Riding a motorcycle on the scenic roads of Des Moines should be an exhilarating experience filled with freedom and joy. However, the consequences can change your life when tragedy strikes due to someone else's negligence or wrongdoing. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or losses due to someone else's negligence or wrongdoing in a Des Moines motorcycle crash, you may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and uncertain about what to do next.
During this difficult time, you must remember that you have rights, and you probably qualify to obtain compensation from those responsible. An experienced Des Moines motorcycle accident lawyer can advise you of your legal options, protect your rights, and fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
The Iowa personal injury attorneys at Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to provide the skilled representation and compassionate support you need. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation to learn how we can help.
Injured in Des Moines? Get Nicolet.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Des Moines
Between 40 and 60 motorcycle accidents happen every year in Iowa—most, obviously, in the summer—a shocking number of them fatal.
Motorcycle accidents can happen in the blink of an eye due to:
- Negligent drivers: Car and truck drivers who fail to share the road safely with motorcyclists, engage in distracted driving, or drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs can cause devastating accidents.
- Aggressive drivers: Some drivers may exhibit road rage or drive aggressively. Aggressive driving maneuvers include speeding, weaving through traffic, tailgating, cutting vehicles off, and other reckless behaviors.
- Road hazards: Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, and other road hazards can be especially dangerous for motorcyclists, who have less stability and protection than other vehicles.
- Defective motorcycle parts: When manufacturers produce faulty motorcycle parts, such as brakes, tires, or steering components, riders can lose control and suffer serious accidents.
No matter what caused your motorcycle accident, if someone else's negligence played a role, you shouldn't have to bear the burden alone. A knowledgeable Des Moines motorcycle accident attorney can thoroughly investigate the crash to determine who was at fault and hold them accountable.
Common Injuries Resulting from Motorcycle Accidents
When a motorcycle and another vehicle collide, it's the motorcyclist who pays the highest price. Without the protection of seatbelts, airbags, and a metal frame around them, riders frequently suffer catastrophic injuries such as:
- Head and brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Road rash
The mental and emotional impact of a motorcycle crash can be just as devastating as the physical wounds. Many survivors suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and other psychological difficulties long after the accident.
At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we've witnessed firsthand the extensive harm a motorcycle accident can inflict on victims and their families. We believe you should receive full compensation for how your injuries have affected your life. Let us fight for the resources you need to rebuild and move forward.
Des Moines and Iowa Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Motorcycle accidents are an all-too-common occurrence in Des Moines and across Iowa. Consider these alarming crash statistics according to the latest data:
- The Iowa Department of Transportation reported 580 motorcycle crashes in the state, resulting in 420 injuries and 42 fatalities.
- Motorcycle fatalities accounted for over 15% of total traffic deaths, despite motorcycles making up only about 5% of registered vehicles.
- Polk County and the Des Moines area consistently have some of the highest numbers of motorcycle accidents and fatalities in the state.
- The Des Moines Police Department reported 98 motorcycle crashes in the city, resulting in 86 injuries and 2 deaths.
These grim numbers demonstrate the severe risk motorcyclists face on Des Moines roads. If tragedy strikes and you find yourself among these statistics, don't wait to seek the legal representation you need to get justice and compensation.
How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Recovering from a motorcycle accident is a painful, stressful ordeal. The last thing you need is the additional burden of battling with insurance companies, filling out endless forms, and navigating complex legal procedures. That's where an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer comes in. A dedicated attorney can handle all the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on healing. Some of the ways a lawyer can help include:
- Investigating the accident: A thorough investigation is critical for determining liability. Your attorney will gather and analyze evidence like police reports, witness statements, photos and videos of the scene, and vehicle damage to build a strong case for you.
- Gathering evidence: In addition to evidence from the crash scene, your lawyer will also assemble documentation of your injuries and losses, such as medical records, lost wage information, and expert testimony. This evidence is essential for demonstrating the extent of the harm you've suffered.
- Communicating with insurance companies: Insurance adjusters are more interested in protecting their company's bottom line instead of ensuring you receive fair compensation. They may try to get you to accept a lowball settlement or even deny your claim altogether. Your attorney will handle all communication with insurers and fight back against any defense tactics they try to use.
- Negotiating settlements: Most motorcycle accident claims are resolved through settlements with insurance companies. Your lawyer will leverage their negotiation skills and the strength of your case to demand a just payout for your injuries and losses. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair agreement, your attorney can take your case to trial.
- Representing you in court: If your case goes to court, you'll want a battle-tested litigator. An experienced trial attorney will zealously argue your case before a judge and jury, cross-examine witnesses, and present compelling evidence to win the verdict and the compensation you deserve.
