DeWitt Personal Injury Attorneys

Life can be suddenly disrupted by accidents and injuries. In such challenging times, personal injury lawyers are essential allies. They specialize in representing those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they secure fair compensation. This article delves into the significant role personal injury lawyers play in helping individuals navigate their claims and rebuild their lives.

Understanding Comparative Negligence Rule in a Car Accident Claim in Iowa

When seriously injured in a car accident, establishing negligence is crucial for pursuing compensation. Iowa follows the modified comparative fault – 51% rule. This means you can file a claim against the other driver only if your fault is 50% or less. If you’re found 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.

Even if you’re less than 51% at fault, your damages may be reduced. For example, if the other driver made an unsafe lane change but you were speeding, your compensation could be reduced accordingly.

Given the complexity of proving negligence, especially with severe injuries, seeking legal assistance is essential. You must prove the other side was more negligent to maximize your recovery.

Filing a Bike Accident Claim to Recover Damages for Your Injuries

A bicycle accident claim filed with an insurance company can help recover damages following a crash. Whether it's a right hook accident, a dooring accident, or another type of bicycle accident, understanding the claims process is crucial.

Determining Fault in a Bike Accident Claim

Fault determination significantly impacts how you file. If you caused the accident, file a claim with your car insurance company. If the other driver caused it, file with their insurance company. Even as a cyclist, your car insurance may cover the accident if you have appropriate coverage like uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

Seeking Medical Help and Filing a Claim for Bodily Injury Damage

The first step after an accident is seeking medical attention. Medical care is essential for your wellbeing and for determining the compensation amount needed for your claim. Assuming the other driver was at least partially at fault, file your bodily injury claim with their insurance company.

Documenting All Medical Treatment

Document all treatments, including:
- Initial injury date
- Date of first treatment
- How the injury occurred
- Prognosis and treatment length
- Medications and surgeries
- Appointment dates

Filing Your Claim

File your claim as early as possible. Your insurance agent will guide you through the process. Always be truthful and do not sign anything without an attorney present.

Proving the Fault of the Other Driver

Proving the other driver's fault can be challenging. Gather all accident-related evidence and witness testimonies if available. Fault is based on negligence, such as speeding, drinking while driving, or failure to yield.

Negotiating a Settlement Amount

Never accept the first settlement offer. It’s often lower than deserved. Negotiations can lead to a more appropriate compensation amount.

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.