Moville Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Injuries and accidents can suddenly change lives. During these challenging periods, car accident injury lawyers become crucial allies. They fight for those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring just compensation. This article underscores the essential role these lawyers play in assisting individuals with their claims and recovery.

Who is at Fault in a Left Turn Car Accident?

Left turn car accidents are among the most serious car crashes, often resulting in significant damage and injuries. Determining fault in these accidents, also referred to as liability determination, can be complex due to various factors such as traffic controls, driver actions, and environmental conditions. This article delves into the rules and considerations involved in identifying fault in left turn car accidents, explores Iowa's specific laws, and offers guidance on dealing with such incidents.

Traffic Controls

Green Arrow and Blinking Lights

Traffic controls play a crucial role in fault determination for left turn accidents. If a driver turns left with a green arrow, the other driver is typically at fault. Conversely, if the left turn is made on a blinking yellow or red light, the turning driver may be found at fault. One of the most challenging scenarios is when a driver is in the middle of an intersection as the light changes from green to yellow and then to red. If the other driver goes through the light, determining fault becomes complicated and may depend on whether the other driver ran a red light or if the turning driver pulled into their path.

Stop Signs

Left turn accidents often occur at stop signs. Drivers should always double-check for oncoming traffic before making a left turn. Distractions such as cell phones can increase the likelihood of an accident. Since driver distraction is a leading cause of accidents, it's vital to avoid any form of distraction while driving.

Failing to Yield

When making a left turn, drivers must yield to oncoming traffic. If a driver pulls out in front of an approaching vehicle and a collision occurs, the turning driver is likely to be found at fault. However, if the other vehicle is speeding, fault may be shared. Iowa law allows drivers to assume that others are following traffic laws, so a speeding driver could be held fully or partially responsible for an accident.

Uncontrolled Intersections

In the absence of traffic signals, the general rule is to yield to the vehicle on your right. Additionally, drivers must yield to oncoming traffic when making a left turn. Factors such as the speed of the other vehicle can also influence fault determination.

Comparative Fault

Iowa follows a comparative fault system, meaning the fault of each party is compared. To recover damages, a driver must prove that the other driver was 50% or more at fault. Any assigned fault percentage reduces the recovery amount proportionately. For instance, if a driver is found 30% at fault in an accident and awarded $100,000 in damages, they would only receive $70,000.

Next Steps After a Left Turn Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a left turn car accident, consulting with a qualified Iowa car accident attorney is advisable. Attorneys can help determine whether your case is worth pursuing and often work on a contingency fee basis, meaning no upfront costs for you. Whether or not you decide to hire an attorney, you should educate yourself on Iowa car accident laws to avoid costly mistakes. 

Additional Considerations: Hit-and-Run Accidents

Iowa’s Laws on Hit-and-Run

Hit-and-run accidents, where one driver flees the scene, account for about 11% of all motor vehicle crashes according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Iowa law classifies fleeing the scene of an accident that causes physical harm as a misdemeanor, and if the accident results in death, the offense can be elevated to a class "D" felony.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

If involved in a hit-and-run:
1. Call 911.
2. Provide the police with all available information.
3. Note any details about the fleeing vehicle and driver.
4. Collect contact information from any witnesses.
5. Contact your insurance company to report the incident.

It is crucial not to attempt to chase the fleeing driver, as this can be dangerous. Let the police handle the pursuit.

Filing a Claim

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is optional in Iowa but can be beneficial in hit-and-run scenarios. If you have UM coverage, you can file a claim with your insurance company. Without UM coverage, you may have to rely on health insurance for medical expenses or hope that the fleeing driver is caught.

Whiplash Injuries from Accidents

Whiplash, or cervical strain, involves injury to the neck muscles and tendons, potentially causing long-term issues like chronic pain, limited motion, and even paralysis in severe cases. Immediate medical care is crucial for whiplash injuries to ensure proper treatment and support any personal injury claims.

Treating Whiplash

Treatment options for whiplash include physical therapy, chiropractic care, medications, injections, and more. Prompt treatment can reduce the risk of permanent injury. Consistent attendance at medical appointments is vital, as gaps in treatment can negatively impact your case.

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.