Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyers

Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyers

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Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyers

If you have been injured on the job or due to the wrongdoing of another person or business, in or around Des Moines, you need a dependable and experienced Des Moines personal injury lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve.

If our Des Moines personal injury lawyers don’t get you compensation for your injury claim, you won’t owe us a dime!

Speak With Our Personal Injury Attorneys Today

We know how devastating serious injuries can be.  Your life and your livelihood can be disrupted.  The last thing you need is to deal with medical providers, insurance carriers and adjusters.  Paperwork and more paperwork.

Let VanDerGinst Law handle the stress and mess so you can concentrate on getting better!

They say a good lawyer knows the law, but a great lawyer knows the judge! At VanDerGinst Law we know injury law.  We have represented over 50,000 inured Iowans over the years. But we also know the judges, lawyers, medical providers, and insurance adjusters who are involved in Des Moines area injury claims and lawsuits!

With national resources and local connections, our Des Moines personal injury lawyers can get you the maximum compensation for your personal injury claim.

We make opening a personal injury case a quick and convenient as possible.  Our office is right in the heart of downtown Des Moines.  But, if you prefer, we can come to you.

We can even open most files right on the phone or online!

Injuries and Accidents in Des Moines

Des Moines is a dynamic city. It is the Iowa state capitol, home of numerous corporate headquarters, the location of some of the fastest growing suburbs in the state, and a center for culture and the arts. But even with its Midwestern values and focus on safety, Des Moines still has its’ fair share of injury accidents.

According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, there were 197,237 injuries and 3,463 deaths between 2010 and 2019 in Iowa from auto accidents alone. In addition to car crashes, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported that there were 934 medical malpractice reports in the past 10 years.

In addition, Iowans are injured from slip-and-fall accidents, nursing home negligence, dog bites, construction accidents, agricultural accidents, work related accidents, faulty products, and countless other situations.

If you were injured in an accident on the job or due to someone else’s wrongdoing, you deserve justice! You deserve compensation!

VanDerGinst Law can help!

Personal Injury Lawyer Iowa City

FREQUENTLY ASKED PERSONAL INJURY LAW QUESTIONS

1. What Should I Do and Not Do If I Have Been Injured?

If you are able, without jeopardizing your health or safety, you should collect witness information and photos and/or video of the accident site. Of course, if necessary, contact the police or other emergency personnel. Get the proper medical attention necessary to address any acute injury as soon as possible.  Do NOT sign anything for the other party’s insurance representatives.  Do NOT give the other party’s insurance representatives a recorded statement.

2. Do You Need a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer?

Of course, you would expect a personal injury law firm to say “yes” to that question.  Indeed, that is our short answer.  But there are a lot of reasons that it makes sense for you to be represented by a personal injury lawyer when you have a claim.

First and possibly foremost, the right lawyer can make a huge difference on the amount of compensation you will recover from your claim.  Insurance carriers and other big business defendants have lawyers looking out for their interests.  They do not willingly give you what you are entitled to.  In fact, it is the job of insurance adjusters to get claimants to settle for as little as possible.  Only the leverage that can be exerted by an experienced personal injury attorney who is willing to file a lawsuit on behalf of clients, can get you the type of compensation to which you are entitled.  VanDerGinst Law has that experience.

Second, why would you even want to tackle the mess associated with filling out mountains of forms and dealing with insurance people and medical providers?  You need rest and recuperation from your injuries, not additional stress. VanDerGinst Law will take the worry away.  We make opening a file as easy and convenient as possible.  We collect the documentation necessary to pursue your case. We conduct the investigation. We deal with the insurance people and medical providers, and coordinate benefits.  We negotiate and get you the best resolution possible.
Third, there is no financial risk to having VanDerGinst Law on your side. If we do not win your injury case and get you compensation, you will not owe us anything! 

3. When Should You Hire a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer?

If you were injured in an accident and required any type of treatment or attention to those injuries, your accident probably warrants the attention of a personal injury lawyer as well.  With respect to the question of how soon you should speak to an attorney, we suggest that you contact VanDerGinst Law as soon as possible after getting the initial medical attention necessary to address your injuries. 

• Do not wait until you are done treating.
• Do not wait until you have spoken to insurance representatives or adjusters.
• Do not wait until you get tired of negotiating on your own.

Adjusters set tentative values on injury claims at a very early stage.  Having an experienced injury attorney on your side can ensure that those values are adjusted much higher than they would be with no attorney.  Witness statements and evidence often needs to be secured at an early stage. A good lawyer will also advise you against signing medical authorization or giving recorded statements.  There are just too many things that can go wrong if you do not get a personal injury lawyer onboard as soon as practicable after your injury.

