Eldora Personal Injury Attorneys

Sudden accidents and injuries can drastically change lives. During these tough periods, personal injury lawyers are crucial allies. They specialize in representing those harmed by negligence, helping them secure fair compensation. This article delves into the vital role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in recovery.

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

In Iowa, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported five pedalcyclist fatalities in 2011. From 2009-2014, Polk County experienced the highest number of bicycle-car accidents in the state. The goal is to reduce the number of bicyclist accidents to zero. If you're a bicyclist, here are some of the most common types of bicycle accidents and what you can do to prevent them from happening:

Common Types of Bicycle Accidents

1. Right Hook Accidents
   A right hook accident occurs when a car making a right-hand turn cuts into the cyclist's path. These crashes can happen at intersections or when a vehicle is exiting a driveway or parking lot. Drivers sometimes fail to use turn signals, making it hard to predict their actions. 

   Prevention Tips:
   - Stop slightly in front of vehicles in the right-hand lane at red lights or stop signs so the driver can see you.
   - Never pass a vehicle on the right; instead, always pass on the left to stay in the driver’s line of sight.

2. Dooring Accidents
   Dooring accidents happen when a cyclist riding close to parked cars is hit by a suddenly opened car door. This can cause the cyclist to swerve into traffic or be knocked off their bike.

   Prevention Tips:
   - Use bike lanes if available.
   - Stay alert and slow down near parked cars to watch for opening doors.

3. Vehicles Turning Left
   At intersections, left-turning vehicles must yield to oncoming traffic. However, drivers often fail to see cyclists, especially in poor lighting.

   Prevention Tips:
   - Ensure your bike has proper lighting and wear bright colors for visibility.
   - Make eye contact with drivers before proceeding through intersections.

4. Failure to Yield
   This occurs when a cyclist misjudges a vehicle's speed or distance and fails to yield properly at an intersection.

   Prevention Tips:
   - Always exercise caution and double-check before entering an intersection, even if you have the right of way.

Road Bike Safety Tips for New Cyclists

Bicycling is popular for sport, fitness, fun, and commuting. However, it can be dangerous, especially for new cyclists who are unfamiliar with road rules. Here are some safety tips:

- Learn Local Traffic Laws: Each city and state may have distinct rules for cyclists.
- Practice in Safe Areas: Get comfortable maneuvering your bike in low-traffic areas before riding in congested ones.
- Take a Bicycle Safety Course:
- Ride with Traffic: Stay as far to the right as practicable if no bike path is available.
- Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet to protect against head injuries.
- Stay Visible: Use reflectors and lights at night and wear bright clothing during the day.
- Avoid Earbuds: Stay alert to the sounds of traffic around you.
- Pay Attention to Cars: Make eye contact with drivers when possible and avoid riding in their blind spots.
- Check Your Bike: Ensure your bike is in good repair before riding.

What to Do if You're in a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident in Iowa, the attorneys at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can handle all aspects of your case, including:

- Determining fault
- Filing your claim for damages against the insurance company
- Filing a lawsuit if your injuries are severe or if your claim is denied

Understanding Dramshop Claims in Iowa

Dramshop claims are levied against a person or business with a liquor license for serving too much alcohol to an individual who later causes an accident. Here are some key points:

- Damages in Dramshop Claims: These include payment of medical bills, pain and suffering, lost income, damaged property repair or replacement, wrongful death compensation, and potentially punitive damages.
- Filing a Claim: Notice of intent to file a claim must be given within six months of the accident, and the injury claim must be filed within two years.

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.