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Life can be abruptly changed by accidents and injuries. In such difficult moments, personal injury lawyers are indispensable. They specialize in representing those harmed by others' negligence, helping them obtain proper compensation. This article highlights the vital role personal injury lawyers play in navigating claims and helping people reclaim their lives.

Bicycling is a popular and healthy mode of transportation, but it comes with risks, especially when sharing the road with motor vehicles. In Iowa, bicycle accidents are a concern, with multiple fatalities and numerous accidents reported annually. This article provides essential tips for avoiding common types of bicycle accidents, guidance on what to do if you’re involved in one, and insights into the legal aspects of filing a claim.

Common Types of Bicycle Accidents and How to Prevent Them

Right Hook Accidents

A right hook accident occurs when a car making a right-hand turn crosses the path of a cyclist. These accidents can happen at intersections or when a car is pulling out of a driveway or parking lot. To avoid this type of accident, cyclists should:

- Position themselves slightly in front of vehicles at red lights or stop signs to ensure visibility.
- Avoid passing vehicles on the right, especially near intersections where drivers may not expect a cyclist.

Dooring Accidents

Dooring accidents happen when a cyclist rides between traffic lanes and parked cars, and a car door suddenly opens in their path. To prevent dooring accidents:

- Use designated bike lanes whenever possible.
- Stay alert and reduce speed when riding near parked cars, watching for any signs that a door might open.

Left-Turn Accidents

At intersections, vehicles making left turns may fail to see oncoming cyclists, especially in low-light conditions. Cyclists can reduce the risk of left-turn accidents by:

- Ensuring their bike is equipped with proper lighting and wearing bright, visible clothing.
- Making eye contact with drivers waiting to turn left to confirm they are seen.
- Avoiding riding on sidewalks, as drivers typically do not expect fast-moving vehicles there.

Failure to Yield

Accidents can occur when cyclists or drivers fail to yield the right of way. To avoid such accidents:

- Exercise caution at intersections, even when you have the right of way.
- Double-check for oncoming traffic and ensure you are visible to drivers before proceeding.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, follow these steps:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Contact local authorities to report the accident.
3. Gather information from the scene, including the driver’s details, witness statements, and photographs of the scene and damages.
4. Obtain a copy of the police report.

Determining Fault

In Iowa, the party at fault for an accident is liable for damages. Evidence such as police reports, physical evidence, and witness testimony can help establish fault. It’s also crucial to prove that your injuries were directly caused by the accident.

Filing a Claim for Damages

To recover damages, file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and damage to your bicycle. If the insurance company offers a settlement that is too low, you have the right to negotiate or file a lawsuit. Ensure you file any legal claims within the two-year statute of limitations as per Iowa Code section 614.1.

Common Tactics and Defenses Used by Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters may employ various tactics to deny, discredit, or delay your claim:

- Accessing Medical Records: They may seek permission to access your entire medical history to find pre-existing conditions and undermine your claim.
- Offering Low Settlements: Adjusters may offer quick, low-ball settlements to close the case before the full extent of your injuries is known.
- Surveillance: They may place you under surveillance to catch you performing daily tasks and argue that your injuries are not severe.
- Discouraging Legal Counsel: Adjusters might suggest you don’t need a lawyer to handle your claim, hoping to negotiate a lower settlement without legal interference.

Protecting Yourself

To protect yourself from these tactics:

- Refuse to grant full access to your medical records. Only provide records related to the accident.
- Don’t accept a low settlement offer without consulting a lawyer.
- Assume you may be under surveillance and adhere to your doctor’s advice regarding activity limitations.
- Insist on having the insurance policy details in writing if your claim is denied or if you are misinformed about your coverage.

Filing a Claim for a Head Injury from a Bike Accident

Head injuries are a serious risk for bicyclists, especially those not wearing helmets. If you sustain a head injury in a bicycle accident, follow these steps:

1. Prove Liability: Gather evidence to prove the at-fault driver’s negligence caused the accident and your injuries.
2. Determine Damages: Calculate the extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and future medical care needs.
3. Negotiate a Fair Settlement: Work with a personal injury lawyer to negotiate a fair settlement. If necessary, file a lawsuit within the two-year limit to ensure you receive adequate compensation.

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.