Manning Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

Across the extensive highway networks, trucking accidents frequently cause significant interruptions and serious injuries. In these trying times, trucking injury attorneys serve as reliable supporters, offering guidance and support to those affected. These attorneys specialize in the detailed landscape of trucking laws and regulations.

Should I Get a Car Accident Lawyer?

If you are considering hiring a car accident lawyer for your Iowa claim, it is crucial to understand the typical practices of qualified lawyers. Here are key points to consider:

1. No Up-Front Fees: Reputable car accident lawyers typically do not require any retainer or up-front fees. You won't need to pay any money initially.
2. Contingency Fee Basis: Lawyers generally operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. The fee usually ranges from 30% if the case settles, 33.33% if the case goes to litigation, and up to 40% if it ends up on appeal.
3. Selective Case Acceptance: Lawyers do not take every case that comes their way. They evaluate cases and accept only those where they believe they can make a significant difference in the compensation you receive.
4. Comprehensive Case Management: A good lawyer will handle all interactions with insurance companies, obtain your medical records and bills on your behalf, and keep you updated about the progress of your case.

If the lawyer you are considering hiring deviates from these practices, it could be a red flag. For instance, some firms might take every case indiscriminately, potentially neglecting the attention your case needs. Others might ask you to gather your medical records and bills, indicating a lack of commitment to your case.

At our office, we handle all injury cases on a contingency fee basis, ensuring no up-front costs. We selectively take cases where we believe we can make a substantial difference for our clients and obtain all necessary medical records and bills on their behalf. We also manage communications with insurance adjusters, subrogation holders, and keep our clients informed with copies of all relevant correspondence.

What Are the Truck Regulations or Laws for Truck Drivers in Iowa?

Truck drivers in Iowa must adhere to specific regulations and laws, some of which are enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These laws are particularly important in truck accident injury cases, where violations can establish fault.

Iowa Laws for Truck Drivers

1. Texting and Cell Phone Use: All drivers, including truckers, are prohibited from texting while driving. Talking on a hand-held cell phone is also banned.
2. Accident Reporting: An accident report must be filed in Iowa if:
   - Property damage of all vehicles is $1,500 or greater
   - At least one person is injured
   - At least one person is killed

Truckers must comply with these reporting requirements, especially when hazardous materials are involved. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces rules regarding the transportation of hazardous materials, requiring proper placarding of trucks carrying such materials.

In case of an accident involving hazardous materials, local law enforcement, the Iowa State Patrol Communications, the Iowa DOT’s Office of Motor Vehicle Enforcement, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) should be notified.

Injury Lawyers and Truck Regulation Violations

Numerous laws regulate truck drivers, including maximum weight and length requirements. If a truck driver violates these laws and causes an accident, an injury lawyer can help determine fault and liability. Victims can consult an attorney to review the specific truck regulations violated and discuss how it affects their claim.

Systems That Prove Fault in Iowa Car Accidents

Iowa follows the "rules of the road" detailed in Iowa Code Chapter 321, which outlines duties such as yielding at intersections and maintaining control of a vehicle. Iowa is a comparative fault state, meaning fault is assigned proportionately between drivers. If a driver is found to be 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover damages. If they are 50% or less at fault, their recoverable damages are reduced by their percentage of fault.

Common Ways to Prove Fault

1. Rear-End Collisions: Violations often include failing to stop within an assured distance, failing to maintain control, and following too closely.
   - Assured Clear Distance Ahead: Drivers must stop within a distance that allows them to avoid a collision.
   - Failure to Maintain Control: Drivers must control their vehicle, especially when approaching intersections.
   - Following Too Closely: Drivers should not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable.

2. Failing to Yield: This can occur at uncontrolled intersections, during left turns, and in various other scenarios.
   - Approaching Intersections: Vehicles must yield to the vehicle on their right at uncontrolled intersections.
   - Left Turns: Drivers turning left must yield to oncoming traffic.

3. Obeying Traffic Control Devices: Common violations include running red lights or stop signs.
   - Traffic Signals: Drivers must stop for red lights and proceed only when the signal allows. They must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully within the intersection.

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.