Attorney Blog

Fatalities at Work May Qualify Iowa Families for Benefits

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)74521 — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

The U.S. Census Bureau has found that an average of 16 people per day are killed at work. The most common causes of Iowa work fatality include:

1.   Transportation Incidents—Motor vehicle accidents are the number one cause of fatalities at work in the United States. Accidents occur with not only during collisions but also when vehicles jack-knife or overturn. Sometimes, moving vehicles strike and kill workers. Aviation accidents also fall into this category.

2.   Acts of Violence—Another sobering statistic is that assault and murder are each common reasons for work fatality. Shootings were by far the most common crimes committed, followed by stabbings. Workers who inflicted injuries on themselves also fit into this category.

3.   Contact with Objects and Equipment—This category of work fatality covers workers who are struck by falling objects as well as workers who are crushed by machinery or by collapsing materials.

If you have lost a loved one in a work fatality and think that the employer may be at fault, contact the law firm of Walker, Billingsley and Bair. We’ll send you our FREE book entitled Iowa Workers’ Compensation: An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries. You can get the book by calling 1-800-707-2552 (ext. 511) (24 Hour Recorded Message) or logging onto www.IowaWorkInjury.com. If you want to speak to an Iowa work injury attorney immediately, then call 515-440-2852 and ask for Corey.

Hiring an Iowa Workers' Compensation Lawyer When a Work Injury Causes Depression

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)73941 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve been injured in a work-related accident that has led to depression, you have the right to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim to receive benefits; however, some people are wary of hiring an experienced Ames, Iowa lawyer to handle their claim, believing that they can handle it by themselves. What they don’t know is that the Workers' Compensation claim process can be extremely complicated, and by hiring a lawyer, you can increase your chances of it being approved and having time to focus on your recovery.

Having a lawyer on your side ensures that your best interests are protected. Many Workers' Compensation lawyers offer free initial consultations, so you’re free to discuss your case confidentially and ask questions about your claim to determine if it’s worth fighting for.

Some people are afraid that they can be fired from their job if they hire a lawyer to represent them on an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. Nothing could be farther from the truth! In fact, having a lawyer on your side may make your employer more cautious of how they deal with you regarding your pending claim. Your lawyer can also offer advice on how you should interact with your employer.

If you’ve experienced a work accident that has led you to suffer from depression, Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits may be available for you.

Contact an Iowa Workers' Compensation Lawyer

An experienced attorney can make filing an Iowa workers compensation claim a much smoother process. The Ames, Iowa Workers’ Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers’ Compensation – An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

Physical Symptoms of Depression: Grounds for Iowa Workers' Compensation

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)73940 — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When most people think about depression, they think of emotional symptoms; however, depression can manifest itself in physical ways as well. If you are suffering from depression after a work-related injury, you deserve treatment for both your physical and mental pain and should file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim to get the benefits you need for recovery.

If you already have injuries from an accident, distinguishing the pain from that trauma and your physical symptoms of depression can be difficult. In general, the physical symptoms of depression may include:

back pain;
headaches;
joint pain;
muscle aches;
problems with digestion;
fatigue and exhaustion;
substantial change in appetite and weight; and
sleeping problems (either too much or too little).

If you experience any of these physical symptoms in addition to the mental symptoms of depression, such as thoughts of hopelessness and inadequacy, you should contact your doctor immediately. He or she can conduct an exam to determine if depression or another condition is the root of the problem.

Fortunately, depression is treatable. Your doctor or mental health provider may recommend antidepressants and therapy to help you cope with both the physical and mental symptoms of depression, which Workers' Compensation benefits may cover.

Contact an Ames, Iowa Lawyer about Iowa Workers' Compensation

Don’t let depression go untreated; contact an Ames, Iowa lawyer for information on Iowa workers compensation benefits. The Ames, Iowa Workers’ Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers’ Compensation – An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

If I'm Hurt at Work in Iowa, Will the Insurance Company Pay for Lost Wages?

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)74033 — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you are a resident of Burlington, Jefferson, Fort Dodge or any other Iowa town, and you have been hurt at work, you may be entitled to reimbursement of part of your wages as part of workers’ compensation pay. Benefits under Iowa Law include payment for medical treatment and for expenses associated with medical treatment, such as mileage. However, you may also be entitled to benefits to replace your lost wages during the time you were injured.
In general, disability benefits are computed as a weekly rate. Your weekly rate is based upon your marital status, your number of exemptions, and your AWW- Average Weekly Wage multiplied times 80% of your spendable weekly earnings. “Spendable wages” means the amount that you take home after your payroll tax payments are removed. Overtime wages are not included as part of your disability calculation.
To learn more about your rights, you can order our FREE book entitled Iowa Workers’ Compensation: An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries. Simply call us at (800)-707-2552, ext. 511 (24 Hour Message) or go to www.IowaWorkInjury.com. The book is yours without any obligation. Learn about workers’ compensation in the comfort of your home.
If you think that you’re entitled to disability benefits because you’ve been hurt at work, but your employer’s insurance agency is not willing to pay, then you should contact an attorney that Iowa residents have depended on for a long time to represent them in workers’ compensation cases. To speak to an attorney from Walker, Billingsley and Bair immediately, contact Corey at 515-440-2852. For more information contact us and we will set up a no cost initial consultation.

Rabies Symptoms and their Treatment after Dog Bite Attack in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)73230 — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A dog bite attack in Iowa can leave you with serious injuries and even life-threatening infections. If you were attacked by a dog it is recommended that you seek the legal advice of a Des Moines dog bite lawyer. Even though rabies is a rare complication of a dog attack, it can still be contracted.

Facts about Rabies

The following are facts about the symptoms of rabies and its treatment:

symptoms of rabies include irritability, headache, fever and muscle spasms;
the time between exposure to rabies and symptoms can be anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks;
there is no treatment for rabies once symptoms appear;
vaccinations and early treatment can help prevent the spread of rabies;
if you work in a high-risk occupation such as veterinary medicine, animal testing or animal control it is recommended you be vaccinated for rabies; and
if you are bitten by a dog or a strange animal, wash the wound with soap and water and immediately seek medical attention.

Calling a Des Moines dog bite lawyer after a dog bite attack in Iowa is the best way to recover compensation for your physical and emotional effects of a dog bite and also to hold the dog owner responsible. You could have limited time to file a claim so do not wait after an attack to get professional legal help.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

The Iowa dog bite attack injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. If you need immediate legal assistance contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair at 515-440-2852.

Teaching Your Dog not to Bite Your Iowa Neighbors

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)73229 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

There can be many reasons a dog bites – aggression, boredom, or fear. To avoid injuries to your family and others it’s important to teach your dog early on that biting isn’t acceptable behavior. If you’ve adopted a puppy recently or even an adult dog that hasn’t been trained there are some things you can do to teach them to avoid dog bite injuries.

Tip for Puppies:

after a bite immediately place the puppy in a crate for 2-3 minutes;
tap the dog gently on the nose and firmly repeat “no bite”;
fill a spray bottle with water and spritz the puppy when he bites;
avoid chew toys that look like hands or feet; and
avoid tug-of-war or rough-housing with your puppy.

Tips for Adult Dogs:

socialize your dog as much as possible by exposing them to different people and animals;
establish the role of “pack leader” in your household by getting him to obey your commands;
distract a dog with treats or toys when unfamiliar guests come over; and
if your dog starts biting all of a sudden take him to the vet to check for injuries that could be causing them to bite out of pain.

By following these easy tips with your new member of the family you can ensure that your puppy will get along with other people and dogs.

Contacting an Iowa Dog Bite Injury Attorney

The Iowa dog bite attack injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. If you need immediate legal assistance contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair at 515-440-2852.

Common Injuries from a Dog Bite Attack in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)73228 — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A dog bite attack in Iowa cannot only be scary but it can also lead to painful and serious injuries. Dog bites can be especially serious when involving small children. Have you been attacked by a dog? If so, you should consider talking with a Des Moines dog bite lawyer about your options for filing a personal injury claim.

Dog Bite Attack Injuries in Iowa

The consequences of a dog bite attack can leave serious injuries that are many times seen on the face, hands and arms, which include:

bruising;
abrasions;
lacerations;
nerve damage;
puncture wounds;
infections such as rabies and cellulitis
emotional anxiety and depression;
fractured or crushed bones; and
sprains and strains.

Many of these injuries can cause scarring and long painful recovery times that can put you out of work and make you unable to enjoy life in a normal way. To avoid complications, it is recommended that you seek immediate medical attention if you are attacked by a dog or any other animal.

If you have suffered one or more of these types of injuries due to a dog bite attack in Iowa, a Des Moines dog bite lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

The dog bite attack Iowa injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. If you need immediate legal assistance contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair, Des Moines dog bite lawyer at 515-440-2852.

Valentine's Day. What do you think Corey should buy Beth for less than $200?

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)24512 — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

As announced in our January 2012 newsletter, Corey needs some help in buying his wife Beth a Valentine's Day present. Post a reply with your recommendation by no later than Sunday, February 5, 2012 and if you have one of the top two best gift ideas then you will also receive the same gift.

Our office offers free books on all of your personal injury and worker's compensation needs as well as much more. If you or someone you know has been injured and you would like to request your copy of the book, click here.

Liability in a Factory Accident in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72616 — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Even seasoned, overly cautious and attentive factory workers can suffer a serious or fatal injury from a factory accident in Des Moines. A work injury lawyer can help you determine your rights after suffering a serious injury while working at your factory job.

One of your main concerns is probably, “Who is liable when a worker is injured on the job?” Hard-working, cautious factory workers are the victims of factory accidents when they had no way to avoid the danger.

The negligence of another is often grounds to file an Iowa Workers’ Compensation lawsuit when you’re denied settlement or offered a low amount of compensation.

There are 3 other parties that may have contributed to the occurrence of a factory accident where you suffer serious injury including:

your employer;
your co-workers; and
equipment manufacturers.

If your employer doesn’t provide proper safety measures and training or attend to complaints of hazards they may be found negligent. Your co-workers’ inattention to their actions can also be a claim of negligence when this resulted in your injury. The manufacturers of a piece of equipment that malfunctions due to a design flaw can also be held liable if that defect caused your injury.

Placing blame for your factory accident in Des Moines on another party isn’t a process you want to attempt alone. A Des Moines work injury lawyer familiar with the Iowa Workers’ Compensation laws may be beneficial when you’re seeking to file a claim against another party for a work-related injury.

Contacting a Des Moines Work Injury Lawyer

Working in a factory can be a dangerous job where many serious or fatal injuries can occur. The Des Moines work injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim after suffering serious damages from a factory accident in Des Moines. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers’ Compensation – An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, contact us at 515-440-2852.

Des Moines Work Injury Attorney Reveals What To Know Before Settling Your Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72643 — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

You’ve been injured on the job in Iowa, and your employer’s insurance company is pressuring you to settle. Many insurance companies ask you to settle on a “closed file” basis. Before you agree to their terms, you need to know what happens in a closed file settlement.
When you settle on a closed file basis, the insurance company is not obligated to pay future medical expenses related to your workplace injury. On the other hand, if you settle on an “open file” basis, then the insurance company does have to pay for future medical treatments that you need because of your previous workplace injury.
One of the primary mistakes that injured people make is to assume that their employer’s insurance company cares about them and wants to treat them fairly. Unfortunately, insurance companies are in business to make money, and their desire to keep costs down can result in injured workers getting cheated out of the medical care that they deserve.
If your employer’s insurance company is pressuring you to settle, and you aren’t sure what your decision should be, the law firm of Walker, Billingsley and Bair has a free book for you entitled Iowa Workers’ Compensation: An Insider’s Guide to Workplace Injuries. Order your copy to learn more about your rights. Our law firm has represented clients from Dubuque, Davenport and many other Iowa cities. If you want to speak to an attorney immediately, contact Corey at 515-440-2852.

10 Dangerous Jobs That Could Lead to a Work Injury in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72619 — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

While all types of employment carry some risk of suffering serious work injuries or developing a medical condition, some jobs are more dangerous than others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 10 of the most dangerous jobs in America include (per 100,000 workers) :

roofers – 29 fatalities, most killed by falls;
law enforcement (police, sheriffs) – 21 fatalities, most killed by transportation incidents;
garbage collectors – 22 fatalities, most killed by transportation incidents;
driver/sales workers and truck drivers – 28 fatalities, most killed by transportation incidents;
electrical power line installers and repairmen – 29 fatalities, most killed by exposure to harmful substances or environments;
farmers and ranchers – 39 fatalities, most killed by transportation incidents;
structural iron and steel workers – 45 fatalities, most killed by contact with objects and equipment;
aircraft pilots and flight engineers – 70 fatalities, most killed by transportation incidents;
logging workers – 86 fatalities, most killed by contact with objects and equipment; and the most fatalities occur for
fishers and fishing-related workers – 111 fatalities, most killed by transportation incidents.

Even if you’re not employed in one of these professions you may still be at risk for suffering a serious work-related injury in the future. If you find yourself injured due to the negligence of another while on the job you may need to file an Iowa Workers’ Compensation claim.

Remember that to protect your rights, you may want a Des Moines work injury lawyer to help you understand the benefits and treatment you’re entitled.

Contacting a Des Moines Work Injury Lawyer

Working in a factory can be a dangerous job where many serious or fatal injuries can occur. The Des Moines work injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim after suffering serious damages from a factory accident in Des Moines. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers’ Compensation – An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, contact us at 515-440-2852.

When a Factory Accident in Des Moines Goes Wrong: 4 Dangers

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72615 — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

There are many reasons a factory accident in Des Moines can occur and many types of serious injuries that can result from these situations. Some of the more specific dangers certain factory jobs create include:

Burns from welding or other heat sources. Spot welding or other high-temperature procedures can result in serious second-or third-degree burn injuries.
Accidents involving forklifts and other lifting processes. When a forklift operator is negligent in watching their surroundings they can run over other workers, crush them against loading docks, or drop payloads.
Chemical spills and exposures. Negligence in storage, containment and transportation of these chemicals can result in spills, contamination, and accidents that can cause burns or illness.
Catching clothing or appendages in moving equipment. Conveyor belts, presses, and any other moving equipment can create hazards when loose items come near them. It’s easy to have a loose piece of clothing, long hair, or even your fingers or limbs get caught in the machinery and cause serious injury. Loss of limb isn’t uncommon when a worker is caught up in a moving part.

These serious, sometimes fatal or permanently damaging, injuries can’t only cause life-long problems, but can also result in serious expenses for your family. If you’re injured in a factory accident in Des Moines, a work injury lawyer may be able to help you pursue an Iowa Workers’ Compensation claim.

Contacting a Des Moines Work Injury Lawyer

Working in a factory can be a dangerous job where many serious or fatal injuries can occur. The Des Moines work injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim after suffering serious damages from a factory accident in Des Moines. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers’ Compensation – An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, contact us at 515-440-2852.

Who Will Pay My Medical Bills After An Injury At Work in Iowa?

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72641 — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Iowans who are hurt at work are entitled to medical benefits that cover their lifetime medical expenses, prescriptions and mileage related to their work injury. A “work injury” is an injury that happens out of or in the course of work. While your employer may choose your medical care provider, you will never have to pay a dime for medical care that is related to a qualified injury.
Iowa law defines the term “injury” very broadly. Basically, you are entitled to workers’ compensation if you experience an injury at work that is not related to the normal wear and tear of body tissues. For example, hearing loss could count as a workplace injury if the hearing loss is directly related to the conditions of your employment.
To learn more including the “7 Deadly Mistakes to Avoid if You are Hurt at Work,” order a copy of our FREE Book entitled Iowa Workers’ Compensation: An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and how to understand your rights. Call Now (800)-707-2552, ext. 711 (24 Hour Message) or go to www.IowaWorkInjury.com. For immediate assistance call 515-440-2852 and ask for Corey.
The law firm of Walker, Billingsley and Bair has represented clients from Iowa City, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids and many other areas around the state. We are available to answer all of your workers’ compensation questions. Contact us for a free initial consultation to answer your questions about your work injury.

Iowa Slip and Fall Work Injury: Treating Broken Bones

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72588 — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Slip and fall accidents can lead to serious injuries, including broken bones. Your lost income and medical expenses may be addressed through an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. To learn what your rights are, you should talk to an Ames work injury lawyer about your case.

Broken bones are sometimes set and placed in a cast to aid the healing. This can help in aligning the bones, but in some cases, broken bones require surgery.

Treating broken bones with surgery will require fixing the bones in place. This can be done with rods, pins, screws or plates. However, even with this option, there could still be complications.

Non-union or mal-union of the bone is one type of complication. This can happen in especially severe breaks, such as with the hip. If the bone is damaged to a point where surgery won’t help, then a replacement may become necessary.

Specific treatment of broken bones depends on several factors, including:

patient’s age;
level of daily activity;
location of the break; and
other considerations.

If you were injured in a slip and fall injury accident on the job, you could be eligible to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. If you need help or if your claim was denied, you should consult immediately with an Ames work injury lawyer.

Contacting an Ames Work Injury Lawyer

The Ames work injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

5 Ways to Prevent a Slip and Fall at Work in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72586 — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Slip and fall accidents on the job are not uncommon, and although they may not sound serious, they can lead to severe injuries -- if not fatal ones. This means an inability to work, pain and suffering, and other losses. If you were injured while on the job, and you need legal counsel, an Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer can help.

Here are 5 ways to prevent a slip and fall accident at work in Iowa:

wear properly fitting footwear;
fix, repair or remove any hazardous conditions;
don’t work in poorly lit areas;
use appropriate safety equipment; and
don’t carry anything that hinders you from seeing ahead.

If you notice a hazardous condition that could lead to a slip and fall, you should report it immediately to your manager, supervisor or whoever is in authority.

Slip and fall accidents can lead to broken bones, head trauma and other injuries. When you are out of work because of a work-related injury, your medical bills may be covered through an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

Contact an attorney who handles work-related injuries as soon as possible, especially if the insurance company or your employer attempts to deny your claim. An attorney can explain what your rights as an employee are and how you can best protect them.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Treating a Rotator Cuff Injury from an Iowa Slip and Fall Work Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)72533 — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

After a slip and fall accident at work, you may have suffered a rotator cuff injury. For help with your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, it may become necessary to seek legal counsel. By receiving help from an Ames work injury lawyer, you can protect your rights and your claim.

Depending on the severity of your rotator cuff injury, it could become debilitating. If the tendons or muscles were strained, generally the only type of treatment you will need is to rest the shoulder and alternate hot and cold therapy. Additionally, medication to reduce the inflammation and pain will help.

Some patients benefit from wearing a sling, which can aid in resting the muscles and tendons. However, this is a short-term solution because it can lead to muscle stiffness with prolonged use.

A torn rotator cuff may require further medical treatment. Physical therapy can help increase the range of motion and improve strength. Ongoing therapy can be expensive; however, it may be addressed through your Workers' Comp claim.

Steroid injections into the joint of the shoulder also help sometimes. Otherwise, an individual may find it necessary to repair the tear with surgery.

You may be entitled to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim after suffering a slip and fall injury on the job. If your claim was denied or you need legal counsel, contact an Ames work injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Contacting an Ames Work Injury Lawyer

The Ames work injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Commercial Truckers: What to Do after a Work Injury in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)71857 — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

A work injury in Des Moines can manifest in a variety of ways, but one of the more unexpected (to those outside the profession) is the kind that befalls a long haul commercial truck driver. If you have been hurt in Iowa, a Workers’ Compensation lawyer may be able to help.

Steps after a Work Injury in Des Moines

What you do immediately after you sustain an injury on the job, no matter how minor, can have a dramatic impact on how your claim is handled:

notify your employer or supervisor of the injury;
seek medical care as soon as possible;
provide a written accident summary to your supervisor;
keep track of your doctor’s appointments, including your mileage; and
speak with an Iowa Workers’ Compensation attorney who can represent your interests and fight for your rights.

Keep in mind that in Iowa, Workers’ Compensation may also be provided for old injuries that have been antagonized or re-injured in the course of your employment.

If you’ve been hurt on the job, notify your supervisor and seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not believe the injury is serious, you may have sustained something that takes days to fully manifest. This is particularly true for head wounds, which can mask concussions and traumatic brain injury.

Contacting an Iowa Workers’ Compensation Attorney

The Iowa Workers’ Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers’ Compensation – An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 515-440-2852.

Frequency of Truck Driver Work Injury in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)71855 — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve been hurt on the job as a long-haul commercial truck driver, you may not be aware that your injury is part of a dangerous and growing problem. Speak with an Iowa Workers’ Compensation attorney who may be able to help you get the compensation owed to you for your injuries.

A lawyer will help you protect your rights and your future when you have been injured on the job.

In 2004, almost 48 per 100,000 commercial truck drivers were killed on the job. That number was cut by nearly two-thirds in just 5 years, and in 2009, the fatality rate had plummeted to about 18 deaths per 100,000 workers.

While this bodes well for the industry and indicates a lower rate of fatal truck accidents taking place on the roads, it overshadows a growing and serious problem - the number of commercial truck drivers who are hurt on the job in non-collision related incidents is on the rise. Injuries that can develop over time, can negatively impact a truck driver’s way of life, due to the risk of becoming disabled.

If you’re a commercial truck driver who has been hurt on the job and suffered a work injury in Des Moines, Iowa, a Workers’ Compensation lawyer may be able to help you with your work comp claim.

Contacting an Iowa Workers’ Compensation Attorney

The Iowa Workers’ Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers’ Compensation – An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 515-440-2852.

5 Negligent Acts Grounds for Car Accident Claim in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)71667 — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Des Moines car accident lawyers can help if you are seeking compensation after being seriously injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligent actions. Establishing negligence is the basis to any claim when you have been involved in a car accident in Des Moines.

In the state of Iowa, if you were partially at fault for the accident you must be able to establish that your fault was less than 51% in order to recover damages. This is why seeking legal help is in your best interest.

Here are 5 types of negligence that may lead to a claim resulting from a car accident in Des Moines:

speeding;
running a red light or stop sign;
distracted driving (texting while driving, talking on the phone);
impaired driving; and
failure to yield right of way.

Whenever drivers act in a careless or reckless manner, and it results in an accident, they may be found negligent.

To learn how the elements of a negligence case can impact the outcome of your claim when you have sustained serious injuries in a car accident in Des Moines, you should seek legal help. Des Moines car accident lawyers will evaluate your case to determine liability and whether you are entitled to seek compensation.

Contacting Des Moines Car Accident Lawyers

The Des Moines car accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers Comp claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Understanding Comparative Negligence Rule in a Car Accident Claim in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)71666 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident in Des Moines, you will need to establish negligence if you plan on pursuing compensation. Des Moines car accident lawyers can evaluate your case to determine if it’s a valid claim and if you may be eligible to seek damages.

The state of Iowa follows the modified comparative fault – 51% rule when it comes to negligence after a car accident in Des Moines. This means that in order to file a claim against the other driver, your fault must be 50% or less. If your responsibility for the accident is found to be 51% or higher, then you cannot recover damages.

However, even if you’re at fault for less than 51%, the amount of damages you’re entitled to may be reduced. Let’s say that you were involved in an accident on Interstate 235. If the other driver made an unsafe lane change, but it was also found that you were speeding, this could be factored into your case and potentially reduce your claim.

This is why seeking legal help is important when your injuries are severe. You need to prove that the other side was more negligent in order to recover more in damages.

The elements of a negligence case can impact the outcome when you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident in Des Moines. For help with your claim, Des Moines car accident lawyers are here to help.

