Iowa Personal Injury Lawyers
Personalized Attention to Your Iowa Personal Injury Case
When you need an Iowa personal injury lawyer who treats every case with the care and attention it deserves, you need The Biker Lawyers.
When you work with us, you are not just another client; you are part of the biker community. From the very first consultation (we can ride out to your location if needed), our goal is to ensure you receive the maximum compensation and support throughout your recovery.
Why The Biker Lawyers are the Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Iowa
“Pete is without a doubt the best attorney I’ve ever worked with! He is down to earth and made me feel very comfortable as well as made sure I understood the process and what to expect. He definately goes above and beyond and cares about his clients. If you need an Iowa personal injury lawyer, look no further. You have found an incredible one!”
– Josh Bales
How an Iowa Personal Injury Lawyer Helps With Your Case
Accident Investigation
- Our team of experienced attorneys conducts thorough investigations to gather all necessary evidence. From accessing and reviewing footage from intersections, nearby gas stations, and even bodycam footage, to taking statements from witnesses, our legal experts ensure every detail is covered – helping to build a strong case for you.
Medical Support and Documentation
- We assist you in getting the medical care you need and ensure all injuries are properly documented. This is crucial for your health, recovery, and for maximizing your compensation.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
- Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our experienced Iowa personal injury attorneys know their tactics and will fight to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Litigation
- When the time comes, we make sure we are prepared to tell your story to a judge and jury as we take your case to court. Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in personal injury litigation.
Understanding Iowa Personal Injury Claims
Understanding your rights to personal injury claims can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our attorneys fight to maximize your personal injury compensation, covering medical bills, lost wages, and more.
What is Personal Injury?
A personal injury is typically a physical injury to a person’s body, caused by someone else’s fault.
In many cases, personal injuries that are caused by someone else’s actions can qualify for monetary compensation.
If you’re dealing with personal injury claims and struggling for compensation, we are here to help.
At The Biker Lawyers, our legal team in iowa are experts in personal injury claims, ensuring you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. Whether you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident or another type of personal injury, our experienced injury lawyers are here to help.
Imagine you’re cruising down the open road, the wind in your hair, when suddenly, disaster strikes. In an instant, an unexpected accident upends your life, leaving you vulnerable and in urgent need of justice.
How could the freedom of the open road become a prison of injustice?
At The Biker Lawyers, we understand the unique challenges bikers face. With over 40 years of experience, our team provides the expert legal support you need to get back on the road, ensuring your journey doesn’t end in despair but with the justice and support you deserve.
What Types of Accidents Cause Personal Injuries in Iowa?
The Biker Lawyers are experts in the following personal injury claims.
Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating due to the lack of protection compared to cars. Common causes include impaired or distracted driving, failure to maintain safe road conditions, and other drivers’ negligence.
“Motorcycle riders continue to be overrepresented in fatal traffic crashes. In 2022, there were 6,218 motorcyclists killed — 15% of all traffic fatalities.” – Motorcycle Safety, NHSTA.gov
After an accident, seeking medical help is the first priority. Legal advice is crucial to navigate insurance claims, determine fault, and secure fair compensation.
At The Biker Lawyers, we are experienced in both biking and law, are dedicated to fighting for bikers’ rights, ensuring safer roads, and providing support throughout the recovery process.
Car Accidents
Car accidents often result in significant physical and emotional distress. Causes range from distracted driving to weather conditions.
More than 360 people died in car crashes in 2023, nearly a 10% increase from 2022″ – Iowa sees deadliest year on roads since 2016, weareiowa.com
After ensuring safety and seeking medical attention, contacting a lawyer is crucial. Legal expertise can help navigate the complexities of insurance claims and liability, ensuring victims receive appropriate compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
The legal experts at our firm leverage our extensive experience to fight for clients’ rights, aiming to alleviate the stress of legal proceedings and secure the best possible outcomes.
Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can be particularly severe due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. These incidents often result in extensive damage and serious injuries. Common causes include driver fatigue, improper maintenance, and overloaded trucks.
“…there are more than 168k truck accidents every year, around 32% of which involve an injury and around 3% result in a fatality.” – Truck Accident Statistics – 2023 Edition, truckinfo.net
Legal assistance is essential for dealing with trucking companies and their insurers.
With a history of success in such complex cases, we pull out all the stops to ensure victims receive full compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost income, and pain and suffering. Our experience and dedication provide critical support to clients in navigating the aftermath of such accidents.
