Gilbert Personal Injury Attorneys

Life can be abruptly disrupted by accidents and injuries. In such tough periods, personal injury lawyers are essential allies. They advocate for those affected by negligence, helping them obtain fair compensation. This article examines the significant role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in recovery.

Understanding Comparative Negligence Rule in a Car Accident Claim in Iowa

When you've been seriously injured in a car accident, establishing negligence is crucial if you plan on pursuing compensation. The state of Iowa follows the modified comparative fault – 51% rule, meaning your fault must be 50% or less to file a claim against the other driver. If your responsibility for the accident is found to be 51% or higher, you cannot recover damages.

Even if you’re at fault for less than 51%, the number of damages you’re entitled to may be reduced. For instance, if the other driver made an unsafe lane change on Interstate 235, but you were speeding, this could reduce your claim. This is why seeking legal help is important when your injuries are severe. Proving that the other side was more negligent is essential to recover more in damages.

Do You Have to Accept The Insurance Companies Settlement?

In Iowa, you do not have to accept an insurance company settlement offer. Here are several things to keep in mind:

1. Minor Injuries: If your injuries are minor, you may be better off settling on your own to avoid attorney fees.
   
2. Subrogation: If your medical bills were paid by your health insurance or another insurance company, subrogation might require reimbursement, impacting your settlement.
   
3. Statute of Limitations: Understand how much time you have before the statute of limitations expires.

If you don't know the answers to these questions, contact a qualified Iowa injury attorney. Failing to do so could cost you thousands of dollars or your entire case. Remember, the insurance company's first offer is rarely their best offer. You should negotiate, but be careful about what you tell the insurance adjuster, as anything can be used against you.

Before agreeing to any settlement offer, it's always a good idea to speak with a qualified Iowa injury attorney to ensure you're treated fairly. They can help you evaluate the value of your claim based on factors like the severity of injuries, required surgeries, missed work, and available insurance coverage.

Filing a Bike Accident Claim to Recover Damages for Your Injuries

A bicycle accident claim can help you recover damages following a crash. Whether it was a right hook accident, a dooring accident, or another common type, knowing how to recover compensation is crucial.

Determining Fault in a Bike Accident Claim

If you caused the accident, file your claim with your car insurance company; if the other driver caused it, file a claim with their insurance company. Even on a bike, your car insurance policy might cover you, especially if you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage or medical payments coverage. Knowing your policy specifics is crucial.

Seeking Medical Help and Filing a Claim for Bodily Injury Damage

After a bicycle accident, seek medical attention immediately. Getting care is critical for your wellbeing and necessary for determining the compensation amount. Document all medical treatments, including:

- Initial injury date
- Treatment dates
- How the injury occurred
- Prognosis
- Treatment length
- Medications or surgeries
- All appointment dates

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

Proving the Fault of the Other Driver

Proving the other driver’s fault can be difficult. If the insurance company believes you were partially to blame, they may deny coverage or reduce compensation. Gather and document all accident-related evidence. Witness testimony can be essential. Fault is based on negligence, such as speeding, drinking while driving, failure to yield, and aggression.

Negotiating a Settlement Amount

After submitting your claim, the insurance company will offer a settlement amount. Never accept the first offer. Often, a more appropriate compensation amount can be achieved through negotiations.

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.