4. Do I Need to File a Lawsuit to get Compensation for My Personal Injury?

Most personal injury claims can be resolved without having to even file a lawsuit.  That only happens if your personal injury lawyer has shown that he or she is willing to file lawsuits and fight for justice whenever it is necessary to get the best results for clients.  At VanDerGinst Law we have a long history of proving our dedication to our clients.  Insurance companies know that.  They know we will file lawsuits if necessary, to get the best results. 

5. Will my personal injury case go to trial?

Even if your personal injury case must have a lawsuit filed, that does not mean it will proceed all the way to a trial.  Probably 95% of all injury cases are settled before going to trial. During trial preparations each side becomes more familiar with their respective strengths and weaknesses.  That often results in a settlement.  At VanDerGinst Law we prepare all cases as if they will go to trial.  That way we can be in the best position possible to get the best settlements for our clients.

6. How are Personal Injury Damages Determined? What is my case worth?

If an attorney tells you what your case is worth after a brief conversation about your injuries, they are either misleading or misinformed.  There are many factors which impact a personal injury case value. Such factors include your age, the type of accident, where you live, the nature, extent and duration of your injuries and treatment needs, the impact of your injuries on your ability to work and earn income, scarring and disfigurement, the impact on family, the nature of the defendant and their insurance and/or assets, and other considerations too numerous to mention.

If successful in showing liability in a personal injury case the damages may include any of the following which may apply:
• Past and future medical bills
• Past and future lost income
• Past and future physical and mental pain and suffering
• Past and future loss of function of mind and body
• Past and future loss of enjoyment of life
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Out of pocket expenses
• Other potential damages

7. What is Pain and Suffering?

Pain and suffering include harm caused by physical injury and mental anguish experienced due to ancillary issues related to the accident and injuries.

8. How Much Does a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

At VanDerGinst Law we handle personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis.  That means that if we fail in getting you money for your injuries, there is NO ATTORNEY FEE.  You will never be out of pocket a penny.  We do not get paid unless and until you do.  Our fee is a percentage of the amount recovered. The percentage depends on the type of case we handle and whether the case must be litigated.  But it is never more than 40% of the recovery and is usually between 20% and one third. 

Additionally, even though other personal injury attorneys say they charge a contingent fee, they may also require a retainer fee for costs (for filing fees, expert fees, court reporter fees, postage, records, etc.)  That can often be hundreds, even thousands of dollars.  At VanDerGinst Law we charge NO RETAINER FEE on injury cases.  We forward all costs necessary to pursue your claim.

9. What are the time limits that apply for Des Moines Personal Injury Claims?

The statute of limitations is the law the limits the time in which a person must file a lawsuit.  In Iowa, that time is generally two years from the date of the injury.  There are very limited exceptions which may expand that time.  There are also some situations which require notices be sent or lawsuits filed earlier than that two-year period.  If you fail to file a lawsuit within the applicable time, you are forever barred from doing so.  Therefore, it is always a good idea to get VanDerGinst Law in your corner as soon as possible.

10. If I was partially at fault can I still be compensated for injuries I sustained in an accident?

Iowa recognizes something known as “Modified Comparative Fault”. Under the Modified Comparative Fault System, each party is held responsible for damages in proportion to their own percentage of fault pro-rata, unless the plaintiff’s negligence reaches 51%.  So, if you are partly at fault your compensation will be reduced be the proportionate percentage of faut.  However, if you are 51% or more to blame, then you are entitled to no compensation. Therefore, if a reasonable award were determined to be $100,000 but you were 40% at fault, your award would be reduced by 40% so that you would receive $60,000.

11. Will medical bills I incurred due to my injury accident be paid by the responsible party?

The responsible party is obligated to pay the costs for all bills for reasonable and necessary treatment.  That can include medical bills, chiropractic bills, dental bills, physical therapy bills and any other similar costs. 

12. What happens if the responsible party did not have any insurance coverage?

Sometimes the party responsible for causing an injury accident does not have insurance to pay for the damages or does not have enough insurance.  When that happens, VanDerGinst Law leaves no stone unturned to see if a compensation source can be identified.  Sometimes we can find employers and other sources who may be vicariously liable.  Sometimes we can turn to our client’s own uninsured or underinsured insurance coverage.  Sometimes we determine the responsible party has ample assets available outside of insurance. 

TYPES OF DES MOINES PERSONAL INJURY CASES WE HANDLE

Des Moines Car Accidents: Our Des Moines personal injury lawyers can get you the best compensation for your car accident-related injuries.  Even minor accidents can cause serious injuries.

