Experienced Motorcycle Accident Representation In Davenport
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to learn about your rights and options immediately. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to obtain compensation for your expenses and damages. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can advise you.
An Aggressive Personal Injury Lawyer On Your Side After A Motorcycle Crash
At the Davenport, Iowa, law firm of Tyler & Associates, PC, attorney Leanne Tyler assists clients whose motorcycle accidents and injuries were caused by the negligence or misconduct of another. In private practice since 1987, she has the experience and knowledge to evaluate your case quickly and counsel you about the legal process.
She assists clients with personal injury claims, seeking payment for the damages you suffered and compensation for your expenses. It is important to have assistance when dealing with insurance companies; otherwise, you may find that you are not receiving the full value of your motorcycle accident claim. Ms. Tyler will be your advocate, building a strong case that seeks the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.
How Motorcycle Accidents Happen
Motorcycle riders are usually very skilled drivers. They are constantly checking the roadways for obstacles and other vehicles. Unfortunately, other drivers are not always so careful and cause accidents because of their negligence and carelessness. Ms. Tyler has represented motorcycle riders who were injured because the driver of another vehicle:
- Changed lanes without signaling
- Rear-ended the motorcycle
- Forced the motorcycle driver off the road
- Made a right turn without stopping, turning into the path of a motorcycle
- Drove erratically because he or she was drunk
Drivers of cars and trucks often say that they did not see the motorcycle before an accident. This is not an excuse; drivers of other vehicles are required to look out for others and be vigilant while on the road. When they do not exercise this level of care and cause injuries, victims may be able to obtain compensation for lost past and future wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other costs and damages resulting from an accident.
What Iowa Riders Need To Know: Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Clear information is the first step toward recovery. Below, attorney Leanne Tyler addresses the common concerns that arise after motorcycle accidents in Iowa.
Does Iowa law require motorcyclists to wear helmets?
Iowa remains one of the few states without a mandatory helmet law for motorcyclists. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident while not wearing a helmet, it will not affect your eligibility to file a personal injury claim. While the defense might argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries, Iowa follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages, even if you were partially at fault, as long as your responsibility does not exceed 50%.
Can I pursue compensation if I was a passenger on the motorcycle?
Yes, you absolutely can pursue compensation for injuries sustained in an accident. In fact, passengers often have stronger claims than drivers since they rarely bear responsibility for causing the crash.
If the motorcyclist you were riding with took a turn too quickly and lost control, causing you to suffer injuries, you may file a claim against their insurance policy. You may also have multiple options for compensation depending on the circumstances. If another vehicle caused the accident, you can file a claim against that driver’s insurance. If both the motorcyclist and another driver share fault, you might pursue claims against both insurance policies. If road hazards contributed to the crash, you might have a claim against a government entity or contractor. Your own health insurance and potentially your own auto insurance might provide additional coverage.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Iowa?
Iowa’s deadline, also known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years after an accident. Missing this two-year window can cause you to lose your right to pursue compensation through the court system.
As a motorcycle accident victim, you are likely dealing with serious injuries, extensive medical treatments and a challenging recovery process. These two years can pass quickly when you are focused on healing from road rash, broken bones, head trauma or other injuries common in these crashes.
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim by suggesting that you were partially at fault, even when evidence shows otherwise or by downplaying the severity of your injuries.
Proper documentation of your injuries, the accident scene and witness statements is crucial for motorcycle cases and becomes more difficult to gather as time passes.
The Road To Recovery Shouldn’t Be Traveled Alone – Call Today
To learn more about the Davenport, Iowa motorcycle accident attorney at Tyler & Associates, PC, call 563-275-4793. The firm offers free initial consultations in workers’ compensation and personal injury matters.