How to Choose a Personal Injury Attorney After a Car Accident in Iowa

Choose an attorney who handles car accident injury cases every day, takes cases on a contingency fee, explains costs in writing, and answers your questions in plain English. Talk to two or three before you decide. Most offer a free first consultation.

You do not need to hire anyone the same day. But Iowa has a filing deadline, so do not wait too long.

What to look for

1. Car accident injury cases are their main work

Ask what share of their cases are personal injury. A lawyer who does this every week knows how insurance companies handle claims.

2. They are willing to go to court

Most cases settle. But insurance companies treat a lawyer who will file suit and go to trial differently. Ask when they last tried a case.

3. A clear, written fee agreement

Most injury attorneys are paid a percentage of what you recover (a “contingency fee”). You should not owe a fee if there is no recovery. Ask for the percentage in writing, and ask how case costs are handled.

4. Good communication

Who will you talk to day to day? How fast do they return calls? You should know who is working on your case.

5. They are local and easy to reach

An Iowa attorney knows Iowa courts, Iowa insurance rules, and local medical providers.

Questions to ask in your first call

  • How many car accident injury cases do you handle each year?
  • Who will work on my case, and who do I call with questions?
  • What is your fee, and what costs come out of my share?
  • How long does a case like mine usually take?
  • If my provider agrees to work off of a lien, will you honor the lien and letter of protection?
  • What do you need from me right now?
  • Have you taken cases like mine to trial?

Warning signs

  • They promise a specific dollar amount or a guaranteed win. No honest lawyer can.
  • They pressure you to sign right now.
  • They contacted you first, out of the blue, after your accident.
  • They will not put the fee in writing.
  • They are hard to reach even before you hire them.

What to bring to your first meeting

  • Your car insurance dec page (it shows your coverage, including Medical Payments). Here is how to find it.
  • The police report or accident report number, if you have it.
  • The other driver’s insurance information.
  • Photos of the cars and the scene.
  • A list of the doctors and clinics you have seen, and any bills or letters from insurance companies.

The Iowa deadline

In Iowa, the general deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the injury (Iowa Code § 614.1(2)). Some situations, such as claims against a government, have different rules and shorter steps. An attorney can tell you exactly which deadline applies to you.

Where to find an attorney

  • Iowa State Bar Association Find-A-Lawyer program: iowabar.org, (515) 243-3179.
  • Ask family or friends who had a good experience.
  • Check any attorney’s license and discipline record with the Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board before you hire.

Our role

The choice of attorney is always yours. We do not choose one for you, and you do not need an attorney to be seen at our office. If you do hire an attorney, tell us. We work with your attorney’s office when the attorney will sign and honor a letter of protection and the lien. We keep detailed, objective records of your injuries. Your medical bills are your responsibility no matter how your case turns out, so we also help you check your car insurance Medical Payments coverage so your bills have a plan from day one.

Schedule a visit Call (515) 777-1014 Find your dec page

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a lawyer after a car accident in Iowa?

Not always. For a small, clear claim with no lasting injury, many people handle it with their insurance company. If you were hurt, the other driver disputes fault, or the insurance company’s offer does not cover your medical care, a consultation with a personal injury attorney is worth your time. It is usually free.

How much does a personal injury attorney cost?

Most are paid a percentage of what you recover, so you pay no attorney fee if there is no recovery. Percentages and how case costs are handled vary. Get the fee agreement in writing and ask questions before you sign.

Can I see a chiropractor before I hire an attorney?

Yes. You do not need a lawyer to get care. Getting checked early protects your health and creates a clear record of your injuries.

Will you recommend an attorney for me?

No. Choosing an attorney is your decision. We have listed how to compare attorneys and where to find them above.

How long do I have to file a claim in Iowa?

The general deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Iowa is two years from the date of injury. Some cases have different deadlines, so talk to an attorney as soon as you can.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Talk to a licensed Iowa attorney about your own case.

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