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Unexpected accidents and injuries can disrupt lives in an instant. During these challenging times, car accident injury lawyers become crucial allies. They support those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This piece underscores the important function these lawyers serve in guiding people through their claims and rebuilding their lives.
There is no specific timeframe for settling car accident claims in Iowa, as it varies based on numerous factors. A simple case with no injuries might settle in under a month, while a complex case involving severe injuries could take a year or more. Understanding these factors and knowing what steps to take after an accident can help you navigate the process more smoothly.
Factors that Affect Settling a Car Accident Claim
Seriousness of Injuries
When serious or catastrophic injuries are involved, claims take longer. Doctors need time to assess the overall impact on the victim’s life, and the case won't settle until the extent of the injuries is clear.
Disputes Over Fault
If fault and negligence are argued, it may take time for the parties to reach a settlement. Disputes over who caused the accident can prolong the process.
Extensive Damages
Claims with high value take longer to settle. Insurers may try to avoid paying large settlements by refuting injuries, minimizing their severity, or apportioning blame to the claimant.
Complexity
Cases involving multiple parties or third-party claims (e.g., against a car manufacturer) can take longer than average.
Speeding Along Your Claim
While much of the claims process is out of your hands, you can do several things to help speed it along:
- Be Diligent and Timely: Provide your attorney with requested information as soon as possible.
- Collect Evidence: Gather police reports, medical records, bills, and any other required documents on your own and share them with your lawyer.
Making Ends Meet in the Interim
If you're injured and unable to work, rushing to settle isn't advisable as you might get less than what your claim is worth. Consider personal loans from family or friends, using savings, disability insurance, or public assistance. As a last resort, discuss personal injury lawsuit funding with your lawyer.
Experiencing a hit and run accident can be disorienting and distressing. Knowing the necessary steps to take can help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Prioritize Your Safety and Health
First, seek medical attention for any injuries. Once you're in stable condition, follow these steps:
Avoid Chasing the Driver
Resist the urge to chase the fleeing driver. Chasing can escalate the situation and put you and others at risk. Instead, remain calm and focus on gathering information.
Collect Information
Gather as much information as possible, including:
- The make and model of the vehicle
- The license plate number
- A description of the driver
- Names and contact information of witnesses
This information is invaluable for law enforcement and your insurance claim.
Contact Law Enforcement
Immediately report the hit and run to the police and provide them with all gathered details. The police report will be crucial for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings. While waiting for the police, take photos or videos of the accident scene and damages to your vehicle.
Bulging Discs: Causes and Prognosis
The spine consists of alternating vertebrae bones and soft, cushioning discs. When a person has bulging discs, the nucleus of the disc is compressed, causing the outer capsule to bulge. This can press against nerve roots and other nerve tissue in the spinal column, causing pain and discomfort. Bulging discs in the lower back lead to back and leg pain, while those in the upper back cause shoulder, neck, and arm pain. They can occur due to aging or severe trauma like a car accident.
Treating a Bulging Disc Injury
Initial treatments may include rest, physical therapy, and pain management medication. If these are ineffective, surgery may be necessary. A surgeon might perform spinal fusion and discectomy, resulting in months of recovery time.
Recovering Damages Related to a Bulging Disc
Iowa is a fault insurance state, meaning the injured driver can pursue compensation from the at-fault driver. Bulging discs require medical attention and may require surgery, leading to substantial medical costs. Accident victims might also face loss of income due to missed work and reduced earning capacity. These and other economic damages are recoverable in an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Establishing a Bulging Disc Claim
Drivers need to prove that the bulging disc was caused by the accident. Medical records, imaging tests, doctor testimony, and other evidence can substantiate this. If the accident worsened an existing injury, similar evidence is required. Talk to your lawyer about the necessary evidence to establish your injury, damages, and fault for the accident.
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.