Wellman Personal Injury Attorneys

Sudden accidents and injuries can drastically change lives. During these tough periods, personal injury lawyers are invaluable allies. They specialize in representing those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they get the compensation they deserve. This article explores the important role personal injury lawyers play in navigating claims and helping people reclaim their lives.

How Much Space Must Drivers Give Cyclists Under Iowa Law?

Iowa law mandates that drivers must pass cyclists at a "safe distance," although it does not specify an exact measurement. While this term might seem vague, many other states define a safe passing distance as three feet, a guideline worth considering for Iowa drivers. Ensuring a safe distance helps maintain a harmonious relationship between motorists and cyclists and prevents accidents.

Consequences of Failing to Maintain a Safe Distance

When drivers do not adhere to the safe distance requirement, they not only violate traffic laws, potentially incurring a citation, but also endanger cyclists. Unsafe driving around cyclists can lead to severe accidents, including:

- Cyclists being struck by vehicles
- Forcing cyclists into traffic
- Running cyclists off the road

In the event of an accident caused by unsafe driving, the motorist may be held liable for damages. Proving fault typically involves:

- Witness testimony
- Video footage
- Police reports
- Testimony from involved parties
- Physical evidence

This evidence is crucial for a successful accident claim, allowing cyclists to recover both economic and noneconomic damages.

Do I Need a Bicycle Accident Attorney?

Cyclists in Wellman who encounter negligent drivers often wonder about the specific laws protecting them. Walker, Billingsley & Bair can provide essential legal assistance in these situations. Cycling can be risky, especially when drivers are aggressive or distracted. If you’ve been injured due to a driver's negligence, consulting with a bicycle accident attorney can help you understand your rights and file a claim.

Road Bike Safety Tips for New Cyclists

Bicycling is a popular activity in the U.S., with over 46 million participants annually. It offers numerous benefits, such as being economical, environmentally friendly, and good for health. However, it also presents risks, particularly for new cyclists unfamiliar with road rules.

Key Safety Tips for Cyclists:

1. Learn Local Traffic Laws: Understand the specific bicycling rules of your city and state.
2. Practice in Safe Areas: Familiarize yourself with bike handling in areas free of cars before navigating high-traffic roads.
3. Take a Bicycle Safety Course
4. Ride with Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as traffic.
5. Stay Right: When no bike path is available, stay as far to the right as practicable. Avoid riding on sidewalks.
6. Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet, regardless of the trip's length.
7. Increase Visibility: Use reflective clothing and lights at night. Iowa law mandates rear lights.
8. Avoid Earbuds: Stay alert to traffic sounds.
9. Be Aware of Surroundings: Make eye contact with drivers and avoid their blind spots.
10. Maintain Distance from Parked Cars: Prevent getting “doored” by leaving space between yourself and parked cars.
11. Don’t Speed: Allow ample time to react to road conditions.
12. Check Your Bike: Ensure your bike is in good condition before riding.

What Are the Available Damages in a Dram Shop Claim?

In Iowa, damages in a personal injury claim are similar to those in a dram shop claim. They include:

- Medical Bills: Covers all medical expenses related to the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional suffering, including conditions like PTSD.
- Lost Income: Covers wages or earnings lost due to the injury.
- Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing damaged property.
- Wrongful Death: Compensation for the family of a deceased victim, covering medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, and other related costs.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation awarded when the defendant shows willful disregard for the victim’s safety.

Understanding Dram Shop Law

A dram shop claim involves holding a person or business with a liquor license accountable for serving excessive alcohol to an individual who then causes an accident. Iowa’s dram shop law, detailed in Iowa Code § 123.92, requires prompt and precise notice to the establishment and proof of liability by the injured party.

Victims of drunk driving accidents can sue both the intoxicated driver and the establishment that served them. The timeline for filing a claim is stringent: six months for notifying the establishment and two years for filing the injury claim.

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.