heat burns (from contact with exhaust pipes or mufflers), or chemical burns (such as from gasoline). Serious burns can lead to permanent disfigurement and other complications.
Types of Motorcycle Apparel That May Prevent Burn Injuries
While a motorcyclist may not prevent a crash, wearing the right apparel can mitigate burn injuries:
- Heavy-Duty Jackets, Pants, and Gloves: Clothing made from leather or other sturdy materials offers better protection against abrasions. Special motorcycle boots provide more protection than regular footwear.
- Impact-Resistant Clothing: Some motorcycle apparel integrates armor or impact-resistant materials to protect the rider during an accident.
- Eye Protection: Besides keeping debris out, eye protection can prevent injury from corrosive or toxic chemicals in the event of a crash.
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.