Best Car Accident Lawyers in Ankeny

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Ankeny, Iowa?

  The phone number for non-emergencies in Ankeny is 515-286-3333.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Ankeny, Iowa?

  Visit the records unit of the police station in person at 411 SW Ordnance Road or send an email to kmoeller@ankenyiowa.gov. Call the records unit at 515-289-5240.

• How should a person who got into a car accident in Ankeny deal with insurance adjusters?

  Give the insurance adjuster basic information about your car accident in Ankeny. Be calm and professional. Refuse to have your conversations recorded, and should the adjuster insist, do not further proceed with the conversation. Instead, ask the adjuster to send the details to you in writing and contact a lawyer as soon as you can. Whenever an insurance representative calls, always keep a written record of the details of your conversation.

• What factors are considered when determining fault in a left-turn car accident in Ankeny?

  Traffic controls, driver errors, uncontrolled intersection flow, and comparative fault are the factors considered when determining fault in a left-turn accident in Ankeny. Driver errors, such as distracted driving, failing to yield, beating the red light, and speeding, can also cause a driver to be at fault in the accident.

• Which intersection in Ankeny is prone to car accidents?

  The intersection of Ankeny Boulevard and 1st Street was identified by Iowa DOT to be a high-priority intersection for safety improvements due to the many car accidents in the location. According to Iowa DOT statistics, the intersection had 116 crashes, 57 injuries, and five serious injuries in a given five-year period. It is a busy thoroughfare that accommodates over 36,000 cars on an average day.

• Are icy roads that cause car accidents in Ankeny considered an "Act of God"?

  Usually, no. Stormy weather or ice on the road does not shield a driver from the responsibility of causing a car accident in Ankeny. Although IA laws honor an "Act of God" defense, in most cases, drivers cannot use it to escape responsibility for an accident. The Supreme Court of Iowa consistently maintains that all drivers are responsible for exercising caution, such as slowing down and keeping safe distances, when roads are icy.

• How should a car accident in Ankeny involving a Lyft vehicle be reported to Lyft?

  Report the car accident in Ankeny through an online form on Lyft's website. Provide only relevant information and do not discuss liability, your injuries, and your fault in the accident. Prepare copies of police reports, pictures of the accident, and contact info of the Lyft driver and parties involved. Keep copies of bills, receipts, medical treatment records, out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident, and car repairs.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.