Council Bluffs Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Lives can be unexpectedly disrupted by accidents and injuries. In these tough moments, car accident injury lawyers become vital allies. They specialize in advocating for victims of others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article delves into the essential role these lawyers play, guiding individuals through their claims' intricacies and aiding in their recovery.

Knowing what to do at the scene of an accident is crucial for preserving evidence when filing a car accident claim. Auto accident scenes can be chaotic and confusing. It's important for injured victims to remain calm and avoid mistakes that can harm their case. 

Things Not to Do at the Scene of the Accident

Refusing Medical Treatment

One of the first mistakes people often make is refusing medical treatment. If there's a delay in receiving treatment, it can make proving the severity of an injury difficult when submitting medical records as evidence.

Inconsistent Medical Treatment

Failing to treat injuries on a regular and consistent basis is another common mistake. If you are still experiencing problems due to an injury caused by a car accident, you need to see your doctor regularly, preferably monthly. Not following up with medical care can suggest to the insurance company, doctor, judge, or jury that you have recovered. This can make it difficult to prove that ongoing problems are related to the accident.

Ignoring Doctor's Orders

Always follow your doctor's orders. If your doctor recommends physical therapy twice a week and you only go once, it can damage your case. Comply with all medical advice, including exercises and stretching.

Failing to Document Injuries

Tell your medical providers about all injuries and problems caused by the accident. If you forget to mention something and it doesn't make it into your medical records, you may not receive compensation for that condition. Bringing notes to your appointments can help ensure you report everything accurately.

Admitting Fault

Avoid taking the blame for the crash, apologizing, or making comments that suggest fault. Discussing the cause of the accident can be sorted out later with help from a Des Moines, Iowa injury lawyer. When talking to the responding officer, stick to the basic facts and avoid offering opinions or assumptions.

Not Taking Pictures

Failing to take pictures of the accident scene is a mistake. Even if the damage seems minor, it could be more significant than initially thought. Injuries might not present symptoms immediately, so documenting everything is crucial.

Not Getting Witness Information

Don't forget to get contact information from any witnesses. Relying solely on your own statement may not be enough. Testimony from others could be pivotal in favor of your claim.

Why Hire a Car Accident Attorney?

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car crash, you might wonder, "Why would I hire a car accident attorney?" While not every case requires an attorney, there are situations where consulting with one is beneficial.

When You May Not Need an Attorney:

1. If you only sustained property damage and the other driver’s insurance company has taken care of it.
2. If your injuries are minor and required minimal medical treatment.
3. If you reached a fair settlement with the insurance company, ensuring all expenses are covered in writing.

When You Should Consult an Attorney:

1. If you have been hospitalized for your injuries.
2. If you required surgery.
3. If you have permanent injuries.
4. If the other driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Common Mistakes When Representing Yourself:

1. Accepting an offer that's too low and discovering you need to pay back your health insurance from the settlement.
2. Accepting the policy limits without verifying additional coverage.
3. Failing to contact your own insurance for underinsured motorist coverage.

Benefits of Hiring an Attorney:

1. Protecting Your Rights: Ensuring your rights are protected under Iowa law.
2. Handling Insurance Companies: Managing contact with all insurance companies to avoid mistakes and stress.
3. Maximizing Recovery: Finding all applicable insurance policies to maximize recovery.
4. Dealing with Medical Providers: Handling contact with subrogation companies, hospitals, and other medical providers.
5. Providing Expert Advice: Offering experienced advice about the value of your case and representing you in court if necessary.

Should I Get a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Iowa?

You are not legally obligated to hire an attorney when filing a car accident claim. However, those who suffer serious injuries and have significant expenses will likely benefit from a lawyer’s expertise. Iowa is an at-fault car insurance state, meaning the insurance of the motorist who caused the accident is primarily responsible for paying damages.

Deciding Whether to Hire a Lawyer:

Individuals can file a claim or lawsuit on their own or seek legal counsel. Hiring an attorney can be advantageous, especially in certain cases.

How an Attorney Can Help:

1. Understanding the Law: An attorney knows insurance and personal injury law.
2. Gathering Evidence: An attorney can help gather evidence about the accident.
3. Building a Case: An attorney can build a case to prove the other party's fault and liability.
4. Negotiating Settlements: An attorney can negotiate a fair settlement amount.
5. Handling Legal Paperwork: An attorney can manage all the legal paperwork.
6. Advocating for You: An attorney's job is to advocate for you.

When dealing with large expenses following an accident, a lawyer can help ensure you recover fair compensation. If necessary, your attorney can also help negotiate an out-of-court settlement and argue your case in court.

Steps to Take After an Iowa Car Accident:

1. Report the accident to law enforcement.
2. Seek medical care.
3. Report the accident to your insurance company and the at-fault driver's insurance (without giving statements).
4. Call an attorney.

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.