Contacting Des Moines Car Accident Lawyers

The Des Moines car accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers Comp claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

State Bans Don't Prevent Texting While Driving - Guest Blog

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)71472 — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Just last month, Pennsylvania became the 35th state to forbid texting while driving. But despite strict laws in most states, the number of drivers who text and engage in other distracting activities while driving grew 50% over the last year, according to a national study done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The study, the first of its kind, was released on Thursday. According to the data collected, nearly one in every 100 car drivers was texting, emailing, surfing the Internet, or using a hand-held device at any given moment last year. Even scarier, these drivers don’t perceive this activity as dangerous. More than half of drivers said talking on a cell phone while driving didn’t impact their driving, while one quarter said texting made no difference to their driving performance. Ironically, 90% said they feel they are in danger when they are a passenger in the vehicle of a distracted driver.

Most of those surveyed said they would answer a cell phone while driving and would continue to drive after answering. About two in 10 drivers admitted to texting or emailing while driving, though that figure jumped to half among those between the ages of 21 and 24.

In 2010 there were an estimated 3,092 automobile crash fatalities attributed to distracted driving. If you or someone you love has recently been injured in an accident, and you believe a distracted driver may have been responsible, contact a PA personal injury attorney today. If you have been injured in an Iowa car wreck, request a copy of our FREE book by calling 800-707-2552.

7 Types of Repetitive Stress Work Injuries that May Grant Iowa Workers' Comp

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70730 — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

You could be eligible to receive compensation through an Iowa Workers' Comp claim if cumulative or repetitive tasks at work have resulted in an injury. When you are not able to perform your job duties because they are the source of your injury, then benefits could help cover your lost income, medical expenses and more. Speak to a Des Moines work injury lawyer to learn what your rights are as an employee.

7 Kinds of Work Injuries that may Grant Iowa Workers' Comp

Here are 7 types of repetitive stress work injuries that may enable you to file an Iowa Workers' Comp claim:

carpal tunnel syndrome;
bursitis;
thoracic outlet syndrome;
computer vision syndrome;
tennis elbow;
deep vein thrombosis; and
tendinitis.

You will need evidence that demonstrates your medical condition is tied to your work. This is where legal counsel can help. A lawyer who handles work injury claims knows the best way to demonstrate that your injuries are related to your job duties.

Contact a Des Moines work injury lawyer to learn if you are eligible to file an Iowa Workers' Comp claim stemming from work-related injuries caused by cumulative or repetitive tasks. A lawyer can help if you have questions concerning eligibility or if you were denied benefits.

Contacting a Des Moines Work Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines work injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers' Comp claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Seeking Iowa Workers' Comp? Repetitive Work Tasks that Cause Injuries

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70729 — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Job duties or tasks that are repetitive in nature can lead to injuries. They could also result in you seeking compensation through an Iowa Workers' Comp claim. To learn if you may be entitled to benefits, you should speak with a Des Moines work injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Repetitive work-related duties commonly lead to injuries to the back, fingers, elbows, wrists, shoulders and neck. These areas of the body can experience debilitating pain, muscle tension, numbness, tingling and loss of sensation.

Tasks that involve lifting, typing, moving, lowering and the like can cause stress and strain over a period of time. This is especially true if there aren’t opportunities to take breaks.

In any event, when you are injured as a worker you could be entitled to Workers' Comp benefits. If a doctor has diagnosed you with a medical condition that is related to a repetitive task you do at work, then compensation could be available. This compensation could address your medical bills, lost wages and more.

You may be entitled to file an Iowa Workers' Comp claim stemming from work-related injuries caused by cumulative or repetitive tasks. A Des Moines work injury lawyer can explain your rights as a worker.

Contacting a Des Moines Work Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines work injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers' Comp claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Des Moines Iowa Car Accidents Increase with Winter Weather Thursday Night

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70778 — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Last night brought winter weather to central Iowa and many were unprepared for the driving conditions that quickly developed. Over 70 car accidents were reported in the Des Moines area on Thursday night after the snow started. People are often injured in car wrecks during snowy conditions. Drivers must take additional care to keep themselves and other vehicles on the road safe. A few tips given by AAA with regard to driving in snow are:

Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, turning - nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.
Stay home. If you really don't have to go out, don't. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can. Don't tempt fate: If you don't have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.

With winter arriving in Iowa, the amount of driving on snow will only be increasing. Make sure to follow the tips above and keep yourself and your family safe. You can learn more about Iowa car accidents and the 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case by requesting a copy of our FREE book, The Legal Insider’s Guide to Iowa Car Accidents. You can never have too much information so enjoy this book at your convenience and be knowledgeable about your rights. If you need information immediately contact us now at 641-792-3595 or 515-440-2852.

3 Types of Disfiguring Injuries Resulting from a Car Accident in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70597 — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a severe car accident in Des Moines leads to a disfiguring injury, you may wonder what the future holds. You face not only immediate treatment and increasing medical bills, but also uncertainty about the long-term implications. A Des Moines injury law firm can evaluate your case to determine what your next step should be.

3 Disfiguring Injuries from a Car Accident in Des Moines

The following are 3 types of disfiguring injuries resulting from a serious car accident.

loss of limb;
burns (permanent scarring); and
facial scarring (loss of eye, broken teeth or nose, etc.).

These types of injuries can impact every area of an individual’s life. It can affect the ability to socialize and go out in public. It may prevent him or her from returning to a job or being able to work at all.

Many victims who suffer disfiguring injuries have not only the physical repercussions to deal with, but also emotional trauma. Considering the medical care that addresses the injury and lost income, it may be necessary to seek psychological counseling.

When a car accident in Des Moines leads to disfigurement, compensation for your injuries may be available through a claim. To learn what legal options you may have, contact a Des Moines injury law firm.

Contacting a Des Moines Injury Law Firm

The Des Moines injury law team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Costly Treatment of Disfiguring Injuries after a Car Accident in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70596 — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may wish to speak to a Des Moines injury law firm if you sustained disfiguring injuries. When a car accident in Des Moines was the cause of someone else’s negligence, they may be held liable.

Treatment for a disfiguring injury will depend on the type suffered. For instance, a severe burn injury will probably require skin grafting and possibly surgery. If there are additional complications suffered, such as an infection, then treatment for that will be necessary.

If the disfiguring injury is the loss of a limb, it either may be reattached or an assistive device (wheelchair) or prosthetic device may be needed. This type of injury usually requires long-term physical therapy as well.

Treatment for facial injuries may include surgery to repair broken bones, orthodontic care, neurological procedure or implanting an artificial eye.

Despite treatment, an individual may be left with a misshapen face, blotchy skin, and other permanent scars. As a result, emotional injuries may need to be treated with some form of counseling.

When you suffer disfigurement from a car accident in Des Moines, then you may be able to file a claim which can address all of your financial losses (wages and medical care) and other types of compensation. You should speak with a Des Moines injury law firm to learn how you can protect your rights.

Contacting a Des Moines Injury Law Firm

The Des Moines injury law team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Important Safety Tips for Beginning Motorcyclists

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70570 — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

With today's economy, many people are finding that motorcycles are a very useful and economical alternative to a car. In Iowa, the weather affects when people can ride, but in nice years like 2011, there can be many months of motorcycle riding.

People choose motorcycle riding for different reasons. There are many benefits to riding a motorcycle, including less impact on the environment, but there are also many risks associated with getting on a bike. If you or a loved one has just purchased a motorcycle or is considering buying one, you should take into account the risks involved.

Motorcycles do not provide the same level of protection that an automobile does. There is no outward shell to protect the rider if they are hit. To reduce your risk when riding, consider taking the following safety measures:

Ride with your lights on at all times
Wear protective clothing and gear, including a helmet, clothing that covers your skin, and fully enclosed shoes.
Follow all traffic laws
Be aware of your surroundings and the drivers around you
Never ride when you have been drinking or are extremely tired.

A motorcycle is similar to a car in that you need to make sure it is in good condition before you ride. Make sure to check all your lights, tire pressure and brakes before taking off on a long ride. Most importantly, enjoy yourself, but always be safe.

Des Moines personal injury attorneys Corey Walker and Erik Bair make up the accident and injury team at Walker, Billingsley and Bair. They've seen too many good motorcycle accident cases damaged because Iowa victims didn't have the right information. Also, whether you hire us or not, our mission is to educate Iowans about Iowa's motorcycle laws because we have seen firsthand how sometimes good people are treated badly by insurance companies. If you want to learn more about motorcycle safety and how to deal with an accident claim if you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, order a copy of our FREE book. You can learn more in the privacy of your own home.

3 Things to Look for When Choosing a Des Moines Dog Bite Attorney

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70247 — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The physical and emotional trauma of a dog bite attack can be life-altering. When you’ve suffered serious injuries, you may have the right to be compensated for not only your medical expenses and lost wages, but also other damages such as pain and suffering, future medical bills and lost wages, disfigurement and more. You should speak to a Des Moines dog bite attorney for help.

3 Qualities to Look for in a Des Moines Dog Bite Attorney

Here are 3 things to look for when choosing an attorney to fight your case:

Experience – research the amount of cases that have been successfully settled or won, along with the amount of time the attorney has been handling dog bite cases;
Knowledge – knowledge of Iowa dog bite law is very important because each state's laws vary -- it’ll play an important role in your case; and
References – an attorney who can provide you a list of references or a list of past cases that have been successful can help.

Choosing the right Des Moines dog bite attorney is important when you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries as a result of a dog bite or attack. You should look for an attorney who understands Iowa dog bite law and has handled these types of cases before.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Attorney

The Des Moines dog bite attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

5 Ways to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Des Moines Dog Bite Attorney

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)70249 — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Injuries from a dog bite or attack can be physically traumatic and emotionally scarring. This is especially true when you’re dealing with disfigurement or physical scars. To learn what your rights are, you should seek help from a Des Moines dog bite attorney who handles dog bite cases.

5 Tips to Prepare for Your Meeting with a Des Moines Dog Bite Attorney

After selecting an attorney, take advantage of the 5 following tips to prepare yourself for when you meet with him or her.

have a list of questions (attorney’s experience with dog bite cases, references, number of cases won and lost, etc.);
bring any pertinent documentation (medical records, statements from witnesses, medical bills, pictures of your injuries, etc.);
be ready to explain clearly what happened in detail (dates, times);
don’t get emotional, even if you are angry about what has happened. Always remain calm; and
be ready to take notes.

When you or a loved one has been the victim of a serious dog bite or attack, you may need to seek legal counsel. Choosing a Des Moines dog bite attorney who understands Iowa dog bite law and has a history of handling these types of cases is important. Don’t delay in seeking legal help when you or someone you love has suffered serious or permanent injuries.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Attorney

The Des Moines dog bite attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

5 Disputes in Your Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)68848 — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

With so many factors involved in an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, and several parties interacting in resolving your case, it's common to see disputes stall the process.

Knowing these 5 common disputes may help you catch a problem before it escalates, which result in a delay or denial of your benefits:

Your injury isn't serious. Your employer and the company doctor may try to convince you that your work injury isn't serious enough to warrant a claim or qualify for benefits.
Your injury didn't occur in a work situation. This dispute is often connected with work injuries that manifest over time such as carpel tunnel syndrome.
You can't see any other doctors. While you do have to see the doctor your employer selects, you may also see other physicians, although your employer may not pay for that treatment.
You have to return to work when your employer tells you to. If you're not fully recovered you may need to dispute an order to return to work.
You're denied benefits without clear explanation. You have the right to a detailed explanation of any decisions made in your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

You may not be able to catch a potential issue with your Iowa Worker's Compensation claim before it turns into a full-blown dispute. Obtaining the guidance of a work injury lawyer in Des Moines can sometimes help catch these problems earlier before they become major disputes of your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

Contacting a Work Injury Lawyer in Des Moines

Before disputing an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim you should seek professional help to make sure you aren't ruining your chances at a fair settlement. A work injury lawyer from Des Moines at Walker, Billingsley & Bair will know the importance of protecting your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 515-440-2852.

Getting Help for Settling Your Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)68847 — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you find yourself dealing with an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim dispute you'll be answering to the office of the Workers' Compensation Commissioner (WCC). The WCC is part of the Iowa Workforce Development department and the commissioner is head of the Division of Workers' Compensation.

In short, the WCC holds a lot of power in regard to upholding Iowa Workers' Compensation law and also in mediating claim disputes. They're a neutral party in your dispute, and if you're looking for help with settling an issue, you should look for outside assistance.

This is where the help and guidance of a work injury lawyer in Des Moines can be your greatest asset. If your dispute is with your employer they'll most likely have their insurance company backing them, and if it's the insurance company they'll have their own legal team.

You'll want an ally on your side with just as much experience in dealing with Iowa Workers' Compensation claim disputes as the other side has. This is why it's important not only to have a work injury lawyer from Des Moines on your side, but also to make sure they're suited for handling your dispute.

Educating yourself about the process of disputing an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim is the first step in preserving your right to compensation. If you're in need of guidance through the process, contact your work injury lawyer in Des Moines for more help.

Contacting a Work Injury Lawyer in Des Moines

Before disputing an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim you should seek professional help to make sure you aren't ruining your chances at a fair settlement. A work injury lawyer from Des Moines at Walker, Billingsley & Bair will know the importance of protecting your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 515-440-2852.

Talking Can Help and Hinder Your Iowa Workers' Comp Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)68612 — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Communication with other parties during your Iowa Workers' Comp claim is important - both with whom you DO talk and who you DON'T talk to. When filing a claim there are certain parties you must contact and other communications you should be wary of.

Two parties you SHOULD talk to are your employer and an Ankeny Workers' Comp lawyer. You need to inform your employer immediately upon suffering an accident at work that leads to an injury, or when you have been diagnosed with a condition that developed over time due to your working conditions.

You should also speak with an Ankeny Workers' Comp lawyer to help you navigate the claims process. Having a lawyer's guidance when filing your claim and negotiating for benefits is extremely helpful. You run a lower risk of missing deadlines or unintentionally damaging your claim when you have a lawyer helping you complete the process.

While you need to communicate with those 2 parties, there are some conversations to be wary of when you're in the midst of an Iowa Workers' Comp claim. You should discuss the situation with your lawyer if you discuss your claim with any of the following:

the insurance claims adjuster;
your social media networks;
the company doctor;
your co-workers; and
any other professionals who say they are connected to your Workers' Comp claim.

Don't be too casual about discussing your claim with anyone, and always contact your lawyer first before giving any official statements or disclosures to any other parties.

Who you do and don't talk to when going through an Iowa Workers' Comp claim is difficult to keep track of. There are many ways you can jeopardize your claim just by talking, so it's important to have the guidance of an Ankeny Workers' Comp lawyer from the start.

Contacting an Ankeny Workers' Comp Lawyer

With all of the ways you can unknowingly damage your chances at a fair Workers' Comp claim settlement, it's best to have professional help. The Ankeny Workers' Comp lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your Iowa Workers' Comp claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

3 Important Deadlines in Your Iowa Workers' Comp Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)68610 — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are 3 very important deadlines you need to be mindful of when filing an Iowa Workers' Comp claim. Missing these deadlines and not acting within the proper timeframe can cause an interruption of your benefits or even cause them to be denied completely.

The first deadline comes 90 days after your workplace injury occurs or your work-related condition is discovered. Iowa law requires you to file your complaint with your employer before this 3-month period lapses. You should report the injury or condition as soon as you are aware so your employer can take the necessary steps to file for your Workers' Compensation benefits.

The other 2 deadlines come after your Iowa Workers' Comp claim is approved and you are entitled to your benefits. There are 2 cases you may run into, and each has its own requirements and deadlines for reporting to the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner (IWCC).

If you have been approved for disability benefits under Workers' Compensation but have not received a check, you must file a claim with the IWCC within 2 years of the injury date. While your employer may pay medical treatment benefits, in some cases, you are also entitled to disability benefits. Missing this deadline to file could result in a denial of these benefits.

If you have been approved and have been receiving regular disability benefits, you must also file a claim with the IWCC. Your deadline will be 3 years from the date of your last disability benefit check if you only received temporary disability benefits. Missing this deadline can result in losing additional benefits for the injury.

Keeping track of deadlines and timeframes during recovery from a serious workplace injury can be frustrating. You have the right to assistance from an Ankeny Workers' Comp lawyer to avoid mistakes when filing your Iowa Workers' Comp claim. Don't miss out on your rightful benefits by forgetting to file the necessary reports - talk to a lawyer today!

Contacting an Ankeny Workers' Comp Lawyer

With all of the ways you can unknowingly damage your chances at a fair Workers' Comp claim settlement, it's best to have professional help. The Ankeny Workers' Comp lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your Iowa Workers' Comp claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

Des Moines Iowa Worker's Compensation Attorney describes an Independent Medical Exam

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)69038 — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many injured workers with a work injury claim in Iowa will be asked to complete an Independent Medical Exam (IME) either by the insurance company or their own attorney. When you are already in pain and being treated by a doctor, it seems unnecessary to go to another appointment just to get another opinion. However, it is very important that you cooperate and attend so that your case will not be affected.

Why go to an IME?

If your own attorney has scheduled the IME, it is likely that your work injury claim could be improved by the evaluation. Some doctors that treat injured workers on a regular basis give conservative opinions and may not be willing to give restrictions that are necessary. Getting an IME can give another opinion on what restrictions are necessary, what your impairment rating is, and when or if you should return to work. To protect your case, you need to attend the appointment.

What if I Don't Like the Doctor?

The doctor completing the Independent Medical Exam may not agree with your treating doctor, especially if the insurance company has requested the appointment. You may not like what the doctor says and you may think they are being paid to give an opinion that is not in your best interest. It is still important to be honest and respectful with the physician. Provide all the information you can about your injury, pain, and the effects it has had on you. It will not do any good to get into an argument with the the doctor about his or her opinion.

There is a lot for injured workers to learn when they are going through the process of filing a claim for recovery. Hiring an attorney to assist can often be a great value in getting the best result for your case. Polk County attorneys, Corey Walker and Erik Bair have been assisting injured workers with their claims for more than 20 years. Contact us NOW for more information on how we can assist you.

Don't Hesitate to Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)68358 — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's best to speak to a dog bite lawyer in Des Moines soon after you have become a victim of a dog attack and suffer serious injuries. If you hesitate, evidence could be destroyed, and witnesses may be difficult to track down. When you have an attorney, you can have peace of mind that someone with vast resources and an understanding of Iowa dog bite law is advocating for your rights.

Also, when you have an attorney early on, the insurance company can be pushed into calculating a better estimate for the compensation to which you are entitled. A dog bite lawyer in Des Moines who has handled many cases can present key evidence and guides that you probably didn't even know existed.

When your case is properly evaluated soon after the dog attack, your claim will be easier to settle. An individual with little knowledge of Iowa dog bite law or the legal system in general runs the risk of presenting insufficient evidence and the wrong information, drawing out the process and making it more difficult and error-prone.

As a dog bite victim, you should hold the animal's owner accountable for your medical expenses, lost wages, disfigurement, and pain and suffering. To preserve your rights, don't hesitate to reach out to a dog bite lawyer in Des Moines.

Contacting a Dog Bite Lawyer in Des Moines

The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of medical treatment for dog bite injuries. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

3 Reasons to Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)68353 — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are several reasons why you may need to hire a dog bite lawyer in Des Moines after an attack leads to serious injuries. An attorney can explain the specifics of the Iowa dog bite law and how it affects your case, discuss your legal options and help you take steps toward receiving a fair settlement.

3 Reasons to Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Des Moines

Listed below are 3 ways a lawyer can be of significant help.

An attorney who has handled many dog bite cases can thoroughly evaluate your claim based on past cases, medical evidence and the Iowa dog bite law. Your attorney can help you receive compensation for current and future medical expenses.
If your injuries cause you to lose time from work, an attorney can help you make a claim for lost wages. This isn't as simple as presenting paycheck stubs. Your attorney can help you provide proof of time missed from work as well as fringe benefits.
Your attorney can help prove loss of earning capacity in the event that you've been disfigured. Proving this kind of loss is a specialized topic among attorneys. When your losses are calculated over the years, this could be the most significant portion of your damages.

It's best that you contact an attorney after the dog attack as soon as possible so evidence can be preserved, as well as your legal rights.

Contacting a Dog Bite Lawyer in Des Moines

The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of medical treatment for dog bite injuries. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

Recovering from Cervical Spinal Fusion After Des Moines Work Injury Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66818 — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Recovering from a cervical spinal fusion after a Des Moines work injury may take some time. By knowing what to expect after your surgery, you can alleviate some of your anxiety about this procedure.

At the Hospital

Following a cervical spinal fusion, you may be required to stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days so the medical staff can monitor your recovery. Pain medication may be given intravenously or by injection. Routine blood tests may be performed and you may be fitted with a neck brace.

After Discharge

After being released from the hospital, you may be given medication to manage pain. If narcotics are prescribed, avoid operating a vehicle or mixing them with alcohol. The surgeon may also recommend applying an ice pack to the site of your fusion. The healing process can be exhausting, but taking short walks and gradually increasing your activities can help.

First Month after Surgery

Signs of infection may be apparent and include:

fever;
redness at the operative site;
pain; and
drainage odor.

If you notice any of these signs, immediately contact your doctor.

During the weeks after your surgery, your doctor may wean you off of your pain medication. If you're still experiencing pain, over-the-counter medications can be used.

If you're scheduled for cervical spinal fusion because of a Des Moines work injury, an attorney can help you file the paperwork necessary for Iowa Workers Compensation benefits.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

Because recovering from cervical spinal fusion can take some time, you may be eligible for Iowa Workers Compensation benefits to cover your lost salary. The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

Answering Insurance Questions After an Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)67594 — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Being in a car wreck is extremely stressful and can being very confusing for people. Common feelings after being in a car accident are fear, anger, pain and worry. People often wonder:

How will I pay for my medical bills?

I can’t work, how am I going to make it?
What if I can’t go back to my job?

All of these things are important to the person, but not as important to the insurance company. You will likely be contacted by the insurance company after an accident and they may ask you to "answer a few questions", "to give a recorded statement" and/or to “sign a few forms”. Anything you tell the insurance company can be used in the future so it is crucial to be careful when dealing with them. Keeping a journal of facts to support the feelings and questions you are having can be very helpful when it comes time to give information to the insurance company.

When you are in a car wreck, it is important to consider the entire situation before giving them too much information. Visit our article library to learn more about questions to ask the insurance company.

The attorneys at Walker, Billingsley and Bair are available to answer these questions and more about car accident claims in Iowa. Contact us to schedule a FREE consultation or to order our no cost book, The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case.

Smoking Irritating Cervical Spinal Fusion Recovery After Des Moines Work Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66817 — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have sustained a Des Moines work injury that caused damage to your vertebrae in your neck, spinal cervical fusion may be required. This surgery fuses 2 adjacent vertebrae in your neck to heal any fractures and prevent spinal cord damage. Recovering from cervical spinal fusion may take a number of months.

Something many people don't realize is that smoking impacts recovery after a cervical spinal fusion. The nicotine in cigarettes acts as a poison in the bone and may inhibit proper fusion.

A study was conducted to determine how well bone fuses together after spinal fusion surgery. The lowest failure rate came from nonsmokers at 14%, while individuals who quit smoking for at least 6 months after their surgery had the next-lowest failure rate at 17%, and individuals who continued to smoke exhibited inhibited fusion of the bone 26% of the time.

Putting effort into recovery after a cervical spinal fusion can produce better results. By quitting smoking after your surgery, you can increase your chances of successful bone fusion, allowing you get back to your normal life.

