Motorcycle Accidents and Distracted Driving
Posted on June 16, 2020 at 3:06 PM, Updated with new law information on June 3, 2025 by The Biker Lawyers
Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Distracted Drivers
They Weren’t Paying Attention. Now You’re Paying the Price.
You were doing everything right—watching the road, staying alert, riding smart. Then some driver glanced at a text, reached for a coffee, or scrolled through Spotify… and crashed right into your life.
Distracted driving isn’t just careless. It’s dangerous. For motorcyclists, it’s often deadly.
At The Biker Lawyers, we’ve seen the aftermath of distracted driving crashes firsthand. We ride. We represent riders. And when distracted drivers cause wrecks, we make damn sure they’re held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Crashes and Distracted Driving
Click the (+) on any of the questions below to learn more—and don't hesitate to contact The Biker Lawyers if you need help now.Is Distracted Driving Illegal in Iowa?
Yes. Starting July 1, 2025, Iowa’s new hands-free law prohibits handheld use of electronic devices while driving, unless operated in hands-free or voice-activated mode. Fines of up to $1,000 begin in 2026 for serious violations. Even if no citation was issued at the crash, our team can uncover proof of distraction.
How do we prove the driver was distracted?
We dig deep. Our legal team can request cell phone records, check dashcam and traffic camera footage, analyze police reports and witness statements, inspect in-vehicle data (on newer cars), and even reconstruct the crash scene with expert analysis. Distracted drivers rarely admit it—but the evidence tells the story.
What if the driver denies being distracted?
That’s common—and it’s why we investigate thoroughly. With the right tools, we can uncover distraction through cell phone logs, onboard vehicle data, and crash reconstruction, even without a police citation. Truth doesn’t need a confession when you’ve got hard evidence.
How do I know if distracted driving caused my crash?
Common signs include sudden lane changes, rear-end collisions, or the driver admitting they didn’t see you. Our team knows how to identify the red flags and uncover hidden distractions that may have led to your motorcycle crash.
Is using a GPS or eating while driving considered distracted driving?
Yes. Distracted driving includes anything that takes your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off the task of driving. This includes texting, GPS use, eating, grooming, or adjusting music—especially under Iowa and Minnesota traffic laws.
Can I still file a claim if the police report doesn’t mention distracted driving?
Absolutely. Most police reports don’t list distracted driving unless the driver admits it. Our job is to investigate further—cell records, vehicle data, and expert testimony can all reveal what really happened.
What is the deadline to file a claim in Iowa?
In Iowa, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims—including distracted driving crashes—is typically two years from the date of the accident. But don’t wait—evidence disappears fast, and the sooner you act, the stronger your case can be.
Do I need a motorcycle-specific personal injury lawyer?
Yes. A motorcycle crash isn’t like a car accident. Bikers face unique risks—and unique bias. A motorcycle-focused personal injury lawyer knows how to explain your case, protect your rights, and fight back against unfair assumptions in court or negotiations.
Why Are Bikers at Higher Risk from Distracted Drivers?
Motorcycles are smaller, quieter, and easier to overlook. Add in a distracted driver, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
Common motorcycle crashes caused by distraction include:
- Left-turn collisions at intersections
- Rear-end crashes at stoplights
- Sideswipes during lane changes
- Failure to yield or see a rider in time
A distracted driver might say “I didn’t see them”—but that excuse doesn’t undo a broken back, shattered bones, or a totaled bike.
What Counts as Distracted Driving?
According to the CDC, there are three main types of distractions:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road (e.g., texting, looking at GPS)
- Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel (e.g., eating, adjusting music)
- Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving (e.g., daydreaming, phone calls)
When someone’s driving a 4,000-pound SUV and not fully focused, a rider on two wheels barely stands a chance.
Your Injuries Deserve Compensation
When a distracted driver causes a crash, they—and their insurance company—should pay. You may be eligible for compensation that covers:
- Medical bills (ER visits, surgeries, physical therapy)
- Lost wages and future income
- Pain and suffering
- Motorcycle repair or replacement
- Long-term disability or permanent injury
We fight for full, fair settlements. And if they won’t deal fairly, we take them to court.
You’ve Got Enough to Deal With—Let Us Handle the Rest
After a crash, your focus should be on healing. Let us focus on:
- Investigating the distracted driver
- Handling insurance negotiations
- Filing your claim before the statute of limitations runs out
At The Biker Lawyers, this isn’t just legal work—it’s personal. When one of us gets knocked down, we help them get back up.
Call (319) 294-4424 or schedule your free case review. No BS. Just real help.