Sac City Car Accident Injury Attorneys

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

How Does Spondylolisthesis Affect My Car Accident Settlement?

Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition where one or more vertebrae slip forward over the vertebrae below them. This can lead to back pain, sciatica due to nerve compression, and other serious conditions. Treatment options range from physical therapy and injections to surgery and activity restrictions. While many people live with spondylolisthesis without symptoms, a traumatic event such as a car accident can trigger or worsen symptoms. Insurance companies often try to attribute post-accident issues to pre-existing conditions like spondylolisthesis, potentially complicating your car accident settlement.

Legal Rights and Spondylolisthesis

Under Iowa law, if you are injured in a car crash, you are entitled to recover damages for an injury that aggravates a pre-existing condition, including spondylolisthesis. If your medical records indicate no history of back problems before the accident and your doctors attribute your current back pain to the crash, you should be able to recover damages. However, insurance companies might still argue that your symptoms are due to your pre-existing condition, offering minimal compensation. If you find their settlement offer unfair, consulting an experienced Iowa personal injury attorney is crucial.

Safe Driving Tips to Avoid Accidents

Preventing car accidents starts with safe driving practices. Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes:

Avoid Swerving

Swerving is the leading cause of fatal car accidents. In 2007, approximately 15,574 people died due to swerving out of their lanes. To prevent this, stay focused on the road, avoiding distractions that can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

Don’t Drive While Drowsy

Driving while fatigued is a common but dangerous behavior. Many accidents occur between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. due to sleepy drivers. Ensure you get enough rest before driving long distances and avoid driving during these hours.

Never Drink and Drive

Drinking and driving is a well-known hazard, yet many still do it. Every 40 minutes, someone dies in a drunk driving accident. To avoid this, arrange for a sober driver, stay overnight where you are drinking, or use a ride service.

Avoid Speeding

Speeding is the second highest cause of fatal crashes, accounting for 30% of traffic fatalities at speeds of 55 mph or more. Slow down and give yourself ample time to reach your destination to avoid the temptation to speed.

After an Accident: Steps to Take

If you are involved in an accident, it is important to know the dos and don’ts of filing an insurance claim in Iowa:

Six Dos to Benefit Your Claim

1. Contact an Attorney: Engage a personal injury lawyer early to strengthen your claim.
2. Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company promptly to preserve the integrity of your claim.
3. Collect Evidence: Document the scene, injuries, property damage, and weather conditions. Obtain police reports and witness contact information.
4. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get a checkup. Injuries like whiplash may take time to manifest.
5. Keep Records: Organize all correspondence related to the accident and treatment.
6. Follow Doctors’ Orders: Adhere to prescribed treatments and follow-up appointments.

Six Don’ts to Avoid Damaging Your Claim

1. Don’t Talk About the Accident: Avoid discussing the accident until after consulting an attorney.
2. Don’t Destroy Evidence: Preserve any items related to the accident, including damaged property and clothing.
3. Don’t Post on Social Media: Insurance companies may use your posts against your claim.
4. Don’t Delay Medical Evaluation: Promptly seek medical evaluation to include all injuries in your claim.
5. Don’t Sign Insurance Documents: Have an attorney review any documents before you sign them.
6. Don’t Accept Initial Settlements: Initial offers are often lower than the claim's worth. Consult an attorney to negotiate a fair settlement.

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.