West Des Moines Car Accident Lawyers
Across Iowa, car accidents leave drivers and passengers with serious injuries thousands of times per year. While everyone is aware of the risk of injury in a car accident, few truly understand what their rights are after being injured in a car accident. If you have been hurt, it is important to have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side.
At Slater Law, LLC, in Des Moines, we have extensive experience representing the victims of car accidents throughout central Iowa. Our attorneys bring more than 40 years of combined experience to our practice and have obtained significant verdicts and settlements for our clients.
We are willing to go to the mat for our clients to ensure they receive the full compensation they are entitled to. Before making any statements to the insurance company, call us toll-free at 866-412-5937 for a free initial consultation.
Personal Service For Car Accident Injury Victims
At Slater Law, LLC, we personally meet with each client, making sure they understand their full rights. We aggressively pursue compensation for damages such as lost wages, pain and suffering, medical expenses, and other economic and noneconomic damages. We understand the challenges facing car accident injury victims and their families, and we do everything in our power to make sure they get the compensation they need and deserve.
What To Do After A Car Accident
The actions that are taken in the minutes and hours after a car accident can make the difference between a successful claim and an unsuccessful claim. If possible, your actions after an accident should be to:
- Call the police or, if necessary 911
- Call your insurance company
- Get checked out by a medical doctor
If you are physically able to stay at the scene, it is a good idea to take pictures of the damaged vehicles and other possible evidence at the scene.
Answers To Frequently Asked Car Accident Questions
Below, our attorneys have provided answers to common questions you might be asking after a car crash.
Can I recover compensation if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?
Yes, you may still be able to recover compensation if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured. Iowa law doesn’t require insurance policies to include uninsured motorist coverage, but you may have elected this as part of your own policy. If so, this type of coverage can help pay for your medical bills, lost wages and other expenses if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.
Even if you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, you may still have options for at least partial compensation. An attorney can help you explore making claims against other insurance policies you have, suing the at-fault driver directly or finding other liable parties to include in litigation.
What if I was partially at fault for my car accident?
In Iowa, you can still recover compensation even if you share fault for the car accident, so long as your share is less than half. Iowa follows a “comparative fault” system, which means that your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault and your total damages amount to $10,000, you would receive $8,000.
Do I need to seek medical attention after a car crash?
Yes, it is crucial to seek medical attention after a car crash, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show immediate symptoms but can become serious over time. A medical professional can evaluate your condition and provide the necessary treatment. Additionally, having medical records can be important evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
When should I contact a car accident attorney?
You should contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident. An attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence and deal with insurance companies. The sooner you reach out, the better your chances of securing a fair settlement. Iowa has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, so acting quickly is important to protect your legal options.
Contact A Des Moines Auto Accident Lawyer
We are here to answer your questions and focus on your legal issues so you can focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer.