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Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Des Moines & Urbandale Iowa

On Behalf of | Jun 19, 2021 | Firm News

Every year, thousands of Iowans bring their bike out of storage as the weather warms up. The first sunny, warm day after a long hard winter brings out all sorts of bikers from motorcyclists, moped and scooter riders, and even bicycle commuters.

This is an exciting time for those that love the rush of air, and the freedom of riding a motorized bike. Unfortunately, with more traffic, more cell phone use behind the wheel, and faster speed limits across the state of Iowa, we’ve seen an increase in the number of motorcyclists deaths, and injuries. According to the Iowa DOT, between the years 2009 and 2017, there have been 438 motorcycle deaths, 421 motorcycle crashes in Iowa. As a motorcyclist, there is virtually no protection against quickly moving vehicles and the fearless pavement.

If you have been injured while riding your motorcycle, bicycle, or scooter, you must understand all of the steps you need to take to ensure your physical and legal safety, as well as a general reminder of motorcycle safety to limit injuries.

Tips to Avoid Injury While Riding Your Motorcycle in Iowa

Like we said above, in the last 8 years, there have been 438 motorcycle deaths, 421 motorcycle crashes in Iowa. Some of these quick tips can help prevent you from being part of these statistics.

Protect yourself from the elements

  • If you have been injured while riding your motorcycle, bicycle, or scooter, you must understand all of the steps you need to take to insure your physical and legal safety, as well as a general reminder of motorcycle safety to limit injuries.

Be Alert

  • Limit your distance — Just like driving a car, taking breaks during long rides is strongly suggested. Most experienced riders rarely try to ride more than six hours a day. A good rule is to stop and get off the motorcycle at least every two hours.

Make yourself noticeable

  • Do all you can to make it easy for car drivers to see you. Use your high beam during the day, or have some extra lights on your clothing, or helmet. Switching to a high fluorescent colored jacket such as fluorescent orange, or fluorescent green is highly visible opposed to a black leather jacket.

Wear a helmet

  • Having a helmet is not required in Iowa, but it is still can help reduce the severity of a motorcycle accident.

If You’re Involved in a Motorcycle Accident in Iowa

Being in a motorcycle accident is not ideal, but if the time comes and you are injured it’s best to be prepared to know what steps to take.

In any accident situation, safety always comes first, for you and anyone else involved in the accident. Call the proper authorities immediately, and never leave the scene of the accident. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, make sure you are checked out by a medical professional.

Just like any other accident that is reported, you will have to give your account of what happened. If you fail to do so, you could have negative consequences. It’s important to keep evidence of your crash, too. In the event a personal injury attorney needs to be involved having the following evidence is extremely beneficial:

Your helmet

Keep your helmet and don’t alter it in any way.

Police reports

These are helpful as they contain documented information such as the contact information for any witnesses. Other information that may be included in the contact information of any witnesses, the weather, and details including if the motorist received a citation for speeding, failure to yield the right of way, etc.

Photos

Use a camera or your cell phone to take photographs of the scene. Make sure you photograph your motorcycle as it lies on the ground and any other debris related to the accident. It’s also helpful to take photos of the people involved in the accident.

Medical records

Having any medical records will be beneficial to you. Notes from the doctors, ambulance ride, or any other medical visit related to the accident will help you.

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Iowa

-If you were injured in a motorcycle collision in Iowa, the driver who caused the crash could be held responsible for your financial compensation. Motorcycle crashes typically result in serious injury or death for the motorcycle victim, and costs typically rise to six figures. Finding a good motorcycle accident attorney in Iowa is important. Platt Law wants to help you take the first steps to get your life back into order after an accident in Des Moines and Urbandale, IA.

Platt Law wants to help you take the first steps getting your life back into order after an accident.

Attorney Nicholas Platt has been practicing law in Des Moines, IA for many years, and is willing to discuss your case with you. Call our Des Moines attorney office today at 515-346-6659 or complete our contact form on our website. We will meet with you anytime for a free consultation regarding your injury.