What to Do After a Car Accident on I-235 or I-80 in Des Moines
In 2023, 377 people lost their lives in Iowa car accidents. It’s a sobering reminder that car accidents happen every day, often without warning.
If you were injured on I-235 or I-80, knowing your next steps could determine whether you recover maximum compensation. A skilled Des Moines car accident lawyer can make all the difference.
Iowa Car Accident Laws You Must Know
Understanding local law is essential before filing a car accident claim. Here are the rules that govern your case.
Iowa Is a Fault-Based State
Iowa follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the at fault driver’s insurance must pay for your damages. Iowa also applies a modified comparative fault rule: you can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. If you are found partially responsible, your award is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements
Iowa drivers must carry liability insurance with at least $20,000 per person for bodily injuries, $40,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. If the other driver did not carry sufficient insurance, your own underinsured motorist coverage may apply.
Statute of Limitations
Iowa gives injury victims two years from the date of the motor vehicle collision to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically bars your right to recover damages entirely. Acting fast protects your legal rights.
Steps to Take After a Des Moines Car Accident
The actions you take immediately after a crash directly affect your personal injury case. Follow these steps carefully.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, are not immediately obvious. Prompt medical care creates a record connecting your injuries to the accident, which is critical when seeking compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
2. Document the Accident Scene
Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact details and insurance information from all involved parties. Identify witnesses and gather police reports before leaving.
Iowa law requires drivers to report any accident that caused injuries, property damage over $1,500, or death. Failing to report can complicate your insurance claim later.
3. Preserve All Documentation
In the days after a Des Moines car accident, keep records of all medical expenses, hospital bills, physical therapy visits, and medical records. Track every day missed from work. This documentation directly supports your claim for lost wages and medical payments coverage.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault
Never admit fault at the accident scene, and be cautious about what you say to insurance companies. Statements can be used to minimize your personal injury claim. Insurance companies prioritize profits over the recovery of injured individuals, so everything you say matters.
Common Causes of Car Accidents on I-235 and I-80
Des Moines car accidents on these busy corridors frequently involve distracted driving, aggressive driving, drunk driving, and failure to follow traffic laws. High-risk intersections, such as Douglas Avenue and Merle Hay Road in West Des Moines, are known hotspots for traffic accidents. Understanding the circumstances surrounding your crash helps your attorney establish liability.
Is It Worth Hiring a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer?
Yes. Hiring car accident attorneys significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome. An experienced personal injury lawyer handles gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and building a strong personal injury case on your behalf.
Most Des Moines personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, typically between 25% and 40% of the final settlement, so you pay nothing unless you win. Car accident attorneys with a proven track record know how to fight for a fair settlement and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries suffered.
Compensation in Iowa personal injury law can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. Your personal injury attorneys will explore every avenue to recover compensation for you.
Talk to a Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a Des Moines car accident on I-235 or I-80, do not wait. The experienced team at Lowe Law Group offers a free consultation.
Apart from the free initial consultations, we also offer services on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay anything upfront. So, take the first step towards protecting your legal rights. Contact our law office in Des Moines today.
