Attorneys
Last Updated: 4/18/2024
Speaking to the Police
When speaking to the police after a car accident, it is important that you only give them the necessary information. DO NOT offer any information beyond the facts of how the accident occurred. Remember, anything that you say to the police can be used as evidence against you, and this can affect your compensation in an Iowa personal injury claim.
Before you say anything to the police, you may want to contact an Iowa car accident lawyer. Your car accident lawyer can advise you on what to say to the police at the scene of the accident.
Gather Any Evidence that You Can
After an Iowa car accident, it is important to gather any evidence that will show the damage you have suffered. If you can, take pictures of your damaged vehicle, as well as your physical injuries. These photos can be admitted as evidence in a personal injury lawsuit.
Furthermore, you should take detailed notes about the accident. You should write down exactly how the accident happened, and what type of injuries you sustained. In the days and weeks following the accident, you should write down the day-to-day details of your injuries, including how they are impacting your daily life.
You should also do your best to keep track of your medical recovery. If you have questions about what evidence can help you in a personal injury claim, you can get the professional advice of a car accident lawyer.
Obtain a Police Report
Following a car accident, a police report was probably generated by the officer who responded to the call. If a report has been written, then you are entitled to receive a copy of this report, which will detail:
The circumstances of the accident, such as the time of day, the location, and the weather conditions at the time of the car accident; and
An assessment of which party was at fault, including who may have violated the state's traffic laws, or whose negligence may have caused the car accident.
This information can be very helpful in a personal injury claim. Once you receive the police report, you should send a copy of it to your lawyer. This can be helpful with settlement negotiations, or to build a winning lawsuit.
Recovering Damages After an Iowa Car Accident
After being injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation through a personal injury claim. To file a claim, you should get the help of an experienced Iowa car accident lawyer. A lawyer can help to negotiate a settlement with the responsible insurance company, and, if necessary, file a personal injury lawsuit in a formal court of law.
In a car accident claim, you may recover for damages such as:
- Your medical expenses;
- Any physical pain or mental anguish that you may have suffered; and
- Any wages that may have been lost as a result of your personal injuries.
