Hiawatha Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

 Within the extensive realm of highways, trucking accidents can cause substantial disturbances, frequently leading to serious injuries for those involved. In these challenging times, trucking injury lawyers stand as unwavering advocates, providing guidance and direction to survivors. These legal professionals specialize in navigating the complex terrain of trucking laws and regulations.

We all want to be treated fairly, whether by our employer or by the insurance company. Here are six little-known secrets to help you get a fair settlement:

1. Know Your Facts and the Law

If you're handling a case on your own, it's crucial to understand the facts of your case and how Iowa laws apply to them. Insurance adjusters are trained to use various techniques to convince you to settle for less than fair value. They might act friendly, telling you they will handle everything, but remember, it’s perfectly legal for them to lie to you to settle the case for less. They may also try to convince you that your case is weak and that you should settle quickly.

2. You Do Not Have to Give a Recorded Statement

In most cases, you aren't required to give a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster of the other party. This is especially true in car accidents where the police were involved and a report was made. Politely decline to give a recorded statement and refer the adjuster to the police report and your medical records. However, if you are making a claim against your own insurance for underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage, you may need to provide a recorded statement. If unsure, consult a qualified Iowa personal injury attorney. 

3. Always Tell the Truth

Honesty is essential. Insurance companies have extensive databases with information about all your prior claims. If you lie about past claims, it can significantly hurt your current case’s value. Always provide truthful and accurate information.

4. Ask About Insurance Coverage

In car accident and personal injury cases, ask the adjuster how much insurance coverage is available. They often prefer not to disclose this information, but knowing it is crucial, especially if you have sustained serious injuries. Iowa's state minimum for car accidents is $20,000 per person for personal injuries. If your injuries exceed this amount, you may need to look into your own underinsured motorist policy for additional coverage.

5. Making Threats Won’t Help Your Case

Threats such as “I’m going to sue you” don’t typically help increase your case’s value. Insurance adjusters are trained professionals whose job is to minimize the amount they pay out. If you make threats, they may realize they can provoke you, which isn’t beneficial for your case. Also, if you file a lawsuit, your case might be transferred to another adjuster or a team of lawyers, which doesn't intimidate them.

6. Research Your Case’s Value

To effectively negotiate, you need to know how much your case is worth. Research similar cases in Iowa that have gone to trial and see how much was awarded. Without this information, negotiating a fair settlement becomes challenging.

Additional Tips

Consult an Attorney: If you’re considering hiring a car accident lawyer for your Iowa claim, note that qualified lawyers typically operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. They also handle all interactions with insurance companies and obtain your medical records and bills on your behalf.

Understanding Comparative Fault in Iowa: Iowa is a comparative fault state. If you are less than 51% at fault, you can still collect damages, but any amount will be reduced by your fault percentage. For example, if you are found to be 25% at fault for a $100,000 claim, you would receive $75,000.

Proving Fault in Iowa Car Accidents: Common ways to prove fault include:
- Failure to stop within an assured distance, failure to maintain control, or following too closely: Often used in rear-end collisions.
- Failure to yield: Includes accidents at uncontrolled intersections or when vehicles pull in front of oncoming traffic.
- Failing to obey traffic control devices: Common in accidents where a driver runs a red light or stop sign.

Iowa Traffic Laws: Key laws include:
- Assured Clear Distance Ahead: Drivers must stop within a distance where they can clearly see any obstacles.
- Maintaining Control: Drivers must control their vehicles and reduce speed appropriately.
- Following Too Closely: Drivers must maintain a reasonable distance from the vehicle in front.

Request Our Iowa Car Accident Book: For more detailed information about handling your car accident case, request our free Iowa Car Accident book, which includes insights on avoiding costly mistakes and finding a qualified personal injury attorney.

Contacting Walker, Billingsley & Bair

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. We handle all injury cases on a contingency fee basis and manage all necessary documentation and communications.

Walker, Billingsley & Bair is prepared to act fast to defend your rights after a truck accident in Iowa. Contact our office at 641-792-3595 to speak with an attorney.