Who Is at Fault in a Single-Vehicle Car Accident? | Iowa Law Explained!

Although the personal injury law in Iowa financially protects injured victims following motor vehicle crashes, seeking compensation after a single-vehicle car accident can be challenging, especially if it's just the driver involved.

However, if they can establish liability, they may be able to file an insurance claim to recover damages. This is why it's incredibly important to work with an experienced car accident attorney.

At Tom Fowler Law, we are a top-rated Des Moines personal injury law firm that remains committed to providing comprehensive, personalized legal assistance to injured victims in Iowa. Our skilled car accident attorneys have the expertise and knowledge to help you navigate your insurance claim and get you the compensation you truly deserve.

Contact Tom Fowler Law and our personal injury attorneys today to embark on a journey to your financial recovery! We can also advise on who is at fault in a passenger side car accident Iowa.

Single-Vehicle Accident Statistics in the United States

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there were 42,514 fatalities from motor vehicle accidents in the United States, out of which 22,573 (53%) deaths occurred due to single-vehicle car crashes in 2022. This is a concerning trend that's seen across many states in the country.

The same 2022 IIHS data revealed that more people died in single-vehicle crashes than in multiple-vehicle car accidents in Iowa. According to the report, there were 174 fatalities due to collisions caused by single vehicles, accounting for almost 51% of all motor vehicle deaths in the state. The sad reality is that these lives could've easily been saved.

What Causes Single-Vehicle Car Accidents in Iowa?

A single-vehicle car accident can lead to catastrophic consequences. While it may seem like all hope is lost for the affected party, the personal injury law may allow them to recover damages arising from an Iowa car accident caused by another's negligence.

Identifying the cause of a traumatic incident is the first step to establishing liability, which is crucial in determining the right to seek compensation.

Here are some of the reasons why single-vehicle car accidents happen in the United States:

A Negligent Driver

Sometimes, following the rules of the road may not be enough to keep the driver and their passengers safe. This is because there could be another driver whose reckless actions lead to a single-vehicle car accident.

Failure to follow traffic laws is a serious problem in the United States. Reckless or distracted driving can put not only the driver but also other road users at risk.

For example, overtaking without enough space between the vehicles could force the other driver off the road, resulting in a single-vehicle car accident.

These types of incidents can also occur due to negligence. Inattentive, drunk, or drowsy drivers can put others in harm's way by leaving them with no option but to swerve or get off the road to avoid a collision. Such defensive actions may lead to a single-vehicle car accident.

Manufacturer's Defect

Whether it's a sedan, SUV, or truck, a motor vehicle consists of many intricate components working in harmony to ensure a safe ride. While manufacturers must maintain the highest quality of craftsmanship, an oversight during safety and inspections may result in faulty parts, which can increase the risk of single-vehicle accidents.

Tire blowouts are more common than one might think. They often occur when the manufacturer sells inferior-quality tires that can burst at high speeds. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 11,000 tire-related crashes, resulting in 563 fatalities in the United States in 2022.

There are many other forms of manufacturer negligence that can lead to tragic incidents. These include the following:

• Faulty accelerator

• Defective brake pads

• Faulty brakes

• Defective electronics

• Faulty engine or fuel system components

It's important to understand that defects can affect the driver's vehicle and other road users. A faulty accelerator can make it challenging to maintain control, forcing another driver off the road. This could lead to a single-vehicle car accident.

Road Hazards

In addition to reckless drivers and manufacturers' negligence, road hazards also play a major role in the rising number of fatalities caused by single-vehicle car accidents in the United States. These may include debris, potholes, spilled oil, inadequate lighting or signs, confusing lane markings, and visual obstructions.

Although Iowa law requires drivers to exercise extra caution on the road, it can sometimes be impossible to immediately identify and avoid hazards, even for the most vigilant road users.

Who Is at Fault in a Single-Vehicle Car Accident?

Iowa personal injury law allows injured victims to seek damages arising from a single-vehicle car accident caused by another's negligence. When such traumatic incidents happen, affected parties may have the right to pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit to obtain fair compensation. Consult a vehicle accident law firm in Des Moines for more information.

However, before an injured victim can bring a civil action, it's crucial to identify the person responsible for the single-vehicle car accident. Another key thing to remember is that, depending on the circumstances involved, there could be one or multiple parties who may be liable for the damages caused.

Here are some of the individuals or entities that could be responsible for a single-vehicle Iowa car accident:

Reckless Driver/Other Vehicles

Under Iowa's car accident laws, injured victims can file a personal injury claim or lawsuit for an accident caused by another's recklessness. If a negligent driver and their actions force another road user off the road, they may be liable for the damages caused.

