Sumner Personal Injury Attorneys

Life can be abruptly disrupted by accidents and injuries. During these difficult moments, personal injury lawyers are indispensable. They advocate for those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they get the compensation they deserve. This article delves into the significant role personal injury lawyers play in helping individuals navigate their claims and rebuild their lives.

Rules of Driving on the Road When a Pedestrian is Present

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 70,000 pedestrians are injured in motor vehicle accidents on roads and highways in the United States each year. Despite well-established laws for pedestrians and motorists, many of these accidents occur due to ignorance of the rules of driving around pedestrians.

Iowa Rules of the Road Around Pedestrians

The Iowa Department of Transportation has specific laws for motorists in situations involving pedestrians. The responsibility largely falls on the motorist, as their vehicle can cause serious injury if not driven correctly.

Motorists must give the right of way to pedestrians when entering or leaving a:

- Driveway
- Parking lot
- Alley

They must also yield to pedestrians crossing at an intersection, whether on a marked or unmarked crosswalk when there are no traffic signals. Additionally, motorists in Iowa are expected to exercise special caution when driving through:

- Residential areas
- Vicinity of schools
- Near shopping centers
- Parking lots
- Congested areas (such as downtown)

In the event of an accident involving a pedestrian, victims can seek compensation for their damages by filing injury claims. Evidence must show that the motorist violated these rules, so contacting an attorney for legal assistance is crucial.

Iowa Bicycle Laws: Cars and Cyclists Must Abide!

In Iowa, knowing the laws regarding cyclists is critical for safety. Both cars and cyclists must abide by these laws to ensure a safe coexistence on the road.

Pass on the Left

Bicyclists must pass cars on the left if passing is necessary. To pass a motor vehicle, a bicycle must first move into the left lane, ensuring it is safe to pass before doing so, and then return to the right lane.

Ride With Traffic, Not Against It

Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic. Riding on the wrong side of the road is illegal and increases the risk of a head-on collision.

Always Use a Light When It’s Dark Out

Cyclists riding after sunset or before sunrise must use bike lights. Iowa law requires a bike to be equipped with a front lamp exhibiting a white light and a red light or reflector on the rear, both visible for at least 300 feet.

Stop for School Buses

All modes of transportation, including bicycles, must stop for school buses when the bus has its stop sign displayed or lights flashing. Failure to stop can result in a traffic citation.

Use Proper Hand and Arm Signals

Cyclists should use the following hand and arm signals to communicate their intentions to motorists:

- Left turn: Left arm extended horizontally
- Right turn: Left arm bent at the elbow, hand facing upwards
- Slow down/stop: Left arm bent at the elbow, hand facing downwards

Always Report Traffic Crashes

Cyclists must report all traffic crashes and exchange information with the other party involved.

Never Ride in Non-Bicycle Areas

Certain areas, like interstates and some highways, are off-limits to cyclists for safety reasons. Many cities also prohibit riding on the sidewalk.

Common Tactics and Defenses Insurance Adjuster Use in Personal Injury Cases

A personal injury lawyer knows the tactics insurance adjusters use to deny, discredit, or delay claims. Here are some common tactics and ways to protect yourself:

Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics

- Access to Medical Records: Insurers may seek permission to access your entire medical history to find any information that could minimize your claim.
- Quick, Low-Ball Offers: Adjusters may offer a small settlement shortly after the accident, asking you to sign a release that waives your right to additional compensation if your condition worsens.
- Surveillance: Adjusters might surveil you to catch you performing daily tasks, which could be used to claim you are not as injured as you state.
- Discouraging Legal Counsel: Adjusters may try to dissuade you from hiring a lawyer, knowing an attorney can counter their tactics effectively.

Ways to Protect Yourself

- Know Your Rights: Educate yourself about your insurance policy and personal injury claim rights.
- Medical Records: Only provide medical records related to the accident.
- Surveillance Awareness: Assume you are being observed and follow your doctor's advice.
- Settlement Offers: Be cautious of quick settlements and consult a lawyer before signing any agreements.

We Are Here To Help

Remember, you are not alone in recovering from your injuries. We have helped thousands of Iowans through their physical, emotional, and financial recoveries. If you have questions about what you are going through, feel free to call our office for your confidential injury conference. We will take the time to listen to you and give you our advice concerning your injury matter at no cost or risk to you.

Free Book at No Cost 

If you are not ready to speak with an attorney yet but would like to learn more about Iowa injury cases including tips about how you can avoid making common costly mistakes request a copy of our Iowa Personal Injury book which includes 14 myths about Iowa injury cases and 5 things to know before hiring an attorney.

If you have specific questions about your injury matter feel free to call our office to speak with our Injury team at 641-792-3595 or use our Chat feature by clicking here 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Your information will remain confidential and there is no cost or obligation.