Iowa courts use the term "personal injury" to refer to injuries for which a plaintiff in a civil lawsuit may be entitled to monetary compensation. The amount of money you can receive in a personal injury claim depends upon the type of accident and the extent of your injuries. For example, in the case of an auto accident, you may be awarded damages to cover medical bills or property repairs.

A wrongful death lawsuit is a type of personal injury claim in which the person who suffered the injuries has passed away. In this case, the lawsuit is filed by the immediate family or the estate of the deceased.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Attorney?

Generally speaking, auto insurance companies like to settle claims with as little effort and expense as possible. From their perspective, a quick decision is just good economics. However, the decision that's best for the company is often different from the one that fits your needs.

If you've suffered from serious injuries such as broken bones, internal bleeding, or head trauma as the result of a motor vehicle accident, you may want to hire a personal injury attorney. If your accident was caused by an underinsured on uninsured motorist, you'll definitely want to seek legal advice for your situation.

If you're considering seeking the advice of a personal injury attorney, they will want to see all documentation relating to your accident. Keep complete records of your injuries, medical treatment, lost wages, and any miscellaneous expenses that are the result of your accident. Without concrete proof, even an experienced lawyer will find it difficult to help you reach a fair settlement.

If you're worried about the expense of litigation, you'll be pleased to know that most personal injury lawyers do business on a contingency basis. This means there are no initial fees for you to pay. However, your lawyer may claim between 25 and 50 percent of the settlement if you win your case.

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