Waverly Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can suddenly disrupt lives. During these difficult times, car accident injury lawyers are crucial allies. They specialize in advocating for victims of others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This article examines the important role these lawyers play, guiding people through their claims and aiding in their recovery.

Who is at Fault in a Left Turn Car Accident?

Left turn car accidents can be particularly severe, often causing significant damage and injuries. Determining fault in these accidents, also known as establishing liability, depends on various factors, including traffic controls, the actions of the drivers involved, and specific road conditions.

Traffic Controls

Traffic controls, such as lights and signs, play a critical role in fault determination. If a driver making a left turn has a green arrow, the other driver is typically at fault if an accident occurs. However, if the turning driver has a blinking yellow or red light, they may be found at fault. One complex scenario involves a driver already in the intersection when the light changes from green to yellow to red. If the other driver runs a red light but the turning driver pulled into their path, the turning driver might be considered at fault. Traffic cameras can provide clear evidence, but most intersections lack this technology.

A more common situation involves stop signs. If a driver turns left from a stop sign and an oncoming vehicle hits them, the turning driver is likely at fault unless the other vehicle was speeding or violating other traffic laws. Driver distraction, such as talking on a cell phone or texting, can significantly contribute to these accidents.

Failing to Yield

Drivers making a left turn must yield to oncoming traffic. If a driver fails to yield and an accident ensues, they are typically at fault. However, if the other vehicle was speeding, the speeding driver might share or bear the full responsibility. Iowa law assumes that drivers follow traffic laws, so if the oncoming driver was excessively speeding, they might be fully liable for the collision.

Uncontrolled Intersections

At intersections without traffic signals, drivers must yield to vehicles coming from the right and to oncoming traffic. If a driver turns left in front of an oncoming vehicle without yielding, they are generally at fault. The speed of the oncoming vehicle can also influence the fault determination in these cases.

Comparative Fault

Iowa employs a comparative fault system, meaning the fault of each party is compared. To recover damages, you must prove the other driver was at least 50% at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are 30% at fault and awarded $100,000, you would receive $70,000 after the reduction.

Frozen Shoulder Injury after a Car Accident in Iowa

Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder syndrome, is a condition characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder, often resulting from trauma such as a car accident. This condition can severely impact daily activities and requires lengthy treatment and recovery.

What is Frozen Shoulder Syndrome?

Frozen shoulder syndrome involves limited mobility, severe stiffness, and pain. It often develops after an injury and subsequent immobilization of the shoulder, such as from surgery following a car accident. The inability to move the shoulder and associated pain, which can extend down the upper arm, are primary symptoms.

Treatment and Compensation

Treatment involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), steroid injections, and physical therapy. If these measures fail, surgery might be necessary. Recovery can take up to a year, and untreated, the condition may persist longer.

If you suffer from frozen shoulder due to a car accident, you may file a personal injury claim for compensation. Iowa is an at-fault state, so the at-fault driver's liability insurance typically covers damages. You must file a lawsuit within two years to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Considering Laminectomy Surgery after a Car Accident

Laminectomy surgery, often required after spinal trauma from a car accident, is a procedure aimed at relieving pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Here are key considerations before undergoing this surgery.

Key Facts about Laminectomy Surgery

1. Purpose: Laminectomy is primarily used to treat lumbar spinal stenosis, which causes symptoms like sciatica. The surgery decompresses affected spinal areas to alleviate pain.
   
2. Potential Inefficacy: Some patients do not experience relief post-surgery. Additional procedures may be necessary if complications such as fluid and nerve inflammation occur.

3. Lengthy Recovery: Recovery from laminectomy can take weeks to months. Patients may face restrictions, including driving limitations, and potential unforeseen complications.

4. Risks: The surgery carries risks including bleeding, infection, blood clots, spinal cord injury, and persistent pain. Medical history can increase these risks.

5. Cost: The procedure can cost between $50,000 to $90,000. Legal assistance might be necessary if the surgery is due to a car accident, especially if your claim is denied.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Seeking legal counsel from experienced Iowa car accident attorneys such as those at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can provide invaluable support in filing insurance claims or pursuing personal injury lawsuits. With a comprehensive understanding of Iowa law, their team can help gather evidence, establish liability, and secure the compensation deserved by accident victims.

Suffering from the aftermath of a car accident shouldn't impede your pursuit of justice and fair compensation. The Iowa injury lawyers at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies.

That's why we provide this FREE book; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 641-792-3595 to order your free accident book today.