If a motorcycle accident in Cedar Rapids hurt you or a loved one, you know firsthand the pain, trauma, and challenges you face in the aftermath of a crash. You may be struggling with severe injuries and unable to enjoy life the way you did before.
Medical bills are piling up and you don't know how you'll pay them. During this difficult time, you need a Cedar Rapids motorcycle accident lawyer who understands what you're going through and will fight fiercely for the compensation you deserve.
At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we've helped countless motorcycle accident victims across the Midwest recover full and fair compensation after a devastating wreck. We know the unique challenges motorcyclists face and the severe, often life-changing injuries they suffer in collisions with cars and trucks.
You shouldn't have to pay the price if another person's negligence or wrongdoing caused your accident.
Let our skilled Cedar Rapids motorcycle accident attorneys handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on healing. Contact us today for a free case evaluation to learn of your rights and options to pursue compensation.
Injured in Cedar Rapids? Get Nicolet.
Common Causes of Cedar Rapids Motorcycle Accidents
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As motorcyclists, we accept certain risks when riding. No one expects to be seriously hurt because of someone else's carelessness. Unfortunately, far too many motorcyclists in the Cedar Rapids area do. Some of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Negligent drivers: Car and truck drivers cause the majority of motorcycle crashes. They often don’t look out for motorcycles, misjudge their speed and distance, or don't yield the right of way. Distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, and reckless driving also frequently lead to wrecks.
- Aggressive drivers: Some drivers can purposefully act aggressively around motorcyclists, such as by swerving toward them, tailgating them, or cutting them off in traffic. Aggressive and reckless drivers can cause horrendous motorcycle accidents if they collide with the motorcycle or cause the biker to lose control and crash.
- Defective motorcycle parts: When critical components like brakes, tires, or steering fail, the consequences can be catastrophic for motorcyclists. Manufacturers may be responsible for design flaws, manufacturing defects, or failing to warn of potential dangers.
- Road hazards: Potholes, crumbling pavement, loose gravel, uneven lanes, and other poor road conditions pose major risks for motorcyclists. Riders can easily lose control and crash, especially at high speeds. In some cases, government agencies or contractors may be liable for failing to properly maintain the roads.
Car drivers should stay alert, check blind spots, yield to motorcyclists, and avoid distractions. Local governments must also maintain safe roadways for all travelers. Although these are some common causes of motorcycle accidents in Cedar Rapids, it’s not an exhaustive list. If someone caused a motorcycle crash that hurt you, contact a motorcycle wreck lawyer in your area immediately.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Cedar Rapids
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Even when wearing a helmet and protective gear, motorcyclists have very little to protect them from injuries if a car or other large vehicle strikes them. As a result, riders often suffer severe, debilitating injuries in motorcycle accidents, such as:
- Head and brain injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries are common, even among riders wearing helmets. TBIs can cause cognitive issues, personality changes, impaired motor function and sensation, communication problems, and other long-term impairments.
- Road rash: Skidding across the pavement can leave motorcyclists with painful road rash and permanent scars. Serious abrasions may go deep into the underlying fat, muscle, and bone, requiring skin grafts and leading to dangerous infections.
- Broken bones: Bikers often suffer multiple fractures in their arms, legs, ribs, hips, shoulders, and other bones. Severe breaks may require surgery, limit mobility for months.
- Spinal cord injuries: The extreme forces in a motorcycle crash can fracture, dislocate, or crush the spine, potentially causing permanent paralysis, loss of sensation, and other neurological issues. Victims may need ongoing medical care and assistance with daily living.
- Emotional trauma: The mental and emotional impact of a motorcycle accident can linger long after the physical wounds have healed. Many riders struggle with post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and phobias, relationships, and quality of life.
No matter how seriously a motorcycle accident injured you or a beloved family member, you may qualify to obtain compensation for the financial losses you incurred because of them. Our Cedar Rapids motorcycle crash attorneys can help you seek compensation for your current medical bills as well as future medical expenses.
Cedar Rapids and Iowa Motorcycle Accident Statistics
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Motorcycle wrecks are all too common in Cedar Rapids and across Iowa. Traffic accident statistics from the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) report:
- 537 motorcyclists were injured in Iowa in a recent year.
- 39 motorcyclists died in crashes across the state.
- Iowa averages over 36 deadly motorcycle accidents per year.
- Motorcycle riders and passengers are 28 times more likely to suffer fatal injuries than passenger vehicle occupants.
While these numbers are tragic, it's important to remember that every statistic represents real lives forever changed. If you're part of these grim tallies, you deserve justice and compensation for all you've endured. That's where an experienced Cedar Rapids motorcycle accident lawyer can make all the difference.