Sustaining an injury in the workplace can lead to many financial losses. By filing an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, you may receive benefits for your cervical spinal fusion as well as lost income.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

An Iowa Workers Compensation attorney can help you file a claim to receive benefits for your Des Moines work injury. The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 1-515-440-2852.

Privacy Precautions for Your Iowa Injury Claim in a Technology-Driven World

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66815 — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

An active Iowa injury claim requires that you take certain precautions to best help your case. One of these is keeping your information private. A good Des Moines personal injury attorney will advise clients not to talk about the details of their lawsuit. Too much discussion with others actually may help the opposing side fight your claim.

Words, whether spoken or written, can be twisted and perceived differently than intended. Your friends may be required to give a deposition or be subpoenaed to testify before a judge or jury regarding your case.

Privacy in the World of Technology

Privacy is quickly becoming a privilege from the past. In a world where friends and family can get up-to-the-minute news from you on Twitter, Facebook and a variety of other social media outlets, the level of true privacy is questionable.

The definition of privacy has become blurred, in part because when someone releases information on the Web, it can be considered public information.

Privacy Rights and Social Media

Laws regarding privacy rights and social media interactions are still being debated on a case-by-case basis. Each Iowa injury claim has its own set of special circumstances, and it's best to talk with a Des Moines personal injury attorney to find out what applies to you and your case.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Attorney

Knowing what you can do to better the chances of winning your Iowa injury claim is best explained by a personal injury attorney. The Des Moines personal injury attorney team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Guidelines to Help Your Iowa Injury Claim: 4 Rules on Using Social Media

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66813 — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Your use of social media websites could potentially harm your Iowa injury claim without you even knowing it. Insurance companies have become savvy in accessing private information posted on the Internet to sway a personal injury claim to their advantage. Hiring a Des Moines personal injury attorney can help protect your case and provide you with social networking guidelines.

4 Basic Rules for Social Media Networking

There are 4 basic social media guidelines you should follow when embroiled in an Iowa injury claim. Whether it's Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, MySpace or any other social media website, you need to consider the following:

Restrict or stop your social media use - It is best to keep your online interactions to a minimum or stop them completely.
Never post information about your Iowa injury claim - You should never directly discuss your case, accident, injuries, recovery or any other related claim information online.
Edit your online materials - Remove postings, pictures or videos that could be tied to your case.
Use the highest privacy settings allowable - You need to make sure all the sites you use are kept at the highest restrictive levels to protect your personal information from getting into the wrong hands.

To better understand how to protect your Iowa injury claim, you should meet with a Des Moines personal injury attorney.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Attorney

Your social media communication could gravely change the outcome of your Iowa injury claim. The Des Moines personal injury attorney team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Iowa Workers' Comp Benefits for Cervical Strain Treatment

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66060 — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The treatment for cervical strain varies, depending on the severity of the condition. If your neck injury was the result of a workplace accident or any kind of repetitive movement in the workplace, you may be eligible for Iowa workers' comp benefits. To understand and preserve your legal rights, you should have an Ames Workers' Compensation lawyer review your case.

Iowa Workers' Comp: Treatment for Cervical Strain

It is important that you quickly report your neck injury to your employer to avoid any delays in seeking medical care.

Treatment for a cervical strain, which involves the soft tissues of the neck, includes:

Medication - you may be prescribed muscle relaxers, opioid analgesics, tricyclic antidepressants, or corticosteroid injections.
Therapy - this involves neck exercises and stretching to ease pain, traction to keep your neck immobilized, or a soft collar to take pressure off the structures in your neck, and
Surgery - this is an option when spinal cord compression is detected.

Since treatment can be very costly and you will likely be forced to take much time off from work, you will want an Ames Workers' Compensation lawyer to help you maximize the value of your claim. While you focus on conquering painful cervical strain, your lawyer can focus on getting you the benefits you deserve.

Contacting an Ames Workers' Compensation Lawyer

A cervical strain can cause significant pain and alter your life. The Ames Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 515-440-2852.

Why You Need an Ames Workers' Compensation Lawyer for Cervical Strain

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66058 — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been diagnosed with a cervical strain that you believe is the result of work activity you may be entitled to Indiana workers comp benefits. However, since it may be difficult to prove that this kind of injury happened on the job, you should acquire the assistance of an Ames Workers' Compensation lawyer.

After a workplace slip and fall accident, for example, you may not have a tough time proving that your cervical strain happened on the job. On the other hand, if your neck pain is the result of holding your head in an odd position while working, you might run into a few obstacles while seeking Indiana Workers' Comp benefits.

This is why you need representation from an Ames Workers' Compensation lawyer who will advocate for your rights. One of the problems with a cervical strain is that it's a soft tissue injury. Therefore, it's not visible to the naked eye. Medical and therapy records will be necessary to prove your injury.

It's imperative that you keep all medical and physical therapy appointments and follow all of your doctor's orders. An attorney will ensure that you have proper documentation to prove your case in the event that your employer disputes your claim.

Contacting an Ames Workers' Compensation Lawyer

A cervical strain can cause significant pain and alter your life. The Ames Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work by calling 1-800-707-2552. For immediate assistance or to schedule a consultation, call 515-440-2852.

Iowa Dog Bite Law: Liability for Injuries

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66055 — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Liability for injuries caused by a dog bite attack is addressed in the Iowa dog bite law. To understand how it may impact your claim, you should consult with an Ames dog bite lawyer.

According to the Iowa dog bite law, a dog owner is held liable when the dog has bitten or attacked an individual. However, an owner also can be held liable if an individual is otherwise injured during an attempt to escape a dog from biting or attacking.

An example would be someone riding a bike and being chased by a dog that is attempting to attack. If, in the attempt to get away from the dog, the cyclist was to crash into a building and suffer injuries, the dog owner could be held liable.

On the other hand, a dog owner wouldn't be liable for an individual's dog bite injuries if the victim were committing an unlawful act. For instance, if there was an attempt to break into a home, and an individual trespassed on the property, the owner wouldn't be held liable.

When you've been seriously injured in a dog bite attack, you may have to undergo extensive medical treatment. Know that you could be entitled to compensation.

If you're facing expensive scar revision surgery as a result of a dog bite attack, then you should seek help from an Ames dog bite lawyer. He or she can explain how the Iowa dog bite law may affect your case.

Contacting an Ames Dog Bite Lawyer

The Ames dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Damages after a Dog Bite Attack in Ames

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)66054 — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to the Iowa dog bite law, dog owners are liable for injuries caused by a bite or attack. When you have been the victim and need help in pursuing a claim, then an Ames dog bite lawyer can help.

After a dog bite attack, you could face surgery. Reconstructive or plastic surgery is very expensive. During this time you will be unable to work, so you will be without income. Understand that these types of damages may be recovered through a claim.

You could also be entitled to other damages related to your emotional injuries. This includes compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress or even the costs associated with seeking help from a psychologist or counselor.

The long-term effects of a dog bite attack can be devastating. If the attack was severe, and you have disfiguring injuries, even surgery cannot completely erase the damage. You may have to deal with accepting an altered appearance. This can be traumatic and affect every aspect of your life.

You should seek help from an Ames dog bite lawyer when you are facing scar revision surgery after a dog bite attack. You could receive compensation for the damages you have suffered.

Contacting an Ames Dog Bite Lawyer

The Ames dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

A Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help When Negligence Leads to Liability

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64980 — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When it comes to negligent drivers, you may wonder about your rights when you have sustained serious injuries in an accident in Des Moines, Iowa. You could be entitled to compensation with the help of a Des Moines personal injury lawyer.

You will need help from a lawyer who specializes in personal injury law due to the sometimes-complicated process. Not only are you facing an assortment of forms and paperwork, but you also must provide substantial evidence.

Proving liability is best done with the help of a Des Moines personal injury lawyer who understands negligence laws and personal injury cases. He or she can establish not only if another driver was negligent, but also if you played any role in the accident. Additionally, there could be more than one party held liable, depending on the circumstances surrounding your accident.

A lawyer can address all of the issues that can arise from a personal injury case and advise you of your rights and what steps you can take to better protect them. Negligent drivers that cause an accident in Des Moines, Iowa could be held liable for the injuries you have suffered.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines personal injury lawyer team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

10 Types of Negligent Driving that Can Cause an Accident in Des Moines, Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64979 — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Negligent drivers engage in careless, sometimes reckless, behaviors that increase the chance of an accident in Des Moines, Iowa. You could be eligible for compensation if you suffered injuries or damages caused by another driver at fault. A Des Moines personal injury lawyer is able to evaluate your case to determine if liability can be established and assist you with pursuing a claim.

10 Types of Negligent Driving that Could Result in an Accident

speeding;
racing;
talking on the phone;
texting while driving;
driving under the influence;
inputting data into a GPS device;
grooming;
looking for a street/address;
reaching for something; and
driving too fast for weather/road conditions.

These driving behaviors can lead to serious, even fatal, consequences. You should learn what your legal rights are if you have been the victim of an accident in Des Moines, Iowa that was caused by someone else.

There are 3 types of negligent drivers who could cause an accident in Des Moines, Iowa. If you were the victim, then your next step should be to seek legal counsel from a Des Moines personal injury lawyer.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines personal injury lawyer team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today. Call 1-515-440-2852 for immediate legal assistance.

Tractor-Trailer Accidents Becoming More Frequent

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)65277 — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Semi truck collisions are becoming more common in Iowa. This week alone, nine people have been killed in wrecks involving tractor-trailers. If you have been involved in a tractor-trailer accident, call a Des Moines accident lawyer to discuss your options before you pursue a claim against a large trucking company.

Many people will be involved in a common car accident in their lifetime, but if yours involved a tractor-trailer, it was more than likely worse than usual. Because semis are commercial vehicles, their drivers are held to higher standards than the average person in a common car accident in Iowa.

For example, truck drivers are banned from texting while driving and are limited in the number of hours they can drive. A Des Moines accident lawyer will know how to prove a driver was texting or that they were over hours on their log book.

Speeding and driver distraction are the two major causes of semi accidents as well as ordinary car accidents in Iowa. Commercial trucking companies make their money by delivering their goods fast and truck drivers often fall victim to speeding to deliver their shipments quicker.

A Des Moines accident lawyer is knowledgeable in causes of truck and car accidents as well as trucking rules and regulations in Iowa. Your lawyer can help you recover any lost income and repair damaged property after an accident involving a tractor-trailer in Iowa.

Car accidents involving semis are usually serious and it pays to know the law, or have a Des Moines car accident lawyer on your side who does. The Des Moines injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - or CALL NOW at 1-800-707-2552.

Overcoming Depression after Losing a Limb in an Accident in Ames, Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64706 — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your life is thrown off-kilter due to a serious accident in Ames, Iowa that led to a loss of limb, it can be hard to ward off feelings of depression. Let an Ames personal injury lawyer help you seek restitution for your damages and serve as your legal advocate during this difficult transition in your life.

There are thousands of trauma-related amputations each year, and the emotional recovery of victims can vary greatly. Depression, a common denominator among amputees, can affect your life, not only physically, but also psychologically, emotionally and spiritually.

Techniques to Cope With Depression After an Accident in Ames, Iowa

People who've suffered the loss of a limb often find that they can work through their depression using a multitude of tactics.

Physical - getting enough rest, eating well, getting involved in some sort of physical activity and performing deep breathing exercises.
Emotional - reinforcing to yourself that you're not alone and not to blame for your injuries, journaling, talking openly about your grief, and staying in contact with supportive friends and family.
Mental - replacing negative self-talk with more positive messages, to avoid making any big decisions when suffering with depression symptoms, and to try whatever alternative treatments you feel may help you, such as acupuncture, massage and hydrotherapy.

During your struggles, try to keep in mind that these feelings will lessen over time, and you will pull through this. After your accident in Ames, Iowa, you can ask your Ames personal injury lawyer for referrals to local therapists and support groups to help you cope through your injuries.

Contacting an Ames Personal Injury Lawyer

Coping with depression after losing a limb in an accident in Ames, Iowa is a natural part of the grieving process. The Ames personal injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

10 Ways to Reduce Phantom Pain after Loss of Limb in an Ames Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64705 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Dealing with phantom pain after losing a limb in a serious accident in Ames, Iowa can be extremely challenging. You'll want to follow your doctor's suggestions to cope with the pain, as well as consult with an Ames personal injury lawyer to help you work through the legal aspects of your accident.

Phantom pain, painful sensations in the amputated limb, affects many people who've undergone an amputation.

Patients often report feelings of:

burning;
cramping;
tingling;
aching; and
shock-like sensations.

The origins and nature of this type of pain aren't well understood in the medical community, but there are treatment options that may help reduce or alleviate it.

10 Ways to Help Relieve Phantom Pain

Phantom pain treatment options include the following:

acupuncture;
biofeedback;
chiropractic care;
massage;
relaxation techniques;
TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation);
medications;
heating pads or cold packs;
scar tissue removal surgery to reduce nerve compression; and
physical therapy.

Phantom pain is likely just one of the issues you're dealing with if you've lost a limb in a serious accident in Ames, Iowa.

If you're coping with the loss of a limb because of an accident that's due to someone's negligence, take your case to an Ames personal injury attorney and discuss filing a personal injury claim.

Contacting an Ames Personal Injury Lawyer

You may be one of the many dealing with phantom pain after losing a limb in an accident in Ames, Iowa. The Ames personal injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Collecting Compensation After a Dog Bite in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64699 — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're injured by dog bite in Iowa, you may be wondering who will be held responsible, how your medical bills will be paid, and how to come to terms with the psychological trauma the attack may have caused. Speak with a Des Moines dog bite lawyer who thoroughly understands Iowa dog attack laws and can establish the liability of the owner of the dog that attacked you.

Available Compensation After Your Dog Bite in Iowa

If you've been attacked by a dog and suffered injury as a result, you may be eligible for certain kinds of compensation under Iowa dog attack laws, including:

Current and future medical expenses related to the injury;
Lost wages as a result of time taken away from work to recover;
Scarring, disfigurement or disability;
Pain and suffering; and
Emotional trauma and psychological anguish.

A dog bite in Iowa can have a lasting impact on our sense of security around other animals and leave permanent physical reminders of the attack. Iowa operates under a strict liability statute for dog attacks, which means that an owner is considered responsible for the damage its dog causes, regardless of whether or not the dog has a history of aggression.

Speak with a Des Moines dog bite lawyer who can explain Iowa dog attack laws in the context of your case and who works hard for you to get the compensation you deserve.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to enforce victims' rights under the Iowa dog attack laws. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites, Attacks, and Injuries . To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your rights after a dog bite in Iowa, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today.

Exceptions to Strict Liability in Iowa Dog Attack Laws

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64698 — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

After a dog bite in Iowa, the owner of the dog is responsible for the injuries and damages, regardless of whether or not the dog had a history of violence or had previously demonstrated a propensity for aggression; however, there are 2 exceptions. You should always speak with a Des Moines dog attack lawyer who can explain how Iowa dog attack laws affect your case.

Strict Liability Exceptions Under Iowa Dog Attack Laws

Exception #1: If the victim of a dog bite in Iowa was committing an illegal act that gave rise to the attack, such as trespassing or committing robbery, the owner won't be held liable. Many people keep dogs as pets for personal protection, and Iowa dog attack laws acknowledge that a dog protecting its owner or home from criminality shouldn't be prosecuted.

Exception #2: If a dog owner doesn't know that his or her dog is affected with rabies and had no way of knowing in order to prevent the injury, the dog owner shouldn't be held liable. If the owner knew that the dog had rabies, however, and failed to make a "reasonable effort" to prevent injury to others, then there are grounds to pursue damages for the dog attack.

If you've been injured in by a dog bite in Iowa, contact a Des Moines dog attack lawyer who can navigate you through the claims process and explain how standing Iowa dog attack laws apply specifically your incident.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Attack Lawyer

The Des Moines dog attack lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to enforce victims' rights under the Iowa dog attack laws. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites, Attacks, and Injuries . To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your rights after a dog bite in Iowa, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today.

Iowa Workers' Comp Claim: Aftermath of Fractured Vertebrae

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64090 — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

After you've suffered a fractured vertebra injury at work, you'll undergo various types of treatments, and you may have to deal with health complications that can occur due to your injuries. These types of injuries can be covered in an Iowa Workers' Comp claim, which you can discuss with a Waterloo work injury lawyer.

Treatment for Fractured Vertebrae

Depending upon the nature of your fracture, you may have to undergo treatments, such as:

surgical procedures that remove bone that's compressing the spinal cord;
various types of surgeries that stabilize the spine and the fracture (perhaps using metal screws and rods); and
non-surgical treatments such as braces and casts.

The wake of a horrible workplace accident can be an extremely difficult time. You may struggle with temporary or permanent disability, not to mention severe physical and psychological symptoms.

Complications of Fractured Vertebrae

Even with proper medical treatment, complications can occur.

infections;
bleeding;
pneumonia;
pain, inflammation and swelling;
dangerous blood clots; and
spinal fluid leaks.

Each injury is unique, and your recuperation time is dependent upon many factors. The Workers' Comp benefits that you receive after filing your Iowa Workers' Comp claim should be sufficient enough to make sure you can focus on healing. Speak to a Waterloo work injury lawyer to make sure you receive the best settlement possible so you can focus on putting your life back together.

Contacting a Waterloo Work Injury Lawyer

Sometimes, a fractured vertebra injury can cause health complications and require extensive care and rehabilitation. The Waterloo Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

5 Types of Fractured Vertebrae in Iowa Workers' Comp Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)64053 — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

A sudden accident at work can lead to a serious back injury, such as fractured vertebrae, and leave you incapacitated with a lengthy treatment plan. You'll need to file an Iowa Workers' Comp claim with a Waterloo work injury lawyer to ensure you get the benefits you'll need.

5 Types of Fractured Vertebrae Injuries for Iowa Workers' Comp Claim

Back injuries can occur in numerous situations at work, perhaps because of a slip or fall, or from a high-impact accident while on the job.

Flexion Fractures - the vertebrae are separated from each other, usually occurring when the torso is suddenly jolted forward in an accident.
Compression Fracture - the front of the vertebra ruptures while the rear vertebra stays intact. While no serious neurological problems occur with this type of fracture, it can leave you in pain and reduce your mobility.
Axial Burst Fracture - usually occurs when an employee falls from a significant height and lands on his or her feet, which results in a break in which the vertebra loses height in the front and back sides.
Back Fracture/Dislocation - can cause serious spinal cord compression and occurs when the vertebra is displaced.
Transverse Process Fracture - a severe sideways rotation, usually from a workplace accident in which the body underwent a forceful rotating movement.

It's important to seek the best medical care possible to become stabilized and begin a treatment plan that's tailored to your injuries. When you're able, seek a Waterloo work injury lawyer to discuss the process of filing an Iowa Workers' Comp claim to begin receiving the benefits you need.

Contacting a Waterloo Work Injury Lawyer

An accident at work can cause a fractured vertebra injury that could leave you out of work for some time. The Waterloo Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

What Should I Do to Make a Claim for my Work Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)63678 — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Getting the most out of your workers compensation claim is not an easy task. A lot of workers in Iowa who've suffered from a work injury and are seeking compensation neglect to complete the steps needed to increase their chances of a reasonable and full compensation.

You need to learn some fundamental tips to help with your work injury claim. You need to know when to report your injury and to whom, who will provide your medical care and why, what to do after you see the doctor and much more. Possibly the most important topic discussed is your credibility.

You cannot mislead your doctor, your employer or the insurance company. When you are honest and informative you will keep your integrity and prevent compromising yourself. Your integrity is a big issue in an Iowa workers' compensation case and the judges who hear these cases pay close attention to see if you're being honest which can have a immense impact on the amount of compensation you are awarded. Accordingly, by consistently telling the truth there is no need for you to stress about being caught in a lie.

By understanding important aspectsof your claim for work injury compensation, your odds to receive a good outcome in your own Iowa workers compensation claim will likely improve dramatically. Nevertheless, there are a number of other topics, tips and precautions you need to heed when dealing with Iowa work injury claims.

Contacting an Iowa Workers Compensation Attorney

Make sure you read more related reports on our site, request a copy of our No Cost Iowa Workers Compensation book at no cost, risk or obligation or contact me directly. We practice primarily in workers' compensation and represent injured workers from Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Ft. Dodge, Mason City, Newton, Ottumwa, Oskaloosa, Burlington, Decorah, Davenport, Dubuque and from across the state of Iowa. The Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Contact us or call NOW at 1-800-707-2552

GHSA Contributes to Combat Distracted Driving in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)63025 — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Considering distracted driving is a leading factor in car accidents, the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA) recommends Iowans to avoid using any electronic devices while driving, regardless of the current Iowa cell phone laws. For questions on how cell phone laws affect you after a car accident in Ames, contact an Ames personal injury lawyer.

GHSA Recommendations to Combat Distracted Driving

The GHSA has a recommendation for each public sphere.

For the federal government, the GHSA prescribes 4 major actions:

fund research for safety methodologies and public safety media campaigns;
provide financial incentives for states with more stringent cell phone laws;
develop new policies that encourage companies to reduce employee business-related cell phone use while driving; and
actively support new technologies that might minimize distracted driving.

For individual states the GHSA recommends 2 things. First, they would like each state to consider banning text messaging for all drivers (something Iowa recently enacted). Second, they would like to ban cell phone use for new drivers.

Finally, for the private sector, the GHSA recommends 2 innovative solutions. First, companies should consider banning cell phone use and texting when their employees are driving for business purposes. Second, companies should also try to develop new technologies that may reduce cell phone-related driving distractions.

If someone has violated Iowa cell phone laws and their negligence caused your car accident in Ames, you'll want to speak to an Ames personal injury lawyer who can begin investigating your case and help you make a claim.

Contacting Ames Personal Injury Lawyer

Following GHSA recommendations may enhance Iowa cell phone laws and may also prevent a car accident in Ames. The Ames personal injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Violating Iowa Cell Phone Laws

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)63024 — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Iowa cell phone laws now ban texting while driving, and the fees incurred for violations may amount to $120.75 due to added court costs. Any Ames personal injury lawyer will likely attest to the danger of texting while driving and how it can often cause a car accident in Ames.

Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous types of distracted driving because it takes the driver's mind, hands and eyes off the road. Accidents can happen in the seconds that a driver's attention is swayed, and Iowa is taking steps in the right direction to prevent this from happening.

Iowa legislators placed a ban on texting for all drivers, and violating this law will bring about a $30 penalty; however, with added surcharge and court costs, it could amount to more than $100.

Thousands of Americans lose their lives every year in accidents involved with distracted driving. Roughly 28% of all accidents are caused by driving while using a cell phone, 200,000 of which are attributed to texting, according to the National Safety Council.

Lawmakers are finally taking these dangers into consideration in their legislative sessions by altering Iowa cell phone laws. Now violating distracted driving laws don't only pose highway dangers; it may also put a dent in violators' wallets.

If you've been injured in a car accident in Ames due to someone's distracted driving or violation of cell phone laws, take your case to an Ames personal injury lawyer to see if the other party is liable.

Contacting an Ames Personal Injury Lawyer

The new Iowa cell phone laws that ban texting and subsequent violation penalties could help save lives and may prevent a car accident in Ames. The Ames personal injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Contact your Ames Personal Injury Lawyer to pursue a fair settlement for your or your child's injuries and damages from a car accident in Ames - 1-800-707-2552.

