Johnston Personal Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can abruptly change lives. In these trying times, personal injury lawyers are crucial. These professionals specialize in representing those harmed by negligence, ensuring they get the compensation they deserve. This article explores the vital role personal injury lawyers play in helping individuals navigate their claims and reclaim their lives.

Navigating the personal injury claims process can be daunting, especially when dealing with insurance adjusters who may use various tactics to undermine your claim. Understanding these tactics and knowing how to protect yourself is crucial. This article outlines common strategies used by insurance adjusters, ways to defend against them, and additional insights into dealing with specific types of personal injury cases such as car accidents and bicycle accidents.

Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics

1. Accessing Your Medical Records

Insurance adjusters often request permission to access your medical records. While this might seem reasonable, granting full access allows the adjuster to review your entire medical history, not just records related to the accident. They may use any previous conditions or treatments to minimize your claim.

2. Offering a Quick, Low-Ball Settlement

Adjusters may offer a quick, low settlement soon after the accident, knowing you might be desperate for compensation. They aim to get you to sign a full release, which prevents you from seeking additional compensation if your condition worsens.

3. Surveillance

Insurance companies might place you under surveillance to catch you performing everyday tasks like taking out the trash or mowing the lawn. This footage can be taken out of context to make you appear healthier than you are, potentially damaging your claim or even leading to accusations of fraud.

4. Discouraging Legal Representation

Adjusters might advise against hiring a lawyer, promising fair treatment. They know that legal representation makes it harder for them to use these tactics successfully.

Ways to Protect Yourself from Shady Insurance Adjuster Tactics

Understand Your Rights

Being aware of your rights and educating yourself about the personal injury claims process is crucial. 

- Denied Claims: If your claim is denied or you are misinformed about your coverage, review your insurance policy carefully. Request a written copy if necessary and consult an attorney if the adjuster refuses to provide it.
  
- Medical Records: You have the right to refuse a broad release of your medical records. Only provide documents related to the accident.
  
- Surveillance: Assume you might be under observation. Follow your doctor's advice and avoid activities that could be misinterpreted.
  
- Settlement Offers: Be cautious with quick settlements. Ensure the amount covers all your injury costs and consult a lawyer before signing any agreements.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Car Accident Claims

When injured in a car accident, proving negligence is essential for compensation. Iowa follows the modified comparative fault - 51% rule. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages. If your fault is less, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you were speeding and another driver made an unsafe lane change, both factors might reduce your claim. Therefore, proving the other driver’s higher degree of fault is vital.

Bicycle Accidents in Iowa: Prevention and Legal Steps

Bicycle accidents are unfortunately common. Knowing how to prevent them and what to do if involved in one is essential.

Common Types of Bicycle Accidents

- Right Hook Accidents: Occur when a vehicle turns right into a cyclist's path. Avoid by positioning yourself in front of vehicles at stop signs or lights and never passing on the right.
  
- Dooring Accidents: Happens when a cyclist is hit by a car door opening unexpectedly. Stay alert, choose bike lanes when available, and maintain a safe distance from parked cars.

- Left-Turn Accidents: Vehicles turning left might not see a cyclist, leading to a collision. Enhance visibility with lights and bright clothing, make eye contact with drivers, and avoid riding on sidewalks.

- Failure to Yield: Cyclists misjudging a vehicle's speed can lead to accidents. Always double-check intersections for oncoming traffic.

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.