Park View Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Injuries and accidents can suddenly change lives. During these tough moments, car accident injury lawyers are vital allies. They advocate for those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article underscores the significant role these lawyers play in assisting individuals with their claims and recovery.

The Dangers of Drowsy Driving

We’ve all experienced exhaustion while driving down a long stretch of highway, yearning to reach our destination. However, driving while fatigued significantly increases the risk of a car accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drowsy driving accounts for 2.5% of all fatal crashes and 2% of all injury crashes in the United States, resulting in 5,000 to 6,000 wrecks annually.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

To prevent tragic accidents, it's crucial to recognize the warning signs of drowsy driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights several indicators:
- Frequent yawning or blinking
- Difficulty remembering the last few miles driven
- Missing exits
- Drifting from your lane
- Hitting rumble strips

Tips to Prevent Drowsy Driving Accidents

To enhance safety, consider these tips:
- Get Adequate Sleep: Most adults need 7-8 hours, while teens require around 10 hours per night.
- Avoid Late-Night Driving: The body's urge to sleep is strongest between 2 am and 6 am.
- Take Breaks: Pull over for a quick nap if you feel tired.
- Manage Sleep Disorders: Avoid driving if you have conditions like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, insomnia, or restless leg syndrome.
- Avoid Long Solo Drives: Try to have a companion on long trips.

Does My Car Accident Claim Cover Mental Health Therapy?

Injuries from car accidents aren't always physical. Psychological injuries often require therapy, and policyholders may wonder if their car insurance will cover these costs.

Coverage Depends on Policy Amount

Insurance companies are liable for damages up to the policy amount. In Iowa, medical payments coverage (if included in the policy) pays for all medical expenses up to a $5,000 limit. Physical injuries often exhaust this amount quickly. If the accident was caused by another driver, their bodily injury liability coverage, with a minimum of $20,000 per person, can cover mental health therapy.

Extent of Injuries and Severity of Accident

Insurance companies may cover mental health therapy expenses if they are reasonable relative to the accident's severity and the physical injuries sustained. If the mental health injuries seem excessive, the insurance company may deny this part of the claim.

Other Options for Mental Health Therapy Coverage

If the insurance company refuses to pay for mental health therapy or if damages exceed policy limits, filing a personal injury lawsuit is an option. This can yield compensation for medical expenses and emotional suffering. Under Iowa Code 614.1, claims must be filed within two years.

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

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that 11% of car accidents involve hit-and-run drivers. If you’re a victim of a hit-and-run, here's what you should do:

Tend to Medical Needs and Alert Authorities

Prioritize your medical needs and call the police. Avoid chasing the other driver as it can be dangerous.

Collect Information

If possible, gather as much information as you can, including:
- Make and model of the car
- License plate number
- Description of the driver
- Witness names and contact details

Contact the Police

Provide the police with all pertinent information to fill out a report. This report is crucial for your car accident claim. While the police are at the scene, take photos and videos of the accident location and damages to support your insurance claim.

Consulting a Car Accident Attorney

Hit-and-run accidents can result in significant losses, and obtaining compensation can be challenging without the other driver's information. An attorney can explain your legal options, which often involve filing an uninsured motorist claim. If the other driver is located, you can file a claim against their insurance.

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.