Wapello Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can abruptly disrupt lives. During these challenging times, car accident injury lawyers become essential allies. They fight for those hurt by others' negligence, ensuring just compensation. This piece highlights the vital role these lawyers play in helping people manage their claims and rebuilding their lives.

Dealing with a Broken Neck in a Car Accident

Neck injuries are among the most common types of injuries sustained in car accidents. They frequently occur when a vehicle is rear-ended. While whiplash—a sprain and strain to the soft tissues in the neck—is a typical outcome, some victims suffer more severe injuries, including broken necks. The consequences of such serious neck injuries can be lasting and debilitating.

What is a Broken Neck?

A broken neck refers to a fracture of one or more of the cervical vertebrae. The severity of the injury can vary, primarily depending on whether the spinal cord is damaged. If the spinal cord is intact, a full recovery is possible. However, if the spinal cord is damaged, the individual may face long-term effects, including partial or complete paralysis.

Potential Consequences

In severe cases, such as those involving quadriplegia, the victim may never be able to work or live a normal life again. Even in less extreme cases, the individual may face substantial medical bills and a lengthy recovery process, potentially causing significant time away from work and necessitating surgeries and extensive therapies.

Determining the Value of Damages After a Broken Neck

The seriousness of the neck injury and the associated costs will significantly impact the monetary value of a legal case. For example, a broken neck requiring surgery, follow-up therapy, and extended time off work might result in less compensation than a case involving quadriplegia. The court and/or insurance company will consider current medical bills, lost wages, and the future ability to earn wages.

The Role of Fault

The liability of the other party involved in the accident is another critical factor. If the injured party is partially at fault, their damages may be reduced proportionally. Iowa’s modified comparative negligence law bars recovery of damages if the injured party is 51 percent or more at fault. In such cases, the injured person might need to rely on health insurance and any applicable coverage from their car insurance to cover damages.

The Impact of Social Media on Car Accident Claims

For those who are active on social media, it may be second nature to share life events, including car accidents. However, posting about an accident on social media can harm your claim. Here are some crucial points to consider.

Refrain from Talking About Your Accident

Avoid using social media to discuss your accident. If your account is public, an insurance adjuster might review your posts. Admissions of fault or details about the wreck can be used against you, potentially impairing your ability to recover damages.

Avoid Posting Pictures and Videos

Refrain from posting pictures or videos after an accident. Posts showing you engaging in physical activities can discredit your injury claims. Even throwback posts might be misinterpreted and used against you in court.

Don’t Post Location Check-ins and Status Updates

Posting location check-ins and status updates can also be detrimental. If you claim to be injured but check in at various locations or post about activities, an insurance adjuster might question the severity of your injuries.

The Best Social Media Policy

The best approach is to avoid social media altogether after an accident. Consider temporarily suspending your accounts or setting them to private.

Underage DUI Accidents in Iowa and Liability for Damages

Underage drinking is a significant issue across the United States, and Iowa is no exception. The CDC estimates that 11 percent of all alcohol consumption is by underage drinkers. When underage individuals drink and drive, the consequences can be severe, leaving young drivers and possibly others liable for damages.

Laws Affecting Underage Drinking and Driving in Iowa

In Iowa, individuals under 21 are not legally permitted to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol. For drivers under 21, the legal BAC limit is .02. Those caught driving with a BAC of .02 or higher may face charges.

Determining Liability in Underage DUI Accidents

Liability in underage DUI accidents can extend beyond the driver. Others, such as those who provided the alcohol, may also be held liable. 

Scenarios of Additional Liability

- A 20-year-old college student drinks at a restaurant and then causes an accident. The restaurant might be liable for serving alcohol to the underage student.
- An 18-year-old buys alcohol from a liquor store, consumes it with friends, and causes a fatal accident. The liquor store might be liable under dram shop laws.

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.