Information and Insight for Injured Iowans

  Failing To Keep Your Bike In Good Working Condition Can Damage Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
 There are mistakes that can be made after a motorcycle accident, for example, talking to an insurance adjuster before you get independent legal advice from a motorcycle lawyer-but there are some mistakes that can be made before the accident even occurs. One such mistake is driving a motorcycle that has a known defect and not repairing it.  This can impact your case negatively and there isn’t a way to fix that mistake after a motorcycle accident.  One thing many drivers claim after they hit a motorcycle is that they “couldn’t see” the motorcycle coming.  In these cases, the insurance company may try to claim that your headlight was not working, or that some other defect on the motorcycle actually caused the accident, instead of their driver.  Sometimes, insurance companies try to blame the biker for having inadequate or poorly maintained tires or brakes.  While you might be comfortable on your bike in the condition it is and while the so-called problems my having nothing actually to do with how or why the accident occurred, you don’t want to have to explain anything to an adjuster or jury about the poor condition of your bike. 

The easiest way to prevent these types of claims form the insurance company is to perform routine maintenance on your bike, to make sure you have all of the safety features the law requires, and that they are in working condition.  Also, be sure to keep good records of all tune-ups and repairs.  Do not let a small mechanical problem ruin your ability to collect for your injuries.

For more ways to protect oneself in case of a motorcycle accident, go to Iowa Motorcycle Accident Facts to download a free 35-page guide.