Kalona Personal Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can quickly change lives. In such trying times, personal injury lawyers are indispensable. These professionals focus on representing those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they get rightful compensation. This article delves into the important role personal injury lawyers play in helping individuals navigate their claims and recover.

Options for Compensation After a Bicycle Accident Hit and Run

Hit and run bicycle accidents are alarmingly common. National bicycle accident statistics reveal that over 800 pedalcyclists died in accidents in 2015. This issue is exacerbated by irresponsible drivers, often under the influence or without a license, who flee the scene out of fear. Fleeing makes it exceedingly difficult for bicyclists to recover financial damages after an accident.

There's no viable excuse for the illegal and unethical act of leaving the scene. If you or your loved one suffered a bike accident hit and run, you'd likely need to rely on your insurance policies to pay for your damages.

Finding the Driver Responsible for Your Accident

If you were hurt by a hit-and-run driver, don’t assume that all is lost. Some drivers, out of conscience, turn themselves in. Additionally, law enforcement may successfully identify the driver using traffic or surveillance camera footage and eyewitness testimonies.

You might also consider reaching out to the local news station to cover your story. Publicizing your hit and run accident might prompt viewers to tip off law enforcement. Once identified, the driver will face criminal charges, and you will be able to file a claim with their insurer or sue them directly for the harm you’ve sustained.

Obtaining Compensation After a Hit and Run Bike Accident

If the driver stays or the police locate them after the crash, you can file a claim with the driver’s insurance company. If the driver flees, your damages may be compensable under your auto insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). UM/UIM covers damages when:

- The driver doesn’t have insurance.
- The driver lacks enough insurance to cover your damages.
- The driver flees the scene.

Coverage typically extends to traffic accidents when you are a pedestrian or bicyclist. Note that not all auto policies include UM/UIM as it's optional in some states. If you carry it, the minimum coverage varies by state. Check with your insurance agent to determine your coverage details.

Road Bike Safety Tips for New Cyclists

Over 46 million people ride bicycles each year in America for sport, fitness, fun, and commute. Bicycling is an economical and environmentally friendly activity that benefits your health. However, it can be dangerous, especially for new cyclists who are unfamiliar with road rules. High traffic areas and non-bike-friendly roads are particularly hazardous.

Road Safety Tips for Cyclists

Before you start riding, familiarize yourself with essential bike safety information to protect yourself. Here are some key tips:

- Learn Local Bicycling Rules: Each city and state can have distinct traffic laws for cyclists.
- Practice in Safe Areas: Before riding in traffic, practice maneuvering your bike in safe, car-free areas.
- Take a Safety Course: Consider taking a bicycle safety course in your area.
- Ride with Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as traffic.
- Stay to the Right: If no bike path is available, ride as far to the right as practicable. Avoid riding on sidewalks.
- Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet, regardless of the distance or duration of the ride.
- Stay Visible: Use reflective clothing and lights at night. In some states, rear lights are mandatory. Wear bright clothing during the day.
- Avoid Earbuds: Stay alert to traffic sounds.
- Pay Attention to Cars: Make eye contact with drivers when possible and stay out of their blind spots.
- Avoid Door Zones: Leave space between yourself and parked cars to avoid being doored.
- Don’t Speed: Maintain a controllable speed and leave ample time to react.
- Check Your Bike: Ensure your bike is in good repair, checking tire pressure and brakes before riding.

Types of Alternative Dispute Resolutions for Personal Injury Cases

Many personal injury cases are resolved through negotiations with an insurance company. However, some disputes necessitate alternative methods to avoid trial. Below are the types of alternative dispute resolutions (ADR) used in personal injury cases.

Arbitrating a Personal Injury Case

Arbitration is a process similar to a courtroom hearing but with fewer rules regarding evidence. An arbitrator:

- Reviews the facts and evidence
- Listens to witness testimonies
- Makes a final decision

Arbitration is less costly and time-consuming than litigation. It can be binding or non-binding, meaning the decision may be final or parties may choose not to accept it, respectively. Both sides agree on who will serve as the arbitrator. The hearing can be held in a convenient setting, and both parties present their case through evidence, including:

- Tangible items
- Medical records
- Pictures and video footage
- Other pertinent documentation

Witnesses provide testimony and are cross-examined.

Mediating a Personal Injury Case

Mediation is an even less formal method, commonly used in personal injury cases. It avoids litigation, saves time, money, and stress. A mediator:

- Is an unbiased third party
- Doesn’t make a decision or ruling
- Helps both parties share their sides and guide them toward a mutually satisfactory agreement

Mediation starts with both parties meeting together. The mediator then takes each party to a separate room and facilitates offers, demands, questions, and requests. It often requires compromises from both sides. If mediation fails, the case may go to trial.

Pros and Cons of ADR in Personal Injury Cases

Pros:

- Saves time, money, and hassle
- Calmer and more rational approach
- Parties are involved in decision-making
- Can avoid the risk of receiving nothing if the case goes to trial

Cons:

- May spend money on ADR without results, leading to additional litigation costs

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.