Best Car Accident Lawyers in Sioux City, IA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Sioux City Police Department is 712-279-6960.

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

  Copies of full accident reports in Sioux City are available at the front desk of the Records Department of the Iowa Police Headquarters at 601 Douglas, Sioux City, Iowa. Alternatively, you may obtain a copy of your accident report online at http://www.crashdocs.org/. For more information, visit http://www.siouxcitypolice.com/records.

• When should you file an accident report after a car accident in Sioux City?

  If the Sioux City collision is minor, it might not be necessary for you to contact law enforcement, or law enforcement at the scene may determine that an investigation is not needed. However, if someone was injured in the accident or if there is more than $1,000 in property damage, you must file an accident report with the Iowa Department of Transportation within 72 hours of the accident, or your driver’s license may be suspended.

• How much does hiring a car accident lawyer in Sioux City cost?

  Car accident lawyers in Sioux City do not have a fixed rate for their legal services. Many of them don't ask for upfront fees and work on a contingency percentage basis, meaning you wouldn't have to pay for anything unless your lawyer wins your case and secures compensation for you.

• Is it okay to talk to insurance companies after a car accident in Sioux City?

  It is advisable that you notify your auto insurance agent or company immediately after an accident in Sioux City and cooperate with them in their investigation. However, if the other party’s insurance company attempts to contact you and request a statement from you, it is best not to communicate with them without seeking the help of an attorney first. Insurance companies can use what you say to them against you to minimize or even dissolve the compensation you are otherwise entitled to receive.

• Can you sue if a defective car caused your accident in Sioux City?

  Yes. Defective vehicles also cause automobile accidents in Sioux City fairly often. Faulty cars can have issues, such as defective tires, malfunctioning airbags, and braking system failures, all of which can lead to an accident. If you find yourself in this situation, you can file a lawsuit against the manufacturers of the defective parts to hold them responsible for your injuries as a result of the accident.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Sioux City?

  If you sustain injuries in Sioux City in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, you usually have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This two-year deadline is called the statute of limitations and applies to all of Iowa. If you fail to file your lawsuit within the given period, it is possible that you might not be able to recover compensation for your losses.

• 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.