Des Moines Truck Accidents: Commercial trucks accidents (also known as semis, tractor-trailers, or big rigs) can cause devastating injuries.  The rules that apply to truckers and tucking companies are different than typical motor vehicle accidents.  To get the best recovery you need attorneys who have the experience and special education on how to handle these cases.  VanDerGinst Law’s Des Moines personal injury lawyers have those credentials.

Des Moines Traumatic Brain Injury:  Serious brain injuries can result from accidents that may seem minor.  Symptoms may include headaches, memory loss, agitation, slurring, loss of consciousness and others.  Proper investigation and treatment are crucial towards getting reasonable compensation for these types of injuries.

Des Moines Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries or even death.  Bikers are so exposed on our roadways.  Read more about how our Des Moines injury lawyers help bikers and their families when serious motorcycle accidents occur.

Des Moines Wrongful Death Claims: Wrongful death can occur due to someone’s negligence, intentional actions, or other types of wrongdoing.  We can help your family get through a tough and confusing time and get the financial recovery necessary to assist in easing some of the burden that comes when a loved one is lost.

Des Moines Bus Accidents: Bus accident may involve municipalities who can rely on governmental immunities to avoid liability.  They say you cannot fight city hall. Well, we do!  Every day! And we win!

Des Moines Pedestrian accidents: If you or a loved one is struck as a pedestrian by a vehicle the injuries can be devastating.  See what our Des Moines injury lawyers can do to help.

Des Moines Premises Liability: Premises liability can include any number of accident or injury causing incidents that occur on commercial or residential property. 

Des Moines Dog Bites:  Des Moines has a lot of dog lovers.  VanDerGinst Law has a lot of dog lovers.  Nevertheless, if a dog attacks, serious injuries can occur.  Often, compensation is necessary to address medical bills and sometimes even plastic surgery. See how our Des Moines injury attorneys can help.

Des Moines Class Action Lawsuits: Class actions arise when many people are harmed by a single defendant (or a few defendants).  VanDerGinst Law is involved in several class action lawsuits. 

Des Moines Spinal Cord Injury:  Spinal cord injuries can result from many different types of accidents. Serious spinal cord injuries can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia.  If you or a loved one has suffered this type of injury contact VanDerGinst Law right away.  Our Des Moines injury lawyers will fight hard to get the compensation necessary to help you return to as normal a life as possible after such devastation.

Des Moines Swimming Pool Injuries:  Swimming pools are a great way to relax, exercise or recreate.  But they can also result in slip and fall accidents and diving accidents that lead to serious injuries, or even drowning.

Des Moines Slip and Fall Accidents:  Slip and fall accidents can occur indoors or outdoors.  They can happen at commercial properties and residential properties.  They can happen on sidewalks, in parking lots and other public areas.  They happen in the winter.  But they also happen in the summer.  They often result in serious injuries.  VanDerGinst Law can help get you the compensation you deserve when faced with a slip and fall accident.

Des Moines Worker’s Compensation Claims:  Even if you were at fault in causing the accident which led to injuries at work, you can still be entitled to worker’s compensation benefits. If you were working and doing something in furtherance of your employment you may qualify for compensation.  Our attorneys can help you get proper compensation and explore other possible sources of compensation.

Des Moines Construction Accidents:  As you might imagine, construction accidents are a frequent occurrence. They can lead to serious injuries that require the attention of an experienced Des Moines personal injury lawyer.

Des Moines Insurance Claims:  Insurance claims can be made in relation to injuries from accidents.  But they can also be related to other rights you may have under any insurance policy you may have. (Commercial, Homeowner’s, Health, Liability, etc.). 

Des Moines Business Interruption Insurance Claims:  Small businesses are often forced to close or restrict their operations when there are catastrophes that occur.  Many Iowa businesses were restricted due to Covid and/or the Derecho storm.  Business interruption coverages may apply even when the insurance carrier says it does not.

Des Moines Medical Malpractice:  Medical providers are held to a high standard of care in rendering care and treatment to patients.  When they breach that standard of care the consequences can be dire.

Des Moines Nursing Home Negligence:  When a loved one has been neglected in a nursing home a Des Moines personal injury lawyer can assist in securing compensation.

Des Moines Nursing Home Abuse:  When a loved one has been abused in a nursing home a Des Moines personal injury lawyer can assist in securing justice.

Contact a Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer Today.

We know that the personal injury claims process can be frustrating and overwhelming.

Let the Des Moines injury attorneys at VanDerGinst Law help fight your battles while you focus on recovery. 