Importance of Choosing a Good Iowa Workers' Compensation Lawyer

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)62304 — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you think that simply notifying your employer of your Des Moines work injury and filing a Workers' Compensation claim will be enough to deal with your injuries, think again! This may be fine for minor injuries like a broken arm or a bruised shoulder, but for serious injuries things get a lot more complex.

When you suffer a catastrophic work injury in Des Moines your employer's Workers' Comp insurance should cover the damages but normally only the basics. You have a right to compensation for current damages and any long-term expenses you're estimated to incur from the accident.

Upholding your rights to extended compensation is where the help of an Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer is necessary. In some cases, you'll be facing weeks, months, or even years of inability to work. These are all factors that need to be taken into consideration when settling your Workers' Comp claim.

Your lawyer will be able to help you determine a fair settlement for your injuries, wage losses and suffering. Calculating the value of current medical bills is easy, but you'll want the experience of an Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer to help you determine the rest.

By hiring legal counsel for settling your work injury claim you're making sure your rights to a fair settlement are upheld. Before making this decision, there are 5 important factors to consider when choosing an Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer to represent your claim.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Lawyer

As an Iowa worker you have the right to a safe workplace without risk of suffering a work injury in Des Moines. The Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

The Importance of Understanding Iowa's Injured Workers' Bill of Rights

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)61725 — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've suffered a work-related injury or occupational disease, it is fundamental to your recovery that you understand how Iowa's Injured Workers' Bill of Rights affects you, your employer, and your claim. A Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer will explain in detail how the bill of rights pertains to the specifics of your case, and how that will affect your claim.

Iowa's Injured Workers' Bill of Rights stipulates certain inalienable rights that you are entitled to in the event that you are injured while on the job or as a result of job-related activities.

Some of those rights include:

the ability to seek treatment from the medical provider you choose;
coverage for medical care related to any work injury or occupational disease;
the right to refuse care or medical procedures, such as surgery; and
compensation while you are in recovery and unable to work.

There are strict formulas that govern how much you are able to receive in weekly benefits, and in many cases, employers violate those regulations by underpaying disabled, injured, or recovering employees. For relentless, compassionate representation, contact a Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer who will stand up for your rights.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. We will fight for full enforcement of the Iowa Injured Workers' Bill of Rights as it pertains to your injury. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 888-792-3595.

Iowa Back to School Safety Tips

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)61983 — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

With the school year quickly approaching we felt that Iowa parents and grandparents may want some tips to keep their children safey during the school year. Unfortunately, each year hundreds of children are injured going to and from school in car accidents, falls, bullying and even injuries from carrying an over or improperly loaded backpack. We provide you with tips for keeping our kids safe and also developing good homework habits. We hope you and your child have a great and safe school year.

If your Employer Violates Iowa's Injured Workers' Bill of Rights

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)61724 — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Iowa's Injured Workers' Bill of Rights exists to provide certain protections to employees who are injured on the job or as a result of a job-related illness or disease. If your employer in some way tries to deny you those rights, refuses to pay for your care, or unreasonably dismisses your injury claim, you should contact a Des Moines Workers Compensation lawyer immediately.

Some of the Injured Workers' Bill of Rights benefits include:

payment for medical care related to your occupational disease or work injury;
long-term care if you are permanently disabled;
cash payments in lieu of wages while you are in recovery or unable to work;and
right to be treated by the doctor or medical provider of your choosing.

It's important to note that the specifics of your claim can impact some of these provisions, so you should speak with a lawyer as soon as you can about the details of your injury. Your employer can be compelled to pay for your care, and can lose certain rights of their own if they unfairly denied your claim - not to mention face serious fines.

If you have been injured on the job and your employer is denying you the provisions protected by Iowa's Injured Workers' Bill of Rights, contact a Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer who can help.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. We will fight for full enforcement of the Iowa Injured Workers' Bill of Rights as it pertains to your injury. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 888-792-3595.

Understanding Laws and Ordinances for a Dog Bite in Ames, Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)61203 — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Iowa has liability laws in place designed to protect people from out-of-control animals. If you suffered a dog bite in Ames, Iowa, you should speak to an Ames dog bite attorney who knows how Iowa dog bite laws apply to your situation.

Iowa is a liability state, so in most cases, the dog owner can be held responsible if the dog causes injury to someone. If the dog bites or chases a person and he or she is injured as a result, you have a legal right to pursue a claim against the owner.

There are exceptions to this rule, though:

Illegal actions - the owner may not be held liable if you were attacked while on their property illegally, if you were breaking the law, or if you provoked the dog.
No foreknowledge - if the owner had no way of knowing the dog had rabies and couldn't prevent the incident, he or she may not be held responsible.

Dog owners are responsible for having their dogs vaccinated for rabies under Iowa state law. Dogs not wearing vaccination tags can be impounded and euthanized, and it's the owner's responsibility to contact local authorities after a dog bite in Ames, Iowa.

It can be tricky to prove liability in certain instances of dog bites, so it's wise to speak to an Ames dog bite attorney to go over the evidence surrounding your case. It's also prudent to learn all you can about rabies from dog bites and pursue the right course of action.

Consulting an Ames Dog Bite Attorney

The Ames dog bite attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Contact your Ames dog bite attorney to pursue a fair settlement for your or your child's injuries and damages - 1-800-707-2552.

After a Dog Bite in Ames, Iowa: The 4 Stages of Rabies

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)61204 — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Rabies is a life-threatening virus that affects hundreds of people each year. If you've contracted rabies due to a dog bite in Ames, Iowa, you'll need to receive swift medical attention. You'll also want to discuss the incident with an Ames dog bite attorney to see if you are within your legal rights to pursue a claim against the dog's owner.

Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transferred from animals to humans. It attacks the central nervous system and becomes fatal if left untreated.

Rabies progresses through four stages:

Attachment - the bullet-shaped virus attaches itself to a nerve cell;
Penetration - the virus penetrates the cell;
Replication - the rabies virus then begins multiplying rapidly within the cell; and
Budding - it then spreads to other neurons and travels throughout the rest of the body.

If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, thoroughly clean the area, and immediately seek medical attention. If left untreated, rabies will cause paralysis, coma and eventually death. However, if proper treatment is administered, it's almost always effective in eradicating the rabies virus.

Being attacked and bitten by a dog is dangerous and quite scary. Add to that the prospect of contracting rabies, and it becomes a truly traumatic event.

If you've suffered a dog bite in Ames, Iowa, you should consult an Ames dog bite attorney to see if you can file a claim for your injuries. You might be able to receive compensation not only for your injuries, but also for psychological trauma and loss of earnings.

Contacting an Ames Dog Bite Attorney

The Ames dog bite attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Contact your Ames dog bite attorney to pursue a fair settlement for your or your child's injuries and damages - 1-800-707-2552.

Tips For Starting an Iowa Personal Injury Case

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)59733 — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

The process of filing a claim for an Iowa personal injury case can be a daunting task. It may be in your best interest to seek an Ames, Iowa injury attorney for a consultation, during which you can review your case. Your attorney can give you advice on what action to take and how to do so.

Starting a Lawsuit for Iowa Personal Injury Case

The basics of the initial court papers are as follows:

Pleadings - the forms and documents that are filed in court at the beginning of the lawsuit;
Complaint/petition - the first document filed, which is an outline of your case and formally identifies all parties involved and what the plaintiff is requesting from the defendant (such as requesting for payment of damages);
Summons and service of progress - an order from the court where the lawsuit is litigated (the defendant is notified formally on the lawsuit and a docket number is assigned by the court to the case);
Answer - the defendant's response to the lawsuit; and
Counterclaim - the defendant's own claim in response to the plaintiff's statement.

Once these initial documents have been submitted you can proceed to the next steps of the claims process.

Contacting an Ames, Iowa Injury Attorney

The Ames, Iowa personal injury attorney team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today.

Iowa Worker's Compensation Claim: Causes of a Neck Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)59731 — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A work injury in Des Moines that affects your neck could be caused by several activities. If you have been injured in the workplace you should meet with an Iowa attorney to discuss how an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim works and if it is the right option for you.

Causes of a Neck Related Work Injury in Des Moines

Activities and situations that can cause neck pain and/or injury include:

a task that requires you to hold your head in a forward position or an unusual position for an extended period of time;
long periods of time spent with your forehead leaning on your fist or arm;
large amounts of stress that create tension in your neck muscle and make them more susceptible to injury; and
excessive work and movement that utilizes upper body and arm muscles.

Most neck injuries and pain are related to a strain or spasm in the muscles in and around the neck. These muscles and joints become inflamed and can range from a minor to major injury. Depending on the severity of the injury and whether it resulted from an accident at work you may be able to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-888-792-3595.

Stages of an Iowa Personal Injury Case: Meeting with an Attorney

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)59732 — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

While some are hesitant to take legal action because it seems confusing and daunting, an attorney can be of great help. If you are involved in an Iowa personal injury case, one of the first things you should do is meet with an Ames, Iowa injury attorney.

Meeting with an Ames, Iowa Injury Attorney

Your first meeting with an Ames, Iowa injury attorney will be a consultation. Most of your time will be spent explaining what happened so your attorney can keep a formal record of all of your information. Feel free to ask questions if you're confused about how something works or if a certain law will impact your case. Likewise, your attorney will ask you questions to make sure he or she has the appropriate understanding of exactly what happened during the accident.

Things to Anticipate from Your Iowa Personal Injury Case Attorney Meeting

signing a form authorizing the release of your medical treatment information;

lawyers may refer you to another firm if they feel it would be a better fit; and
lawyers may decide not to take on your case if they feel filing a claim is not the best course of action.

Once the initial meeting is complete, and if the lawyer decides to take on further steps of your Iowa personal injury case, you can move forward.

Contacting an Ames, Iowa Injury Attorney

The Ames, Iowa personal injury attorney team 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 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today.

Signs of Neck Injury from Work Accident in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)59730 — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

After an accident you may have sustained a work injury in Des Moines. If you believe you have suffered a neck injury while at work you should contact an attorney to discuss your case and see if an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim is an option for you. Not all accidents will require a claim; an attorney will be able to give you an honest evaluation of your case.

Signs of a Neck Related Work Injury in Des Moines

It is normal to develop some neck issues from everyday activity; however, substantial injuries can take place from certain activities and work-related tasks.

If you are experiencing pain, consult a physician because it could be an injury that may have resulted from your tasks in the workplace that affect the following:

your bones and joints in the cervical spine;
the discs that separate each vertebrae in your spine (they absorb shock whenever you move); or
muscles and/or ligaments in the neck that hold the spine together.

An attorney may be able to help you seek adequate compensation for your workplace injury through an Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim. To help your case, you should report your injury to your supervisor, seek medical treatment, and follow all of your doctor's orders.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Benefits of a Third Party Claim After a Des Moines Work Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)59311 — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Injuries from a Des Moines accident could involve another person outside of your employment, which may lead you to pursue a third-party claim. Consulting with an Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney is the best way to understand what legal options are available.

There are benefits to pursuing a third-party claim when you have been severely injured in a work accident. Workers' Compensation benefits will cover, up to a certain amount, your medical expenses and lost wages; however, your medical expenses and lost income may surpass those limitations.

A third-party claim could entitle you to additional compensation. Also, you cannot claim general damages in a Workers' Compensation claim. A third-party claim will allow you the opportunity to seek compensation for pain and suffering, disability, mental anguish, and other damages that may be available.

You also benefit from a third-party claim in cases in which you are entitled to punitive damages. You cannot recover these types of damages through Workers' Compensation, so in situations where negligence was extreme, then you may be able to receive compensation.

If a third party has contributed to your Des Moines work accident, then you should speak with an Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney. An attorney can determine if you should file a third-party claim.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

An Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney at Walker, Billingsley & Bair knows the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Liability in a Third-Party Claim for Des Moines Work Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)59309 — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may be entitled to file a third-party claim if your Des Moines work accident involved someone other than your employer or co-workers. Whether another person or company contributed partially or fully to your injuries, this could lead to additional compensation. An Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney can help.

Liability in a third-party claim can be filed against a manufacturer, designer, engineer or anyone involved in the making or selling of a defective product that's used on the job.

It could be the result of a defect in the design, in the manufacturing, a failure to provide adequate instructions or breach of warranty. If any of these circumstances contributed to your injuries, you may be able to file a third-party claim.

Liability could also be found against a property owner in a premises liability case. If you're on the job and had to go see a client or another company, and you're injured on their property due to a hazard, this may also lead to a third-party claim.

A third-party claim can involve other persons ,depending on the events surrounding your accident.

When a third party contributes to your Des Moines work accident, you should immediately consult with an Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney. You may be entitled to additional compensation.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

An Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney at Walker, Billingsley & Bair knows the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

3-Step Plan After a Motorcycle Accident in Pella, Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)58968 — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

After you've been in a motorcycle accident in Pella, Iowa, that was the result of someone else's negligence or recklessness on the roads, you may be confused or frustrated about how to pursue justice for your injuries. Speak with a Pella motorcycle crash attorney about your accident to determine if you qualify for compensation.

3-Step Action Plan after a Motorcycle Accident in Pella, Iowa

First, make an accident file. As frustrating as paperwork can be, documentation is vital to the success of your claim. In this file, you should keep a copy of documents such as police reports, medical records, photographs, contact information, insurance information, etc.

Second, contact a Pella motorcycle crash attorney. While it's true that some smaller claims that don't involve injuries may not require a lawyer, it's highly advisable to meet with one. An attorney with experience in motorcycle accidents can assist you in miring through the complicated liability issues related to personal injury claims.

Third, don't give a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster. The adjuster is not your ally. The adjusters work for the insurance companies and will use statements against policy holders if it means cutting costs by minimizing your claim.

There is nothing wrong or dishonest with declining to give a statement until you have retained the services of an attorney who will help you prepare to answer the adjuster's questions. You can request that the statement be "unrecorded" and that the adjuster take notes.

Contacting a Pella Motorcycle Crash Attorney

The Pella motorcycle crash attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book available for order online at Iowa Consumer's Guide to Motorcycle Crashes. Call today and speak with a Pella motorcycle crash attorney who will fight for your rights - 888-792-3595.

4 Tips for the Scene of a Motorcycle Accident in Pella Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)58966 — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

The moments immediately following a motorcycle accident in Pella, Iowa are chaotic but the decisions that are made while you're at the scene could bear heavily on your ability to recoup the cost of your injuries. If your accident was caused by someone else's negligence, you should speak with a Pella motorcycle crash attorney.

What to Do at the Scene of a Motorcycle Accident in Pella, Iowa

Move the vehicles and/or motorcycles out of the road. Accident scenes pose a risk to other motorists on the road. If you can safely do so, try to get your motorcycle out of the road so that it doesn't obstruct traffic.

Get your injuries checked out. If you or someone else involved in the crash was injured, say so when you call the police or emergency services so that you can be checked out or stabilized, if necessary, by a medical technician.

Collect information from the accident scene. Write down the name, address, phone number, driver's license number, and insurance information of any other motorists involved in the accident. Be sure to get the contact information of any witnesses too.

Don't admit fault. Refrain from making any statements that accept or indicate blame for the accident. As your Pella motorcycle crash attorney will explain, this includes saying, "I'm sorry," to the other driver. It's normal to feel concern for the other person involved, but that statement can be used against you after your motorcycle accident in Pella, Iowa.

Contacting a Pella Motorcycle Crash Attorney

The Pella motorcycle crash lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book available for order online at Iowa Consumer's Guide to Motorcycle Crashes. Call today and speak with a Pella motorcycle crash attorney who will fight for your rights - 888-792-3595.

Liability for Compensation in Iowa Dog Bite Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)58163 — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Injuries from a dog bite or attack can be serious, even fatal. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a vicious dog attack, then you may be able to receive compensation through an Iowa dog bite claim. A dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa will evaluate your case to determine what options may available.

Many people have questions about liability in Iowa dog bite claims. In order to receive compensation, you must be able to demonstrate that someone else's negligence was the cause of your injuries and they were therefore legally liable for them.

Dog owners are responsible for their dog's actions if they cause injury to another person. The only exception to this would be if the victim was committing an unlawful act at the time of the dog attack or bite.

For instance, the dog owner may not be liable if the dog was provoked. There are a variety of factors to be considered in any Iowa dog bite claim, so it is best to seek legal counsel from your dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa.

If you are seeking compensation in an Iowa dog bite claim, then your next step should be to consult with a dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa.

Contacting a Dog Bite Lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa

Liability for compensation in a dog bite claim usually lies with the dog owner but each case must be scrutinized on its own. A dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa at Walker, Billingsley & Bair knows the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

5 Ways Compensation Is Determined in an Iowa Dog Bite Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)58162 — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you or a loved one has suffered serious or fatal injuries as a result of a dog bite or attack, then you may be able to file an Iowa dog bite claim. With the help of a dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa, you can demonstrate how someone else's negligence led to your injuries.

5 Ways to Determine Compensation in an Iowa Dog Bite Claim

A dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa will also help you assemble the evidence that is necessary to prove your Iowa dog bite claim, like:

medical expenses (present and future);

psychological trauma;
loss of earnings;
disfigurement; and
pain and suffering.

Each of these problems can have multiple components and an experienced lawyer can help you determine how they yield various types of compensation. Dog bite claims are some of the most successful for the victim. Most states hold the owners of dogs involved in dog bite attacks strictly liable for any damages their pets have caused.

A dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa can help if you plan on pursuing compensation through an Iowa dog bite claim. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is in your best interest.

Contacting a Dog Bite Lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa

A dog bite lawyer in Marshalltown, Iowa at Walker, Billingsley & Bair knows the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Pursuing Iowa Workers' Compensation Benefits for Your Back Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)57595 — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Your job may consist of performing activities that may irritate your back, causing minor to major back injuries that may leave you out of work for a period of time or permanently. In the event of your back injury leaves you disabled, you may be eligible to receive Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits. Contact an Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney to help you through the process of pursuing Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits.

What is Included in Iowa Workers' Compensation Benefits?

Being disabled from work due to a serious injury, such as a back injury, can be extremely stressful, especially when you need money to support yourself and your family. Almost all workers in Iowa are covered by Iowa Workers' Compensation insurance.

When you file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim you may be able to receive the benefits:

coverage for medical costs;
loss work time (temporary/permanent and healing period);
job training program; and
death coverage.

Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits do have limitations that may potentially disqualify you from receiving coverage for your injuries or reduce your benefits significantly. You should consult with your Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney for legal help on pursuing Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits that you need and deserve.

Contacting a Waterloo, Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Waterloo, Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or contact our firm at 1-800-707-2552.

Filing an Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim for a Back Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)57594 — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A work-related accident can cause serious injuries, most commonly back injuries. If you suffer from a back injury on the job, you may need treatment, therapy, or even surgery. The issues that arise from serious injuries you obtain at work could leave you out of work temporarily or permanently, causing a decrease in your income. If this is the case, you may need Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits.

Workplace Activity that May Lead to a Back Injury

A back injury could be caused by:

Repetitive movement - this includes twisting, turning or bending.
High anxiety - stress is a key factor in many instances of low back pain.
Physical inactivity - sitting or standing still for long periods can lead to serious back injuries. Experts advise that you change positions every 20 minutes to avoid back pain.
Heavy lifting - improper lifting or lifting heavy objects can put a strain on your back.

If you had to take time off of work because of a back injury and have lost income, you may be able to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. Call a Waterloo, Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer to provide you with the right steps to take to receive your Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits and fight for your rights in an Iowa Workers' compensation claim.

Contacting a Waterloo, Iowa Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Waterloo, Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or contact our firm at 1-800-707-2552.

Treatment of Post Concussion Syndrome after a Work Injury in West Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)57484 — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Post concussion syndrome is a condition that may develop after sustaining a head injury. If it is a result of a work injury in West Des Moines, then you should understand your rights as a worker and the benefits you have available.

A West Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can explain all of this to you. He or she will ensure that your medical treatment is taken care of through your Workers' Compensation benefits.

There is no treatment available for post concussion syndrome, only for the specific symptoms you experience. With headaches being the most common symptom, medication is usually prescribed. However, physical therapy is sometimes helpful in alleviating pain.

With mood, depression and anxiety also being common symptoms, individuals may benefit from medication. Additionally, it may help to see a psychologist or psychiatrist.

If you are experiencing difficulty with thinking or memory, then specialized rehabilitation may be necessary. Many of these treatment options can be expensive, but they should be covered through Workers' Compensation benefits if your condition is the result of a work injury in West Des Moines.

Your next step should be to speak to a West Des Moines Worker's Compensation attorney if you have suffered post concussion syndrome after a work injury in West Des Moines.

Contacting a West Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The West Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Complications of Post Concussion Syndrome as a Result of a Work Injury in West Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)57483 — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have sustained post concussion syndrome as a result of a work injury in West Des Moines, then you should know what types of benefits you are entitled to receive.

A West Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney will explain the benefits you may be eligible for and what steps you need to take in order to ensure that your claim is treated fairly.

A head injury is a type of work injury in West Des Moines that leads to a condition known as post concussion syndrome. Post concussion syndrome can become debilitating and affect an individual's ability to continue working.

Post concussion syndrome can lead to complications, including:

Personality changes - character changes can occur with thinking and interacting;
Anger - temper outbursts and irritability can become a constant source of struggle; and
Mood disorder - fluctuating changes in mood, unpredictability.

Post concussion syndrome can last anywhere from several weeks to months and even years. It can alter an individual's quality of life and lead to difficulties with relationships, working and enjoying life.

If you have suffered post concussion syndrome after a work injury in West Des Moines, then you should speak immediately to a West Des Moines Worker's Compensation attorney.

Contacting a West Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The West Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Highest Ranking Types of Iowa Car Accidents

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)57052 — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has provided the most recent Iowa accident statistics from the year 2009. It has been documented that Iowa ended the year of 2009 with 372 fatal car accidents.

Most Common Types of Fatal Iowa Car Accidents

Below you will find the highest-ranking types of Iowa car accidents listed from most frequent to least frequent with their corresponding number of fatal accidents:

single vehicle - 197;
roadway departure - 193;
rollover - 128;
BAC level of .01+ - 120;
intersection - 96;
BAC level of .08+ - 96;
involving large trucks - 66;
speeding - 62; and
motorcycles - 49.

You may consider these to be low numbers for Iowa car accident statistics but the outcome of people hurt is much greater than the number of accidents. Remember, if an Iowa car accident involves more than one car, it's documented as one car accident regardless of the number of victims involved. Additionally, some of these accidents fall under more than one category. Therefore, one accident could be categorized under single vehicle and speeding.

If you or a loved one has suffered a severe injury in a car accident in Iowa, an Ames, Iowa, car accident attorney can review your case. To learn more about Iowa accident statistics, please visit our article library

Contacting a Car Accident Lawyer in Ames, Iowa

The team of car accident lawyers in Ames, Iowa from Walker, Billingsley & Bair will work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - and contact our offices today. 1-800-707-2552.

Iowa Auto Accident Statistics Broken Down by Iowa Counties

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)57051 — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

The latest Iowa accident statistics come from the year 2009 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In 2009, Iowa was recorded to have 372 total fatal car accidents.

Top 10 Iowa Counties for Accidents in 2009

Below you will find the top 10 highest ranking counties for fatal accidents with their corresponding number of fatal accidents.

Polk County - 23;
Linn County - 15;
Scott County - 13;
Pottawattamie County - 12;
Johnson County - 11;
Woodbury County - 11;
Story County - 10;
Allamakee County - 9;
Clinton County - 9; and
Jefferson County - 9.

If you are familiar with these Iowa counties you will realize that the most fatal accidents have occurred in rural areas based on the recent Iowa accident statistics. In 2009, 304 fatal accidents occurred in rural areas compared to 68 fatal accidents that occurred in urban areas.