Slips and falls
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, often leading to serious injuries. Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe conditions. When negligence occurs, victims may face medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term health issues. Legal representation helps establish liability and secure compensation.
“18% of the 1,176,340 nonfatal work injuries resulting in days away from work in 2020 were related to slips, trips, and falls.”- Fast Facts, cdc.gov
The Biker Lawyers offer expertise in these cases, guiding clients through the legal process, ensuring their rights are protected, and helping them recover the costs associated with their injuries. Their goal is to hold negligent parties accountable and aid clients in their recovery.
Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Nursing home abuse and neglect are serious issues that affect vulnerable populations. Signs include unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, and emotional withdrawal. Legal intervention is crucial to protect residents and hold facilities accountable.
“In 2023, U.S. nursing homes received94,499 health citations.7,654 of these citations (8.1 percent) were issued due to abuse, neglect, or exploitation of residents.” – Elder Abuse Statistics for 2024, seniorliving.org
The Biker Lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the rights of nursing home residents, ensuring they receive proper care and respect. We provide thorough investigations, support families in taking legal action, and strive to secure justice and compensation for the harm suffered by their loved ones.
Wrongful Death
Wrongful death claims arise when someone’s negligence leads to the death of a loved one. This type of case seeks to provide financial compensation for the survivors, addressing medical costs, funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
What percentage of deaths are due to unintentional injuries?
“Injuries – both unintentional and violence-related – take the lives of 4.4 million people around the world each year and constitutenearly 8%of all deaths.” – Injuries and Violence, who.int
The members of our team offer compassionate and expert legal support, understanding the profound impact such a loss can have on families. They work diligently to hold responsible parties accountable and ensure that clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve during such a difficult time.
Why Choose The Biker Lawyers?
If you’re in Cedar Rapids or anywhere in Iowa, our personal injury attorneys are ready to assist you. Learn why The Biker Lawyers is the top choice for Cedar Rapids personal injury cases.
Our Iowa personal injury attorneys have a deep understanding of local laws and are committed to securing your rights.
Experience and Expertise
Our team comprises seasoned personal injury attorneys who are not only legal experts but also passionate bikers.
We know the ins and outs of personal injury law and the specific issues that affect bikers. This unique perspective also means we understand the rules of the road as they impact other motorists as well. This combination makes us uniquely qualified to handle your case.
Real Stories from Our Clients
When it comes to reputation, our words don’t matter. Yours do.
Throughout the years, the Biker Lawyers have stood side-by-side with the biker community, guiding them through the most challenging situations imaginable and ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Our unwavering commitment has resulted in millions of dollars in settlements for countless Midwestern drivers, each with their own compelling story. Here are just a few.
Bruce Durband
“I was in a bad motorcycle crash and chose The Biker Lawyers to get me the settlement I deserved. From the start, Pete assured me that he would fight for justice and get me the settlement I deserved, and they did!
Every lawyer in the group rides and that truly makes a huge difference when choosing a lawyer! Thanks to The Biker Lawyers for everything you have done for me. Pete, you are the best!”
Candrace Jones
“After our accident, we were going on blind faith that the insurance companies would do what was right in our situation. It seemed so black and white to me.
Through the course of the year or so gathering information, finishing up medical appointments, and waiting to hear back from representatives, we realized it wasn’t even close to over. It was time to hire a lawyer.
We met the lawyers from the Biker Lawyers, P.C. at a bike night. I took their card and contacted them right away that following week. When I called the office, the receptionist was courteous and knowledgeable. She took down a short summary of what I needed and told me someone would be in touch soon. They called me the next day.
Throughout the entire process, they kept us informed. They made sure we understood every step and advised us accordingly. I am very thankful I called The Biker Lawyers, P.C. Our case is completed and we are relieved. I would highly recommend their office!”
“I’ve been in a crash. Now what?” What to Do After an Accident
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Get medical help immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos and gather contact information from witnesses. This evidence can be crucial for your case.
- Contact The Biker Lawyers: Reach out to us as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Personal Injury Case Results
$54,134 Settlement
Iowa Car Accident
Broken foot and hip, chronic pain, PTSD car accident
$200,000 Judgement
Iowa Motorcycle Accident
Multiple catastrophic injuries including skull fracture
$50,000 Settlement
Iowa Personal Injury
Severe Shoulder Injury and Chronic Pain
Iowa Personal Injury FAQ
Click the (+) on any of the questions below.
What constitutes a personal injury claim in Iowa?
