DeWitt Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Lives can be abruptly altered by accidents and injuries. In these trying times, car accident injury lawyers are crucial allies. They advocate for those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring just compensation. This article underscores the important function these lawyers serve in assisting individuals with their claims and recovery.

ACL Tears from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause various injuries, with the legs and knees being particularly vulnerable. One such injury is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, a severe and painful condition requiring medical intervention.

What is the ACL?

The ACL is a crucial ligament located in the center of the knee, responsible for stabilizing the knee joint. It works alongside the posterior cruciate ligament to prevent the femur and tibia from sliding excessively over one another. When the ACL is torn, performing basic movements like walking and jumping becomes difficult, often necessitating medical treatment.

Causes of an ACL Tear

An ACL tear occurs due to trauma to the ligament. In athletes, this can happen from sudden stops or incorrect landings. In car accidents, an ACL tear can result from the knee rapidly changing direction due to an impact or a direct collision with an object or vehicle part.

Treatment for an ACL Tear

ACL tears are characterized by pain, swelling, tenderness, and loss of motion. Treatment options depend on the injury's severity and can range from using a brace and physical therapy to surgical reconstruction. According to Emory University Healthcare, recovery from surgery typically allows individuals to resume regular activities, such as sports, within six months.

Why You Need a DeWitt Car Accident Attorney

Treating an ACL tear is costly and time-consuming, often requiring victims to miss work and incur significant medical expenses. If a car accident caused the ACL injury and it was not the victim's fault, they deserve compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and suffering.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage is vital for protection if you are injured by a driver without insurance. 

The Importance of Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Many drivers do not carry auto insurance. The Insurance Information Institute reports that 11.5% of Iowa drivers were uninsured in 2009. Uninsured motorist coverage can cover medical costs and other damages if an uninsured driver injures you. It also protects passengers and covers injuries in hit-and-run accidents. Although not required in Iowa, this coverage is recommended and relatively inexpensive.

Determining Fault in a Sideswipe Car Accident

Sideswipe car accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in the same direction collide, often due to lane changes or merging errors. These accidents can range from minor property damage to severe crashes, especially at high speeds.

Preventing Sideswipe Accidents

To prevent sideswipe accidents:
1. Check Blind Spots: Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
2. Pass Safely: Pass slower vehicles on the left and allow them time to move over.
3. Utilize Technology: Use lane change warning systems if available.

Determining Fault in Sideswipe Accidents

Fault determination in sideswipe accidents can be complex and often relies on eyewitness testimony. In Iowa, comparative fault laws apply, meaning you must prove the other driver was at least 50% at fault to recover damages. If you are partially at fault, your compensation is reduced by your fault percentage.

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.