Mount Pleasant Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can unexpectedly impact lives. During these difficult times, car accident injury lawyers are essential allies. They specialize in representing individuals harmed by the negligence of others, ensuring fair compensation. This article delves into the critical role these lawyers play, guiding people through the intricacies of their claims and aiding in their recovery.

Alcohol-Related Car Accidents: When the Other Driver’s BAC was Below .08

In Iowa, a driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or higher is generally considered legally impaired and can be held liable for damages resulting from an accident. However, even if the at-fault driver's BAC is below .08 percent, they can still be held liable for an alcohol-related car accident. Here's what you need to know.

The Law for Drinking and Driving in Iowa

Iowa's law on operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated states that a person with a BAC of .08 percent or more is prohibited from driving. Additionally, the law prohibits operating a vehicle while "under the influence of an alcoholic beverage." This means that a driver can be in violation of the law even with a BAC below .08 if they show signs of impairment.

Furthermore, if the driver has any controlled substance in their bloodstream at the time of the accident, they are also in violation of the law, regardless of alcohol consumption. Thus, liability in alcohol-related car accidents isn't solely dependent on BAC levels.

Understanding Negligence

In Iowa, liability for car accidents is primarily based on negligence. A driver can be considered negligent if they were doing something that a reasonably prudent person wouldn't do, and this behavior led to an accident. This can include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, regardless of BAC. Proving negligence is crucial for holding a driver liable for an accident. Iowa’s comparative fault laws reduce the plaintiff's recovery by their percentage of fault.

Four Types of Car Insurance Every Iowa Motorist Should Have

Importance of Adequate Car Insurance

Adequate car insurance is essential for drivers in Iowa. Resulting in significant injuries, property damage, and financial costs. Beyond the mandatory liability insurance, four additional types of coverage can provide crucial protection.

Optional Car Insurance Coverage

1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This covers you if you're in an accident with an uninsured driver or a hit-and-run driver. It pays for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage up to the coverage limits. With an estimated 9.7 percent of Iowa drivers uninsured, this coverage is vital.

2. Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This protects you if the at-fault driver's liability insurance isn't sufficient to cover your costs. Iowa's minimum liability coverage often falls short in serious accidents.

3. Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): MedPay covers medical expenses for everyone in the car, regardless of fault. It can cover costs not paid by health insurance, such as deductibles and co-pays.

4. GAP Insurance: GAP (General Auto Protection) insurance covers the difference between your car's market value and what you owe on it. This is especially important if your car is totaled and you owe more than its current value.

Iowa Insurance Requirements

Iowa law requires insurance companies to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Drivers must sign a waiver to opt out. Medical payments and GAP insurance are not mandatory but are highly recommended for comprehensive protection.

Preserving Your Vehicle as Evidence After an Accident

After a car accident, preserving your vehicle as evidence is crucial for a successful claim. If your vehicle is towed, follow these steps:

1. Locate Your Vehicle: Immediately find out where your car is being towed.
2. Send a Preservation Letter: Ask your lawyer to send a preservation letter to the tow yard to ensure the vehicle remains intact.
3. Move to Private Storage: To avoid high tow yard fees and prevent your car from being destroyed, move it to a private, covered storage area.
4. Take Photos: Always keep a disposable camera in your car. After an accident, take photos of your damaged car, the scene, and any relevant evidence.

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.