Coralville Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Unexpected accidents and injuries can upend lives. During these challenging moments, car accident injury lawyers are crucial allies. They represent those injured due to others' negligence, ensuring they obtain fair compensation. This article explores the vital role these lawyers play, guiding individuals through their claims and aiding their recovery.

Car accidents can result in various injuries, including ACL tears, cervical strains, and incidents involving alcohol impairment. Understanding the nature of these injuries, their treatment, and the legal steps to take is crucial for victims seeking compensation. This guide provides detailed insights into these aspects.

Understanding an ACL Tear Car Accident Injury

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is located in the center of the knee and is responsible for stabilizing the knee joint. It works with the posterior cruciate ligament to prevent the femur and tibia from sliding excessively over each other. An ACL tear can severely impact basic movements like walking and jumping, requiring medical intervention. This injury is often accompanied by other injuries like a fibula fracture.

Causes of an ACL Tear

An ACL tear in a car accident can occur due to trauma, such as a sudden change in knee direction or a direct collision with an object or vehicle part. In sports, this injury often happens from abrupt stops or incorrect landings.

Treatment for an ACL Tear

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons describes ACL tears as painful, often resulting in loss of motion, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty walking. Treatment options include:

- Nonsurgical: Bracing and physical therapy.
- Surgical: ACL reconstruction, usually requiring six months for recovery before resuming regular activities.

Overview of a Cervical Strain from a Car Accident

Cervical strain, or whiplash, occurs when the neck's muscles or tendons are overstretched or torn. This often results from the rapid back-and-forth or side-to-side motion during a car accident. It affects the ligaments, tendons, and muscles, leading to pain, spasms, and potential scar tissue formation.

Symptoms of Cervical Strain

Symptoms include:

- Pain, tenderness, and tightness in the neck
- Knotted muscles
- Headaches
- Inflammation
- Pain in the shoulders or arms
- Limited range of motion
- Numbness or weakness in the arms or hands
- Muscle spasms

These symptoms may not appear immediately, so a thorough medical examination after an accident is essential.

Classifications of Cervical Strain Injuries

Cervical strains are classified based on severity:

- Grade 0: No physical signs or complaints.
- Grade 1: Stiffness and tenderness.
- Grade 2: Decreased range of motion and point tenderness.
- Grade 3: Neurologic signs such as weakness and sensory changes.
- Grade 4: Fractures or dislocations along with other symptoms.

Treating a Cervical Strain Injury

Early rehabilitation prevents chronic pain and disability. Treatments may include:

- Heat and ice applications
- Electrical stimulation
- Neck braces
- Massage and myofascial release
- Cervical traction
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Medications like pain relievers and muscle relaxants

The Law for Drinking and Driving in Iowa

In Iowa, operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08 percent or more is illegal. However, driving under the influence of alcohol at any level can still be a violation. Any amount of a controlled substance in the driver's body is also prohibited.

Understanding Negligence

Negligence, not just BAC, determines liability. If a driver's actions deviate from reasonable behavior and cause an accident, they may be liable for damages. Under Iowa's comparative fault laws, any recovery is reduced by the plaintiff's percentage of fault.

We Are Here To Help

Remember, you are not alone in recovering from your injuries. We have helped thousands of Iowans through their physical, emotional, and financial recoveries. If you have questions about what you are going through, feel free to call our office for your confidential injury conference. We will take the time to listen to you and give you our advice concerning your injury matter at no cost or risk to you.

Free Book at No Cost 

If you are not ready to speak with an attorney yet but would like to learn more about Iowa injury cases including tips about how you can avoid making common costly mistakes request a copy of our Iowa Personal Injury book which includes 14 myths about Iowa injury cases and 5 things to know before hiring an attorney.

If you have specific questions about your injury matter feel free to call our office to speak with our Injury team at 641-792-3595 or use our Chat feature by clicking here 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Your information will remain confidential and there is no cost or obligation.