Editor’s Note: The following article about the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Iowa is the first in a series of Guest posts provided by our friends at vikingbags.com
To help prevent motorcycle accidents, their common causes must be identified. For those who haven’t been here, Iowa is a beautiful U.S. state located between the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, well-known for its large cornfields and landscapes.
Due to such scenic views and attractive spots, Iowa has become an attractive place for motorcyclists. However, riding a motorcycle in Iowa is riskier for several reasons. Read this article to learn the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Iowa.
1. Motorcycle Accidents Statistics at Iowa
In a study conducted by the Institute of Transportation (InTrans) of Iowa State University, approximately 302 riders died during 2016-2021 due to being involved in motorcycle accidents in Iowa.
Iowa roads require constant diligence to safety for motorcycle riders as the number of motorcycle accidents has reached more than 5,700 during this period. Almost 1,305riders during 2016-2021 suffered from serious injuries.
2. Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Iowa
2.1 Speeding
Statistics: As per the statistics presented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST), 25.9% of fatal motorcycle accidents that occurred during 2015-2019 were due to speeding.
Modern motorcycles can produce impressive horsepower and torque due to being fitted with powerful engines. Many young riders are attracted to sport bikes and aggressive riding, resulting in more motorcycle crashes and deaths. Speeding becomes more dangerous when:
Statistics: Most riders involved in motorcycle accidents were found to have more than the permissible amount of Alcohol Concentration in their blood (BAC > 0.08%).
In Iowa, 6% of all the fatal motorcycle crashes that happened between 2015-2019 occurred due to riding under the influence as reported by the NHTSA.
You are at a greater risk of being involved in an accident if you are impaired. Alcohol and drug use among motorcycle riders and car drivers have been a major issue in Iowa and all over the U.S. When you are under the influence, it can make you lose your senses, judgment, decision-making ability, muscle coordination, and control of your motorcycle. Impaired riders have a much slower response to danger as compared to sober riders.
This may not be a cause of crashes, but it could easily be argued that wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injury in a motorcycle crash. That said, Iowa is one of the few U.S. states that does not have a helmet law. In Iowa, you are not legally required to wear a helmet and there is no fine imposed on riders not wearing helmets while riding. However, it is encouraged to wear a helmet to be safe.
In Iowa, it is the rider’s choice to wear protective gear and eye protection. Most fatalities in motorcycle accidents are caused due to head injuries. Wearing a DOT-approved helmet and appropriate riding gear can save you from severe injuries. Even a “minor” head impact during a motorcycle crash can cause severe injury or death.
2.4 Distracted Car Drivers
Motorcycles are smaller than cars and are less visible to car drivers on the road, especially when riding in the dark. The possibility of a car driver hitting a motorcycle increases when he/she is distracted.
The most common distraction which results in most road accidents is the mobile phone. In more than 10% of fatal road accidents in the U.S., the driver was reported using a cell phone while driving. The drivers may be inclined to reply to a text message, receive a phone call from work, play music, and eat food while driving.
Statistics: According to the NHTSA, almost 70% of motorcycle accidents in the U.S. occur due to drivers not paying attention to driving carefully and failing to watch out for motorcyclists on the road.
If you are involved in a motorcycle or car accident and have suffered injuries due to another rider’s fault, you can seek assistance from The Biker Lawyers to find justice and cover your medical bills and property losses.
2.5 Lost Control
Statistics: According to the NHTSA, approximately 18% of deaths in motorcycle accidents happened due to riders losing control of their motorcycles. More than 29% of motorcycle crashes in Iowa between 2015-2019 involved riders that lost control of their motorcycles.
There are several reasons why a motorcycle loses control during the ride. It can be due to bad weather, wet road conditions, obstacles, animals, damaged roads, speeding, distraction, swerving, speed wobbles, loss of traction, and faulty motorcycle parts and products. If you are a beginner rider, you should only ride beginner motorcycles. Riding sport bikes, performance cruisers, and naked bikes require expert-level handling and maneuvering skills to ensure stability.
2.6 Angled Collisions
Angled collisions, also known as T-bone collisions, are those in which two vehicles collide with each other at an angle of 90°. T-bone collisions usually occur when drivers do not follow traffic rules, break signals, and change their lanes without indicating the other vehicles on the road.
Statistics: Accidents involving two or more vehicles resulted in 45.2% of fatalities in motorcycle accidents between 2015-2019 in the U.S. and the most common of these are angled collisions. NHTSA also found that 56.1% of fatal motorcycle accidents involved angled collisions.
3. Conclusion
There are several reasons why the number of fatalities in motorcycle accidents has been increasing in Iowa over the years. If you want to be safe while riding a motorcycle, make sure to wear a helmet and appropriate riding gear. Avoid speeding and riding under the influence of alcohol and drugs as it can be life-threatening.
