Clarinda Personal Injury Attorneys

Life can be abruptly changed by accidents and injuries. In such challenging periods, personal injury lawyers are vital. They focus on advocating for individuals affected by negligence, helping them secure proper compensation. This article discusses the significant role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in recovery.

Options for Compensation after a Bicycle Accident Hit and Run

Hit-and-run bicycle accidents are distressingly common. National statistics reveal that over 800 pedalcyclists died in accidents in 2015. Often, irresponsible drivers, sometimes under the influence or driving without a license, flee the scene out of fear of legal repercussions. This act of fleeing significantly complicates the process for bicyclists to recover financial damages.

Finding the Driver Responsible for Your Accident

If you were hurt by a hit-and-run driver, do not assume all is lost. Some drivers with a conscience may return to turn themselves in. Law enforcement can sometimes successfully identify the driver using traffic or surveillance camera footage and eyewitness testimonies.

You might also want to contact local news stations to cover your story. Publicizing your hit-and-run accident might lead viewers to provide law enforcement with tips. Once a driver is identified, they will face criminal charges, and you can file a claim with their insurer or sue them directly for your damages.

Obtaining Compensation after a Hit and Run Bike Accident

If the driver is identified or stays at the scene, you can file a claim with their insurance company to cover your damages. If the driver flees and cannot be found, your damages may be covered under your auto insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). 

UM/UIM coverage compensates you in the following instances:
- The driver does not have insurance.
- The driver lacks sufficient insurance to cover your damages.
- The driver flees the scene.

Coverage usually extends to traffic accidents when you are a pedestrian or bicyclist. Note that UM/UIM is an optional coverage in Iowa. If you have it, the minimum coverage is $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident. You should check with your insurance agent to confirm your coverage details.

Do You Have to Accept The Insurance Company's Settlement?

In Iowa, you do not have to accept an insurance company’s settlement offer, but consider the following:

1. Minor Injuries: If your injuries are minor, settling the case on your own may be beneficial to avoid attorney fees.
2. Subrogation: If your medical bills have been paid by your health insurance or another insurance company, who will reimburse them? This is called subrogation and can affect your settlement.
3. Statute of Limitations: Ensure you are aware of the statute of limitations for your case to avoid losing your right to claim.

Settlement Negotiations

Insurance company's first offers are rarely their best. If representing yourself, try to negotiate but keep these points in mind:

1. Be Honest: Anything you tell the insurance adjuster can be used against you. Be truthful but cautious.
2. Be Polite: Avoid threatening the adjuster. Politeness can go a long way.
3. Know Your Facts: Be informed about your injuries, treatments, and diagnoses.

Consult a qualified Iowa injury attorney before accepting any settlement to ensure fairness. An attorney can provide insights based on experience with similar cases.

How to Evaluate the Value of a Claim

Consider the following when evaluating your claim:
- Severity and extent of injuries
- Injuries to multiple body parts
- Objective injuries (e.g., broken bones)
- Hospitalization and surgeries required
- Time missed from work
- Employment status at the time of injury
- Available insurance coverage
- Potential underinsured motorist claims

Bicycle Accidents in Iowa: How to Avoid Them and What to Do When It Happens to You

In 2011, Iowa saw five pedalcyclist fatalities, with Polk County experiencing the highest number of bicycle-car accidents from 2009-2014. The goal is to reduce bicycle accidents to zero. Here are common types of bicycle accidents and prevention tips:

Right Hook Accidents

A right hook accident occurs when a car making a right turn cuts off a cyclist. These can happen at intersections or driveways. To avoid this:
- Position yourself slightly in front of vehicles at red lights or stop signs.
- Never pass a vehicle on the right; pass on the left.

Dooring Accidents

A dooring accident happens when a motorist opens a door into a cyclist’s path. To avoid this:
- Use separate bike lanes if available.
- Stay alert and slow down near parked cars.

Left Turn Accidents

At intersections, left-turning vehicles may not see cyclists, especially in poor lighting. To avoid this:
- Equip your bike with lights and wear bright colors.
- Make eye contact with drivers before proceeding through intersections.
- Avoid riding on sidewalks.

Failure to Yield

Cyclists must yield appropriately at intersections to avoid misjudging oncoming traffic. Always double-check before entering an intersection to ensure it is safe to proceed.

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.