Mason City Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Unexpected accidents and injuries can derail lives. In these challenging moments, car accident injury lawyers become invaluable allies. They advocate for those injured by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article delves into the essential role these lawyers play, guiding individuals through their claims and helping them rebuild.

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, approximately 11 percent of all motor vehicle crashes involve a driver who flees the scene. Each year, about 1,500 people are killed in hit-and-run accidents, with 60 percent of these victims being pedestrians. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance carrier to cover your damages.

Iowa’s Laws Regarding Hit-and-Run Accidents

Fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal in Iowa. According to Iowa §321.261, a driver involved in an accident causing physical harm who flees the scene is guilty of a misdemeanor. If the accident results in death, the fleeing driver could face a class "D" felony. Hit-and-run victims and their families can also file an injury or wrongful death lawsuit against the suspect if caught.

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, follow these steps:
1. Call 911: Immediately report the accident.
2. Provide Information: Give the police all the details you remember and obtain a copy of the report.
3. Jot Down Identifying Information: Note the make, model, and color of the car, and any details about the driver.
4. Collect Witness Information: Gather contact information from any witnesses.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident, check your coverage, and see if you can file a claim.

Avoid attempting to track down the fleeing driver, as they may be dangerous. Let the police handle the situation.

Filing a Car Accident Claim for a Hit-and-Run Accident

Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) is optional in Iowa and covers your damages if you’re in an accident with a driver who fled or has no insurance. If you have UM coverage, speak with your insurance company to file a claim. If not, you will be responsible for your own damages unless the other driver is found. Health insurance may cover some medical costs after meeting your deductible.

Broken Back After a Car Accident

Car accidents are a common cause of injury. In 2012, there were 2,362,000 people injured in car accidents in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. One of the most severe injuries from a car crash is a broken back. If you suffered fractured vertebrae in a car crash caused by someone else, seek help from an attorney.

A broken back refers to fractured vertebrae in the spinal column due to trauma. Car accidents often affect the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. There are three major fracture patterns:
- Flexion Fracture
- Extension Fracture
- Rotation Fracture

Each pattern includes different fracture types, such as compression fractures and axial burst fractures.

Dangers of a Broken Back

Disturbances to the vertebrae can have serious consequences, as they protect the spinal cord. Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or other neurological issues. Even without spinal cord damage, fractured vertebrae may require surgery and long recovery times, affecting the victim's lifestyle. Additional risks include PTSD and other long-term effects.

Protecting Yourself While Driving

The CDC reports that car accidents cause 46 percent of spinal cord injuries in the U.S. Wearing a seat belt can reduce the risk of a spinal cord injury by 60 percent, and using both a seat belt and airbags can reduce it by 80 percent.

Trigger Point Injections for Pain Management After an Iowa Car Accident

Car accidents can result in injuries causing significant pain. Trigger-point injections may be used for pain management if other treatments are ineffective. Trigger points are hyperirritable spots in taut bands of skeletal muscle, causing spasms, inflammation, and pain. Commonly affected areas include the upper back, upper spine, and shoulder. Trigger points often develop after trauma, such as a car accident.

Understanding Trigger Point Injections

During a trigger point injection, a numbing agent like lidocaine is injected into the trigger point to provide pain relief. These outpatient procedures are performed with a small needle, sometimes using a steroid instead of an anesthetic. While one injection may suffice, regular treatments might be necessary. Potential complications include pain at the injection site, infection, hematoma, or needle breakage.

Affording Trigger Point Injections

If another person's negligence caused your car accident, you may file a claim to recover damages, including treatment costs for trigger points. Other compensable damages include lost wages and mental anguish. Proving that your injuries resulted from the accident is essential in the lawsuit.

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.