Alta Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Lives can be instantly upended by accidents and injuries. In such tough moments, car accident injury lawyers become vital allies. They advocate for those injured by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article underscores the significant role these lawyers play in assisting individuals with their claims and restoring normalcy.

How Are My Lost Wages Paid After a Car Accident?

Under Iowa law, if you or a loved one are involved in a car accident causing injuries that require you to be off work, you'll need to use your own resources initially. This includes sick pay, short-term disability, vacation time, or other forms of disability pay. The insurance company for the other driver will not pay your lost wages as you incur them. Instead, they will only compensate you for lost wages as part of a total settlement of your case, which includes medical bills, loss of quality of life, pain and suffering, and other damages. 

Immediate Steps After an Accident

If you are still off work because of a car accident, it is too early to discuss settlement with the insurance company. You need to wait and see how your medical treatment progresses and if you make a full recovery before considering any settlement offers. 

Contact HR: It is important to check with your employer's HR department to see if you have short-term disability or other coverage that can provide benefits while you are unable to work. Completing the necessary paperwork promptly is crucial as delays will result in longer waiting times for receiving checks.

Check Loan Coverage: Additionally, check if you have disability coverage on your mortgage, car, or other loans. This can help make payments while you are disabled.

Alternative Sources of Financial Support

If you do not have any of the aforementioned coverages, you might need to seek help from family, friends, or community organizations. In states with PIP (personal injury protection) like Minnesota, you may recover lost wages immediately under your own car insurance policy. Unfortunately, Iowa does not have PIP, so these options might not be available.

Medical and Legal Assistance

Fibula Fractures: Car accidents can cause various injuries, including fibula fractures. The fibula, tibia, and talus make up the ankle, and a fracture in the fibula is commonly referred to as a broken ankle. Symptoms include severe pain, bruising, swelling, tenderness, visible deformity, and inability to bear weight.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. Treatment may be surgical or non-surgical, involving immobilization with a cast or brace and rest for several weeks, potentially preventing you from performing normal work duties.

Legal Recourse: If you suffer a fibula fracture in a car accident in Iowa, you may be entitled to compensation. You can file a claim with your insurer if you have the right coverage, like medical payments coverage. If another party is at fault, you can file a liability claim. If you cannot secure a fair settlement, you may pursue a lawsuit. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Iowa is two years, so timely action is essential.

Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash, medically termed as cervical strain, involves injury to the neck muscles and tendons, which may not be visible on an x-ray. These injuries can have long-term effects, including loss of motion, chronic pain, and headaches. 

Immediate Medical Attention: It is crucial to seek medical care immediately after an accident. Delayed treatment can worsen your condition and negatively impact your personal injury claim. Treatment options include physical therapy, chiropractic care, medications, injections, and more.

Consistent Medical Care: Attending all medical appointments is vital. Missed appointments or delays in starting prescribed treatments can harm your case. If initial treatments are ineffective, seek additional medical care from specialists. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you to appropriate medical providers.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Seeking legal counsel from experienced Iowa car accident attorneys such as those at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can provide invaluable support in filing insurance claims or pursuing personal injury lawsuits. With a comprehensive understanding of Iowa law, their team can help gather evidence, establish liability, and secure the compensation deserved by accident victims.

Suffering from the aftermath of a car accident shouldn't impede your pursuit of justice and fair compensation. The Iowa injury lawyers at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies.

That's why we provide this FREE book; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 641-792-3595 to order your free accident book today.