Manning Personal Injury Attorneys

When accidents and injuries unexpectedly disrupt lives, personal injury lawyers become crucial. They advocate for those harmed by negligence, helping them secure rightful compensation. This article examines the significant role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in recovery.

Determining Fault in a Left-Turn Motorcycle Accident

When a vehicle turns left in front of a motorcycle, determining fault in Manning, Iowa, can be challenging. However, in most cases, the driver making the left turn is found liable. This is because left-turning drivers are required by law to yield to oncoming traffic, including motorcycles. Failure to do so often leads to accidents, as motorcycles are sometimes difficult for other drivers to see. Legal assistance from a Manning, Iowa injury law firm can help evaluate the specifics of the accident to establish liability.

Factors Influencing Fault

- Visibility: While motorcycles may be harder to see, this does not absolve drivers of their responsibility. They must ensure the path is clear before making a left turn.
- Right of Way: Drivers making left turns must yield to oncoming traffic. If a collision occurs because the driver did not yield, they are likely at fault.
- Exceptions: Fault may shift if the motorcyclist was speeding or ran a red light. These actions could diminish the driver's liability.

For example, if a motorcyclist was traveling through an intersection and a car attempted a left turn but failed to yield, the car driver would likely be at fault. However, if the motorcyclist was speeding, this could reduce the driver's liability. Consulting with a Manning injury lawyer can clarify these issues.

Rules of the Road for Motorists and Pedestrians

Every year, around 70,000 pedestrians are injured in motor vehicle accidents in the United States, despite well-established laws for pedestrian safety. Many of these accidents occur due to ignorance of the rules governing motorist behavior around pedestrians.

Iowa's Pedestrian Laws

Iowa law imposes specific responsibilities on drivers when pedestrians are present:

- Right of Way: Drivers must yield to pedestrians when entering or leaving driveways, parking lots, or alleys, and when pedestrians are crossing at intersections, whether marked or unmarked.
- Special Precautions: Drivers must exercise extra caution in residential areas, near schools, shopping centers, parking lots, and congested areas.

In the event of an accident, pedestrians can seek compensation by filing injury claims. The motorist’s violation of pedestrian safety rules must be proven, making legal assistance crucial. Walker, Billingsley & Bair can provide the necessary legal support to pedestrian accident victims.

Available Damages in a Dram Shop Claim

In Iowa, dram shop claims allow victims of drunk driving accidents to seek compensation from the establishment that overserved the intoxicated driver. The damages available in a dram shop claim are similar to those in a personal injury claim:

- Medical Bills: Coverage for all medical expenses related to the accident, including rehabilitation.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress, including conditions like PTSD or severe disfigurement.
- Lost Income: Compensation for lost wages or business income, including benefits.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for damaged property.
- Wrongful Death: Compensation for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, and other related costs for the family of a deceased victim.
- Punitive Damages: Additional damages awarded if the defendant showed willful disregard for the victim’s safety.

Dram Shop Law Basics

A dram shop claim is filed against a business that served too much alcohol to an individual who then caused an accident. Iowa Code § 123.92 outlines the legal requirements and liability variables for these claims. Victims must notify the establishment of their intent to file a claim within six months of the accident, and the statute of limitations for filing the injury claim is two years.

Dual Liability

Victims can sue both the intoxicated driver and the establishment that overserved them. Each party may be required to pay a portion of the damages.

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.