Reach out to our firm by calling (800) 797-5391, or contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

VanDerGinst Law, P.C. – Injury Attorneys

Des Moines Courts

CourtAddress
Iowa Court of Appeals1111 East Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319
Polk County Courthouse500 Mulberry St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Polk County Juvenile Court222 5th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

Southern District of IA Courts
123 E Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309
US Bankruptcy Court110 E Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

Des Moines Emergency Rooms

Emergency RoomAddress
Broadlawns Medical Center Emergency Room1801 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50314
MercyOne Des Moines Emergency Care1111 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314
MercyOne West Des Moines Emergency Care1755 59th Place, West Des Moines, IA 50206
UnityPoint Health – Iowa Lutheran Hospital Emergency Department700 E. University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316
UnityPoint Health – Iowa Methodist Medical Center Emergency Department1200 Pleasant St., Des Moines, IA 50309
UnityPoint Health –Methodist West Hospital Emergency Department1660 60th St., West Des Moines, IA 50266

Des Moines Hospitals

HospitalAddress
Blank Children’s Hospital1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
Broadlawns Medical Center1801 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50314
Select Specialty Hospital111 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314
UnityPoint Health-Iowa Lutheran Hospital700 E University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316
UnityPoint Health-Iowa Methodist Medical Center1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
VA Central Iowa Healthcare System3600 30th St, Des Moines, IA 50310

Des Moines Law Libraries

LibraryAddress
Drake Law Library2507 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
The State Law Library of Iowa1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319

Des Moines Law Schools & Universities

SchoolAddress
Drake Law School2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311

Des Moines Medical Clinics

ClinicAddress
Broadlawns Cityville Clinic580 SW 9th St. Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50309
Broadlawns East University Clinic2508 E. University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
Christ the King Free Clinic5711 SW 9th St., Des Moines, IA 50315
Corinthian Family Health Free Clinic814 School St., Des Moines, IA 50309
Des Moines University Clinic3200 Grand Ave. #3200, Des Moines, IA 50312
Exemplar Care 24-Hour Urgent Care7300 Westown Pkwy, Suite 330, West Des Moines, IA 50266
The Iowa Clinic Urgent Care – West Des Moines Campus5950 University Avenue, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Jim Ellefson Free Medical Clinic1607 E 33rd St, Des Moines, IA 50317
Margaret Cramer Free Medical Clinic2725 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310
MercyOne Family Medicine Clinic - Beaverdale4326 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310
MercyOne Family Medicine Clinic – East Village1350 Des Moines St., Suite 110, Des Moines, IA 50309
MercyOne Family Medicine Clinic – Grand Avenue1525 Grand Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50265
MercyOne Family Medicine Clinic – South Des Moines6601 SW 9th St. Suite 1, Des Moines, IA 50315
Primary Health Care – East Side Medical Clinic3509 E 29th St., Des Moines, IA 50317
Primary Health Care – University Medical Clinic1200 University Ave. #120, Des Moines, IA 50314
UnityPoint Clinic – Express (Jordan Creek)180 Jordan Creek Parkway, Suite 120, West Des Moines, IA 50266
UnityPoint Clinic Urgent Care - Ingersoll2103 Ingersoll Ave, Suite 2, Des Moines, IA 50312
UnityPoint Clinic Urgent Care - Lakeview6000 University Avenue, Suite 101, West Des Moines, IA 50266
UnityPoint Clinic Urgent Care – Merle Hay4020 Merle Hay Road, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50310
UnityPoint Clinic Urgent Care – Southglen6520 SE 14th St., Des Moines, IA 50320

Des Moines Personal Injury Resources

CompanyAddressIndustry
ADIO Chiropractic2925 Ingersoll Ave. Suite 2 Des Moines, IA, 50312Chiropractic
East Village Chiropractic300 East Locust St., Ste 140 Des Moines, IA 50309Chiropractic
Eastside Chiropractic Clinic2821 Hubbell Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50317Chiropractic
Hammans Chiropractic Center3520 Beaver Ave., Suite B, Des Moines, IA 50310Chiropractic
Hickman Auto5728 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310Mercedes Benz Mechanic
Iowa Muffler and Brake1308 2nd Ave. Des Moines , IA 50314Muffler and Brake
Meylor Chiropractic and Acupuncture2645 Beaver Avenue Des Moines, IA 50310Chiropractic
Scotty's Body Shop504 SE 6th St Des Moines, IA 50309
59 University Ave Des Moines, IA 50314
Autobody
Skywalk Chiropractic300 Walnut St # 205 Des Moines, IA 50309Chiropractic
Summit CareN/APhysical Therapy
Two Lane Chiropractic855 E. Court Avenue Suite 4, Des Moines, IA 50309Chiropractic

Des Moines Personal Injury Blog Posts

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