If you are a beginner and learning how to ride a motorcycle, do not take your motorcycle out on busy roads. Also, to be safe on the road, do not ride a motorcycle that you cannot handle. You can install a motorcycle trunk bag and saddlebags available at Viking Bags to carry useful stuff such as a first-aid kit, helmet, gloves, and white visors to ride safely in the dark.
If you need a personal injury lawyer in the Midwest, you need Pete Leehey.
When the open road turns treacherous and leaves you battered and bruised in its wake, it feels like your world has been shattered.
When Accidents happen, Pete can help.
You’re left grappling with physical pain, towering medical bills, and lost wages — a triad of trials that threaten to grind life as you knew it to a halt. It’s in these grueling moments when you need a trusted ally, someone who truly gets it.
Meet Pete Leehey, your Personal Injury Attorney. He’s not just a lawyer. Pete’s a fellow biker who understands your passion for the ride and your struggle in the aftermath of an accident. He’s here to pick up the pieces with you, to navigate the twisted wreckage of legal complexities, and to fight relentlessly for the justice you deserve.
In this article, you’ll step into the world of Pete Leehey, a seasoned personal injury attorney at the heart of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. With a career spanning over 38 years, Pete has committed his life to aiding accident victims secure the compensation they rightfully deserve.
In this journey, we’ll delve into Pete’s background, his areas of expertise, and explore how he consistently commits to the needs of his clients.
Background and Experience:
Our journey begins where Pete’s did: The University of Iowa College of Law. This is where he proudly completed his Juris Doctor degree. From that point forward, he has continually applied his personal injury law expertise. He did this not only in Iowa but across the Midwest.
Along the way, Pete has tackled thousands of personal injury cases, encompassing car and motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and workplace injuries.
As we transition to Pete’s area of specialty, we find that it lies primarily in personal injury law, specifically cases involving motorcycle accidents.
With a profound understanding of the legal system, insurance policies, and negotiation tactics, he masterfully champions his clients’ interests.
As a biker himself, Pete understands the unique challenges and risks faced by motorcyclists and is committed to representing their interests in personal injury cases.
The intricate nature of truck accident cases doesn’t deter Pete. With his knowledge and experience, he proficiently navigates cases involving multiple parties and complex legal issues.
Commitment to Clients
Despite his many accomplishments, Pete never loses sight of the most important part of his practice: his clients.
Every client that walks into Pete Leehey’s office receives his full attention. He takes time to learn the details of each case, crafting a personalized legal strategy to secure the best possible outcome. Pete’s impressive negotiation skills have helped him secure thousands of dollars in favorable settlements for his clients.
“Pete did a great job of handling our case. Neither of us had ever been involved in a suit like this and he guided us through each step. He let us know what to expect, as well as how best to prepare for the different parts of the case. He also was very concerned with us as people, not just as a case. It was evident that he cared about us and our situation.” – Sarah, Client
Pete works on a contingency fee basis, meaning that clients do not have to pay any upfront fees, and he only receives payment if he successfully recovers compensation on their behalf.
Have you been injured? Contact Pete for a free consultation!
Pete Leehey is a seasoned personal injury attorney in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with a proven track record of success in representing clients in various types of personal injury cases.
With his extensive experience, expertise in motor vehicle accidents, and commitment to providing personalized attention, Pete is the biker’s choice for those seeking legal representation following an accident.
Welcome to the world of motorcycling! Before we dive in, remember the mantra, “Look twice, save a life.” Now let’s talk about how riding a motorcycle is different from driving a car and how we can stay safe on the road.
Motorcycles vs. Cars: The Seven Big Differences
When you hop on a motorcycle, you’re not just in another type of vehicle; you’re in a whole different world. Here are seven ways motorcycles are different from cars:
Motorcycles are way lighter.
They’re smaller.
You don’t have a metal shell protecting you.
You’re out in the open, feeling the wind and weather.
You can’t carry a bunch of friends.
Balance is super important.
Brakes work differently.
Riding in Lanes: Choose Your Spot
When you’re riding your motorcycle, you’ve got three choices for where to ride in a lane: the center, the left, or the right. Each spot has its good and bad points:
Left third: You’ll be more visible to cars coming towards you or from the left, and it’s a good spot if you’re planning to turn left.
Right third: You’re visible to traffic from the right and for cars coming towards you if you’re preparing to turn right.
Center third: If there are cars coming from both sides and ahead, this spot can make you more visible.
But if it’s rained recently, avoid the center because oil from cars can make it slippery.
Blind Spots: Seeing and Being Seen
Where you ride in the lane affects how well cars can see you. Each position creates or reduces blind spots for cars. That’s why we say, “Look twice, save a life.” It reminds us to check our blind spots for motorcycles.