In such situations, affected parties can file a claim or lawsuit against the other driver's insurance company to seek damages.

Manufacturer

Under strict liability personal injury laws, a manufacturer must adhere to the manufacturing guidelines and safety rules set by the relevant state and federal departments. Failing to do so can lead to mechanical failure or defective parts, resulting in liability in case of a single-vehicle accident.

What makes an insurance claim or lawsuit against a manufacturer different from other parties is that the victim involved in the traumatic incident doesn't need to prove negligence. They must show that the defective product was the sole cause of their single-vehicle Iowa car accident.

Repair Shop or Another Third Party

A repair shop must ensure a high-quality job when it carries out repairs, replacements, or maintenance. Any mistakes or negligence may increase the risk of single-vehicle car accidents, for which it can be held accountable.

Government Employee or Entity

Under the Iowa Tort Claims Act, injured victims can hold government employees or entities liable for any medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages arising from a serious collision caused by their negligence.

What Types of Damages Can Injured Victims Recover Following a Single-Vehicle Accident in Iowa?

There are two main types of damages that affected parties can recover following a single-vehicle accident in Iowa, and they are as follows:

• Economic damages: A car crash can result in out-of-pocket expenses, also known as economic damages. These may include current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.

• Non-economic damages: A single-vehicle accident can also lead to non-monetary losses, which are subjective in nature. With a successful claim, an injured party may be able to recover pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and loss of quality of life, among other damages.

Can Injured Victims Recover Compensation If They're Partially Responsible in Iowa Car Accident Cases?

A serious car accident can place a huge financial burden on the affected party, especially if they're the at-fault driver. Fortunately, their fault shouldn't stop them from pursuing compensation.

Iowa's car accident laws (modified comparative fault rules) allow injured victims to recover damages even if they're partially liable for their injuries. The state follows the modified comparative negligence rule that lets affected parties seek compensation if their degree of fault is 50% or less.

That said, victims need to understand that if they are 51% or more liable for their injuries, the law bars them from filing an insurance claim or bringing a personal injury lawsuit.

How Can Iowa Car Accident Attorneys Help Injured Single-Vehicle Accident Victims?

While Iowa law allows injured victims to file a claim or bring a lawsuit against the responsible parties, navigating the intricacies of a civil action or handling the insurance company can be incredibly challenging and stressful. It's essential to work with an experienced and skilled car accident lawyer, as they can help in many ways, including the following:

• Adherence to guidelines: A knowledgeable personal injury attorney knows the ins and outs of filing a claim or lawsuit. They can avoid the common pitfalls most victims face, follow the laws, and adhere to the legal guidelines, increasing the plaintiff's chances of obtaining just compensation.

• Assess liability insurance coverage: In addition to the negligent party's insurer, an injured victim may also be able to file a claim with their own insurance company. An experienced attorney can assess the liability coverage and determine what's best for their client.

• Determine fault: Establishing liability is crucial for fighting a single-vehicle accident case. A resourceful car accident lawyer can investigate the crash site, gather the necessary evidence, including the accident report form, and build a strong claim or lawsuit.

• Calculate damages: Most victims often fail to calculate the total damages incurred following accidents. This can lead to lower compensation, further adding to their financial woes. A skilled car accident lawyer can bring on experts and use past case results to determine the value of their client's economic and non-economic losses, ensuring they receive the money they deserve.

• Handle the insurers: One of the major hurdles that affected parties face after a traumatic road incident is handling the insurance company. More often than not, insurers use dirty tactics to reduce or deny payouts and force the injured victim, without legal representation, to take whatever little money they offer for their serious injuries. A reputable car accident lawyer can protect their client's rights and negotiate a fair settlement.

• Go to trial: During negotiations, there could be a disagreement between the parties involved. A trial-ready car accident attorney can take matters to court if the insurance company fails to agree on a fair settlement.

Suffered Serious Injuries in an Iowa Single-Vehicle Car Accident? Tom Fowler Law Can Help!

From piling medical bills to lost income to pain and suffering, a single-vehicle car accident can turn your life around completely. Fortunately, Tom Fowler Law is here to fight for your rights and hold the responsible party accountable for your loss. Our team can advise on who is at fault in a roll over car accident Iowa.

If you've suffered injuries in a single-vehicle accident in Des Moines, Iowa, call us to schedule a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer today to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options!