Ida Grove Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Unexpected accidents and injuries can alter lives. During these challenging periods, car accident injury lawyers are vital allies. They support those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article highlights the important role these lawyers play in assisting individuals with their claims and rebuilding their lives.

Who is at Fault in a Sideswipe Car Accident?

A sideswipe car accident typically occurs when two or more motor vehicles traveling in the same direction collide, often because one vehicle enters another's lane or both drivers attempt to merge into the same lane. These collisions frequently happen on highways with multiple lanes of travel and can range from minor property damage to devastating incidents if the impact is severe or a driver loses control of their vehicle.

Losing control of a vehicle at highway speed is a dangerous situation. The vehicle can veer into a ditch or even roll over. Roll-over car crashes are among the deadliest types of accidents. Wearing a seatbelt is crucial during such incidents, as it can prevent severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage or being ejected from the vehicle.

Preventing Sideswipe Car Accidents

Check Your Blind Spots

One of the best ways to prevent sideswipe accidents is to always check your mirrors and look over your shoulder to check your blind spot before changing lanes.

Pass Safely

If you are driving faster than other vehicles, it's safer to pass them in the left-hand lane. In many states, passing on the right is illegal due to the safety risks it poses. In Iowa, according to Iowa Code Section 321.299:

> "The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle going in the same direction shall pass to the left at a safe distance and shall not drive to the right side of the road until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle. A violation of this law is negligence."

Passing on the right can be unexpected for other drivers and may result in serious collisions. Even if you are sideswiped, you could be found at fault for passing on the right. There is an exception for multi-lane highways, but it's generally best to pass on the left.

Utilize Lane Change Warning Systems

Many newer vehicles are equipped with lane change warning systems that use radar to detect nearby vehicles. These systems often provide a warning light on the mirror or an audible alert when you signal a lane change towards another vehicle. This technology has significantly reduced the number of serious car accidents.

Determining Fault in a Sideswipe Car Accident

Determining fault in a sideswipe car accident can be complex and often relies on eyewitness testimony. Under Iowa's comparative fault law, a judge or jury will assign a percentage of fault to each driver involved. To recover damages, you must prove the other driver was at least 50% at fault. If you are found partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if your damages total $10,000 and you are found 20% at fault, you would receive $8,000.

Iowa Code Section 321.306

According to Iowa Code Section 321.306:

> "A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as possible entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from the lane until the driver has seen that the movement can be made with safety."

Violating this law is considered negligence. The determination of fault will depend on the testimony of the drivers and any witnesses.

If you or a loved one have been in a sideswipe car accident, it's essential to have someone on your side to protect your interests. Your insurance company may not pursue all the damages you are entitled to, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

When the At-Fault Driver is Lying

Unfortunately, some people may lie to avoid responsibility for a car accident. If this happens, you should:

1. Gather Witness Information: Obtain the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses.
2. Take Photos: Document the scene, including vehicle positions and skid marks.
3. Report to the Police: Ensure the police have accurate information and witness contacts.
4. Hire a Private Investigator: Consider hiring a private investigator or attorney to obtain a recorded statement from the other driver.
5. Fight Traffic Tickets: If you receive a traffic ticket, do not plead guilty. Instead, plead not guilty and consider hiring a criminal defense attorney to contest the ticket.

Denervation Procedures for Car Accident Injuries

Denervation, which involves interrupting nerve signals, is a procedure used to diagnose or relieve pain from injuries sustained in a car accident. This procedure can help identify and treat injuries to the facet joints, commonly causing neck or back pain.

Diagnostic Denervation

A doctor may use denervation to diagnose an injury by injecting an anesthetic into the damaged joint under X-ray guidance. If the patient's pain improves, it indicates a joint injury.

Therapeutic Denervation

As a treatment, radiofrequency facet denervation uses heat to damage the nerve, providing longer-lasting pain relief. This procedure may be recommended if diagnostic denervation is successful.

Compensation for Denervation Procedures

Accident victims may seek compensation for the costs associated with denervation procedures, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An attorney can help compile a comprehensive list of expenses and pursue a personal injury claim.

Discuss Your Case with an Attorney

If you suffer from back or neck pain due to a car accident, it's essential to consult with an attorney to review your injury, treatment costs, and potential compensation. The attorneys at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can help you file a claim within Iowa's two-year statute of limitations and gather the necessary evidence to prove liability. 

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.