A personal injury claim arises when someone suffers harm due to another’s negligence or intentional actions. This includes physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial losses. These are just a few of what are called “damages,” but we’ll get more into that in the next question.
What is the role of an Iowa personal injury lawyer in a case?
A lawyer investigates the claim, gathers evidence, negotiates with insurers, and represents you in court to secure fair compensation.
How are damages assessed in a personal injury case in Iowa?
Damages are assessed based on medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the impact on quality of life. Future costs related to the injury are also considered.
How do I know if I have a valid personal injury claim?
You may have a valid claim if you can prove that another’s negligence caused your injuries and resulted in damages. If you’re unsure, we suggest you consult with a personal injury lawyer to evaluate your case.
How do pre-existing injuries affect a personal injury case?
Pre-existing injuries can complicate a case, but compensation can still be obtained if it can be shown that the accident aggravated the existing condition.
What are pre-existing injuries?
Pre-existing injuries are medical conditions or injuries that existed before the accident or incident in question. These can include chronic conditions like arthritis, previous injuries like a healed fracture, or other medical issues.
Can my pre-existing injuries be used against me?
When you have a pre-existing condition, the defense might argue that your current symptoms are solely due to this condition and not the accident. However, if the accident worsened your pre-existing condition, you are entitled to seek compensation for the aggravation of your injury.
What is The Thin-Skull Rule?
The “thin-skull rule,” also known as the “eggshell skull rule,” is a legal doctrine used in personal injury law. It states that a defendant must take the plaintiff as they find them. This means that if a plaintiff has a pre-existing condition that makes them more susceptible to injury, the defendant is still fully liable for all damages caused by their actions, even if another person without that condition might have suffered less harm.
If I win my personal injury case, who pays the settlement?
A common misconception is that your legal team is going after the at-fault person’s personal assets. In reality, this compensation usually comes from the at-fault person’s insurance policy. The person making a personal injury claim is called a plaintiff, and the person or company that caused the injury is the defendant.
Do I have to worry about bankrupting the person I am suing?
Many people worry that by filing a personal injury claim, they are directly impacting the financial well-being of the individual who caused the accident. This is particularly concerning if the defendant is someone you know personally, such as a friend or neighbor. It’s important to understand that most personal injury claims are covered by insurance.
When are personal finances/assets pursued?
There are scenarios where the insurance policy might not cover the full extent of the damages, or the defendant may not have adequate insurance. In such cases, it might be necessary to consider the defendant’s personal finances or assets to cover the remaining costs.
How personal assets are targeted?
If a judgment is awarded and the insurance coverage is insufficient, several methods can be used to collect the remaining amount from the defendant’s personal assets:
- Liens: A lien can be placed on the defendant’s property, such as their home, preventing them from selling it without paying the owed amount.
- Wage Garnishment: A portion of the defendant’s wages can be garnished (taken directly from their paycheck) until the debt is satisfied.
- Bank Levies: Funds can be taken directly from the defendant’s bank accounts to cover the judgment amount.
Who pays the damages in an auto injury case?
While the primary source of compensation in personal injury cases is usually the defendant’s insurance policy, there are circumstances where personal finances or assets may be pursued to cover the full extent of the damages. Understanding this distinction can alleviate concerns about the financial impact on individuals and highlight the importance of adequate insurance coverage.
How much can you sue for in a personal injury case?
The value of your personal injury case depends on various factors including the severity of the injury, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our job is to ensure you receive fair compensation for all damages.
What are the types of damages in personal injury cases?
Personal injury damages are financial compensations due to missed income, decreased physical or mental function, and punitive damages to prevent similar actions by the defendant. Damages include economic (medical expenses, lost wages) and non-economic (pain and suffering, emotional distress). Punitive damages may be awarded in cases of gross negligence.
Personal injury damages often fall into six categories:
- Past medical expenses
- Future medical expenses
- Loss of income
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Loss of function of the body and mind (past and future)
- Physical and mental pain and suffering (past and future)
Do all personal injury claims (disputes) go to court?
No, many personal injury claims are settled out of court through negotiations. In fact, most insurance companies would prefer not to go to court because they would rather you accept as little of a settlement offer as possible. Unfortunately, this may not be fair compensation, which is where your lawyer comes in. They will negotiate on your behalf, and if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial.
What happens in a personal injury case / What is the personal injury claim process?
In Iowa, a personal injury case typically involves several steps. These include:
- Consulting an attorney
- Filing a claim
- Investigating the incident
- Gathering evidence
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Potentially going to court if a settlement can’t be reached
How do you prove a personal injury claim?
