According to data available, 378 people lost their lives in car crashes in Iowa in 2023. A significant number of traffic mishaps happen due to negligent drivers, and victims often include passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, and motorcyclists. If you sustained injuries in a car accident in Des Moines, you have to take appropriate steps to protect yourself and recover a settlement. Here are seven things that need attention. 

  1. Hiring an attorney is non-negotiable: While state laws don’t require you to have an attorney to file a car accident lawsuit, it is still the most essential step. Check the website of any top law firm in Des Moines, and you can schedule an appointment. Insurance companies are not in your favor, and the at-fault driver will want to pass the blame. Having an attorney allows you to explore all legal options and fight for your rights. 
  2. Seek medical care promptly: There is an immediate adrenaline rush after a crash, which is why many victims don’t feel the immediate pain and symptoms of injuries. Even if you are severely hurt, make it a point to see a doctor within 72 hours of the accident. Let the doctor know about the accident and ensure everything is documented. Seeking medical care is about avoiding future complications and having records to pursue the claim. 
  3. Don’t leave the scene: If someone is seriously hurt, call 911 or else inform the local law enforcement. You have to be at the scene until the police arrive. The investigating officer will have questions, and you should answer honestly without blaming anyone. As you wait for the police, make it a point to take pictures of the damaged vehicles, the conditions around the scene, and your injuries. 
  4. Insurance companies will use tactics: The first approach for most accident cases is to file a claim with the other party’s insurance carrier. Don’t assume that the claims adjuster is there to help you. If you say anything unusual or give a statement, you may end up with a low compensation offer. Instead, let your attorney take over the communication process. They know how to negotiate the settlement. 
  5. Avoid posting on social media: No one should know about the accident or your claim until you recover money, except for your doctor and attorney. Victims often post on social media or share details with others, which can be a big mistake. The at-fault party and insurance companies are looking for things to use against the claimant. 
  6. Do not admit fault: Even if you are partly liable for the crash, you don’t have to admit that to anyone except your attorney. Whether you are talking to the insurance agent or the police, you just to share the basic details. On the other hand, be transparent with your injury lawyer and ensure they are aware of every minute detail that can impact the case. 
  7. Don’t accept the first offer: Most car accident cases in Des Moines are settled outside of court. However, before you accept an offer from the other party or insurance companies, let your attorney do an evaluation. A capable & experienced lawyer knows how to calculate damages and discuss the final offer. Also, if the offered amount is nowhere close to the worth of your case, they can consider going to court. 

Before you hire an injury lawyer in Des Moines, check their profile and ensure their experience matches your case requirements. The sooner you hire an attorney, the faster they can start working on the case. Investigating an accident can take time, and your lawyer may contact professionals and experts to corroborate details.