New London Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Unexpected accidents and injuries can alter lives. During these tough periods, car accident injury lawyers are crucial allies. They support those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This piece highlights the vital function these lawyers serve in guiding individuals through their claims and rebuilding their lives.

What to Do If You Are the Victim of a Car Accident Hit and Run in Iowa

Tend to Medical Needs

Your first priority after a hit-and-run car accident should be your health. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and prompt medical treatment can prevent minor injuries from becoming severe.

Alert the Authorities

Contact the police right away. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that about 11 percent of car accidents involve a hit-and-run driver. Provide the police with as much information as possible, such as:

- The make and model of the fleeing vehicle
- The license plate number
- A description of the driver
- Contact information of any witnesses

This information will be crucial for the police to track down the hit-and-run driver and for your insurance claim.

Collecting Information

Avoid Chasing the Driver

Although you may feel the urge to chase the fleeing driver, authorities strongly advise against it. The driver may be dangerous or intoxicated, and pursuing them could lead to further harm.

Gather Evidence

While waiting for the police, if you’re able, collect evidence from the scene. This includes:

- Photos and videos of the accident scene and damages
- Witness statements and contact information

This evidence will support your case when you file a claim with your insurance company.

Filing a Police Report

Importance of the Police Report

The police report is a vital document in a hit-and-run case. Even if the police cannot locate the other driver, having a report can substantiate your claim with your insurance company.

Obtaining the Police Report

Ask the attending officers how you can obtain a copy of the police report. This report will detail the accident and the evidence collected, which can be instrumental in your case.

Proving Fault in Iowa Car Accidents

Iowa’s Comparative Fault Laws

Iowa follows comparative fault laws, meaning the fault of each driver involved in an accident is compared. If a driver is found to be 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover any damages. If they are 50% or less at fault, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault.

Common Ways to Prove Fault

- Failure to Stop: Violations like rear-ending another vehicle due to not stopping within an assured clear distance.
- Failure to Yield: Includes accidents at uncontrolled intersections, during left turns, or when merging into traffic.
- Disobeying Traffic Signals: Running red lights or stop signs.
- Assured Clear Distance: Drivers must stop within a distance that allows them to avoid a collision.
- Failure to Maintain Control: Drivers must have control of their vehicle and adjust speed appropriately.
- Following Too Closely: Maintaining a reasonable distance considering speed, traffic, and road conditions.

If you or a loved one has been in a car accident in Iowa and need more information about the laws, consider requesting a copy of the Iowa Car Accident book from Walker, Billingsley & Bair. This resource can provide valuable insights and help you avoid common mistakes when dealing with insurance adjusters or hiring an attorney.

Helping an Injured Spouse

Immediate Concerns

When your spouse is injured in a car accident, you may face numerous challenges, such as medical bills, lost wages, and family responsibilities. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Ensure Medical Treatment: Follow all doctor’s orders and ensure your spouse receives the necessary care.
2. Check Insurance Coverage: Determine the at-fault party’s insurance coverage and your own uninsured/underinsured coverage.
3. Utilize Medical Payments Coverage: This can help cover out-of-pocket medical expenses.
4. Document Lost Wages: Have your spouse’s doctor provide a written statement of the time off work required.
5. Review Documents with an Attorney: Do not sign any documents from the at-fault party’s insurance without legal advice.

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.