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in an Iowa car accident, a car accident lawyer in Ames, Iowa can help you pursue compensation for your injuries. Your car accident lawyer in Ames, Iowa will assess your personal injury claim for your Iowa car accident and will work hard with you to pursue the compensation you need and deserve for your injuries. Learn more about Iowa accident statistics by visiting our article library.

Contacting a Car Accident Lawyer in Ames, Iowa

The team of car accident lawyers in Ames, Iowa from Walker, Billingsley & Bair will work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - and contact our offices today. 1-800-707-2552.

Suffering from PTSD After a Dog Attack in Des Moines

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)55920 — Sun, 29 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Post- traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, is not uncommon in young children who are victims of a dog attack in Des Moines. The younger the child, the more common PTSD can occur.

PTSD isn't detected right after your child has been attacked by a dog in Des Moines and you may not even think about the consequences to come of your child's dog attack in Des Moines.

The reality of your child's dog bite attack in Des Moines is that your child can suffer PTSD weeks or months later after your child's dog bite incident. Considering how your child can be traumatized by the event of a dog bite attack in Des Moines, future financial and emotional costs can persist. This may include treatments such as therapy, medications, and/or surgeries.

If your child has been attacked by a dog in Des Moines, you should contact a Des Moines personal injury lawyer before you agree to any settlement offer. Your Des Moines personal injury lawyer will evaluate your child's dog bite attack by keeping present and future financial, physical, and emotional costs in mind. This will greatly help you in pursuing the most compensation for your child's damages and injuries from his/her dog bite attack in Des Moines. Learn more about PTSD after a dog bite attack in Des Moines.

Contacting a Des Moines Injury Attorney

The Des Moines injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Contact your Des Moines, Iowa dog bite attorney to pursue a fair settlement for your child's injuries and damages - 1-800-707-2552.

When an Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim Leads to Treatment of a Meniscus Tear

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)55778 — Fri, 27 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

When an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim leads to treatment of a meniscus tear, you may wish to speak with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney to ensure you are getting everything you are entitled to.

If you are injured on the job, you are entitled to receive Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits. A meniscus tear (torn cartilage) is one type of injury that may happen while working in a job where you are bending or moving your legs.

Treatment for a meniscus will depend on the extent of damage and the severity of the injury. A doctor chosen by your employer will examine you and determine the best type of treatment plan.

Non-surgical treatment can include anti-inflammatory medicine, ice on the knee, cortisone shots and physical therapy. In some cases surgery may be required for a meniscus tear.

The 3 types of surgical treatment for a meniscus tear include:

Arthroscopic menisectomy - removes torn portion, leaving healthy portion to heal.
Meniscus repair - damaged meniscus is repaired.
Meniscus transplantation - transplanting someone else's meniscus in cases where the entire meniscus has been removed and pain continues.

A meniscus tear may result in you seeking Iowa Workers' Compensation. If so, then you may want to speak immediately with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney in order to determine what benefits you have coming.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Dog Bite Injuries After a Des Moines Dog Bite Attack

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)55918 — Fri, 27 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

After your child has been a victim of a dog bite attack in Des Moines, your child may suffer serious damages and injuries for which you may be compensated. Young children are often the targets for a dog bite attack and considering their young age, they can often sustain serious injuries and emotional distress from a dog bite attack in Des Moines.

Injuries Sustained from a Dog Bite Attack in Des Moines

A dog attack in Des Moines could lead to:

ripped and blood-stained clothing;
scratches;
cuts;
broken skin;
broken bones;
disfigurement;
post traumatic stress disorder;
guilt;
embarrassment; and
missing limbs.

In order to pursue the most compensation out of your child's injuries and damages from his or her dog bite attack in Des Moines, contact your Des Moines dog bite attorney. Your Des Moines dog bite attorney is a professional in handling dog bite cases and proving dog owner negligence. Your professional Des Moines dog bite attorney will consider your child's and family's present and future physical, financial, and emotional expenses when evaluating your case so you can pursue the compensation you deserve. Learn more about your child's injuries and the costs of your child's injuries after a dog bite attack in Des Moines.

Contacting a Des Moines Injury Attorney

The Des Moines injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Contact your Des Moines, Iowa, dog bite attorney to pursue a fair settlement for your child's injuries and damages - 1-800-707-2552.

Overview of a Meniscus Tear in an Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)55774 — Wed, 25 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

A meniscus tear, also known as a torn cartilage, can be a very painful and debilitating injury. If you have sustained a meniscus tear while on the job, you may be entitled to Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits.

A meniscus tear can happen in all kinds of occupations. Construction work is one type of job where this kind of injury commonly happens. However in any work where you are moving, if you twist your knee and your knee joint bends, it could lead to a meniscus tear.

A Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney understands that you may have a lot of questions about how this work injury will affect you, and what types of benefits you may be entitled to through an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. By speaking with an attorney you may be able to avoid future problems as you pursue your claim.

A meniscus tear can be extremely painful, making it difficult to move or bend the knee. There may be swelling, tenderness and various problems with the knee joint. Depending on the severity of the injury, it could also result in you being unable to work for a period of time.

If you are seeking Iowa Workers' Compensation for a meniscus tear, you may wish to speak with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney to fully understand what your rights are.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Treatment for a Brain Injury after an Iowa Workers' Comp Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)55183 — Wed, 18 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you or a loved one sustained a traumatic brain injury at work, you may be eligible for Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits in order to pay for medical treatment.

The treatment for traumatic brain injury depends on the location, severity, and type of injury. In all cases, seeking immediate medical treatment can increase the chances of stabilizing the patient and preventing more damage to the brain. Medical personnel can ensure that oxygen and blood are getting to the brain and control pressure within the brain. They can also monitor the patient for seizures. In the case of mass lesions, such as hematomas or contusions, surgery may be required.

Some traumatic brain injuries also require rehabilitation long after the initial medical care has been administrated. Brain injuries can cause both cognitive and communication problems. The goal of rehabilitation is to restore cognitive functions and teach a patient how to perform functions differently when the brain cannot be restored.

Intensive brain injury rehabilitation may be facilitated by physical therapists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists. A therapist will work with the patient in determining, and reaching, goals. Rehabilitation may take place in an inpatient facility or on an outpatient basis.

Many people experience emotional distress and depression after a traumatic brain injury. A counselor can address these feelings and work on coping techniques so the patient can begin to enjoy life once more.

After a serious work injury in Iowa, an Ames Workers' Compensation attorney can review your case to help you seek all the compensation and benefits to which you may be entitled to.

Contacting an Ames Workers' Compensation Attorney

Safeguard your future - put your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim in the hands of a firm that has handled cases involving traumatic brain injury. Not only can an experienced Workers' Compensation lawyer help you file for benefits after a work-related brain injury, but they can ensure your future quality of life and ability to work is taken into consideration when being offered a settlement.

The Ames Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work.

Or, call us at 1-800-707-2552 for immediate assistance with your claim and to schedule your no-cost consultation.

Filing for Workers' Compensation in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)55181 — Mon, 16 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If a workplace accident results in a traumatic brain injury, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. When you are being treated, you should inform your physician that your brain injury is related to your employment. If this is documented in your medical file, it can help your case later if there is a dispute with your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

After a job-related brain injury, you only have 90 days to tell your employer that you were injured while working. Failure to report the injury within this timeframe could delay your Worker's Compensation benefits or you may ineligible to file altogether.

Your employer must file an injury report with the Iowa Division of Workers' Compensation within 2 years of learning about your workplace accident. If he or she does not meet the 2-year deadline, you will be unable to submit a Workers' Compensation benefits claim.

A Worker's Compensation attorney will understand this complicated process and can help you file the necessary paperwork in order to collect benefits for your serious brain injury. Your lawyer will ensure that all of the deadlines are met and can handle any disputes to facilitate the benefits process.

Learn more about how you can seek Iowa Workers' Compensation for your brain injury.

Contacting an Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney

Let a Workers' Compensation lawyer help with your claim. The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Determining Fault in Common Car Accidents in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)54570 — Sat, 07 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Rear endings are some of the most common car accidents in Iowa. The fault is most often assigned to the driver of the following car as it is their responsibility to allow enough time to stop. Usually, if the following car is driving too fast or without enough following distance they will rear end a car which stops short in front of them.

A West Des Moines car accident lawyer can help you prove fault if you were injured and/or rear-ended in common car accidents in Iowa.

However, there is an exception. If a third party's actions cause the following car to rear end the car in front of it then a West Des Moines car accident lawyer can find fault with the third party. Usually, this third party is another car that is driving recklessly or, less often, a pedestrian or something from off the roadway that could cause the following car to inadvertently cause an accident.

Because rear end crashes are common car accidents in Iowa they are often not pursued as claims. But this is a mistake that many accident victims make. So, what should you do if you've been injured in a car accident in Iowa?

Iowa is a fault state, which means a West Des Moines car accident lawyer can place the liability for property or bodily injury damages on the negligent driver.

A West Des Moines car accident lawyer can help determine the negligent driver if it is not readily apparent in common car accidents in Iowa.

Contacting a West Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a rear end accident, you may receive the maximum payout in damages if you have an experienced West Des Moines car accident lawyer represent your claim. The Des Moines injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Common Car Accidents in Iowa that Involve Tractor-Trailers

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)54568 — Thu, 05 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Tractor-trailer and passenger car collisions on I-80 are common car accidents in Iowa. If you were involved in a tractor-trailer accident, call a West Des Moines car accident lawyer to discuss your options before you file a claim against a large trucking company.

Most people will suffer a common car accident in Iowa but if yours involved a tractor-trailer, it was likely worse than usual. Because tractor-trailers are commercial vehicles, their drivers will be held to higher standards than the average person in a common car accident in Iowa

For instance, truck drivers are banned from texting while driving and a West Des Moines car accident lawyer will know how to prove a driver was texting.

Speeding and inclement weather are the 2 major causes of tractor-trailer accidents as well as common car accidents in Iowa. Trucking companies make their money by delivering their goods quickly and truck drivers fall prey to driving over the speed limit to deliver their shipments.

Inclement weather adds to common car accidents in Iowa and it happens in every season. A West Des Moines car accident lawyer can help you fight against excuses like the weather.

A West Des Moines car accident lawyer is well-versed in causes of truck and car accidents as well as trucking regulations in Iowa. Your lawyer can help you regain any lost income and repair damaged property after a common car accident in Iowa.

Contacting a West Des Moines Accident Lawyer

Tractor-trailer accidents are usually serious and it pays to know the law, or have a West Des Moines car accident lawyer on your side who does. The Des Moines injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Owner's Duty Under the Dog Bite Laws in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)54146 — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Understanding dog bite laws in Iowa is important to your case if you plan on pursuing a claim. When you have been injured in an animal attack, such as being bitten by a dog, it is only to your benefit to have a good basic understanding of your rights as a victim.

A Des Moines dog bite lawyer can explain those rights to you and what the most up-to-date laws are pertaining to dog bites in Iowa and your county or city specifically. If you want to know whether or not you have a valid claim, you should speak first with a lawyer.

According to Iowa dog bite law, dog owners have a duty that if their dog bites or attacks a person and they are aware of it, they are to report the act to law enforcement or a local health official. A failure to report a known dog attack or bite is a violation of dog bite laws in Iowa.

Injuries from a dog bite can be severe, even life-threatening. It may result in the need for plastic surgery, which can still leave a person disfigured. Damages for being bitten by a dog can include not only medical expenses but psychological damage such as pain and suffering and emotional distress.

To get a better understanding of how dog bite laws in Iowa will affect your case, you should consult with a Des Moines dog bite lawyer today. Contacting someone right away will help preserve your case.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your dog bite injury claim from the get-go. If you've been injured in a dog bite attack, order our FREE dog bite book for victims so that you can get a better understanding of your rights. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

How Rabies are Addressed in Dog Bite Laws in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)54145 — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you or a loved one has been injured in an animal attack, you should get an understanding of dog bite laws in Iowa. This can help determine if you should proceed with filing a claim.

According to Iowa dog bite law, liability for injuries sustained as a result of being attacked or bitten by a dog, will rest with the owner. You may also be entitled to additional damages if you were injured in other ways, related to the dog bite incident.

For instance, if you run from a dog who is attempting to attack or bite you and are injured by a vehicle, those injuries could also be included in your claim.

There are exceptions to the Iowa dog bite law, which includes if you were injured in an animal attack while you were engaging in an unlawful act, or if you are injured by a dog with rabies, otherwise known as hydrophobia, and the dog's owner had no way of knowing the dog had rabies and could not have prevented your injuries.

The specifics of this type of case can be quite complex, which is why it is always best to seek the help of a Des Moines dog bite lawyer. Your lawyer will work in your best interest, help you understand dog bite laws in Iowa and help you to fight for your dog bite claim.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your dog bite injury claim from the get-go. If you've been injured in a dog bite attack, order our FREE dog bite book for victims so you can get a better understanding of your rights. Learn more by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Getting the Treatment You Need for Job-Related Hearing Loss in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)53604 — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Unfortunately, there is no cure available for noise-induced hearing loss. You can adjust to daily life with some technologies, such as cochlear implants. To get to this point, expect to have a hearing specialist or audiologist evaluate your condition.

Tinnitus, which is a condition that causes patients experience a ringing sound in the ears, will sometimes go away on its own. But some individuals may just have to live with it. While some ear specialists have made recommendations on certain medications to treat tinnitus, many of these haven't been thoroughly tested or may raise the risk of side effects.

If you have suffered job-related hearing loss, you should immediately consult with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer. A lawyer will carefully evaluate your case to determine if you are eligible to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

When treatment may not be available for job-related hearing loss or tinnitus, you may be able to receive compensation for your permanent disability through an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

A Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer can evaluate your case to determine your eligibility and the types of benefits you may be able to receive as a result of your work-related hearing loss.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Job-Related Hearing Loss in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)53594 — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Some occupations have an increased risk of job-related hearing loss. When your employer failed to provide you with proper safety and preventative equipment to protect your hearing, you may be able to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim to account for the cost of your hearing loss treatments.

A Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer will work in your best interests to determine if you have a valid claim and pinpoint what types of benefits you may seek.

Many workers may not realize that when you're exposed to noise that is 85 decibels or louder for a prolonged period of time, your risk for tinnitus and hearing loss increases.

Tinnitus is a condition that causes you to experience noise within the ear, generally a ringing or swishing sound. While it is not serious, it can be a nuisance and may indicate hearing loss.

Hearing loss can be permanent if the nerve endings in the inner ear, called cilia, become damaged. This can be a result of constant exposure to noisy machines or equipment.

People with occupations in the construction or lumber industry are at an especially high risk of job-related hearing loss. While ear protection can help, you may still end with some level of hearing loss.

If you wish to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim for your job-related hearing loss, you should immediately consult with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Steps Involved in Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)53070 — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When someone else's negligence causes you to suffer serious injuries, you may be able to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. Filing a claim can be confusing and time-consuming. However with the help of a West Des Moines accident lawyer you can have the assurance of getting help from someone who has your best interests in mind.

One of the most important things to understand when it comes to filing a claim is timeliness. Each state has specific laws concerning when you can file a personal injury claim. If you decide to wait, it might end up being too late.

It is best to seek immediate legal counsel from a West Des Moines accident lawyer in order to ensure your personal injury claim in Iowa is filed on time.

If you go through the entire claims process and fail to come to a resolution with the defendant or their insurance company, you may need to file your claim as a lawsuit with the courts.

Part of the process of filing a lawsuit is to submit your complaint and summons. The other party will need to give an answer to your complaint and in some cases, you may have to file additional paperwork, all of which can take up more time.

Some of your filings might require a reply, which only adds to the time of getting through the process. Filing a personal injury lawsuit is not something you want to do without legal counsel.

If you have questions about how to file a personal injury lawsuit in Iowa, a West Des Moines accident lawyer should be consulted as soon as possible.

Contacting a West Des Moines Accident Lawyer

The West Des Moines accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims, The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Process of Filing an Iowa Personal Injury Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)53069 — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured because of someone else's negligence and are thinking of filing a personal injury lawsuit, you should speak with a West Des Moines accident lawyer. A West Des Moines accident lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if you have a valid lawsuit and how to proceed.

Additionally, a West Des Moines accident lawyer will help you collect the necessary evidence to build a substantial case and help you fight for your personal injury lawsuit.

The process of filing a personal injury lawsuit in Iowa can become quite complicated, depending on the specifics of your case. It is never a good idea to attempt this on your own, especially when there are serious bodily injuries involved.

While each case is different, there are certain types of filings you may have to complete in a personal injury lawsuit in Iowa:

complaint (or petition);
summons;
counterclaim;
reply to counterclaim;
cross-claims;
reply to cross-claims;
third-party complaints; and
reply to third-party complaints.

The process can become very drawn out and confusing with all of the paperwork, which is why you don't want to attempt this on your own.

If filing an Iowa personal injury lawsuit is going to be your next step after being injured in an accident in Iowa, you should immediately consult with a West Des Moines accident lawyer.

Contacting a West Des Moines Accident Lawyer

The West Des Moines accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Iowa Workplace Injuries: Slip and Fall Accidents

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)52471 — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you suffer a slip and fall accident at your workplace in Iowa, the result could be a few minor bumps and bruises.

Unfortunately, you could end up with a serious injury, such as:

Broken hip - hip fractures are especially dangerous for older adults. They can cause immobility and severe pain. Treatment usually involves surgery, medication and rehabilitation. With this kind of surgery, there is a high risk of developing blood clots, despite your age, which could be fatal.
Head injuries - if your head hits a hard object during a slip and fall accident at the workplace, bleeding might occur in your brain and cause an intracranial hematoma. Signs and symptoms include a severe headache, imbalance, confusion, mood changes, vomiting and unconsciousness. Surgery and medication are usually required.
Torn ligaments - if you tear a ligament in your knee, for example, you could face severe pain and swelling in addition to instability. Surgery followed by rehabilitation may be necessary.

Your best course of action after a workplace slip and fall accident in Iowa is to alert your employer immediately, seek medical treatment according to company protocol and consult with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney. Your attorney might be able to help you maximize your compensation to adequately address your needs. To learn more about workplace safety concerns, visit our article library.

Contacting a West Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The West Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair knows the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

Reducing Risk of Communicable Diseases in the Iowa Workplace

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)52468 — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention requires healthcare facilities to follow standard precautions (also referred to as "universal" precautions) to lower the risk of workers contracting communicable diseases and infections.

These universal precautions include:

Hand hygiene - hands should be washed after touching any contaminated items, even if you are wearing gloves. Hands should also be washed immediately after removing gloves and before and after making contact with a patient.
Gloves - gloves should be worn whenever there is the risk of coming in contact with infectious material or broken skin. The same gloves should not be used on different patients and gloves should never be washed and reused.
Protective equipment - goggles, masks and face shields should be worn when performing procedures that may lead to contact with potentially contaminated materials.
Gowns - gowns can protect your skin and keep your clothing from becoming contaminated with bacteria.
Laundry - soiled bed linens and gowns must be handled with great care to prevent transmitting the bacteria onto yourself or surfaces around you.

If you have contracted a communicable disease or infection in your workplace, you should speak with a West Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney. Your attorney understands the risks of working in the healthcare industry and may be able to help you prepare a solid Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. To learn more about workplace safety concerns, visit our article library.

Contacting a West Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The West Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair knows the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. Learn more by ordering this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work or by calling 1-800-707-2552.

The Iowa Legal Insider Wants to Hear Your Iowa Travel and Adventure Stories

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)52401 — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

For several years now we have featured our Explore Iowa column. With more than 7,000 households in Iowa receiving our monthly newsletter, we know that you must have lots of stories about where to travel and explore in Iowa. Please share your favorite places in Iowa to visit and if we use your story in our newsletter, we will send you a $50 Hy-Vee gift card and acknowledge your contribution. Just provide us with your name, email address and in the Message section tell us your Explore Iowa story. If you have pictures that go with your story please make note of it below and either provide a link to your pictures or email them to Info@WalkLaw.com. Note: After telling us your story, you will need to enter the security code listed at the bottom.

When a Lifting Injury Results in an Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)52290 — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a worker sustains a lifting injury at work he or she may choose to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. A lifting injury can result in severe pain, an inability to work and the need for medical treatment.

If you have concerns regarding your ability to receive Workers' Compensation benefits or if your claim has been denied, it is in your best interest to speak with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney.

Not all Iowa Workers' Compensation claims are based on injuries as a result of an accident. Sometimes the daily duties that are performed can lead to a lifting injury. If your job entails lifting, pulling or pushing objects you could end up suffering an injury.

The most common type of lifting injury is a back injury. This type of injury can be mild and require only a short-term leave from work or it may result in missing a lot of time from work. Treatment may include medication for pain and inflammation, physical therapy or if the back injury is severe, surgery.

Treatment for a back injury can be expensive. Between medical bills and not receiving a salary, you may need the protection offered through Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits.

Consulting with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney will help you to understand what your rights are and how best to protect yourself in the event you need to file an Iowa Worker's Compensation claim due to a lifting injury.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Des Moines Worker Alert: 9 Common Causes of a Back Injury at Work

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)52291 — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Lifting is such a common part of so many workers' jobs that it may come as no surprise that back injuries are a common cause for someone to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. If this is the situation you are in and you need help with filing your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, you should consult with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney to discuss all of the points of your case.

A lifting injury is generally sustained when a worker lifts a heavy object or if the item is bulky or awkwardly shaped. A back injury can be debilitating and result in a worker being unable to work for a long period of time.

Here are some common causes for a worker to sustain a back injury while lifting at work:

reaching up high while lifting;
inappropriate lifting technique used;
poor design of work station or layout;
repetitive lifting of awkward items;
twisting body while lifting;
bending while lifting;
lifting heavy objects;
poor footing; and
slippery floor.

No matter what the cause of your back injury, if it was the result of performing your regular job duties you may be able to receive Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits.

If a lift injury at work has resulted in you being unable to work, you should immediately consult with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney. An attorney will explain how an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim can help cover your medical expenses and lost wages in both the short term and the long term.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

After Your Dog Attack in Iowa: Emotional Trauma & PTSD

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)51243 — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

There's no doubt that being attacked by a dog in Iowa is a traumatizing experience. In the days afterward, your sense of security and safety may be shattered. Understanding when a normal reaction to a dog attack takes a turn for the worse is important when you plan to file a personal injury claim against the dog's owner.

In some cases, dog attack victims may develop post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). When this occurs, treatment will be necessary and an Ames dog attack attorney can help you get this expense covered through your personal injury claim.

But before you can seek PTSD treatment, you may want to take a closer look at some of the following information to find out whether you're experiencing a normal reaction to your dog attack.

Normal reactions to a dog attack in Iowa may include:

fear;
inability to stop thinking about the event;
numbness;
sense of being overwhelmed;
sense of disconnection to the world; and
sense of insecurity.

As you make sense of the dog attack in Iowa, these normal feelings will subside within a matter of weeks. When you have PTSD, however, these feelings may not only go away, they'll likely get worse. This is because your mind and body are still in a state of shock and disbelief. Until you get help and address your emotions, you'll stay in a perpetual state of distress.

To help you get reconnected to your daily life, your work and those whom you love, you'll likely need some form of therapy. As you cope with the aftermath of your dog attack in Iowa, know that an Ames dog attack attorney can fight on your behalf to get the compensation you need to account for the losses your PTSD has caused.

Contacting an Ames Dog Attack Attorney

PTSD can leave you with a debilitating sense of fear and anxiety. The Ames dog attack attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair at 1-800-707-2552 to schedule a no-cost consultation.

