Newton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

For motorcyclists, there are few things more thrilling than hopping on their bike and hitting the open road. Unfortunately, the thrill of freedom can come at a cost for bikers. When these individuals are involved in an accident, they suffer injuries that are much more serious than other motorists. Motorcyclists are very vulnerable when they are on the road. They do not have the protection other motorists enjoy and so, the injuries they suffer are some of the worst.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Newton motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the process so you obtain the full and fair settlement you are entitled to.

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Newton?

Motorcyclists face many dangers when they are on the road, including other motorists. Any negligent act by drivers and other parties can result in a crash that happens suddenly and unexpectedly. Some of the most common types of negligence that cause these crashes are as follows:

Failing to yield: Drivers often fail to yield to motorcyclists. This occurs most often when a driver is making a left turn. They may look ahead to ensure that no other cars are trying to get through the intersection, but fail to see a motorcycle, which is much smaller. As these drivers make the turn, they then crash into the biker.
Improper lane changes: Like when drivers fail to yield, they may not see a motorcyclist when they are changing lanes. Again, drivers may check their blind spots to ensure there are no other cars in the lane beside them, but fail to see a smaller motorcycle until it is too late.
Distracted driving: When many people think of distracted driving, they often only think of texting and driving. While this behavior is certainly a dangerous distraction, there are others as well. These include drinking, eating, grooming, loud music, and rowdy passengers. Although these behaviors may not be illegal, a driver can still be held liable for them if they cause a motorcycle accident.
Impaired driving: Drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and exhibit poor judgment. Although impaired driving is always extremely dangerous, it is even riskier for motorcyclists who have little protection on the roads.
Tailgating: Tailgating refers to when a driver follows a motorcycle too closely. Tailgating can easily result in a rear-end collision. For other drivers, these accidents are usually relatively minor. For motorcyclists, though, these crashes can be fatal.
Speeding: All motorists are expected to comply with the posted speed limits in Newton and throughout Iowa. When drivers speed, it can not only cause an accident but it can also increase the severity of injuries sustained.

How to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Iowa is not a no-fault auto insurance state. This means that if you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you must file a claim with the negligent party’s insurance company to obtain compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and more. It is critical to work with a Newton motorcycle accident lawyer when filing an insurance claim. The insurer representing the liable party will use many strategies to try and deny, reduce, or delay your claim. An attorney will know how to fight against these strategies so you claim full damages.

The vast majority of motorcycle accident claims are resolved through the negotiations that take place between the insurance company and the injured individual or their attorney. Both sides will negotiate for a fair settlement and once one is reached, you can then obtain the compensation you need.

If the insurance company does not act in good faith and refuses to pay a fair settlement, you may have to take the matter to court. There, a trial will take place and a judge or jury will make the final decision. While most motorcycle accident cases do not go to court, it is sometimes necessary to uphold your rights and hold the liable party accountable for paying the damages you are entitled to.

Why Work with a Newton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

You are never required to work with a personal injury lawyer when filing a claim. In other types of accident cases, working with an attorney is sometimes not necessary. When accident victims do not suffer serious injuries, are able to return to work right away, and do not sustain significant property damage, working with a lawyer is often not necessary.

Unfortunately, most motorcycle accident victims can greatly benefit from having legal representation. The chances of walking away from a motorcycle accident with minimal injuries or property damage is very small. The injuries sustained during a motorcycle accident are also some of the most serious, preventing victims from returning to work and earning the income they need to pay their medical expenses. For these reasons, working with an attorney is of the utmost importance. When you have an attorney on your side, they will handle many of the tasks involved your claim, including:

Investigate the case to determine what caused your crash and who is liable
Collect evidence to prove your case
Advise you of the law and how it applies to your case
Work with experts to maximize your damages
Accurately value your claim, taking into account your current and future losses
Negotiate with the insurer on your behalf to reach a fair settlement
Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf to protect your claim
Represent you at trial, if necessary

Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Newton Will Protect Your Rights

If you have been hurt in a crash, now is the time for you to focus on your recovery, not deal with the significant paperwork and other details of your case. At Baer Law Office, our Newton motorcycle accident lawyer will guide you through the process and ensure your rights are upheld so you obtain the full compensation you deserve. The Baer Law Office is a multi-award winning law firm that has been rated as the “Best Law Firm in Des Moines” for nine years in a row. Call us now at (515) 279-2000 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to get the legal advice you need.