Vinton Personal Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can abruptly change lives. During these tough periods, personal injury lawyers are essential. They focus on representing individuals affected by negligence, helping them obtain fair compensation. This article explores the vital role personal injury lawyers play in helping individuals navigate their claims and rebuild their lives.

Determining fault in an accident where a vehicle turns left in front of a motorcycle can be complex, and nothing is guaranteed. However, in most cases, the driver of the vehicle making the left turn is often found liable. This article explores the intricacies of establishing fault in such scenarios, the legal implications, and the importance of legal assistance.

Understanding Fault in Left-Turn Accidents

When a vehicle makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle, the driver typically bears the responsibility to ensure the turn is safe. Legally, drivers must yield the right of way to oncoming traffic, including motorcycles. Failure to do so often results in the driver being found at fault. This is primarily because motorcycles, despite being less visible, still have the same road rights as larger vehicles.

Exceptions to the Rule

While the driver making the left turn is often at fault, there are exceptions where liability may shift or be shared:

- Speeding: If the motorcyclist was speeding, this could mitigate the fault of the car driver.
- Running a Red Light: If the motorcyclist ran a red light, this could entirely absolve the car driver of liability.

Proving Fault in a Left-Turn Accident

Proving fault in these accidents involves collecting and analyzing evidence such as:

- Eyewitness Testimonies: Statements from witnesses who saw the accident can be crucial.
- Traffic Camera Footage: Videos from nearby traffic cameras can provide clear evidence of what happened.
- Accident Reconstruction: Experts may be called to reconstruct the accident scene to determine the sequence of events.

What Has to Be Proven in an Iowa Dramshop Claim?

Iowa's Dramshop Law holds bars and restaurants liable for damages caused by their intoxicated patrons. To prove a dramshop claim, two main scenarios are typically considered:

1. Serving an Already Intoxicated Person: The establishment served alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated.
2. Serving Alcohol to the Point of Intoxication: The establishment continued to serve alcohol to a person to the point of intoxication.

Under Iowa Code § 123.92, bars and other establishments licensed to serve alcohol must exercise reasonable care to detect signs of intoxication and stop serving alcohol when a person appears drunk. This law aims to prevent incidents caused by over-serving alcohol, whether the intoxicated person is involved in a car accident or commits an assault.

Damages in a Dramshop Claim

Victims in dramshop cases can seek various damages, including:

- Medical Bills: Costs incurred for treating injuries.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged property.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
- Wrongful Death: In cases where the intoxicated person's actions resulted in death.

It’s important to note that only those injured by the intoxicated patron can file a dramshop claim, not the intoxicated person themselves.

Iowa Bicycle Laws: Cars and Cyclists Must Abide

Both cyclists and motorists must adhere to Iowa’s bicycle laws to ensure safety on the roads. Here are key laws every cyclist and motorist should know:

- Pass on the Left: Cyclists must pass vehicles on the left and return to the right lane after passing.
- Ride with Traffic: Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic, not against it.
- Use Lights in the Dark: Bicycles must have a front white light and a rear red light or reflector when riding at night.
- Stop for School Buses: Cyclists must stop for school buses displaying stop signs or flashing lights.
- Use Hand Signals: Cyclists should use proper hand signals for turning and stopping.
- Report Accidents: Cyclists must report traffic crashes and exchange information with involved parties.
- Avoid Non-Bicycle Areas: Cyclists are prohibited from riding on interstates and some highways, as well as sidewalks in many cities.

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.