A Closer Look at PTSD Symptoms after a Dog Attack in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)51239 — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a dog attack in Iowa come in many forms. Since every person is unique, those who experience PTSD may have a wide variety of symptoms.

What's important to know is that if a dog's owner was careless in restraining or otherwise caring for a dog and it led to your dog attack injuries, you shouldn't have to shoulder the expenses to cope with your PTSD symptoms. All of that can-and should-be covered through a personal injury claim that an Ames dog attack attorney can help you file. But first, it may help to understand a little more about just what PTSD symptoms look like.

Some common PTSD symptoms you may experience after a dog attack in Iowa include:

unexpected and frightening memories and flashbacks;
nightmares;
physical reactions (increased heart rate, nausea and sweating);
apathy toward daily life;
detachment from those in your life;
sleeping problems;
anger issues;
concentration problems;
anxiety;
guilt;
shame;
depression;
suicidal thoughts;
feelings of isolation;
unexplained physical aches and pains; and
a general sense of mistrust.

As you can tell, PTSD symptoms have the potential to profoundly impact your life. Whether you've been forced to deal with painful physical injuries or emotionally devastating psychological issues as a result of a dog attack in Iowa, you may be able to file an Iowa personal injury claim to account for your losses.

To give your claim the attention it deserves while you seek treatment for PTSD symptoms, you'll want to consider working with an Ames dog attack attorney.

Contacting an Ames Dog Attack Attorney

The Ames dog attack attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair at 1-800-707-2552 to schedule a no-cost consultation.

Texting and Driving a Dangerous Combination- Preventing a Tragedy One Teenager at a Time

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)50892 — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

More and more we are seeing car accidents caused by texting and driving. Teenagers are the group that probably text the most and putting them behind the wheel of a 4,000 pound car with a cell phone with texting can be a deadly combination. Learn more about what an Iowa personal injury attorney and his wife are doing to prevent a tragedy one teenager at a time.

Stems Cells May Help Repair Spinal Cord Nerve Damage

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)50818 — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to a report published in March by the website Sciencedaily.com, human cells derived from stem cells have helped to repair damage to the nervous systems of rats. After being transplanted into the spinal cords of injured rodents, the stem cells not only helped to repair nerve damage, but also helped the rats regain some of their motor functions.

The study, which was first published in the journal PLoS ONE, and conducted in conjunction by research teams at the University of Colorado and the University of Rochester, concentrates on human astrocytes, which are the major support cells in the central nervous system. The research teams hope to have made a significant breakthrough in the use of astrocytes for repairing spinal cord injuries in humans.

As of now, spinal cord injuries, which are significant forms of nerve damage, are usually unable to be repaired. Instead, medical professionals focus on treatments for spinal cord injuries, such as medicine, therapy, rehabilitation, and in extreme cases, invasive surgery.

According to the director of the University of Rochester Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, this discovery is a leap forward in the development of spinal cord injury therapies.

If you have suffered from a spinal cord injury or another type of nerve damage after a car accident in Iowa, you may be compensated for your medical treatment in a personal injury claim. A Des Moines personal injury lawyer may help maximize your financial recovery.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Attorney

When you have been injured in a car accident due to someone else's negligence, the Des Moines personal injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Repairing Nerve Damage After an Accident in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)50817 — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have suffered from nerve damage in a car accident in Iowa , certain medication, surgeries and treatments may help to repair or alleviate the symptoms of your injury. In fact, if you suffer from nerve damage, it is best to get the necessary medical treatment right away. By delaying treatment, you risk the chance of life-threatening complications.

Some of the common treatments for nerve damage include:

Rest - when suffering from nerve damage, you will need to get a significant amount of rest. Rest will help your body heal so that you may recover from your injury.
Medication - in order to relieve the pain that is often caused by nerve damage, a doctor may prescribe tricyclic antidepressant medicine, pain relieving medicine, or anti-seizure medicine.
Surgery - if the damage caused is irreversible, surgery may be the only option to repair the damaged nerves. This may involve reconnection of the disconnected nerves, or the application of a "donor nerve" through the use of grafting techniques.

Alternative forms of treatment for nerve damage may include physical therapy, holistic medicine and acupuncture. If your nerve damage has been caused by someone else's negligence, your treatment expenses may be compensated in a personal injury claim.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Attorney

When you have been injured in a car accident due to someone else's negligence, the Des Moines personal injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. Order our FREE book for Iowa accident victims; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case - 1-800-707-2552.

Seeking Treatment for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome after an Iowa Work Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)50200 — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have suffered a work injury in Iowa and you are experiencing severe pain in one of your arms or legs as well as swelling and skin discoloration, you might have complex regional pain syndrome. This syndrome, which is a result of nerve damage, can lead to muscle atrophy and contractures if it is not treated in the early stages.

Treatment for complex regional pain syndrome includes:

Medication - such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium or corticosteroids for inflammation; anticonvulsants and antidepressants for pain that originates from a nerve that has been damaged.
Physical therapy - gentle exercises can help improve your strength and range of motion in the affected limb.
Heat and cold therapy - heat may provide relief from cool skin temperatures and cold therapy can ease swelling.
Topical creams - these can reduce skin sensitivity.
Sympathetic nerve-blocking medication - an anesthetic, which is injected, can block pain fibers in nerves that have been affected to relieve pain.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation - when electrical impulses are applied to nerve endings, pain relief may be achieved.
Spinal cord stimulation - electrical currents sent to your spinal cord may alleviate pain.
Biofeedback - through certain techniques, you might be able to relax your body and relieve your own pain.

One of your priorities after a work injury in Iowa should be to meet with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer. Your lawyer might be able to help you get the necessary compensation for your current and future medical needs regarding complex regional pain syndrome. When your condition is severe enough, your lawyer will also work to see that you are offered a fair settlement for your lost wages.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

When You Suffer from CRPS Complications After a Work Injury in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)50199 — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

The symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), which can occur after a work injury in Iowa, include severe pain, abnormal skin temperature and swollen joints. This condition needs to be diagnosed and treated in the early stages. Otherwise it could progress, leading to the following complications:

Muscle atrophy - if the debilitating pain or stiffness of CRPS keeps you from moving the affected limb, your muscles and skin could waste away; and
Contractures - your muscles will tighten, which will eventually cause your toes and foot or fingers and hands to remain in a fixed position.

In occasional cases, complex regional pain syndrome may spread to other areas in the following patterns:

Continuity type - symptoms could migrate, for example, from your hand to your shoulder.
Mirror-image type - symptoms could spread to the opposite limb; and
Independent type - symptoms may leap to a distant body part.

Treatment for CRPS includes medication and various therapies, depending on the severity of your condition. This can get extremely expensive but when your condition is the result of a work injury, in most cases your medical bills will be addressed through an Iowa Workers Compensation claim.

After you have suffered a work injury in Iowa that leads to a debilitating case of complex regional pain syndrome, you should speak with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer for help in estimating the compensation you will need for current and future medical expenses.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Community Leaders and Iowa Personal Injury Attorney Launch Distracted Driver Program

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)50196 — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

DD- Distracted driving is on the rise and thousands of people are killed and injured each year because of it. Local residents have put a community action plan in place to combat teenage distracted driving. They are paying Newton, Iowa High School students to follow the law in the form of gift cards and a college scholarship. Click Here to find out more.

What is a Fair Settlement in Your Orange County LA Personal Injury Case?

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)50005 — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Los Angeles personal injury lawyer may tell you that you have two years to settle your claim or file a lawsuit after a car accident in California. There should be no regrets when you look back at your personal injury claim. Avoiding fatal mistakes that can wreck your claim will be critical in order to receive a fair settlement.
One of the fatal mistakes a number of accident victims have made is not keeping detailed records. Some Los Angeles personal injury veterans had to learn the hard way. To ensure you don't make the same mistakes keep a detailed record of all your damages.
Economic Vs. Non-Economic Damages
In a personal injury claim you will have two types of damages. The first is referred to as economic damages and the second are called non-economic damages. Economic damages are monetary losses that have been caused by your personal injury accident. Non-economic damages are damages that are not easily summed up with a dollar value.
Recording Non-Economic Damages For Your Personal Injury Claim
As mentioned earlier, it is important to keep detailed records throughout your personal injury claim. Non-economic damages will include intangible harms such as severe pain, humiliation, and loss of companionship, and physical and emotional distress. There may have been opportunities you have lost due to your injuries. There may be trips you can no longer take, or hobbies you can no longer complete.
Receiving Economic Damages For Your Personal Injury Accident
Your personal injury claim will include a number of different economic damages. Keeping a detailed record of your damages will help you to recover the maximum settlement value. Some of these damages will include medical bills, lost pay, services that you are unable to perform because of your injuries, any loss of property, and loss of future wages.
Be Honest When Recording Your Personal Injury Damages
When recording your damages it is important to be honest. Exaggerating your damages could disqualify you in the eyes of a jury.
Learn More About The Fatal Mistakes That Can Wreck Your California Injury Claim
If you would like to learn more about "The Seven Fatal Mistakes That Can Wreck Your a California Personal Injury Accident" visit the BISNAR | CHASE Personal Injury Lawyers website. This book is valued at $14.99 and offered at no cost to California personal injury victims.

Workplace Hazards in Iowa: Fatal Injuries

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)49779 — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Potentially danger lurks in nearly every workplace. If electricity is in use, there's the chance that someone could be electrocuted. Drivers who work long hours are at risk of falling asleep behind the wheel and crashing, and so on. When workplace hazards are not addressed, the risk for injury grows.

If you have lost a loved one in a workplace accident in Iowa, you should speak with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney for assistance in pursuing death benefits in a Workers' Comp claim.

Common Sources of Fatal Workplace Accidents

Besides electrocution and transportation accidents, other sources of fatal workplace accidents include:

Workplace violence - fatal acts of violence are usually carried out by non-employees with intentions of robbery. In rare cases, which tend to make headlines, a disgruntled employee commits an act of fatal violence.
Slip and falls - fatal falls are more common in the construction or landscaping industry. It's crucial that employees be trained in safety procedures and provided with safety equipment to prevent these types of accidents.
Toxic events - this includes chemical and gas leaks, as well as asbestos exposure. Preventing carbon monoxide leaks and ventilation problems are priorities within the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) workplace safety guidelines.

Your Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can give you a thorough explanation of death benefits, which are payable to an employee's surviving spouse, or spouse and children.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Tips on finding a good Des Moines personal injury attorney

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)49698 — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Who does not want the best personal injury lawyer for their legal matter? How can you find the best personal injury lawyer? There are some tips to find-out if you can TRUST the lawyer that you are considering from Des Moines. Treatment- How has the lawyer treated past clients and what do they have to say about his/her services. Did the lawyer return phone calls? Was the client happy with the results? To learn this and much more click here for the full article.

Risk Factors for Violence that Could Lead to an Iowa Workers' Comp Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)49778 — Sat, 26 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Like slip and fall accidents and exposure to chemicals, violence in the workplace is another hazard that can lead to an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were about 1.7 million victims of violent crime in the workplace each year from 1993 to 1999.

The majority of those incidents were simple assaults and about 20% of the incidents were aggravated assaults.

Workers who tended to be victimized the most were:

police officers;
corrections officers; and
taxi drivers.

From 1992 to 2006, there were 11,613 homicides in the workplace, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's nearly 800 workplace homicides a year.

Risk Factors for Violence in the Workplace

Some of the common risk factors for workplace violence include jobs that involve:

public contact;
exchange of money;
delivery of goods, passengers or services;
driving a vehicle such as a police cruiser or taxicab;

working with people who are volatile or unstable in settings such as healthcare, criminal justice or social services;
working late or in the early morning;
working in high-crime areas;
guarding valuable possessions; and
working in a community setting.

If you have been a victim of workplace violence that has resulted in serious injury, you should speak with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney for assistance in filing your Workers' Compensation claim. You attorney may be able to help you maximize your claim to take into the account the full extent of your injuries.

To learn more about common workplace hazards, visit our article library.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Finding a good personal injury attorney in Des Moines, Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)49696 — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

You need to be able to trust the Des Moines personal injury attorney that you hire in your case. What does the attorney's prior clients have to say about how they were treated? How did the attorney do for other clients who were injured? You need to find the answers to these questions and more if you are going to find an good personal injury attorney in Des Moines that you can trust. To learn more check-out this helpful article.

10 Factors in Determining the Value of Your Iowa Personal Injury Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)49340 — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a car accident in Iowa results in injuries, you may be entitled to seek compensation through an Iowa personal injury claim. With the help of a Des Moines personal injury lawyer, you might stand a greater chance at a fair settlement offer.

It may help to know that there are ways you can protect your Iowa personal injury claim. A lawyer can help you determine how this can be done and what your legal options may be after you have suffered serious injuries from a car accident in Iowa.

The top 10 factors commonly used to determine the value of an Iowa personal injury claim include:

medical and hospital expenses;
lost income and/or earning potential;
future medical expenses;
future lost income;
disfigurement/disability;
psychological damage (such as emotional distress);
losses (such as companionship);
car insurance coverage;
amount of property damage; and
percentage of fault.

If you really want to understand the value of your Iowa personal injury claim in particular, you should consider consulting with a Des Moines personal injury lawyer. A lawyer will take the time to sit down with you and thoroughly discuss your case to determine if you have a valid Iowa personal injury claim.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines personal injury lawyer team 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 personal injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

How Fault Affects the Value of Your Iowa Personal Injury Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)49323 — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a car accident in Iowa and you were partially at fault, this will affect the value of your Iowa personal injury claim. Cases in which the victim shares some of the liability can be very complicated, which means you could benefit from the help of a Des Moines personal injury lawyer.

The state of Iowa follows the comparative fault - 51% rule when it comes to assigning responsibility. This means that if you are more than 51% responsible for your car accident in Iowa, you may not recover any damages.

This is why having the help of a Des Moines personal injury lawyer is important, as an attorney can investigate your case to determine liability and what type of evidence will be necessary to help prove your Iowa personal injury claim.

It won't matter how much you have suffered in bodily injuries unless you can prove that your fault, if any, was less than 51%. The insurance company adjusters will do everything they can to hold you responsible, so you will likely need a Des Moines personal injury lawyer working on your side.

It is also important to note that even if your fault is found to be less than 51%, your claim will be reduced in relation to your percentage of fault.

Consulting with a Des Moines personal injury lawyer is the best way to get an estimate on the value of your Iowa personal injury claim. An attorney will work hard to help protect your legal rights after you have been injured in a car accident in Iowa.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines personal injury lawyer team 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 personal injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

What Iowa Workers Need to Know About Treatment for Carpel Tunnel

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)48744 — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Carpel tunnel syndrome affects your wrist and hand and is a work injury that can develop when workers perform the same motions over and over again throughout the course of their workday. Examples of activities that can cause carpel tunnel include typing on a keyboard or working on an assembly line.

This type of work injury may entitle you to receive Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits. It may also be a difficult type of work injury to prove, which is where a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can help.

Treatment for carpel tunnel will depend on how far it has progressed and the severity of the condition. Sometimes a wrist splint is used but many times that is not enough.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce the pain and swelling. To relieve pressure on the median nerve a corticosteroid can sometimes help. This may be taken orally or given as an injection.

Physical therapy is another type of treatment for carpel tunnel which provides a range of exercises that help with stretching and strengthening.

Surgery is the form of treatment most often used when carpel tunnel has persisted beyond 6 months. The two types of surgery, open release surgery and endoscopic surgery, consist of cutting the band of tissue that is around the wrist so that the pressure on the median nerve can be relieved.

If you have any questions concerning your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim for your carpel tunnel syndrome, consulting with a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney should be your next step.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Ankeny work injury attorney workers compensation lawyer

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)48785 — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Do you know that an injured worker with a hand or arm injury resulting in permanent restrictions will usually receive much less money and compensation than a person with a shoulder injury one has the same permanent restrictions? Injuries to your arms, hands, fingers, feet, leg, toes, ears and eyes are what are known as scheduled member injuries. While thera are a few exceptions, compensation for a scheduled member injury is paid based upon the impairment rating given by your doctor once you have healed (known as MMI- maximum medical improvement). Compare this to an industrial disability injury like a injury to your back, neck, shoulder, brain, CRPS- complex regional pain syndrome, spine, hip, mental injuries like anxiety or depression. In an industrial disability work injury claim, your impairment rating is one of many factors such as your age, education, permanent restrictions, to work, etc. If you wonder if you are receiving the correct amount of money each week, are confused, have questions or generally would like to learn more then you should request a copy of our Iowa work injury and workers' compensation book now. To learn more now click here.

Why Carpel Tunnel Syndrome Warrants an Iowa Workers' Compensation Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)48743 — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have suffered a work injury, such as carpel tunnel, you may be entitled to receive Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits. While the development of carpel tunnel may not be as dramatic as a fall or unexpected accident, its repercussions can be just as severe and may lead to incessant numbness and extreme discomfort in your palm, fingers and forearm.

When there is any question that your carpel tunnel is related to your occupation, a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can work with you to help prove your claim.

Carpel tunnel syndrome is caused by repetitive motion most often seen in manual labor, office work, construction, healthcare, mail service and assembly lines.

Pressure that is put on the median nerve because of the limited range of movement in some tasks can cause pain, tingling, numbness and weakness. The symptoms start off affecting the palm and fingers but eventually move to the wrist and up the arm.

This is a progressive condition that if left untreated could lead to the deterioration of the muscles at the thumb's base. It can eventually become difficult to make a fist or grasp objects. The ability to tell the difference between hot and cold sensations can also become a problem.

If you have suffered any type of work injury, like carpel tunnel, you may be entitled to receive Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits. A Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can help you pursue compensation to account for your medical bills and recovery time.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

10 Rights You Have After Sustaining a Work Injury in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)48223 — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have experienced a work injury in Iowa, you probably have lots of questions about your rights in an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. A Workers' Compensation attorney in Altoona can provide answers to any questions you may have concerning your work injury and how to protect your claim.

To help highlight some of the key areas in which you have certain rights under Iowa Workers' Compensation law, we've listed 10 rights you have after sustaining a work injury. After a work injury you have the right to:

see your own doctor;
seek alternative medical care;
receive payments for lifelong medical care;
receive cash payments for permanent disability (if applicable);
payment of medical expenses, including mileage to work injury-related appointments;
refuse recommended medical care;
receive payments while you are recovering and not able to work;
receive an independent medical examination;
keep your job; and
find a different job.

While these rights exist, some of them, such as your right to see your own doctor after a work injury, come with pretty important caveats. You'll want to talk to a Workers' Compensation attorney in Altoona before you take any significant steps in your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim to ensure that your actions don't inadvertently harm your claim in any way.

Working with a Workers' Compensation attorney in Altoona early in your claim can help you to know what you should and should not do in order to protect your claim.

Contacting a Workers' Compensation Attorney in Altoona

The Altoona Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Understanding Your Right to See Your Own Doctor as a Result of a Work Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)48222 — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

With a work injury there are often a number of questions concerning your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. For instance, you may have concerns about whether you have the right to see your own doctor. Since a work injury claim can be one of the more complex cases to encounter, you would benefit from speaking with a Workers' Compensation attorney in Altoona.

According to Iowa law, since your employer and their insurance company are responsible for taking care of your medical expenses they have the right to choose a doctor for you.

Of course you can still go ahead and see your own doctor but the risk in that is your medical bills may not be paid. Additionally, they may not be willing to follow the recommendations of your doctor. So if your doctor advises you to take a certain amount of time off from work, it may interfere with the security of your Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits.

You do have the option to file a petition in order to see your own doctor but there are additional complications associated with this. Therefore, consulting with a Workers' Compensation attorney in Altoona may be a necessary step in ensuring you don't do anything to inadvertently harm your claim.

Understanding your rights, including your right to see a doctor after a work injury is easier with the help of a Workers' Compensation attorney in Altoona. While your employer may not inform you of the rights you have, an attorney will make sure that you understand them.

Contacting a Workers' Compensation Attorney in Altoona

The Altoona Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Lawsuit Myths and Misconceptions in Iowa Car Accidents, Dog Bites and Personal Injury

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)48068 — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

We would like to hear from you about topics you would like us to write about and suggestions for future articles. Just post your comment and we may answer your questions about Iowa lawsuits involving personal injuries, dog bites, car accidents and other personal injury matters in our next edition of the Iowa Legal Insider, our monthly newsletter that we offer at no cost because we have seen too many Iowans make expensive mistakes costing them of thousands and sometimes their entire case.

Seeking First Aid after a Dog Bite in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)47763 — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's understandable that you will be shaken up immediately after you or your child has been the victim of a dog attack in Iowa. There may be serious injuries with bleeding, the fear of rabies and the risk of other infections.

After suffering injury from a dog attack in Iowa, consider the following guidelines for treatment:

For minor wounds: If you know for a fact that the dog that attacked you does not have rabies (such as your family pet), and if the dog bite barely broke your skin, cleanse the site with soap and water. Apply an antibiotic cream and cover it with a bandage. You should also observe the wound for signs of infection, including redness, oozing, swelling and pain. A sign of infection means you need prompt medical attention.
For deep wounds: If you suffered a puncture wound after the dog attack, or if your skin has been raggedly cut and is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth and get prompt medical treatment.
For rabid dog attacks: If you have any reason to believe the dog that attacked you has rabies, get medical attention immediately. If you are uncertain whether the dog has rabies, play it on the safe side and get immediate attention.

Dog owners in Iowa can be held accountable for injuries their pets cause in a dog attack. When your injuries are severe, a Des Moines dog bite lawyer might be able to help you seek compensation for current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering and lost wages.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of medical treatment for dog bite injuries. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Emotional Injuries in Children after a Dog Attack in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)47741 — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

After your child has been the victim of a dog attack in Iowa and received medical treatment, you should be on the lookout for symptoms of emotional injuries. These include fear, withdrawal, depression and anger, and they may occur immediately or some time later.

Based on your injured child's age, he or she might experience the following reactions after a dog attack in Iowa:

5 years old and younger: fear of being away from their parent, crying, screaming, aimless motion, trembling, excessive clinging, bed wetting, thumb sucking, and fear of darkness.
6 to 11 years old: extreme withdrawal, inattentiveness, disruptive behavior, nightmares, irrational fears, outburst of anger, fighting, refusal to attend school, depression, feelings of guilt, emotional numbing, and bodily symptoms that lack medical basis.
12 to 17 years old: nightmares, flashbacks, emotional numbing, substance abuse, depression, problems with peers, avoiding things that remind them of the event, isolation, suicidal thoughts, physical complaints, sleep disturbances, confusion, and guilt for not preventing the dog attack in Iowa.

Children could also develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if these symptoms persist for more than a month. Signs of PTSD include:

re-experiencing the dog attack through nightmares, flashbacks or events that resemble the attack;
avoiding reminders of the dog attack or generally lacking responsiveness; and/or
sleep disturbances, concentration problems, or regressive behavior (bed wetting, thumb sucking).

A Des Moines dog bite lawyer might be able to help you get the compensation you need to help your child recover physically and emotionally from the dog attack in Iowa. You might be eligible for compensation for current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering and time you missed from work to care for your child.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of medical treatment for dog bite injuries. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Iowa Motor Vehicle and Car Accident Tips to Avoid Mistakes

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)47334 — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Motor vehicle and car accidents account for a large percentage of the personal injury cases in Iowa. In order for a person injured in one of these accidents to make a financial recovery there are things you have to prove. The first thing you have to do is to prove fault which can be negligence, recklessness or carelessness of another driver. There are other important things to know when pursuing your personal injury claim.