Brakes and Distance: Why You Need More Space
Motorcycles and cars brake differently and that affects how quickly you can stop. Because motorcycles only have two wheels, they only have two small contact points with the road (instead of a car’s four larger ones), so they need more distance to stop. That’s why it’s best to keep a good distance from the car in front.
The Three-Second Rule
How do you know if you’re far enough back? Use the three-second rule. Pick a “stationary point” on the road and count how long it takes you to reach it after the car in front passes it. If it’s less than three seconds, you’re too close.
Distracted Driving: Why Texting Can Wait
We all know it’s bad, but let’s go over why texting and driving is such a no-no.
Think about it this way: At 35 mph, you’re moving 51 feet every second. If you look down and text for three seconds, that’s like closing your eyes and riding blind for half a football field.
That’s not cool, it’s scary… and could be deadly.
Right-of-Way Mistakes
A lot of crashes between cars and motorcycles happen because a car driver didn’t see a motorcycle and turned right in front of it. We call that a right-of-way violation, and it causes three out of every four car-motorcycle crashes.
How to Avoid Crashes: Five Key Steps
To help keep everyone safe, here are five things you can do:
Always keep an eye out for other motorcycles, bikes, and pedestrians.
Look twice before turning or moving into a new lane.
Make sure you’ve judged the speed of the traffic around you before you make your move.
Always check your blind spots.
Use your turn signals, and let them blink at least four times before you move.
Remember, “Look twice, save a life.” Be safe out there and enjoy the ride!
Embrace the Ride, Safely
As you embark on your journey as a new motorcycle rider, keep these tips close to your heart. They’re not just rules or guidelines; they are the foundations of a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Remember, the joy of motorcycling comes with responsibility—not just for yourself, but for everyone sharing the road with you.
Being mindful of the key differences between motorcycles and cars, understanding lane positioning, respecting other road users, and knowing how to avoid common causes of accidents are fundamental steps toward becoming a skilled and confident motorcyclist. But it doesn’t stop there; continue to learn, gain experience, and educate yourself.
The mantra, “Look twice, save a life,” is a powerful reminder that every moment on the road matters. Every decision, every signal, and every glance can make the difference between a safe ride and a dangerous situation. As a new rider, you have the opportunity to be part of a positive change on our roads.
So, let’s get out there, embrace the freedom and excitement of riding a motorcycle, but above all else, let’s ride safely. Welcome to the world of motorcycling!
Top 5 Premier Biker Events in Iowa You Can’t-Miss!
In Iowa, we Bikers cram a lot of motorcycle events into our summer. Which are the best? If you’ve been looking for the top biker events in Iowa in 2023, you’ve come to the right place! Iowa is an exciting state for biking enthusiasts, though the weather does limit the riding season. Since everyone has unique expectations about these events and what makes them amazing, everyone has their opinions. Here are ours!
5. Redneck Revival Rally in Conesville, Iowa
(May 25-28, 2023)
The official biking season in Iowa kicks off with the Redneck Revival Rally. It takes place over the Memorial Day weekend in a private campground just south of Conesville, Iowa. This rally is a great destination for bikers, with features including:
Private property venue, meaning fewer rules and restrictions
A Beer Barn, live music stage, and biker games throughout the day
4. Anamosa Hill Climb in Anamosa, Iowa (June 4, 2023)
Next on the calendar is the Hill Climb event near Anamosa, Iowa. Despite its seemingly simplistic concept, the steep hill or ‘cliff’ provides an intriguing and entertaining spectacle. Other features of this event include:
Variety of vendors, offering food, drinks, and other items of interest to bikers
Family-friendly atmosphere, making it one of the few biker events suitable for children
Alternate rain date, ensuring the event happens despite weather conditions
Two iterations annually, with the next one in September
3. Romper Room Rally in Earlville, Iowa (June 14-18, 2023)
The Romper Room Rally in Eastern Iowa is another highlight. Taking place at the Earlville Speedway off of Highway 20, this multi-day event also includes:
1. Conesville Redneck Revival (Part 2) and ABATE of Minnesota Rally
The second Conesville Redneck Revival rally, which takes place on Labor Day weekend, rounds out the season in Iowa. Simultaneously, the ABATE of Minnesota Rally in Litchfield, Minnesota, offers a crisp fall feel to a biker rally.In conclusion, Iowa and its neighboring states offer a series of exciting events for bikers throughout the summer. Whether you are a local or visiting, these events offer a guaranteed-to-be-unforgettable time full of camaraderie, entertainment, and parties the likes of which can only be found in the Biker Community!
The Biker Party Wants You!
If you love a good Biker Party, check out The Biker Party Facebook Group where you’ll meet like-minded road warriors from around the world who always know where the party is! Did we miss your favorite Biker Event in the Midwest? Leave a comment below to let us know!
