Van Meter Personal Injury Attorneys

Sudden accidents and injuries can drastically alter lives. During these tough periods, personal injury lawyers are essential. They specialize in representing those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they get the compensation they deserve. This article delves into the critical role personal injury lawyers play in navigating claims and helping people reclaim their lives.

Common Defenses Drivers Use in Bicyclists' Accident Claims

The financial burden of pedestrian and cyclist injuries in motor vehicle accidents totals approximately $55 billion in lifetime expenses, according to the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine. Cyclists often sustain severe injuries in these accidents, leading to substantial damages claimed in lawsuits. When a cyclist files a claim against a driver, the driver's insurer or attorney will typically contest liability using various defenses. It is crucial for victims to seek the assistance of a skilled accident attorney to counter these defenses effectively.

Common Defenses in Bicycle Accident Claims

Helmet Use: Drivers may argue that the cyclist is partially at fault for their injuries if they were not wearing a helmet, potentially reducing the compensation awarded.

Traffic Rules Compliance: Drivers often claim that the cyclist was not following road rules, such as speeding, failing to stop, or riding against traffic, thereby causing the accident.

Distraction: A defense might include accusing the cyclist of being distracted, whether by headphones, a phone, or simply not paying attention.

Visibility Issues: Drivers frequently argue that they couldn't see the cyclist due to lack of proper lighting or dark clothing, suggesting that visibility issues contributed to the accident.

To ensure a claim withstands such defenses, it is vital to consult with experienced attorneys who can build a strong case and challenge these assertions effectively.

Rules of Driving on the Road When a Pedestrian is Present

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 70,000 pedestrians are injured annually in U.S. motor vehicle accidents. Many of these accidents result from ignorance of the rules governing interactions between motorists and pedestrians.

Iowa Rules of the Road for Motorists Around Pedestrians

Right of Way: Motorists must yield to pedestrians when entering or leaving driveways, parking lots, or alleys. Pedestrians have the right of way at intersections, marked or unmarked crosswalks without traffic signals.

Special Precautions: Motorists must exercise extra caution in residential areas, near schools, shopping centers, parking lots, and congested areas like downtown zones.

Iowa Bicycle Laws: Cars and Cyclists Must Abide!

Understanding Iowa’s bicycle laws is essential for the safety of both cyclists and motorists. These laws govern how cyclists should navigate the roads and how drivers should interact with cyclists.

Key Iowa Bicycle Laws

Passing Vehicles: Cyclists must pass vehicles on the left and return to the right lane once it is safe.

Direction of Travel: Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic, reducing the risk of head-on collisions.

Lighting Requirements: Cyclists riding at night must have a white front light and a red rear light or reflector, visible from at least 300 feet.

School Buses: All vehicles, including bicycles, must stop for school buses when their stop signs are displayed or lights are flashing.

Hand and Arm Signals: Cyclists must use specific hand signals to indicate turns and stops. The left arm extended horizontally indicates a left turn; bent at the elbow with the hand facing upwards indicates a right turn; and bent at the elbow with the hand facing downwards indicates slowing down or stopping.

Reporting Accidents: Cyclists must report all traffic crashes and exchange information with the other party involved.

Restricted Areas: Cyclists are prohibited from riding on interstates and some highways. Local regulations may also ban cycling on sidewalks in certain cities.

Learn the Laws and Take Action After an Accident
Understanding and following these laws can help prevent accidents. However, when a motor vehicle driver's negligence leads to a cycling accident, legal action may be necessary.

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.