Were you in a pedestrian accident in Des Moines, Iowa? You may be dealing with injuries, stress, and financial challenges. An experienced personal injury law firm can help. A Des Moines pedestrian accident lawyer can provide the legal representation you will need to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Traffic Laws Protect Pedestrians in Iowa?
Iowa has laws to ensure pedestrian safety. Under Iowa Code § 321.327, drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks without traffic signals. Pedestrians should use sidewalks or, if unavailable, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
Do I Need a Des Moines Pedestrian Accident Attorney?
With in-depth legal knowledge, an experienced personal injury lawyer from our law firm can provide valuable help with your pedestrian accident claim. They can manage the entire legal process, gather evidence, determine liability, and negotiate with insurance adjusters for full compensation. They can evaluate your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a fair settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer can file a lawsuit against the negligent parties.
Common Causes of Des Moines Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accident injuries suffered in car accidents in Des Moines are often caused by:
- Distracted driving, such as texting while behind the wheel
- Failing to yield the right-of-way or obey traffic signals
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Poor visibility due to inclement weather
What to Do When Pedestrian Accidents Occur in Des Moines
Here are the steps to take after a pedestrian-car accident in Des Moines, Iowa:
- Check for injuries sustained and seek medical attention if needed.
- Call 911 immediately for serious injuries, major property damage, or to file police reports.
- Exchange contact and insurance company details and document the scene with photos of damages and injuries.
- Notify your insurer promptly to start the claims process and get assistance.
- If you’ve been injured due to negligence, take advantage of a no-obligation consultation with a personal injury lawyer who can discuss a personal injury claim.
- Track all medical expenses.
What Are the Most Common Injuries in a Pedestrian-Auto Accident?
Pedestrian-auto accidents often cause serious injuries in pedestrian accident cases like spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, soft tissue injuries, head and skull fractures, and other broken bones. These severe injuries can cause serious complications, with high medical costs for paralysis, cognitive challenges, and chronic pain—requiring immediate and ongoing medical care.
Who Is Liable for Pedestrian Accidents in Des Moines?
By Iowa law, pedestrian accidents can involve a responsible party beyond the driver, including government agencies for poorly maintained roads, vehicle manufacturers for defective parts, or third-party drivers for causing distractions. Under Iowa’s comparative negligence rules, pedestrians may also share liability if their actions (like jaywalking) contributed to the incident.
Can Injury Victims Recover Compensation for a Des Moines Pedestrian Accident?
Iowa personal injury law may allow pedestrian accident victims to seek compensation, including:
- Medical expenses and future medical bills
- Lost wages and future loss of income
- Pain and suffering (including physical pain, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life)
- Disfigurement or disabilities
- A wrongful death claim
How Much Is My Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
A personal injury attorney evaluates a pedestrian-motor vehicle accident case by considering factors like injury severity, lost wages, emotional distress, and available insurance coverage. These elements help determine the case’s value and potential compensation for those who suffered injuries due to the actions of a negligent motorist.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit?
By Iowa law, the statute of limitations for a personal injury case is typically two years from the date of the incident.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers for a Free Initial Consultation
Seek legal guidance from a Des Moines pedestrian accident lawyer at our firm after a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent driver. Take advantage of a free consultation with one of the dedicated attorneys on our legal team to discuss your case and suggest a plan for legal recourse.
(312) 223-1700