West Branch Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Lives can be instantly upended by accidents and injuries. In such difficult periods, car accident injury lawyers are crucial allies. They advocate for those injured due to others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article underscores the significant role these lawyers play in assisting people with their claims and restoring normalcy.

Hit-and-Run Accidents: Someone Hit Your Unattended Car

Returning to find your parked car damaged in a hit-and-run accident can be incredibly frustrating. In Iowa, when someone hits your unattended car, they are legally required to leave a note with their contact information according to Iowa § 321.264. If the driver fails to leave a note, they are guilty of a misdemeanor. 

Here's what to do if you find yourself in this situation:

1. Check for a Note: Make sure the driver didn’t leave a note on your car.
2. Notify the Police: File a police report to document the incident.
3. Speak to Witnesses: Look for any nearby witnesses who might have seen the driver.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider.

Torn Tendon in Car Accident: Common Types and How It Impacts a Claim

A torn tendon is a severe injury that can result from car accidents. Tendons are soft tissues that connect muscles to bones, and a tear can significantly impair movement. Commonly affected areas include the shoulders, ankles, and knees.

Common Types of Torn Tendons:

- Shoulder: Includes tears in the bicep or rotator cuff.
- Ankle: Impact can tear tendons, affecting mobility.
- Knee: Patellar tendon tears, connecting the kneecap to the shinbone, can be disabling.

Signs of a Torn Tendon:

- Bruising
- Popping or snapping sound
- Numbness or weakness
- Difficulty with movement
- Pain worsening with movement

Treatment for Torn Tendons:

- Nonsurgical: Ice packs, NSAIDs, and rest.
- Surgical: Required for severe tears, followed by rehabilitation.

Who is at Fault in a Sideswipe Car Accident ?

Sideswipe accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in the same direction collide, often due to one vehicle entering another's lane or both merging into the same lane. These accidents can range from minor to severe, especially at highway speeds.

Preventing Sideswipe Accidents:

1. Check Blind Spots: Always check mirrors and over your shoulder before changing lanes.
2. Pass on the Left: In many states, including Iowa, it's safer and sometimes required by law to pass on the left.
3. Use Lane Change Warning Systems: Newer vehicles have technology to detect vehicles in your blind spots.

Determining Fault in Sideswipe Accidents:

- Fault is often determined by eyewitness testimony and the circumstances of the crash.
- Iowa’s comparative fault law means you must prove the other driver was at least 50% at fault to recover damages. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Iowa Code Section 321.306 outlines lane usage laws and violations.

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.