Garner Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can abruptly change lives. In these tough times, car accident injury lawyers are vital allies. They fight for those hurt by others' negligence, ensuring just compensation. This article underscores the important function these lawyers serve in assisting individuals with their claims and recovery.

After a car accident, managing medical bills and understanding your legal options can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide outlines how to pay for medical expenses while awaiting a settlement, the process of recovering damages for severe injuries, and the importance of adhering to Iowa’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. 

Paying Medical Bills While Awaiting a Settlement

Using Your Own Insurance Policies

While waiting for a car accident settlement, most victims rely on their own insurance policies to cover medical expenses. Options include:

- Employer Health Insurance: Utilize health insurance provided by your employer.
- Personal Health Insurance: Use your personal health insurance plan.
- Medicare or Medicaid: If you qualify, these government programs can cover your medical expenses.
- Driver’s Insurance: If you were a passenger, the driver's insurance policy might cover your injuries.
- Medical Payments Coverage: If available, your car insurance may include a medical payments plan.

Subrogation: Repaying the Insurer

Many insurance companies expect repayment after you receive a settlement. This process, called subrogation, varies based on your provider and contract terms. Consult your insurance carrier or attorney for specifics.

Covering Other Expenses

Health insurance may cover medical bills, but what about other expenses like lost income and household chores you can no longer perform? If your injuries prevent you from working and managing your home, you may face mounting bills. Without sufficient savings or family assistance, consider pre-settlement funding.

Pre-Settlement Funding

Pre-settlement funding provides financial support until your case settles. While helpful, these loans come with high fees. Consult your attorney or financial advisor to explore this option.

Recovering Damages for Shoulder Replacement Surgery

The Basics of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Shoulder replacement surgery is often necessary for severe shoulder injuries caused by car accidents. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the surgery involves replacing damaged shoulder parts with artificial components made of metal or plastic.

Injuries Necessitating Surgery

Car accidents can cause severe shoulder fractures that require replacement surgery. Other injuries, such as post-traumatic arthritis and torn rotator cuffs leading to tear arthropathy, might also necessitate surgery.

Recovery Process

Recovery depends on the surgery type (total or partial replacement) and the patient’s resilience. Post-surgery, the shoulder remains in a sling for several weeks, and months of physical therapy may be required for full recovery. Patients should avoid extreme arm positions and heavy lifting during this period.

Seeking Compensation

Shoulder replacement surgery is costly and often results in missed work and lost wages. To ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, consult a personal injury attorney.

Understanding Iowa’s Statute of Limitations

Time Limits for Filing Claims

The Iowa statute of limitations sets deadlines for different types of personal injury claims:

- Negligence/Personal Injury: Generally, 2 years from the injury date.
- Medical Malpractice: Generally, 2 years from the date of negligence, with exceptions for minors and discovery rule.
- Products Liability: Generally, 2 years, with variations depending on product age.
- Wrongful Death: Generally, 2 years from the injury date.

Special Considerations

Exceptions to these general guidelines include claims involving minors and Dramshop claims, which require notice within 180 days of the accident. Consulting an experienced personal injury lawyer can help determine which statute applies to your case and ensure timely filing.

When the Clock Starts

The statute of limitations typically begins at the injury date. For example, if injured in a car accident, you have 2 years from the accident date to file a claim. However, it’s crucial not to delay filing, as unforeseen issues could bar your claim.

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.