Another driver’s decision to drink and drive has caused you significant harm. That driver broke the law, and the state of Iowa may pursue criminal charges against him. A drunk driving criminal case is important to the state’s interest in punishing drunk drivers and preventing future drunk driving accidents, but a criminal case will not protect your individual rights.
You Have the Right to Fair Damages
A drunk driver is also a negligent driver, and Iowa law allows motorcyclists who are hurt by negligent drivers to recover damages.
To get these damages, you will need to make a claim with the appropriate insurance company and pursue a personal injury civil case. If your insurance claim or motorcycle accident case is successful, then you may recover damages for all of your past and future:
- Healthcare costs such as expenses related to hospitalizations, surgeries, medications, doctors’ appointments, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation therapies
- Lost income such as any wages, benefits, or income from self-employment that you could not earn due to your injuries
- Out-of-pocket costs such as property damage and other expenses related to your accident
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
Additionally, punitive damages may be possible. Punitive damages are meant to punish drunk drivers for their egregious actions, and they can significantly increase the overall value of your recovery.
You Have the Right to Work With a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
You must assert your right to a recovery after a drunk driving motorcycle wreck by filing an insurance claim or a motorcycle accident lawsuit. However, you don’t have to act alone. Instead, you can contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to negotiate on your behalf and to represent your interests in court.
Insurance companies throughout the Midwest know that Hupy and Abraham means business. Our dedicated attorneys will gather all of the relevant evidence and make convincing arguments to make sure that you get a fair recovery.
To learn more or to schedule a free consultation in our Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, or Quad Cities office, at your home, or in your hospital room, please call us or fill out our online contact form at any time.