Mount Ayr Personal Injury Attorneys

Life can be abruptly changed by accidents and injuries. In such difficult times, personal injury lawyers are crucial. They represent those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they receive rightful compensation. This article explores the significant role personal injury lawyers play in navigating claims and aiding in recovery.

Options for Compensation after a Bicycle Accident Hit and Run

Hit-and-run bicycle accidents are unfortunately all too common. National statistics reveal that over 800 pedalcyclists died in accidents in 2015 alone. The situation is exacerbated when irresponsible drivers, potentially under the influence or without a license, flee the scene out of fear of reprisal. This act not only compounds the trauma for the victim but also makes it exceedingly difficult to recover financial damages.

There's no viable excuse for the illegal and unethical act of leaving the scene of an accident. If you or your loved one suffered a hit-and-run bike accident, exploring your insurance options and understanding your legal rights is crucial for securing compensation.

Finding the Driver Responsible for Your Accident

If you were hurt by a hit-and-run driver, all is not necessarily lost. Some drivers with a conscience may turn themselves in. Law enforcement can also be successful in identifying these drivers using evidence such as traffic or surveillance camera footage and eyewitness testimonies. Additionally, involving the local news to air your story can sometimes prompt viewers to provide tips that lead to identifying the driver. Once a driver is identified, they will face criminal charges, and you can 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 at the scene or is later found by police, you can file a claim with the driver’s insurance company to cover your damages. If the driver flees and cannot be identified, your damages may be compensable under your auto insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). This coverage is intended for situations where:

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

UM/UIM coverage usually extends to traffic accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists. However, not all auto policies include UM/UIM, as it is optional in Iowa. If you do carry it, the minimum coverage is $20,000 for each person/$40,000 for each accident. Check with your insurance agent to understand your specific coverage.

Do You Have to Accept the Insurance Company's Settlement?

In Iowa, you do not have to accept an insurance company’s settlement offer. Consider the following:

1. Severity of Injuries: If your injuries are minor, you may benefit more by settling on your own to avoid attorney fees.

2. Medical Bill Reimbursement: Understand who will reimburse your health insurance or any other insurance that covered your medical bills (subrogation).

3. Statute of Limitations: Be aware of the time limit to file your claim. Missing the deadline could result in receiving nothing.

If you are unsure about any of these factors, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified Iowa injury attorney. Failing to do so could cost you thousands of dollars or your entire case.

Settlement Negotiations

Negotiating with an insurance adjuster requires careful consideration:

1. Communicate Carefully: Anything you say to the insurance adjuster can be used against you. Be honest but cautious about sharing information, especially regarding prior injuries or accidents.

2. Be Polite: Avoid threats and maintain a courteous demeanor to achieve better results.

3. Know Your Facts: Be well-informed about your injuries, treatments, and diagnoses.

Before agreeing to any settlement offer, it’s wise to speak with an experienced Iowa injury attorney to ensure fair treatment and avoid being taken advantage of.

Evaluating the Value of a Claim

Several factors influence the value of an injury claim, including:

- Severity and Extent of Injuries
- Nature of Injuries (e.g., multiple body parts affected, broken bones)
- Hospitalization and Surgery
- Time Missed from Work
- Work Conditions During Injury
- Available Insurance Coverage
- Underinsured Motorist Coverage Claims

For specific advice, contact an attorney at Walker, Billingsley & Bair.

Iowa Pedestrian Law and Accident Compensation

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 4,000 pedestrians are killed annually in traffic accidents, with tens of thousands more injured. Understanding Iowa pedestrian laws can help prevent accidents and ensure compliance with traffic regulations.

Pedestrian Laws in Iowa

Iowa laws require pedestrians to obey traffic control signals and specify right-of-way rules at intersections. Pedestrians have the right of way at intersections without traffic lights and when using marked or unmarked crosswalks. Motorists must yield when entering or leaving driveways, parking lots, or alleys. However, pedestrians should remain cautious and not assume vehicles will stop.

When crossing roads outside intersections or where no crosswalks exist, pedestrians must yield to vehicles and cyclists. Pedestrians must walk on the left side of roads without sidewalks to face oncoming traffic.

Hitchhiking Laws

Pedestrians cannot stand on roadways to solicit rides but can stand on areas not used by vehicles.

Legal Help for Pedestrians in Iowa

Pedestrians injured by negligent motorists can file for damages and seek compensation for physical and emotional trauma. This includes presenting medical bills, evidence of lost wages, and other documentation to establish 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.