Fort Dodge Personal Injury Attorneys

Sudden accidents and injuries can significantly disrupt lives. In such challenging periods, personal injury lawyers are invaluable. They specialize in advocating for victims of negligence, ensuring they receive rightful compensation. This article highlights the critical role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding them in recovery.

Understanding and adhering to bicycle laws in Iowa is crucial for both cyclists and motorists to ensure safety on the roads. Whether you are an avid cyclist or prefer to drive, knowing these laws can prevent accidents and legal complications.

Key Bicycle Laws in Iowa

Passing on the Left
Like motor vehicles, cyclists must pass other vehicles on the left. To pass safely, a cyclist must first move into the left lane and ensure it is safe to pass. After passing, the cyclist should return to the right lane.

Riding With Traffic
Cyclists must always ride in the same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic is illegal and increases the risk of head-on collisions.

Use of Lights at Night
Iowa law requires cyclists to use lights when riding between sunset and sunrise. A bicycle must have a front lamp emitting a white light and a rear red light or reflector, both visible from at least 300 feet. These lights improve visibility for both the cyclist and other road users.

Stopping for School Buses
All modes of transportation, including bicycles, must stop for school buses when the bus has its stop sign displayed or lights flashing. Failure to do so can result in a traffic citation.

Hand and Arm Signals
Cyclists must use proper hand and arm signals to indicate their intentions to other road users:
- Left Turn: Left arm extended horizontally.
- Right Turn: Left arm bent at the elbow, hand facing upwards.
- Slow Down/Stop: Left arm bent at the elbow, hand facing downwards.
Signals should be made with the left arm for visibility.

Reporting Traffic Crashes
Cyclists are required to report all traffic crashes and exchange information with the other party involved.

Riding in Designated Areas
Cyclists are prohibited from riding on interstates and some highways. Many cities also ban cycling on sidewalks.

Comparative Negligence in Bicycle Accidents

Understanding the Rule
Iowa follows the modified comparative fault rule, where a person can only recover damages if they are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. If a cyclist is more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover damages.

Impact on Claims
If both parties share fault, the compensation may be reduced. For instance, if a cyclist was speeding and another driver made an unsafe lane change, both parties' actions would be considered in the claim.

Safe Passing Distance for Cyclists

No Specific Distance Mandate
Iowa law does not specify an exact distance for safe passing; it simply requires a “safe distance.” However, a common standard used in other states is three feet.

Consequences of Unsafe Passing
Passing too closely to a cyclist can lead to severe accidents, such as striking the cyclist, forcing them into traffic, or running them off the road.

Legal Recourse for Bicycle Accidents

Proving Liability
To prove that a driver was driving at an unsafe distance, various forms of evidence can be used:
- Witness testimony
- Video footage
- Police reports
- Testimony from involved parties
- Physical evidence

Types of Damages

If liability is proven, a cyclist can recover damages for:
- Medical costs
- Lost earnings
- Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering

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.