Best Car Accident Lawyers in Des Moines

FAQs

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

  You can reach Des Moines Police's Non-Emergency Communication Center 24/7 at 515-283-4811. The center is located at 25 East 1st Street.

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

  Accident reports for Des Moines can be accessed at CrashDocs.org. Take note:

  • Reports are available 5–7 business days following the accident.
  • Accidents that involve death and fatality investigations will not be available online.
  • Visit the Des Moines Police Department at 25 East 1st Street to purchase accident reports that involve fatalities.
  • The Des Moines police will not provide accident reports to business requestors unless these are not on CrashDocs.org. However, purchasing reports personally at the police station will be accommodated.

• Is there a time limit for filing claims in Des Moines?

  Persons injured in car accidents in Des Moines are given a two-year period to settle claims through negotiation or take matters to the court system. Should victims fail to do any of the two, the claim may already be impermissible regardless of its merits or the reason for deadline noncompliance.

• What road in Des Moines has the most accidents?

  Day Street and 6th Avenue have the most number of crashes in the metro. According to statistics from the Iowa Department of Public Transportation, these roads rank fourth in the most dangerous roads in the state, with 16,670 vehicles traveling on these roads every day. Additionally, seven of Des Moines's intersections are included in the state's top 20 dangerous intersections.

• How is fault determined in pile-up accidents in Des Moines?

  In Des Moines, under Iowa law, fault in accidents involving more than two vehicles is generally compared against each driver. In multi-vehicle pile-ups, drivers are assessed for their adherence to the Rules of the Road, such as speed limit, seatbelt safety, and duty to yield. The compensation is then calculated based on the percentage of fault.

• What commonly causes car crashes in Des Moines/Iowa?

  50% of car crashes in Iowa are attributed to distracted driving. Some of the reasons drivers are distracted include talking or texting on the phone, eating, and grooming. Next to distracted drivers are fatigued drivers, who have decreased reaction times in accidents. Additionally, drunk driving is a major threat to road safety in Iowa.

• How much is the cost of hiring a car accident attorney in Des Moines?

  Car accident attorneys in Iowa generally charge on a contingency basis which means no money is needed upfront. Attorney's fees in Des Moines generally cover one-third of the settlement or verdict award amounts, depending on the case situation. Some law firms charge around 20–40% of damages obtained. It is important to check fee arrangements carefully on the contract with an attorney.

• 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.