How a Cedar Rapids Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help You Get Compensation
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Recovering from a motorcycle wreck is hard enough without dealing with complicated insurance claims and legal issues. Let a knowledgeable Cedar Rapids motorcycle accident attorney from Nicolet Law handle the heavy lifting and fight for the maximum compensation possible by:
- Investigating the accident: We'll quickly gather important evidence before it disappears. This often includes visiting the scene, taking photographs, interviewing eyewitnesses, and obtaining police reports.
- Gathering evidence: Building a strong case requires extensive evidence like medical records, wage statements, expert testimony, accident reconstruction, and more. We'll identify what's needed to prove liability and the full extent of your losses.
- Communicating with insurance companies: Insurance adjusters are trained to pay as little as possible. We know their tactics and how to negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement. Let us handle communications and advocate fiercely for your interests.
- Negotiating settlements: Most cases settle out of court. However, getting the best outcome requires presenting compelling evidence and arguments. We'll work tirelessly to obtain a fair settlement covering all your losses.
- Representing clients in court, if necessary: If the other side won't agree to a reasonable settlement, we're fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our skilled litigators will present a strong, persuasive case to the judge and jury to fight for the verdict you deserve.
Why Choose Nicolet Law to Handle Your Cedar Rapids Motorcycle Accident Claim
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- Local knowledge and experience: We've helped injured motorcyclists in the area for years. We understand local laws, judges, defense attorneys, and insurance companies, and how to build winning strategies.
- Understanding of Iowa motorcycle laws: Iowa has specific requirements for motorcycle licensing, equipment, and insurance. We'll make sure you're in compliance and the other side doesn't use any technicalities against you.
- Proven track record of success: We've recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for deserving accident victims. We know what it takes to get substantial results and we'll bring that same tenacity to your case.
- Awards and honors: Our attorneys have received recognition from the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, Super Lawyers, the National Association of Distinguished Counsel, and other prominent legal organizations. We’ve also been featured in numerous news outlets for our in-depth legal knowledge. When you hire us, you get a team of respected advocates on your side.
- Personalized attention and care for clients: We provide personalized service customized to your unique needs and goals. Take a look at the personal injury stories we’ve received from past clients to see how we’ve helped so many others in similar situations.
After suffering injuries and losses in a devastating motorcycle accident someone else caused in Cedar Rapids, having Nicolet Law handle your claim is the right choice to improve your odds for success.
Injured in Cedar Rapids? Get Nicolet.
The Motorcycle Accident Claims Process in Cedar Rapids
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The process of pursuing a motorcycle accident claim can seem overwhelming, especially if you've never been through it before. Here's a general idea of what to expect:
- Filing an insurance claim: Iowa follows a fault-based system. You'll start by filing a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company. Our attorneys can help prepare a strong claim and handle communications.
- Determining liability: Proving the other party was at fault is key to obtaining compensation. We'll gather evidence to demonstrate how their negligence caused the crash. Iowa follows modified comparative negligence, meaning you can recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible.
- Assessing damages: We'll identify all your damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. Keeping detailed records of your injuries, treatment, and how the accident has impacted your life will help prove your losses.
- Negotiating settlements: Insurers often make lowball settlement offers that don't come close to covering your damages. We'll negotiate aggressively and work to obtain a fair settlement that meets your current and future needs.
- Going to court (if necessary): If the other side doesn't come to the table with a reasonable offer, we may advise filing a personal injury lawsuit. We'll continue fighting for you in court and present a compelling case for full and fair compensation.
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FAQ: Cedar Rapids Motorcycle Accident Claims
What should I do after a motorcycle accident?
Get medical attention for any injuries right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Then contact law enforcement and start gathering evidence like photos and witness contact info, if you can. Notify your insurance company but don't give a recorded statement before speaking to a lawyer. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to evaluate your claim. They can also help you gather evidence and protect your rights.
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
Most reputable motorcycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, you pay no upfront fees. If we help you recover compensation, we'll take an agreed-upon percentage as our fee. You don't pay attorney fees if we don't recover compensation on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Iowa?
Generally, Iowa's statute of limitations gives you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Don't wait that long to get started, though. Evidence can disappear and memories can fade. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better.
What if the other driver was uninsured?
If the at-fault driver lacks insurance or coverage to fully compensate you, you may be able to turn to your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy. We can help you explore all potential sources of compensation.
Contact an Experienced Cedar Rapids Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
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If you sustained an injury or lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash in Cedar Rapids, you need a strong legal advocate who understands the challenges you face and will fight for the full compensation you deserve.
At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we're here to help you get the monetary compensation you need to move forward after a devastating wreck. We'll handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on getting better.
Don't let someone else's negligence make you suffer any more than you already have. Call our Cedar Rapids personal injury lawyers at (515) 989-6678 for a free, no-obligation consultation, or contact us online. Let us use our knowledge, resources, and skills to help you get the best outcome possible.
Cedar Rapids Office
Address: 1120 Depot Lane SE Suite 100 ,Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Phone: (515) 989-6678