Being in a car accident is stressful, disorienting, and sometimes traumatic. In the aftermath, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—especially if you’re injured or unsure of your legal rights. At Higgins Law Firm, we help injured Iowans every day navigate the legal and insurance process. Here’s what you should do immediately following a car accident in Iowa to protect yourself and your case.
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call 911
Your safety—and the safety of others—is priority number one. Move vehicles out of traffic if you can safely do so. Then, call 911 to report the accident. Even if the damage seems minor, having a police report is critical for insurance and legal claims.
Tip: Request that the responding officer file an official crash report. This can help prove fault later.
Step 2: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, document everything at the accident scene:
- Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, skid marks, and injuries.
- Get the names and contact info of all drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver(s).
Note: Don’t admit fault—even if you think you might be responsible. Let the investigation reveal what happened.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention—Even If You Feel Fine
Some injuries (like whiplash, soft tissue damage, or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms right away. Always get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible.
Important: Insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident if there’s a delay in treatment.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Iowa is an “at-fault” state, which means the person who caused the accident is financially responsible. You should report the accident to your insurer promptly—but avoid giving a detailed recorded statement before consulting a lawyer.
Step 5: Contact an Iowa Personal Injury Attorney
Dealing with insurance companies on your own is risky. They often undervalue claims or deny them outright. A personal injury attorney can:
- Help you get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Investigate the accident and preserve evidence
- Handle all communication with insurers so you can focus on recovery
At Higgins Law Firm, we handle all car accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
Iowa Car Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Iowa?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim (Iowa Code § 614.1).
What if I was partially at fault?
Iowa uses a comparative fault system—you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Can I recover for emotional distress?
Yes. Iowa law allows compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Talk to a Local Car Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a car crash in Iowa, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Contact the Higgins Law Firm for a free consultation. We’re based right here in Iowa and fight for injured Iowans across the state.
At our West Des Moines law office, persons who have suffered from injury can find a compassionate ally. No matter the situation, our Iowa Personal Injury Attorneys will work with you to educate you on your rights and do what it takes to ensure that you receive maximum compensation.
To schedule a free initial consultation, call us at our Polk County law office by dialing 515-517-2860 or complete our online contact form.