Dangers to Avoid in your Iowa Work Injury Compensation Matter

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)47326 — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a worker sustains a work injury it is common to try to shake-off the injury and hope that the pain and problems will go away. While sometimes the pain goes away immediately, if you are having problems then you need to report your work injury. Also, keep in mind that there are several dangers to avoid.

When to See a Doctor if You Suspect a Herniated Disc

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)47248 — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you think you may have suffered a herniated disc in a Newton work accident, you should immediately report your work injuries to your employer and ask for a referral to the physician that handles their Workers' Compensation cases.

To be safe, it's best to see a doctor after any work injury, regardless of how you are feeling. When you experience the following symptoms, prompt medical attention is crucial:

the pain in your leg includes persistent tingling, numbness or weakness anywhere from your buttock to your foot;
you have new pain in your lower back and you are vomiting or have a temperature of 101 degrees or higher that has lasted more than 2 days;
your leg pain or weakness, tingling or numbness has persisted for more than a week, despite home treatment;
your back pain is persistent or it has intensified;
you are certain that you injured your back in a Newton work accident and the symptoms have not improved in 3 days;
along with back pain, you have pain when you are urinating or there is blood in your urine;
your back is worse when resting than it is when you are active; and
you notice bladder and bowel problems.

Your doctor will perform a physical exam and they may order an MRI or CT scan. Treatment will depend on the severity of your herniated disc and could include medication, physical therapy and/or surgery.

For help filing a Workers' Compensation claim after your Newton work accident, you should consult with a Newton Workers' Compensation attorney. While you focus on recovery, your attorney can work with your employer's insurer in efforts to secure fair compensation for you.

Contacting a Newton Workers' Compensation Attorney

A herniated disc can cause you to miss time from work as your bills pile up. The Newton Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Serious Complications from a Herniated Disc

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)47246 — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Physically demanding jobs that require a lot of pushing, pulling and lifting could lead to a herniated disc and an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. Some of the symptoms of a herniated disc include pain in one leg or arm, tingling, numbness and muscle weakness.

If a herniated disc ruptures in the center of the spinal canal and produces a large fragment, the result could be cauda equina syndrome. This rare complication of a herniated disc involves the fragment compressing a group of nerve roots at the end of the spinal cord. The symptoms include:

Worsening herniated disc symptoms: Numbness, weakness or pain might increase, preventing you from performing your ordinary activities of daily living.
Loss of bladder or bowel control: You might become incontinent in your urinary or gastrointestinal system. You might also have difficulty urinating when your bladder is full.
Saddle anesthesia: You will progressively lose sensation in your inner thighs, the back of your legs and around your rectum, the parts of your body that would touch a saddle.

If you experience these symptoms, you need to get to an emergency room as soon as possible. Emergency surgery is necessary to avoid paralysis or permanent weakness.

As you recuperate from a herniated disc, you should consult with a Newton Workers' Compensation attorney, who can go over your case and work to hold your employer's insurer accountable for the full extent of your medical expenses and lost earnings.

Contacting a Newton Workers' Compensation Attorney

A herniated disc can cause you to miss time from work as your bills pile up. The Newton Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Common Causes of an Elevator Shaft Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)46819 — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Working on any construction site always comes with the risk of accident and injury. However, you can take steps to prevent construction accidents such as falling into an elevator shaft and suffering a serious injury. In the event that you do suffer a serious injury because of falling into an elevator shaft, a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can work with you to fight for a fair settlement in your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

Some of the common causes of elevator shaft accidents include:

defective equipment;
improperly installed equipment;
failure to maintain equipment;
inadequate safety measures;
lack of training;
lack of experience;
failure to provide protective gear and equipment; and
unprotected openings, sides or edges.

Most injuries occurring as a result of falling into an elevator shaft include head trauma, nerve damage, spinal cord injury, paralysis or even death. Relatively "minor" injuries such as broken bones and lacerations can mean extensive medical bills and time spent away from work.

A Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can help you navigate the complex world of Iowa Workers' Compensation if you have suffered an elevator shaft injury while on the job.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

An On-the-Job Injury Resulting from an Elevator Shaft Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)46817 — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you fell into an elevator shaft while on the job and suffered a serious injury, you may be eligible to receive Iowa Workers' Compensation. A Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney can assist you with the claims process, including helping you if your claim is denied or delayed.

There are a number of reasons an elevator shaft accident could potentially occur. Whether it is a problem with the equipment, a failure to provide protective measures or lack of training, this type of accident can be fatal.

Falls into an elevator shaft can leave individuals facing a long and hard road of recovery. This is especially true if they suffer injuries to the neck, head, back or spinal cord. In addition, individuals may suffer multiple broken bones, lacerations and other injuries that will affect their ability to continue to work.

Unfortunately, the Iowa Workers' Compensation claim process is fairly complex and can be confusing for someone who isn't well versed in how to file a claim for an on-the-job injury. You may need the help of an experienced Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney in the course of seeking your full benefits under Workers' Compensation.

An elevator shaft accident can leave you with serious injuries, but Iowa Workers' Compensation is designed to help cover injury-related expenses when you are hurt while on the job. A Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney will work hard to fight for the benefits to which you may be entitled.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Inherent Dangers of a Trench Collapse in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)46329 — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Trench work can pose serious dangers for construction workers, death included. While numerous nationally mandated safety standards are in place to prevent the incidence of a trench collapse accident, they unfortunately can, and still do, occur.

The initial dangers associated with a trench collapse in Iowa include the obvious - injuries from a fall into a trench, or injuries sustained from contact with other falling debris may immediately come to mind. Considering the weight and size of equipment on a construction site and of materials such as concrete, the danger of injury from hitting such objects during a trench collapse is great.

Still other, less obvious dangers exist. When a trench collapse in Iowa occurs, a construction worker can literally be buried in hundreds of pounds of soil, which can lead to asphyxiation or suffocation from the pressure of the ground on your body, even when only buried up to the neck.

In other cases, toxic fumes in a trench can lead to serious and even fatal injury when the air conditions within the trench are not properly monitored. This risk is exacerbated in the event of a collapse.

Trench excavation near utility lines also poses special dangers. If workers accidentally strike a utility line, they could face electrocution or even injury from an explosion and resulting trench collapse.

When the effect weather conditions such as rain and storms have on soil are not properly taken into account, the danger of drowning from a flash flood or mudslide increases.

If you've been injured in a trench collapse in Iowa, you most likely will want to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. To be sure of how you should proceed, you'll want to seek counsel from a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

When a Failure to Follow Safety Standards Leads to an Iowa Trench Collapse

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)46291 — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's no secret that trench and excavation work on a construction site is dangerous. In fact, 271 fatal construction injuries occurred as a result of trench collapse accidents, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics numbers from 2000 to 2006.

Accordingly, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has mandated a number of safety procedures construction companies and contractors must follow to prevent a trench collapse accident.

Some of the trench safety standards include:

use of protective boxes or restraints;
use of tests to determine the levels of oxygen or toxic fumes;
use of tests to determine soil conditions; and
daily inspections of the construction site and trench conditions.

Unfortunately, when safety standards are not followed, a trench collapse in Iowa can occur and may leave you and other fellow workers with severe injuries. When this happens, you may file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim to cover your medical expenses and a percentage of your lost wages, depending on the severity of your construction injury.

While filing an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim for your trench collapse injuries is one of the first steps you must take to account for your losses, be aware that you may not be offered adequate benefits, and that the doctor your employer's insurance carrier chooses may not satisfactorily evaluate your condition. To reduce this chance, you may want to hire a Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney as early as possible to help with your claim.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Des Moines Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

What to do after a Construction Accident in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)45972 — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a construction accident in Iowa, then there are several important steps that you will need to take-this most often involves seeking medical and financial assistance. These steps can help you protect your legal rights when you seek compensation through a Workers' Compensation claim.

This first thing to do to after a construction accident in Iowa is to get medical help for your injury. Once you have received the necessary medical attention, you must report the injury to your employer and/or your construction site manager. Once you have done this, you may begin to seek steps toward financial compensation that will account for your medical care and time you've lost at work.

Before you attempt to file a Workers' Compensation claim yourself, consider working with an Iowa Workers' Compensation lawyer to help you with your claim. This is because sometimes, your employer's insurer may deny your Workers' Compensation claim or the settlement offer will be too low, causing frustrating delays and financial burdens.

In an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, you may recover your medical expenses, a percentage of any wages that you've lost, and any wages that you may lose in the future, depending on the extent of your injuries and disabilities. A Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer can work with you and help fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

An injury in the workplace can have devastating consequences. The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no cost consultation - 1-888-792-3595.

Failure to Follow Construction Site Regulations

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)45973 — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

In the United States, construction site regulations are established by the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OHSA), which was enacted in 1970. These regulations were established to protect the health and safety of employees in the workplace. The OSHA regulations set standards for worksites such as:

general safety and health;
protective equipment;
rigging equipment for the handling of materials;
fire prevention;
electrical wiring design;
scaffold specifications; and
fall protection.

A failure to abide by OSHA safety regulations may result in a construction accident in Iowa. If you have been injured in a construction accident in Iowa, and OSHA and other safety standards were violated, you may be able to use such violations as evidence in your Iowa Workers' Compensation claim.

To help your Workers' Compensation claim get addressed as efficiently as possible, you may find it will help to hire an experienced Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer to keep you organized and protect your rights during the claims process.

In an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, you may recover your medical expenses and a percentage of any wages that you've lost, and any wages that you may lose in the future, depending on the extent of your injuries. A Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer can help you understand your rights and if necessary, negotiate for a better settlement with the insurance company.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

An injury in the workplace can have devastating consequences. The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 1-888-792-3595.

Internal Bleeding in Muscles and Joints

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)45393 — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a car accident in Iowa, you may have suffered from internal bleeding in your muscles or your joints. Internal bleeding in the muscles may prevent enough blood from getting to the muscle cells, which may cause the muscle cells to die.

Symptoms of this type of internal bleeding include:

intense pain in the muscles;
difficulty moving joints below the point of the injury; and
a general loss of sensation.

Internal bleeding related to the muscles is most typically seen in the forearm or shin and may or may not be related to a broken bone. In extreme cases of internal bleeding in the muscles, compartment syndrome may develop, which is when the oxygen supply to the nerves and muscles is cut off.

If there is internal bleeding in the joints, significant pain and a loss of range of motion could result. Internal bleeding may also occur in the head, chest, abdomen and other parts of the body.

All of these forms of internal bleeding require immediate medical attention and may result in the need for long-term medical treatment, especially if damage is done to the organs, muscles, nerves or other areas of the body. If you were involved in an accident and suffered from internal bleeding as a result, you should consult with a Des Moines car accident lawyer to learn more about possibly filing an injury claim against the liable party.

Contacting a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Des Moines car accident lawyer team 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 - 1-888-792-3595.

The Dangers of Internal Bleeding After an Iowa Car Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)45392 — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

When someone suffers internal bleeding after a car accident in Iowa, there may be complications that result from the bleeding. Depending on where the internal bleeding occurs, it may cause organ failure, shock, and in the worst cases, even death.

For instance, someone who suffers from uncontrolled bleeding to the chest or abdomen may lose enough red blood cells to hinder the delivery of oxygen to the body. If the internal bleeding is not stopped in this situation, the patient may die as a result. Blood transfusions are sometimes used in these cases.

On the other hand, internal bleeding in the brain may cause enough damage to the brain tissue to cause a coma and ultimately death. This can be very similar to experiencing a stroke.

To determine whether someone suffers from internal bleeding, a medical practitioner may conduct one of many types of imaging tests such as a CT scan (computerized tomography) or an ultrasound. Physicians may even utilize an endoscopy or colonoscopy if the internal bleeding is suspected in the esophagus, stomach or colon.

Since the risks associated with internal bleeding are so severe, it underscores the importance of immediate medical attention after an accident, even if you don't have any immediate symptoms of a serious injury.

If you have suffered from internal bleeding in a car accident in Iowa and that accident was the result of someone else's negligence, you may be eligible for compensation through a personal injury claim. You can learn more about whether or not you have a valid case by consulting with an experienced Des Moines car accident lawyer.

Contacting a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Iowa car accident lawyer team 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 - 1-888-792-3595.

Iowa Workman's Comp: Disability Benefits

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)44252 — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

When you file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim , you may be entitled to compensation for your loss of wages. This type of compensation is commonly referred to as disability benefits in Workers' Compensation terms. When you receive disability benefits in Iowa, your total weekly compensation will not exceed 80% of your weekly spendable earnings.

In this case, your weekly rate is determined by your average gross weekly earnings, your number of exemptions, and your marital status. The weekly benefit amount will be based upon a 7 day calendar week.

As of July 1, 2010, the maximum weekly disability benefit rate for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) is $1306. The maximum weekly disability benefit rate for Temporary Total Disability (TTD), Permanent Total Disability (PTD), and death benefits is $1420. These rates are established through June 30, 2011.

If you have been injured in an Iowa work accident , then in an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim you may be able to recover your medical expenses, any wages that you have lost, and any wages that you may lose in the future.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

An injury in the workplace can have devastating consequences. The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595.

Iowa Workman's Comp: Choosing Medical Care

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)44247 — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a work related accident in Iowa, you may choose to file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. In an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, you may be compensated for your medical expenses. However, subject to a few exceptions you will not be permitted to choose your doctors and other medical providers.

When you file an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, your employer will provide the necessary medical care, and they have the right to choose the medical care provider. If you are not satisfied with your employer's choice of medical care, you can discuss the issue with the employer, or with the insurance adjustor assigned to your case.

If you are denied alternate medical care by your employer and their insurance company, then there is a procedure available to request that the care be ordered by the Workers' Compensation Commissioner. However, there are certain steps that must be followed prior to filing a petition for alternative medical care and you should consult with a qualified Iowa workers' compensation attorney.

If you have been injured in an Iowa work accident, you may be eligible for compensation. In an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim, the available benefits are medical care and treatment usually chosen by your employer or their health insurance company, compensation for time you miss from work healing from your work injuries and compensation for permanent disability which if your injury is an industrial injury (back, neck, shoulder, brain, RSD/CRPS, etc.) then this is based upon your loss of earning capacity.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

An injury in the workplace can have devastating consequences. The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595.

Iowa Work Injury Fall Claims: Time Limits & Other Considerations

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)43286 — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

In any circumstance involving a workplace injury in Iowa, time is of the essence if you have any hope of recovering compensation in a Workers' Compensation claim. For instance, if you are injured in a fall accident on a construction site in Iowa and have suffered a severe leg injury that will prevent you from working for an extended period, you must follow certain protocol to be eligible for compensation.

According to Iowa Workers' Compensation law, an employer must be notified of an injury within 90 days of its occurrence. This 90-day period begins when the employee knows, or should have known, about the injury that they have suffered. If the injury is not reported in this 90-day period, the claim may be denied. Therefore, it is in your best interest to always error on the side of caution and seek medical attention in the case of a workplace accident. That way, you have a better chance of detecting an injury early on and can follow Iowa Workers' Compensation rules by taking the necessary steps to report it to your employer.

Keep in mind that an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim will not extend to any previous or preexisting injuries. This means that if you already had a back injury that was aggravated by your fall during a scaffold accident, there is a chance that the insurance company will try to use this to deny your claim. A Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer can help you to address these types of roadblocks on your claim.

Workplace injuries like those that can occur during a work injury fall accident can be quite serious. To learn more about your options for recovery after a work injury fall accident, please visit our article library.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

An injury in the workplace can have devastating consequences. The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no cost consultation - 888-792-3595

After an Iowa Work Injury Fall Accident: Eligibility for Compensation

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)43285 — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

A fall injury or accident can be one of the most damaging mishaps that can occur in the workplace. A fall accident can result in serious injuries that cause a great deal of pain, or even disability, and you may be unable to work for a long time. If you or a loved one fell at work in Iowa and sustained injuries then you should learn about your rights.

If you have been inured at work in a fall accident in Iowa, you may be eligible for compensation in an Iowa Workers' Compensation claim. In fact, most employees who are injured while on the job in Iowa, and who work under contract of hire in the state, or whose principal place of employment is in Iowa, are eligible for Workers' Compensation benefits.

Therefore, if you have been injured in a scaffold accident or other work injury in Iowa, and your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be eligible for compensation for:

your medical expenses (as they reasonably relate to your workplace injury);

any permanent injury or disability; and
any wages you have lost.

To learn more about what to do when you are injured in a fall accident and your options for compensation, please visit our article library.

Contacting a Des Moines Workers' Compensation Lawyer

An injury in the workplace can have devastating consequences. The Des Moines Workers' Compensation lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595

Iowa Winter Driving Tips- How to Avoid a Car Accident in Iowa due to snow and ice

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)42242 — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Iowa winters sometimes create havoc on our roads because of snow and ice. There are 3 tips that will help you and your family avoid a car accident this winter in Iowa.

Determining Negligence After an Accident in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)41310 — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a car accident in Des Moines, there is no set formula that a court may use to determine your percentage of negligence. To determine negligence after an accident in Des Moines, an insurance adjuster will investigate the facts surrounding the accident and determine whose carelessness was the cause of the crash and subsequent injuries.

If the adjuster determines that you were partially at fault for the accident in Des Moines, then you may still be eligible for compensation. However, your percentage of negligence cannot reach 51%. If your percentage of negligence for an accident in Des Moines does reach 51%, then you will not be eligible for compensation.

If your percentage of fault is determined to be less than 51%, then your total recovery will be reduced by that percentage. This means that part of your attorney's goal will be to demonstrate that your negligence was much lower in comparison with that of the other driver's.

If you have been injured in a car accident in Des Moines, then the negligence law in Iowa will have a direct impact on your injury claim. Your Des Moines accident lawyer can talk to you about the evidence needed to demonstrate your degree of fault and other critical aspects of your Iowa personal injury claim.

Contacting a Des Moines Accident Lawyer

Iowa negligence law will have a direct impact on your Iowa personal injury claim. The Des Moines accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 - 888-792-3595.

Treatment for Burn Injuries

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)41230 — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Treatment for burn injuries will depend on the kind of burn that the accident victim has sustained. First degree burn injuries to a victim's skin may be treated with antibiotic creams. Aloe vera may also be used to treat mild skin burns and abrasions. In addition to hydrating and soothing the skin, these creams may help to prevent infection.

On the other end of the spectrum, if a victim has suffered from third degree burn injuries, then they may need skin grafts or synthetic grafts. These grafts will cover the tissue that has been exposed, and encourage new skin to grow. Besides medical treatments, a victim may need psychological counseling for trauma and depression related to the accident. In addition, counseling may be necessary to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with any scars or disabilities the burns caused.

It's helpful to know that if someone you love has sustained burn injuries because of someone else's negligence, that you do have legal options for seeking compensation. This compensation can help with medical treatments and counseling as well as compensate the victim for the pain and suffering, among other considerations.

To learn more about filing an Iowa personal claim after you or a loved one has sustained serious burn injuries, you can consult with a Des Moines accident lawyer.

Contacting a Des Moines Accident Lawyer

Iowa negligence law may affect your personal injury claim. The Des Moines accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595.

Common Types of Burn Injuries

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)41229 — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are several common types of burn injuries that can result from an accident in Des Moines. For instance, a car accident victim can sustain burn injuries from an explosion or fire. If the accident involved a commercial truck that was carrying chemical liquids, then a victim may suffer from chemical burns.

The seriousness and care required for the specific type of burn injury sustained would be taken into direct consideration in your personal injury claim.

In the home, burn injuries can occur because of a number of risk factors. For instance, defective appliances can result in electrocution burns. If burn injuries are caused by a dangerous or defective product, then you may be eligible for compensation in a product liability claim.

Since children are often the victims of household burn injuries, a negligent caretaker such as a babysitter may be held liable if your child suffered a serious burn injury while in their care.

To learn more about filing a personal injury claim after you or a loved one has sustained serious burn injuries, you can consult with a Des Moines accident lawyer. An attorney will work with you to build a case that can account for the long-term ramifications of your burn injuries, from lost wages at work to continuing rehabilitative care.

Contacting a Des Moines Accident Lawyer

Iowa negligence law may affect your personal injury claim. The Des Moines accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595.

Iowa's 51% Rule of Comparative Fault

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)41308 — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a car accident in Des Moines that was partly your fault, you may still be able to recover compensation. This holds true when you are 50% or less at fault for an accident. If your percentage of fault exceeds 50%, then you will not be able to seek damages. In other words, if you are 51% or more at fault for an accident in Des Moines, then you will not be eligible for compensation.

If your percentage of fault was less than 51% and your Iowa personal injury claim is successful, your total recovery will be reduced by your own percentage of negligence. For instance, if it is determined that you were 10% responsible for an accident in Des Moines, and you are awarded $100,000 in an Iowa personal injury claim, then your total recovery will be $90,000 ($100,000 - 10% = $90,000).

To know more about Iowa's 51% rule of comparative fault, or to file an Iowa personal injury claim, you can seek the services of a Des Moines accident lawyer. After a car accident in Des Moines, a Des Moines accident lawyer may help you build a claim to account for your medical expenses, any pain you have suffered and any wages that you may have lost.

Contacting a Des Moines Accident Lawyer

Iowa negligence law will directly affect your Iowa personal injury claim. The Des Moines accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 - 888-792-3595.

My child has been bitten by a dog. What should I do next?

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40191 — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

If your child has been the victim of a dog bite attack in Des Moines, you should immediately:

Get the necessary medical attention - whether this is to check for rabies, get a few stitches, or emergency cosmetic surgery, the victim should be taken to the hospital right away.
Call the appropriate authorities, such as the local animal control center, as well as the local police - by reporting the incident to animal control, the authorities can take the necessary steps to prevent another dog bite attack. By notifying the police, you can obtain a written report of the incident, which can support your injury claim.
Document the victim's injuries by taking photographs, and keeping any medical records and medical receipts - these things can be used as evidence in a personal injury claim.
Contact a Des Moines dog bite lawyer, and give them the details of the incident.

When you contact a Des Moines dog bite lawyer, give them all the information that you have about the dog attack, including copies of police reports, medical records, and information about the dog's owners. Your Des Moines dog bite lawyer can help you pursue compensation in a personal injury claim for your child's medical expenses, any pain they have suffered, damages for scarring and trauma that was caused.

If your child has been the victim of a dog bite attack in Des Moines, you may claim compensation. First, you should gather any evidence that may support your claim. Before making your claim, you should get the professional advice of a Des Moines dog bite lawyer.

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

A dog bite attack in Des Moines can leave a child with serious injuries. The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your child's Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no cost consultation - 888-792-3595

Dog Bite Injury Statistics

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40189 — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the odds are 3.2 to 1 that a dog bite victim will be a child. In fact, most severe dog bite injuries occur to children under the age of 10. If you or someone you love has been the victim of a dog bite attack in Des Moines, you should get the professional help of a Des Moines dog bite lawyer.

According to national dog bite statistics:

dogs bite nearly 2% of the U.S. population annually, approximately 4.7 million people;
almost 800,000 bites per year require medical attention;
in the majority of dog bite attacks, the attacking dog belonged to the victim's family or friend; and
the majority of dog bite attacks happen at home, or in a familiar place.

Needless to say, it is not uncommon for someone to suffer from a dog bite attack in Des Moines. If a dog has attacked someone who has suffered serious personal injuries, they may be eligible for compensation in an Iowa personal injury claim. To pursue compensation, a victim will have to file their claim with the responsible insurer.

A Des Moines dog bite lawyer can help you to file your injury claim, so be sure to gather any evidence of your dog bite attack in Des Moines to bolster your case.

