Columbus Junction Personal Injury Attorneys

When accidents and injuries disrupt lives, personal injury lawyers become essential. They focus on representing those harmed by negligence, helping them obtain fair compensation. This article explores the important role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in recovery.

Rules of Driving on the Road When a Pedestrian is Present

Every year, approximately 70,000 pedestrians are injured in motor vehicle accidents on roads and highways in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Despite well-established laws for both pedestrians and motorists, many of these accidents occur due to a lack of awareness about the rules governing road use around pedestrians.

Iowa Rules of the Road Around Pedestrians

The Iowa Department of Transportation has established specific laws for motorists when a pedestrian is present. The responsibility primarily lies with the motorist, as their vehicle can cause serious injury if not operated correctly.

Right of Way Rules

In Iowa, motorists must give the right of way to pedestrians when:
- Entering or leaving a driveway, parking lot, or alley.
- Crossing at an intersection on a marked or unmarked crosswalk without traffic signals.

Motorists should exercise special caution in residential areas, near schools, shopping centers, parking lots, and congested areas like downtown.

Iowa Pedestrian Laws

The NHTSA reports over 4,000 pedestrian fatalities annually in traffic accidents across the U.S., with most occurring in urban areas at night. Understanding Iowa's pedestrian laws is crucial for safety and accident prevention.

Pedestrian Right of Way

Pedestrians have the right of way at intersections without traffic lights and on crosswalks, marked or unmarked. However, they must yield to motorists when crossing outside these areas unless using a pedestrian tunnel or overhead crossing.

Pedestrians should walk on the left side, facing traffic, when there is no sidewalk. This allows them to see oncoming vehicles and move out of the way if necessary.

Hitchhiking Laws

Pedestrians cannot stand on the roadway to solicit rides but can stand on parts of the road not used by vehicles for this purpose.

Accident Victims' Rights

Law-abiding pedestrians involved in accidents can seek compensation if a motorist's negligence is proven. Evidence such as medical bills and proof of lost wages can support their claim. Legal guidance from a personal injury attorney is essential for building a strong case.

Common Defenses in Pedestrian and Cyclist Accident Claims

Pedestrians and cyclists face substantial costs from accidents involving motor vehicles, totaling approximately $55 billion in lifetime expenses. After an accident, drivers and their insurers may use various defenses to refute liability.

Helmet Use

Drivers may argue that the cyclist is partially at fault for not wearing a helmet, reducing their liability.

Obeying Traffic Rules

Drivers can claim the cyclist was at fault for not following traffic rules, such as speeding or not stopping when required.

Distraction

Drivers may argue the cyclist was distracted (e.g., using headphones) at the time of the accident.

Visibility

Drivers often claim they couldn't see the cyclist, especially if the cyclist didn't have rear lights or wore dark clothing at night.

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.