Best Car Accident Lawyers in Council Bluffs

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency situations, you can call the Council Bluffs Police Department at (712) 328-5737 and dial option 1.

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

  A copy of the car accident police report can be obtained at the Council Bluffs Police Department located at 1 Ezra Jackson Wy, Council Bluffs.

• Who is responsible for a car accident in Council Bluffs?

  Since Iowa is an at-fault state, individuals who are at fault for a car accident in Council Bluffs will be the ones responsible for the expenses that will be incurred due to the accident. The at-fault party will pay for the property damage and the medical expenses of all injured parties, including their own passengers.

• What should you do if you are involved in a car accident in Council Bluffs with no or not enough insurance?

  If an individual was in a Council Bluff accident with no or insufficient car insurance coverage, they may be required to pay a bond or lose their license or registration. The other driver or their insurance company may also likely sue the uninsured/underinsured individual, requiring them to pay the judgment if the suing party wins.

• How do you know if you are eligible to file a car accident claim in Council Bluffs?

  If an individual wants to file a car accident claim in Council Bluffs, they must prove that another individual or party caused the accident by being negligent, reckless, or by violating a traffic law. They must also prove that they sustained economic or noneconomic damages due to the car accident.

• Is there a limit on compensation for a car accident in Council Bluffs?

  There are no caps on damage amounts in the state of Iowa, meaning those involved in a car accident in Council Bluffs may obtain the maximum compensation possible for damages. However, claimants should prove that they are not the more at-fault party. If they are found to be more than 50 percent responsible for the accident, they can’t receive any compensation in court.

• Can you still file a claim for a car accident in Council Bluffs after a year?

  Yes. Individuals involved in a Council Bluffs car accident have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. To ensure that they would not miss the statute of limitations, it is highly advised to file their claim with the court immediately before the two-year limit.

• 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.