Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dubuque, IA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number for the Dubuque Police Department is 563.589.4415.

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

  Accident reports can be obtained at the Dubuque Police Records Division, which is located at 808 Central Avenue. A $10 administrative fee is charged for each report.

• Is there a statute of limitations for auto accident lawsuits in Dubuque?

  The civil statute of limitations in Iowa is two years from the date of injury. You have two years from the date of your accident in Dubuque to initiate a lawsuit with the responsible party. Failure to file a lawsuit within two years may prevent you from receiving compensation. The purpose of the statute of limitations is to give you ample time to determine how to proceed with your injury. Additionally, it limits the period for filing lawsuits so that possible claims are not left open indefinitely, resulting in evidence being lost or witnesses forgetting what occurred.

• Can you receive compensation even if you caused a vehicle accident in Dubuque?

  Yes. Under Iowa's fault rules, you can seek compensation for losses against the at-fault driver and their insurance company in a Dubuque car accident. If you have collision coverage, you can let your insurance company handle your vehicle repair claim. Your insurer will then pursue reimbursement from the at-fault driver's insurance carrier. Iowa also employs a modified version of the comparative fault rule for lawsuits. If the other driver is equally or more at fault, you can sue them. Your compensation will be lessened by your percentage of accident liability when you are 50 percent or less at fault.

• What is the average compensation for automobile accidents in Dubuque?

  In Iowa, the average settlement for injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Dubuque is $36,500, with most awards ranging between $6,100 and $215,000. Settlements and court awards for mild injuries might vary from $1,500 to $1,500,000 or more for catastrophic brain or spinal cord injuries. Injury settlements can vary substantially based on the facts of the accident, the victim's injuries, and the liability limits of the at-fault driver's insurance policy.

• What are the most treacherous hills in Dubuque?

  When the snow begins to blanket Dubuque's numerous bluffs, the environment may take on a breathtakingly beautiful appearance. Nevertheless, if your journey involves one of these slopes, that sensation of elation might quickly be replaced by dread. Here are some of the city's most difficult winter driving roadways. The list includes West Fifth Street, Montcrest Street, Angella Street, Merz Street, University Avenue/West Ninth Street, Montrose Terrace, Dell Street, and Kelly Lane/Old Mill Road.

• What are Dubuque's most hazardous intersections?

  The Public Information and Crime Prevention division of the Dubuque Police Department collated statistics on the intersections in Dubuque prone to traffic accidents. They include the intersections of Dodge Street with Hill Street, Dodge Street with the Northwest Arterial, Dodge Street with Devon Drive, Dodge Street with South Locust Street, and Dodge Street with Wacker Drive.

• 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.