Asbury Personal Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can suddenly change lives. In these times of need, personal injury lawyers are vital. These experts help those harmed by others' negligence to get the compensation they deserve. This article highlights the critical role of personal injury lawyers in guiding individuals through complex claims and helping them rebuild their lives.

Iowa Pedestrian Law: Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

Pedestrian Safety Statistics and Importance of Compliance

Every year, more than 4,000 pedestrians are killed in traffic accidents, and tens of thousands are injured across the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). With 75 percent of pedestrian accidents occurring in urban areas, often on clear or cloudy days and at nighttime, understanding and complying with pedestrian laws is crucial for safety.

Key Pedestrian Laws in Iowa

Right of Way

In Iowa, pedestrians have the right of way at intersections without traffic lights and on crosswalks, both marked and unmarked. Motorists must yield to pedestrians when entering or leaving driveways, parking lots, or alleys. However, pedestrians should always exercise caution and never assume that vehicles will stop.

Crossing Rules

Pedestrians must yield to motorists and cyclists when crossing roads outside of intersections or designated crosswalks. When a pedestrian tunnel or overhead crossing is available, pedestrians are required to use these facilities instead of crossing the road at grade level.

Walking Along Roadways

When walking along roads or highways without sidewalks, pedestrians should stay on the left side, facing oncoming traffic. This allows pedestrians to see and react to approaching vehicles, enhancing their safety.

Hitchhiking Restrictions

Iowa laws prohibit pedestrians from standing on the roadway to solicit vehicles for hitchhiking. However, pedestrians can stand on parts of the roadway not typically used by vehicles to request rides.

Legal Recourse for Pedestrian Accident Victims

Filing for Damages

Pedestrians injured in accidents caused by motorists can seek compensation for their injuries. To do so, they must prove the motorist's fault and demonstrate the damages incurred. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses.

Evidence Collection

Victims should collect and present medical bills, evidence of lost wages, and any other relevant documentation to support their claims. Working with a personal injury attorney can significantly aid in gathering evidence and building a strong case against the negligent motorist.

Navigating Insurance Settlements After an Accident

Understanding Insurance Settlements

In Iowa, you are not obligated to accept an insurance company’s settlement offer. It’s important to consider the severity of your injuries, subrogation issues, and the statute of limitations.

Settlement Negotiation Tips

- Be Informed: Know the details of your accident and injuries.
- Stay Calm: Avoid threatening the insurance adjuster.
- Be Honest: Any false information can be used against you.

Factors Influencing Claim Value

- Severity and extent of injuries
- Nature of injuries (e.g., multiple body parts, broken bones)
- Hospitalization and surgery requirements
- Time missed from work
- Available insurance coverage

We Are Here To Help

Remember, you are not alone in recovering from your injuries. We have helped thousands of Iowans through their physical, emotional, and financial recoveries. If you have questions about what you are going through, feel free to call our office for your confidential injury conference. We will take the time to listen to you and give you our advice concerning your injury matter at no cost or risk to you.

Free Book at No Cost 

If you are not ready to speak with an attorney yet but would like to learn more about Iowa injury cases including tips about how you can avoid making common costly mistakes request a copy of our Iowa Personal Injury book which includes 14 myths about Iowa injury cases and 5 things to know before hiring an attorney.

If you have specific questions about your injury matter feel free to call our office to speak with our Injury team at 641-792-3595 or use our Chat feature by clicking here 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Your information will remain confidential and there is no cost or obligation.