To prove a personal injury claim in Iowa, you need to demonstrate that the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries, resulting in damages. Evidence includes medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony.
Are personal injury claims usually settled out of court?
Yes, the majority of personal injury claims are settled out of court through negotiations between the parties involved. This is why having a lawyer helps make sure your rights are protected and you can get the highest settlement you’re entitled to.
What is ‘Comparative Negligence’ in Personal Injury Law?
Comparative negligence is a legal principle that reduces the amount of compensation you can receive based on your level of fault in the accident. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. This principle is designed to ensure that compensation is fairly distributed according to the level of responsibility each party had in causing the accident.
How does comparative negligence impact your case?
In a personal injury case, the court or insurance adjuster determines the percentage of fault attributable to each party involved in the accident. Once the total damages are calculated, your compensation is adjusted according to your percentage of fault. If your damages total $100,000 and you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation is reduced by 20%, which equals $20,000. The final amount you receive would be $80,000, which is the total damages minus the amount corresponding to your fault percentage.
What are the types of comparative negligence?
There are two main types of comparative negligence: Pure Comparative Negligence and Modified Comparative Negligence. The type that applies to your case depends on the state you are in.
- Pure Comparative Negligence: Allows you to recover damages even if you are 99% at fault, though your compensation will be significantly reduced.
- Modified Comparative Negligence: You can only recover damages if you are less than 50% or 51% at fault (depending on the state). If your fault is equal to or greater than this threshold, you cannot recover any damages.
What is Iowa’s comparative negligence law?
In Iowa, the modified comparative negligence rule applies with a 51% threshold. If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages. If you are 50% or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you have questions or need clarification, it’s always advised to speak with a qualified personal injury attorney in a free consultation.
What is a duty of care?
A duty of care is a legal obligation to act in a way that avoids causing harm to others. It means that individuals and organizations must take reasonable steps to ensure their actions or inactions do not harm others. This concept is fundamental in personal injury law and helps determine if someone can be held responsible for causing an injury.
What are some everyday examples of duty of care?
Duty of care applies in various situations. Here are a few everyday examples:
- Drivers on the Road: When you’re driving, you have a duty of care to other road users, including pedestrians. This means you must follow traffic laws, drive safely, and pay attention to avoid accidents.
- Businesses and Property Owners: Business owners and property owners have a duty of care to keep their premises safe for visitors. This includes fixing hazards like wet floors or broken steps to prevent accidents.
- Professionals: Doctors, lawyers, and other professionals have a duty of care to their clients and patients. They must provide services that meet a certain standard of care to avoid causing harm.
Why is duty of care important?
Duty of care is crucial because it establishes the standard of behavior expected in various situations. If someone breaches this duty by acting carelessly or negligently, and it results in injury or damage, they can be held legally responsible.
What are the legal implications of duty of care?
In a personal injury case, proving that the defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff is the first step. The next steps are to show that this duty was breached and that the breach directly caused the injury or harm. Basically, a duty of care is about being responsible and mindful of others’ safety and well-being in our actions and decisions. It’s a foundational concept that helps protect everyone in society.
How long does a typical personal injury case take?
While many personal injury cases settle out of court within a year, others, particularly those involving significant injuries or complex circumstances, can take several years to resolve. The timeline depends on various factors and stages in the legal process.
What are the average timeframes to resolve a personal injury case?
The average timeframes for resolving a personal injury case vary depending on the complexity of the case:
- Simple Cases: 3 to 9 months.
- Moderate Cases: 1 to 3 years.
- Complex Cases: 3 to 5 years or more.
What are the key stages in a personal injury case?
A personal injury case typically involves several key stages, which include:
- Medical Treatment and Recovery: Reaching maximum medical improvement (MMI) ensures all injuries and damages are fully accounted for.
- Investigation and Gathering Evidence: This involves collecting medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
- Filing the Claim: The claim is filed with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
- Settlement Negotiations: Most cases are settled out of court, but negotiations can be lengthy.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, a lawsuit is filed, initiating the court process.
- Discovery Phase: Both parties exchange information, documents, and take depositions.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Hearings: Legal motions and hearings occur to resolve various issues before trial.
- Trial: The trial can last a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity.
- Post-Trial Motions and Appeals: Either party can file motions or appeal the decision, extending the timeline further.
What factors affect the timeline of a personal injury case?
Several factors can impact the overall timeline of resolving a personal injury case, including:
- Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries often result in longer cases due to extended medical treatment.
