Urbandale Personal Injury Attorneys

Lives can be suddenly disrupted by accidents and injuries. In these challenging moments, personal injury lawyers are essential allies. They specialize in advocating for those who have been harmed due to negligence, ensuring they secure rightful compensation. This article explores the significant role personal injury lawyers play, helping individuals navigate their claims and reclaim their lives.

Common Bicycle Accidents and Prevention

Bicycle accidents in Iowa have been a significant concern, with Polk County reporting the highest number of bicycle-car accidents from 2009-2014. In 2011, there were five pedalcyclist fatalities in the state. The goal is to reduce this number to zero. Understanding common types of bicycle accidents and how to prevent them is crucial for cyclists.

Right Hook Accidents

A right hook accident occurs when a car makes a right-hand turn into the path of a cyclist. These accidents often happen at intersections or when cars exit driveways or parking lots without signaling. To avoid right hook accidents:

1. Positioning at Intersections: When stopped at a red light or stop sign, position yourself slightly in front of vehicles in the right-hand lane. This ensures you are in the driver’s direct vision.
2. Passing on the Left: Avoid passing vehicles on the right. Instead, pass on the left where drivers are more likely to see you.

Dooring Accidents

Dooring accidents happen when a cyclist is hit by a car door opened unexpectedly from a parked vehicle. This can force the cyclist into traffic or cause a severe collision. To prevent dooring accidents:

1. Use Bike Lanes: Always choose bike lanes separated from the road when available.
2. Stay Alert: Slow down and be cautious when approaching parked cars, watching for signs of doors opening.

Left-Turn Accidents

Left-turn accidents occur when a vehicle making a left turn fails to see an oncoming cyclist, especially in poor lighting. To reduce the risk of left-turn accidents:

1. Increase Visibility: Use bike lights and wear bright colors to improve visibility.
2. Eye Contact: Make eye contact with left-turning drivers before crossing intersections.
3. Avoid Sidewalks: Ride on the road where motorists expect to see moving traffic.

Failure to Yield

Failure to yield accidents happen when a cyclist misjudges a vehicle’s speed and distance at an intersection. To avoid these accidents:

1. Exercise Caution: Always double-check before entering an intersection, even if you have the right of way.
2. Ensure Visibility: Make sure other drivers can see you before proceeding.

Alcohol-Related Bike Accidents

Drinking and biking is as dangerous as drinking and driving. Alcohol impairs cognitive and motor skills, increasing the risk of accidents. In Iowa, 3.2% of residents admit to driving after drinking too much, higher than the national average of 1.9%. Alcohol-related bike accidents are a significant issue:

1. Statistics: In 34% of fatal bicycle accidents, either the cyclist or the driver was under the influence. In 2013, 20% of cyclists who died had a BAC of 0.08 g/dL or higher.
2. Legal Implications: Cycling while intoxicated can lead to criminal charges, fines, and liability for damages in an accident. Iowa's at-fault insurance laws mean that if you cause an accident while intoxicated, you are responsible for the damages.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident in Iowa, it's essential to take specific steps to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.

1. Determine Fault: Establish who is at fault for the accident. This can be complex and may require legal assistance.
2. File a Claim: Submit a claim for damages with the insurance company. If your injuries are severe or your claim is denied, you may need to file a lawsuit.
3. Consult an Attorney: Legal expertise can be crucial in navigating the aftermath of an accident.

Understanding Degree of Fault in Personal Injury Claims

In Iowa, the degree of fault in an accident affects the amount of compensation a victim can recover. Under modified comparative fault laws:

1. Assigning Fault: Each party involved in an accident is assigned a percentage of fault. If the injured party is more than 51% at fault, they cannot recover damages.
2. Reducing Damages: If the injured party is 50% or less at fault, they can recover damages, but the amount will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Gathering Evidence

To establish fault and support your claim, collect evidence such as:

1. Accident Reports
2. Photographs of the Scene
3. Eyewitness Statements
4. Police Observations

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, attorneys can assist in gathering and presenting this evidence to ensure you receive fair compensation.

In conclusion, understanding the common types of bicycle accidents and their prevention, the impact of alcohol on cycling, and the importance of establishing fault in personal injury claims can help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure fair treatment if an accident occurs. Always prioritize safety and seek legal guidance when needed to navigate the complexities of accident claims.

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.