Don't face the aftermath of a motorcycle accident alone. Let a skilled Des Moines motorcycle accident attorney from Nicolet Law guide you through the legal process and fight for you to increase your chances of success.
Why Choose a Des Moines Motorcycle Accident Lawyer from Nicolet Law
At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional representation and client service. Here are some of the reasons motorcycle accident survivors trust our firm:
- Local knowledge and experience: Our attorneys have deep roots in the Des Moines community and extensive experience successfully handling motorcycle accident claims across Iowa. We understand the unique challenges local riders face and how to build strong cases under Iowa law.
- Understanding of Iowa motorcycle laws: Iowa has specific laws governing motorcycle operation, insurance requirements, and injury claims. Our lawyers have intricate knowledge of these statutes and how they may impact your case. We'll protect your rights and follow all legal requirements while pursuing compensation for you.
- Proven track record of success: Our firm has a history of securing significant results for motorcycle accident victims. We've recovered millions of dollars for our clients, giving them the resources they need to restore their health and rebuild their lives. We're ready to put our skills and experience to work for you.
- Personalized attention and care for our clients: We understand that every motorcycle accident case is unique, and every client has individualized needs. We'll take the time to listen to your story, understand your concerns, and craft a legal strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. With us, you'll never feel like just another case number. We are here for you throughout every stage of the claims process and promise to treat you and your family with the utmost dignity and respect.
When someone else's negligence harms you or a beloved family member, turn to Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers for the compassionate guidance and tenacious representation you need.
Injured in Des Moines? Get Nicolet.
The Motorcycle Accident Claims Process in Des Moines
Seeking compensation after a motorcycle accident can be a complex, multi-step process. Here's a general overview of what you can expect:
- Filing an insurance claim: After the accident, you or your attorney will notify the at-fault party's insurance company and file a claim for your injuries and losses. This typically involves submitting evidence of the other party's liability and the extent of your damages.
- Determining liability: To recover compensation, your lawyer must prove that another party was at fault for the accident. This may be another driver, a vehicle or parts manufacturer, or even a government entity responsible for road maintenance. Your attorney will investigate the accident and gather evidence to establish liability.
- Calculating damages: A critical component of your claim is determining the full extent of your damages. This includes economic damages like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost enjoyment of life. Your lawyer will work with experts to calculate the total value of your claim.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Once they receive your claim, the insurance company will typically make an initial settlement offer. This is often a lowball amount that doesn't fully account for your damages. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurer, presenting evidence and arguments to demand a fair settlement.
- Filing a lawsuit, if necessary: If the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer, your lawyer’s next step may be to file a personal injury lawsuit. This initiates the litigation process, which may involve additional discovery, depositions, and potentially a trial. However, many cases settle before trial once the insurer sees that you're serious about pursuing full compensation.
The motorcycle accident claims process can be lengthy and stressful, and it’s not something you want to handle on your own. A knowledgeable Des Moines motorcycle accident attorney from Nicolet Law will guide you through every step, fight for your rights, and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Des Moines Motorcycle Accident Claims
Q: What should I do after a motorcycle accident?
A: Your first priority should be seeking medical attention for your injuries, even if you think they're minor. Some serious conditions may not present symptoms immediately.
Gather evidence from the scene if you can, like photos of the damage and contact information for witnesses. Report the accident to the police and your insurance company, but avoid admitting fault or giving a recorded statement. Then, contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
A: At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront, and we only collect a fee if we secure compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict we obtain on your behalf. You'll owe us no attorney fees if we don't win your case.
Q: How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Iowa?
A: Iowa has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing personal injury claims. In most cases, you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit.
If you miss this window, the court will likely dismiss your case. However, some exceptions can shorten or lengthen this time frame. An attorney can advise you on any deadlines that apply to your case and file your claim properly and on time.
Q: What if the other driver was uninsured?
A: If the at-fault driver lacks insurance or sufficient coverage, you may still have options for recovering compensation.
If you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy, you can file a claim with your insurer. You may also be able to sue the at-fault driver directly. A knowledgeable lawyer can advise you on your best path to recovery.
Contact an Experienced Des Moines Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Don't wait to get the legal help you need after someone caused a motorcycle wreck that hurt you or a loved one. The experienced Des Moines personal injury lawyers from Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers are ready to handle every aspect of your claim with skill, compassion, and dedication.
Contact us today at (515) 381-2181 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Remember, the sooner you reach out to a lawyer, the better your chances of recovering full compensation.