Ottumwa Personal Injury Attorneys

When accidents and injuries suddenly disrupt lives, personal injury lawyers become essential. They advocate for those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they receive proper compensation. This article delves into the important role personal injury lawyers fulfill, guiding people through the complexities of their claims and aiding in their recovery.

When it comes to vehicle accidents involving motorcycles or bicycles, determining fault can be complex. In Ottumwa, accidents often occur when a vehicle turns in front of a motorcycle or bicycle, causing a collision. The law offers guidance, but each case has unique circumstances. Understanding your rights and obtaining legal support can help protect your claims and ensure fair compensation. Below is a comprehensive guide on liability in these types of accidents, focusing on motorcycles and bicycles.

Vehicle Left-Turn Accidents with Motorcycles

In most cases, when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle and causes an accident, the driver of the vehicle is likely to be found at fault. Iowa law dictates that drivers must yield the right of way to oncoming traffic, including motorcycles. Failing to do so could establish the driver's liability for the crash.

However, there are exceptions. If the motorcyclist was speeding or ran a red light, the motorcyclist's fault could reduce the vehicle driver's liability. In such cases, Iowa's comparative negligence laws come into play. Comparative negligence means that your compensation could be reduced based on the degree to which you are found at fault.

Why You Should Hire an Attorney After a Bicycle Accident

Bicycle accidents, much like motorcycle accidents, often involve disputes over fault and compensation. Without an attorney, you may face challenges proving that the other party was at fault or ensuring that you receive the full compensation you are entitled to. Three key reasons to hire a lawyer after a bicycle accident in Iowa include:

1. Iowa’s Comparative Negligence Laws: If you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced. For example, if you are found 10% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that amount. Insurance companies often focus on this to pay less. An attorney can help minimize this effect by proving the other party’s negligence.

2. Negotiating a Settlement: Insurance companies are not always on your side. They may attempt to pay less than you deserve. A lawyer can help ensure that you receive the full compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

3. Filing a Lawsuit: In severe cases where settlements fail, or insurance compensation is insufficient, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. This requires knowledge of state and federal law and must be done within the statute of limitations. An attorney will handle all the legal complexities, including filing, negotiations, and trial if necessary.

Proving Liability in Right-Turn Bicycle Accidents

Right-turn accidents involving bicycles, often called "right hook" accidents, occur when a car turns right, cutting off a cyclist riding on the right shoulder or in a bike lane. In most cases, the driver is at fault, but proving liability requires sufficient evidence.

Common causes of right-turn bicycle accidents include:
- The driver failed to see the bicyclist and turned right.
- A cyclist was overtaking a slower car on the right, leading to a collision when the car turned.
- A driver turning right at an intersection while a cyclist is proceeding straight.

To establish fault, the cyclist or their attorney must present evidence of the driver’s negligence. This could include police reports, eyewitness accounts, traffic camera footage, and any citations issued at the scene. Factors that can indicate driver negligence include:
- Speeding
- Failing to use a turn signal
- Abrupt lane changes

Alternatively, if the cyclist was acting negligently—such as swerving between lanes or ignoring traffic control devices—the driver may use this as a defense.

Avoiding Right-Turn Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists can take steps to avoid right-turn accidents by maintaining a safe distance behind vehicles, being cautious when passing on the right, and remaining vigilant at intersections. Avoiding dangerous maneuvers such as swerving between lanes can also reduce the risk of accidents.

Legal Help After a Right-Turn Bicycle Accident

If a right-turning vehicle caused a bicycle accident, Walker, Billingsley & Bair can help you seek justice and recover damages. The firm’s team of experienced attorneys is prepared to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and advocate on your behalf. Their goal is to help injured Iowans obtain compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and 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.