West Des Moines Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can suddenly derail lives. During these challenging times, car accident injury lawyers are crucial allies. They advocate for individuals harmed by others' negligence, ensuring they receive fair compensation. This article highlights the critical role these lawyers play, helping people navigate the complexities of their claims and rebuild their lives.

Should I Get a Car Accident Lawyer?

If you're considering hiring a car accident lawyer for your Iowa claim, it's crucial to understand how qualified lawyers typically operate and what you should expect. 

Key Points About Hiring a Lawyer

1. No Up-Front Fees: Reputable lawyers do not require any retainer or upfront fees. You won't have to pay any money to start your case.
   
2. Contingency Fees: Lawyers are paid only if they win your case. This is known as a contingency fee, which usually ranges from 30% if the case settles, 33.33% if it goes to litigation, and up to 40% if the case ends up on appeal.

3. Selective Case Acceptance: Quality attorneys do not take every case that comes through the door. They only accept cases where they believe they can significantly increase the compensation you will receive.

4. Comprehensive Case Management: Your attorney should handle all contact with insurance companies, obtain your medical records and bills, and keep you updated on your case's progress.

If the lawyer you are considering hiring does not align with the above practices, it may be a red flag. For instance:

- Overloaded Law Firms: Some firms take every case they can, hoping a few will be profitable. This can result in minimal attention to each individual case, including yours.
- Minimal Investment in Cases: Lawyers who ask you to obtain all your medical records and bills may not be fully invested in your case. If they're unwilling to spend the necessary resources, they might not be dedicated to achieving the best outcome for you.

At our office, we handle all injury cases on a contingency fee basis. You'll never need to pay any money upfront. We only take cases where we believe we can make a difference for our clients, and we obtain all necessary medical records and bills for you. Additionally, we handle communications with insurance adjusters, and subrogation holders, and provide copies of all correspondence to our clients.

How Are My Lost Wages Paid After a Car Accident?

In Iowa, if you or a loved one are involved in a car accident causing injuries that prevent you from working, you'll need to use your sick pay, short-term disability, vacation time, or other forms of disability pay initially. The insurance company for the other driver will not pay your lost wages as you incur them; they only cover lost wages as part of the total settlement, including medical bills, loss of quality of life, pain, and suffering.

Steps to Take:

1. Check with Your Employer: Contact your HR department to see if you have a short-term disability or other coverage that can provide benefits while you're unable to work. Complete any required paperwork promptly.
   
2. Review Loan Coverage: Check if you have disability coverage on your mortgage, car, or other loans, which can cover payments while you're disabled.

If none of these options are available, you may need to seek help from family, friends, or community organizations. In states with PIP (personal injury protection) like Minnesota, you may recover lost wages under your own car insurance policy.

Understanding Lumbar Strain Injuries After a Car Accident

Back injuries, particularly lumbar strain injuries, are common in car accidents due to sudden impacts. These injuries can lead to severe lower back pain, significantly impairing daily activities and work performance.

What is a Lumbar Strain Injury?

A lumbar strain injury involves the muscles or tendons in the lower back. Symptoms include intense localized pain, inflammation, back spasms, and sometimes muscle tearing.

Causes and Treatment

Lumbar strains are often caused by direct trauma from car accidents, leading to twisting, pulling, or tearing of back muscles or tendons. Treatment may require pain medications, massage therapy, and physical therapy, potentially taking weeks or months for recovery.

Legal Considerations

Iowa follows an "at-fault" system for car insurance liability. If another driver caused your lumbar strain injury, their insurance should cover your damages. If the insurance settlement is inadequate, you can file a personal injury lawsuit, but you must prove the other driver's negligence.

Statute of Limitations

You have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury case in Iowa, according to Iowa Code 614.1. Consulting an attorney can help navigate the lawsuit process and ensure you pursue the compensation you deserve.

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.