Contacting an Des Moines Dog Bite Lawyer

A dog bite attack in Des Moines can leave the victim with serious injuries. The Des Moines dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595

Treating Whiplash After an SUV Accident in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40889 — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries that can result from an SUV accident in Iowa. This can occur when a sudden impact causes damage to soft tissues of the neck. Whiplash can also be the result of an injury to the back nerves, ligaments and muscles.

If an accident victim has sustained a whiplash injury, the treatments may include:

prescriptive medications to treat pain and inflammation;
physical therapy;
infrared heat;
hot or cold packs;
paraffin bath;
hydrotherapy;
diathermy;
electrical stimulation;
traction; and
massage.

Another common treatment for whiplash is a steroid injection.

If you have suffered whiplash after an SUV accident in Iowa, then your medical expenses may be compensated through an Iowa personal injury claim. To file an Iowa personal injury claim for a whiplash injury or other injuries that may result from an SUV accident in Iowa, talk with a Des Moines SUV accident lawyer.

A lawyer can work with you to collect evidence which proves the other driver's negligence in your accident. While you focus on recovery, your lawyer can represent you throughout every stage of the claims process.

Contacting a Des Moines SUV Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages after an SUV accident in Iowa can be complicated. The Des Moines SUV accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 - 888-792-3595.

SUV Accident Injuries: Limb Injuries

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40890 — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Some of the most common injuries in an SUV accident in Iowa are to a victim's limbs. This may be to the upper limbs, such as the hands, forearms or shoulders; or to the lower limbs, such as the hips, legs, knees or feet. No matter which limbs are injured in an SUV accident in Iowa, the victim will most likely require medical attention and treatment.

Typically, a fractured limb will require a cast or splint. If the injury is severe, such as with a rotator cuff injury, then surgery may be required. If surgery is necessary, then a victim may need rehabilitation therapy to recover strength and range of motion.

In the case of a serious hip or knee injury, a total hip replacement or total knee replacement may ultimately be required. These are costly procedures, and can leave a victim with tremendous medical expenses. Such expenses may be compensated in an Iowa personal injury claim if another party's negligence caused your accident and resulting injuries.

To file a claim for compensation after an SUV accident in Iowa, you'll want to contact a Des Moines SUV accident lawyer.

There are a number of common injuries that can result from an SUV accident in Iowa. This includes whiplash, spinal cord injuries and even traumatic brain injuries. Fortunately, with the help of a Des Moines SUV accident lawyer, you may be able to recover damages in a personal injury claim.

Contacting a Des Moines SUV Accident Lawyer

The Des Moines SUV accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 - 888-792-3595.

Iowa Statute of Limitations for a Personal Injury Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40660 — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to the Iowa statute of limitations, if you have been injured in an accident in Iowa, you will have a certain amount of time to file a personal injury claim. In Iowa, the time limit to file a personal injury claim is 2 years from the date of injury with the discovery rule under limited circumstances. This means that if you do not file a claim within 2 years of the date of your injury, then you will probably no longer be eligible for compensation.

To find out how the Iowa statute of limitations applies to your personal injury claim, you can consult an experienced Des Moines personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help to ensure that you file your injury claim on time.

If you have been injured in an accident in Iowa, it is important to file your claim on time. Otherwise, because of the Iowa statute of limitations, you may lose the opportunity to claim compensation. A Des Moines personal injury lawyer can help you to file your claim in the proper jurisdiction within the required time frame to protect your claim.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines personal injury lawyer team 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 - 888-792-3595.

Iowa Statute of Limitations for Filing an Injury Claim After a Dog Bite

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40662 — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to the Iowa statute of limitations, if you have been injured in Iowa as a result of a dog bite attack, you will have a certain amount of time to file a dog bite claim. In Iowa, the time limit to file a dog bite lawsuit is dictated by the statute of limitations to file a personal injury claim. This time limit is 2 years from the date of injury, but keep in mind that different rules can if a minor was injured. If a minor child is injured, then the claim for medical bills must be filed within 2 years of the incident, but other claims can be filed within 1 year of the minor child turning 18. However, it is always a good idea to obtain legal advice at least several months before the 2 years applies as there are exceptions.

What this means is that, if you do not file a lawsuit within 2 years of the date of your injury, then your claim will be barred and you will no longer receive any compensation for your injuries. This 2 year statute of limitations applies to almost all personal injury claims relating to dog bites, car accidents, and other motor vehicle accidents (trucks, motorcycles, etc.).

Being aware of the 2-year statute of limitations is important as exceeding this timeframe could cause you to lose any right to compensation you might have received. Speaking to a Des Moines personal injury lawyer can help you better understand how this statute of limitation can affect your claim and what you need to do to ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

If you have been injured by a dog bite attack in Iowa, it is important to file your claim on time. If you do not do this, the Iowa statute of limitations dictates that you may lose the opportunity to claim compensation.

Contacting a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer

The Des Moines personal injury lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 888-792-3595.

Preventing Iowa Construction Accidents: OSHA Crane Safety Regulations

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40178 — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established strict regulations regarding the safety and maintenance of cranes. These regulations are meant to prevent a serious crane accident in Iowa.

Some of OSHA's regulations regarding the safety and maintenance of cranes include mandates on:

testing a crane's hoist and its upper limits switch;
ensuring that employees cannot walk within the crane's swing radius;
checking outriggers to see that they are properly assembled and stable; and
creating a plan for lifting loads.

Furthermore, OSHA crane safety regulations provide standards for crane modifications, clearance from power lines, lighting, hoists, inspections and overloading. If you have questions regarding OSHA crane safety regulations or believe that a potential violation played a role in your crane accident in Iowa, you can consult an experienced Iowa construction accident lawyer.

If you have been injured in a crane accident in Iowa, and the accident was a result of someone's failure to follow OSHA crane safety regulations, then you may be eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim. In a claim, you may be compensated for your medical expenses, any pain that you have suffered and any wages that you may have lost.

An Iowa construction accident lawyer can help you to file your claim and gather medical records, witness statements and other documents to substantiate your claim that an OSHA violation resulted in your injuries.

Contacting an Iowa Construction Accident Lawyer

A crane accident in Iowa can leave the victim with serious injuries. The Iowa construction accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595.

How a Crane Accident in Iowa Can Occur

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)40179 — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a crane accident is one of the most common accidents to occur on a construction site. And because of this, OSHA has established strict regulations for the safety and maintenance of cranes. If a business owner or contractor fails to observe these regulations, then the result may be a devastating or fatal crane accident in Iowa.

Some of the most common types of crane accidents that occur on a construction site include:

collapse (from overloading, improper assembly or poor manufacturing);
buckling of the boom;
overturning;
dropping loads;
oversteering; and
striking a construction worker or bystander.

Furthermore, more than 40% of crane accidents are a result of electrocution. This is because cranes are tall and have a wide range of motion, which makes them susceptible to hitting power lines. If you have been injured in a crane accident in Iowa, and the accident was a result of someone's failure to follow safety regulations, then you may be eligible for compensation in an Iowa personal injury claim.

An Iowa personal injury claim can help cover your medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering that may have been caused from a crane accident in Iowa. An Iowa construction accident lawyer can help you to file a claim, gather necessary documents to support your claim and represent you with insurance adjusters, and in court, if necessary.

Contacting an Iowa Construction Accident Lawyer

A crane accident in Iowa can leave the victim with serious injuries. The Iowa construction accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. 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 - 888-792-3595.

Common Types of Fatal Truck Accidents in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39667 — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

An Iowa truck accident is perhaps one of the most dangerous types of accidents that you can experience. An Iowa truck accident can result in steep medical expenses, permanent physical injuries, and in the worst-case scenarios, even death. If you have been the victim of an Iowa truck accident, then you may be eligible for compensation.

Three types of Iowa truck accidents that have the highest potential for fatal injuries include the:

Jackknife - This occurs when a large truck's trailer skids forward, collides with the truck, folds up at a 90 degree angle, and comes crashing upside down. In this type of Iowa truck accident, the driver has no control over the truck, and anyone involved in the accident can suffer serious harm.
Rollover - A rollover occurs when a truck rolls over, either once or several times. This can be a result of speeding or misjudging a curve, and the driver has no control over how many times the truck will roll, or where it will stop.
Tire Blowout - Just like any motor vehicle, a truck can have a tire blowout, but the consequences of a truck blowout can be significantly more damaging. In these instances, the driver may lose complete control and crash into buildings, other vehicles or even pedestrians.

There are 5 common types of truck accidents that can result in serious injuries. If you have been injured in an Iowa truck accident, then you may be eligible for compensation. To find out more about your legal options, you can speak to an Iowa truck accident lawyer.

Contacting an Iowa Truck Accident Lawyer

The Iowa truck accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa truck injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 888-792-3595.

The Dangers of Motorcycles

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39605 — Sat, 25 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Because motorcycles are smaller, lighter, and less protective than most vehicles on the road, motorcycle riders are susceptible to far more dangers than other drivers. These dangers can lead to serious injuries in an Iowa motorcycle accident. If you have been injured in an Iowa motorcycle accident, you should contact a lawyer to discuss your legal options for seeking compensation, including filing an Iowa motorcycle accident claim.

The Dangers of Motorcycles

There are various dangers that can lead to a serious Iowa motorcycle accident. They include:

Poor visibility - Because motorcycles are smaller than most of the other vehicles on the road, they are usually much harder to see. As a result, they can be easily obscured by a driver's blind spot or poor weather conditions.
Vulnerability to road hazards - Because motorcycles are small, light and have only 2 wheels, they are more vulnerable to road hazards such as potholes, oil slicks, puddles, debris, and patches of uneven pavement.
Speed wobble - At high speeds, a motorcycle's front wheel may begin to shake or wobble. This can be caused by poor tire alignment, and can cause a motorcycle rider to lose control of the bike.

If you have been injured in an Iowa motorcycle accident, and want to file a motorcycle accident claim, you can get the professional help of an Iowa motorcycle accident lawyer.

You can learn more about Iowa motorcycle accidents by visiting our article library.

Contacting an Iowa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Iowa motorcycle accident lawyer team 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 - 888-792-3595.

What is an Underride/Override Truck Accident?

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39664 — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

One of the most dangerous types of truck accidents in Iowa is what is known as an underride/override accident. This happens when a smaller vehicle gets trapped underneath a larger commercial truck. This kind of Iowa truck accident almost always results in serious personal injuries, property damage and in many cases, death.

An underride accident occurs when a smaller vehicle drives underneath a larger commercial truck, either by the rear of the truck, or by sliding underneath the side of a larger truck.

An override accident occurs when a larger commercial truck drives over a smaller vehicle, motorcycle or pedestrian.

If you have been injured in either type of Iowa truck accident, then you may be eligible for compensation in an Iowa truck accident claim. In an Iowa truck accident claim, you may recover damages for your medical expenses, any physical or emotional pain that you've suffered as a result of your injuries, as well as any wages that you may have lost. To file a claim, you can get the professional help of an Iowa truck accident lawyer.

Underride/override accidents are just one of the 5 common types of truck accidents that can result in serious injuries. If you have been injured in an Iowa truck accident, an Iowa truck accident lawyer can investigate your case, and may be able to estimate the value of your claim.

Contacting an Iowa Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents often mean steep medical bills and the potential for a life-altering injury. The Iowa truck accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa truck injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 888-792-3595.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit for Defective Design

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39604 — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in an Iowa motorcycle accident, there is the possibility that your accident was the result of a defective motorcycle design. In fact, there have been countless recalls of motorcycle models because of defects that make the bikes dangerous when operated properly.

If you suspect that you were injured as a result of a defective design, you should get the professional help of an Iowa motorcycle attorney.

Because motorcycles weigh less than automobiles and have no doors, airbags or seat belts, they are less stable and less protective than almost any other vehicle on the road. Therefore, a design defect would be especially dangerous.

If you suspect a design defect caused your motorcycle accident, it is imperative that you keep the motorcycle in its damaged state so that any flaws or irregularities can be identified by an accident reconstruction specialist. The company responsible for the defect may be liable for the injuries and expenses you sustained from their negligence.

In an Iowa motorcycle accident claim, you may be eligible for damages such as:

medical expenses;
emotional pain or suffering that resulted from your personal injuries; and
past, present, or future wages that you may have lost because of your injuries.

To file an Iowa motorcycle accident claim, you can get the help of an experienced Iowa motorcycle accident lawyer.

You can learn more about Iowa motorcycle accidents by visiting our article library.

Contacting an Iowa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Iowa motorcycle accident lawyer team 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 - 888-792-3595.

Proving Negligence in an Iowa Car Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39246 — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been inured in a car accident in Des Moines, and someone else was at fault, you may be eligible for compensation in an Iowa personal injury claim. To receive compensation, you will first have to prove that you were the victim of someone else's negligence, which is basically carelessness, or lack of care on the part of the other person.

To prove negligence in an Iowa personal injury claim, you need to show:

that someone else caused your car accident in Des Moines, and that person owed you a duty of care;
that the person who caused the accident breached his duty of care;
that the person's failure to uphold that duty caused you harm;
that the harm was foreseeable; and
that you suffered as a result of the other person's breach of care.

When proving negligence, insurance adjusters may determine that you were responsible for a percentage of the negligence, which means you may be found partially responsible for your car accident in Des Moines. As long as your responsibility is 50% or lower, you can still recover damages in an Iowa personal injury claim.

If you've been injured in a car accident in Des Moines and are concerned about getting fair compensation, a Des Moines car accident lawyer can represent you. Most of the time, your Des Moines car accident lawyer will deal directly with insurance adjusters to prove the other party's negligence and will negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. In addition, a Des Moines car accident lawyer has the experience necessary to navigate through Iowa negligence laws, so you can focus on recovery.

Contacting a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages is often a complicated and time-consuming process. The Des Moines car accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 and schedule a no-cost consultation - 888-792-3595.

Responsible Parties in an Iowa Truck Accident Claim

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39248 — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a truck accident in Iowa, you may be eligible for compensation through a Des Moines truck accident claim. You can seek damages to cover your medical expenses, any pain you suffered as a result of the accident, and any wages you may have lost.

Depending on the facts of your Des Moines truck accident, damages may be recovered from a number of responsible parties, such as:

the truck driver;
the trucking or shipping company;
the safety director of the trucking or shipping company;
the vehicle inspector who inspected the truck; and
the truck's manufacturer.

To recover damages, you will need to file a Des Moines truck accident claim. An insurance adjuster will estimate the value of your damages, but the offer may be less money than you deserve. So it is best to get the professional help of a Des Moines truck accident lawyer who understands insurance industry standards and can advocate on your behalf.

A Des Moines truck accident lawyer can negotiate your settlement with the responsible insurance company, and when necessary, your Des Moines truck accident lawyer can help you file an Iowa personal injury lawsuit and represent you in court.

Contacting a Des Moines Truck Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Des Moines truck accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 and schedule a no-cost consultation - 888-792-3595.

How to File Des Moines Truck Accident Claims

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39247 — Sat, 18 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

To file a Des Moines truck accident claim, either you or your Des Moines truck accident lawyer need to contact the responsible insurer and give them the information they require. This includes your personal information and the facts on how the truck accident occurred.

When you file a truck accident claim in Des Moines, an insurance adjuster will investigate how the accident occurred. He/She will consider whose negligence caused the Des Moines truck accident. If it is determined that a truck driver's negligence caused your personal injuries, you may be entitled to compensation in a Des Moines truck accident claim.

If the responsible insurer offers you an out-of-court settlement, he/she may try to get you to accept less money than you deserve.

Typical insurance industry tactics include:

underestimating the value of your Des Moines truck accident claim;
dragging out the investigation so you become frustrated and accept their settlement offer; or
having you visit their own medical "experts", who may claim that you had a pre-existing condition.

When making a Des Moines truck accident claim, it is best to get the professional help of a Des Moines truck accident lawyer. An experienced Des Moines truck accident lawyer may help you overcome such insurance industry tactics, and will be able to effectively negotiate a fair and comprehensive settlement on your behalf.

Contacting a Des Moines Truck Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Des Moines truck accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 and schedule a no-cost consultation - 888-792-3595.

A Look at Comparative Negligence in Iowa

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)39245 — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Before you file an Iowa personal injury claim after a car accident in Des Moines, it's important to know that Iowa is a 51% comparative negligence state. If it is determined that you are at least 51% responsible for your car accident in Des Moines, you will be unable to claim compensation.

To determine negligence in an Iowa personal injury claim after a car accident in Des Moines, insurance adjusters will investigate the facts surrounding the accident. If, for instance, they find the car accident in Des Moines was partly caused by another driver speeding but you failed to signal a lane switch, you may be found 25% responsible for the accident, and your total settlement will be reduced by 25%.

So if your original settlement offer is $60,000 in an Iowa personal injury claim, but you were found to be 25% negligent, your total recovery would be $45,000 ($60,000 - 25% = $45,000). But again, if your negligence is found to be 51% or greater, you will be ineligible for compensation in an Iowa personal injury claim.

To file an Iowa personal injury claim, you can get the help of a Des Moines car accident lawyer. An experienced Des Moines car accident lawyer can also help answer your questions about comparative negligence laws in Iowa, and represent you when dealing with insurance adjusters.

Contacting a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages is often a complicated affair. The Des Moines car accident lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this complimentary 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 and schedule a no-cost consultation - 888-792-3595.

Treating a Spinal Cord Injury after a Serious Iowa Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)38817 — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

A spinal cord injury can be devastating for both the victim and their family. The physical, emotional, and financial stress of a catastrophic injury can be exasperated if the injury could have otherwise been prevented had another party exercised due care.

If your spinal cord injury resulted from a serious Iowa car accident, and you're wondering whether you have a viable personal injury claim, an experienced Des Moines personal injury attorney can provide some guidance. By filing an Iowa personal injury claim, a Des Moines personal attorney can ensure that you receive fair treatment throughout the claims process as well as make certain your settlement offer provides for your immediate and future needs.

Treating a Spinal Cord Injury

With recent advancements in medicine and physical therapy, there are various treatments for both categories of spinal cord injuries - complete spinal cord injury and incomplete spinal cord injury. To find out about these treatments, you should speak with a physician who has experience treating spinal cord injuries.

One thing you should be aware of is that, if the steroid methylprednisolone is administered within 8 hours of a spinal cord injury, it may reduce the amount of damage that is done to a victim's nerve cells. This can further minimize the damage to your central nervous system, and help you maintain some of your physical capabilities.

After a serious Iowa accident that results in a spinal cord injury, you can go through a rehabilitation program to regain some of your voluntary functions. Physical therapy, combined with various skill-building activities (as well as emotional support) can help you improve physically.

In fact, nearly 85% of spinal cord injury victims who survive the first 24 hours will live for at least 10 years afterwards. Hence, with determination, rehabilitation, and strong emotional support, you can continue to lead a long and productive life.

Get Legal Help Now - Contact a Des Moines Personal Injury Attorney

The effects of a spinal cord injury can be devastating to the victim. The Des Moines personal injury attorney team 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 - 888-792-3595.

Gathering Evidence after a Des Moines Car Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)38722 — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

When you are involved in a Des Moines car accident, it is important that you gather evidence while you are at the scene of the accident. This evidence can help you recover damages through an Iowa personal injury claim. An experienced Des Moines car accident attorney can file a personal injury claim on your behalf and ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the process.

One way to gather evidence of your accident is to take photographs of the damage you have suffered. This includes the damage to your vehicle, as well as any personal injuries that you suffered as a result of the accident. These photos may be admitted as evidence in an Iowa personal injury claim.

In addition to photographs, you should take notes about the accident and the injuries you sustained. Write down how the accident occurred, including who was at fault, and what type of negligence lead to your personal injuries. In the days and weeks after the accident, you should keep a daily log of your personal injuries, including how they may be affecting your day-to-day life.

Through a personal injury claim, you may recover damages such as your medical expenses, any pain that you have suffered, and any wages you may have lost as a result of the accident.

When you are involved in a Des Moines car accident, there are several dos and don'ts which can be helpful when recovering damages. Visit our article library to learn more about how to respond after a car accident.

Contacting a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Des Moines car accident lawyer team 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 - 888-792-3595.

4 Things You Need to Know about Iowa Workers Compensation Work Injury Matters

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)38770 — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Every state has a different workers' compensation system and laws that apply to work injuries.
There are at least 4 things you need to know about Iowa work injuries if you or a love one have been hurt on the job.
This article discusses 4 of the things that you need to know and some of these are unique to Iowa's workers compensation system.

Complete and Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)38816 — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

There are 2 classifications of spinal cord injuries; complete spinal cord injuries and incomplete spinal cord injuries. They are differentiated based on the effect a spinal cord injury has on the victim.

Incomplete spinal cord injuries: victims may be able to feel sensation below the point of the injury, as well as perform some of their voluntary physical functions.

Complete spinal cord injuries: victims will have no voluntary physical function below the point of injury, and they cannot feel anything below the point of injury.

Fortunately, modern medical advancements, including rehabilitation and therapy, have made it possible to reduce the number of complete spinal cord injuries. In fact, some medical drugs may help restore some of the victim's physical abilities.

Spinal cord injuries can be devastating to victims and their families. Essentially, a spinal cord injury may result in complete physical paralysis below the point of the injury, functional impairment, and/or complications inside the body. Adjusting to life after a spinal cord injury can be difficult and expensive.

If you or someone you love has suffered a spinal cord injury, and the injury was due to someone else's negligence, you may be eligible for compensation through an Iowa personal injury claim. Damages that may be recovered include your immediate and future medical expenses, lost wages, and any pain and suffering.

How a Des Moines Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

The Des Moines personal injury attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between Iowa accident victims 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.

Our firm has the legal know-how and resources to investigate your case in order to determine who was at fault for your spinal cord injury. Additionally, we will ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the process and that any settlement offer you receive is comprehensive so that your future is secure.

To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa personal injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no cost evaluation - 888-792-3595.

Keeping Quiet at the Scene of a Des Moines Car Accident

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)38721 — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

After a Des Moines car accident, it is best that you say as little as possible to the police who respond to the call. This can be helpful when recovering damages in a personal injury claim. Remember, anything you say to the police at the scene can be used as evidence against you, and therefore, it is important to give them only the facts of the accident, and not offer any more information.

When the police make their report of the accident, it will include:

The circumstances of how the accident occured,as well as other pertinent information. This will include the time of day, the location, and the weather conditions at the time of the accident; and
An assessment of which party was at fault for the Des Moines car accident. This assessment will say who may have violated the state's traffic laws, or whose negligence may have caused the Des Moines car accident.

In fact, before you speak to the police, it is a good idea to get the advice of a Des Moines car accident lawyer. A lawyer can advise you on exactly what to say, so that you don't make any mistakes that can affect your personal injury claim later on.

When you are involved in a Des Moines car accident, there are several dos and don'ts which can be helpful when recovering damages. Visit our article library to learn more about how to respond after a car accident.

Contacting a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer

Recovering damages can be complicated. The Des Moines car accident lawyer team 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 - 888-792-3595.

Distractions While You Drive

blog@www.iowainjured.com (Blog Author)36180 — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

How many driving distractions can you think of? The driving distraction that is getting the most attention lately would be our cell phones. It may be that we are talking on our cell phones or texting with our cell phone. When you honestly think about it, is that phone conversation or text message really worth risking your life or the lives of others?

There are other driving distractions besides our cell phones, however. Accidents could be caused by adjusting the car stereo or traveling with children and/or pets. For more information on reducing your distractions while you drive, please visit the full article on the American Lawyer Academy blog.