- Complexity of the Case: Cases involving multiple parties or unclear liability tend to take longer.
- Insurance Company Response: Some insurers may delay negotiations to pressure plaintiffs into accepting lower amounts.
- Court Schedules: Court availability can significantly impact the timeline, especially if the case goes to trial.
- Legal Strategy: Both sides may employ strategies that prolong the case, such as extensive discovery requests.
- Settlement Willingness: Cases where both parties are willing to settle can be resolved much faster.
Why do personal injury claims take years to resolve?
Personal injury claims can take years to resolve due to the time required for thorough investigation, medical evaluations, negotiations, and court scheduling. The complexity of the case, severity of injuries, and legal strategies employed by both sides can all contribute to the length of the process.
What kind of cases do personal injury lawyers handle?
Personal injury lawyers handle cases involving car accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip and falls, nursing home abuse, and wrongful death, among others. Click any of the previous links to learn more about each.
What is the role of insurance in personal injury cases?
Insurance plays a key role in compensating the injured party for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. The at-fault party’s insurance typically covers these costs, depending on the policy limits. In some cases, personal injury claims may involve negotiations with multiple insurance companies.
What are the different types of personal injury?
Personal injury cases encompass various types of injuries caused by accidents or negligent actions. These include:
- Physical Injuries: These are injuries to the body such as fractures, burns, cuts, and bruises. Examples include broken bones from a car accident, burns from a fire, or whiplash.
- Psychological Injuries: These involve mental and emotional harm. Common examples are post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety following a traumatic event like a severe accident or assault.
- Injuries Due to Negligence: These occur when someone fails to take reasonable care, leading to harm. Examples include slip and falls on poorly maintained property, car accidents caused by distracted driving, and medical malpractice resulting in harm to a patient.
What is your experience winning a bodily injury claim?
Our experienced legal team of attorneys at The Biker Lawyers have successfully won numerous bodily injury claims, securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our focus on thorough investigation, aggressive negotiation, and expert representation has consistently led to favorable outcomes.
Can I make a personal injury lawsuit without a lawyer?
While it is possible to file a personal injury lawsuit without a lawyer, it is not advisable. A lawyer can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome by handling legal complexities, negotiations, and the extensive documentation required for such cases. Without legal expertise, you may be at a disadvantage, particularly when dealing with insurance companies and opposing legal teams.
What are the chances of winning a personal injury lawsuit?
The chances of winning a personal injury lawsuit vary based on the strength of the evidence, the severity of injuries, and the skill of your lawyer. Cases with clear liability, strong evidence, and significant damages tend to have higher success rates. Consulting with an experienced attorney can provide you with a realistic assessment of your case and improve your chances of success.
Can multiple parties be held liable in a personal injury case?
Yes, multiple parties can be held liable if they each played a role in causing the injury. For example, in a car accident involving multiple vehicles, each driver who contributed to the accident may share responsibility for the damages. This can lead to shared responsibility for compensation, which is divided according to each party’s degree of fault.
What is included in my personal injury case’s compensation?
Compensation in a personal injury case typically includes both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover quantifiable losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the defendant for particularly egregious behavior.
How long does a personal injury claim take to pay out?
After a settlement is reached, payouts typically take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the case complexity and the involved parties. The exact timeline can vary based on factors such as the time needed to finalize settlement documents, the insurance company’s processing time, and whether any liens need to be resolved before disbursement.
What do I do if someone makes a personal injury claim against me?
If someone makes a personal injury claim against you in Iowa, here’s what you should do:
- Contact Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company immediately. They will provide legal representation and handle negotiations on your behalf.
- Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant information and documentation about the incident, including photos, witness statements, and any communication with the claimant.
- Avoid Direct Communication: Do not communicate directly with the claimant without legal advice, as anything you say could be used against you.
- Consult an Attorney: Seek legal advice to understand your rights and obligations and to prepare a defense strategy.
Can I file a personal injury claim if I am injured by a firearm, like a .357 Magnum?
Yes, you can file a personal injury claim if you are injured by a firearm. Injuries caused by firearms, whether accidental or due to negligence, can qualify for compensation. It’s important to document the incident, seek immediate medical attention, and consult with a personal injury lawyer to evaluate your case. Our team can help determine liability, gather evidence, and fight for your rights to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other related damages.
Contact The Biker Lawyers Today
Don’t navigate the aftermath of an accident alone. Contact The Biker Lawyers for a free consultation. Let us ride with you on your road to recovery.
Call us at (319) 294-4424 or click below.