Spencer Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Lives can be unexpectedly disrupted by accidents and injuries. In these tough moments, car accident injury lawyers are essential allies. They represent individuals harmed by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article highlights the critical role these lawyers play, guiding people through their claims and helping them rebuild.

Who Pays for My Damages if the Other Driver Fled the Scene of the Accident?

If you are involved in an accident where the other driver fled the scene and cannot be identified, you might find yourself in a challenging situation. Without identifying the other driver, you will generally be responsible for the damages incurred. However, there are certain types of insurance coverage and steps you can take to mitigate your financial burden.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

One of the primary safeguards in such situations is uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This insurance is designed to cover your damages when the at-fault driver is either unidentified or does not have insurance. While some states mandate UM coverage, Iowa does not. However, to opt out of this coverage, Iowa motorists must do so in writing. It is advisable to review your policy or consult your insurance agent to confirm whether you have UM coverage.

What if You Don't Have UM Coverage?

If you lack UM coverage, you still have a few options:

1. Health Insurance: You can use your health insurance to cover medical bills resulting from the accident.
2. Other Auto Insurance Options: If you have additional coverages such as collision, comprehensive, or medical payment coverage on your auto policy, these can help pay for the damages.
3. Legal Recourse: If you provide the police with sufficient evidence (e.g., make and model of the car, license plate number), they may track down the other driver, enabling you to hold them accountable through a claim or legal action.

Penalties for Hit and Run Drivers

Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal and carries severe penalties in Iowa, categorized based on the severity of the incident:

- Physical Property Damage: This is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $625.
- Bodily Injury: The crime escalates to a more serious misdemeanor, with penalties including up to a year in jail and fines up to $1,825. If the injury is severe, the charge can be an aggravated misdemeanor, leading to two years in jail or up to a year with fines up to $6,250.
- Fatality: Fleeing an accident that results in death is classified as a Class D felony, which carries up to five years in prison and fines up to $7,500.

Common Car Accident Injuries and Treatments

Injuries from car accidents in Iowa can vary widely, from minor bruises to severe, life-altering conditions. Here are some common injuries and their typical treatments:

1. Fractures and Broken Bones: Severe fractures may require surgery to stabilize the bones, while less serious fractures might be treated with traction and casting.
2. Spinal Injuries: These include herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and paralysis, often necessitating surgeries such as laminectomies, discectomies, and fusions.
3. Shoulder Injuries: Car accidents can tear tendons and muscles. Even if imaging tests are normal, persistent pain should be followed up with further medical attention.
4. Traumatic Brain Injuries: These require immediate medical treatment to prevent long-term damage.
5. Whiplash: Common in rear-end collisions, whiplash can cause significant pain in the neck, back, head, and shoulders.

Steps to Take After Sustaining Injuries

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Documenting your injuries is crucial for any insurance or legal claim.
2. Follow-Up Care: If you are not fully recovered within a week, return to your doctor for additional treatment.
3. Get a Second Opinion: If you are not improving, consult another doctor, preferably one recommended by your attorney to avoid biases.

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.