Protecting Your Rights Throughout Eastern Iowa Since 1981

Motor Vehicle Accident Representation From A Dynamic Law Office

Q: How long do I have to file a motor vehicle accident claim in Iowa?

Iowa law generally gives injured individuals two years from the date of a motor vehicle accident to file a claim. This statute of limitations is strict, and missing the deadline usually prevents recovery of compensation, even in serious injury cases. Working with an Iowa motor vehicle accident lawyer can help ensure the claim is filed correctly and on time.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident? Can I still recover compensation?

Iowa follows a comparative fault system that allows an injured person to recover compensation as long as they are not more than 50 percent responsible for the accident. Any compensation awarded is reduced by the individual’s percentage of fault. An experienced Iowa car accident attorney can evaluate fault issues and help protect your right to recover damages.

Q: What types of compensation can I recover in a motor vehicle accident case?

Motor vehicle accident victims in Iowa may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses such as emergency care and ongoing treatment, lost income and reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering including physical pain and emotional distress, property damage to vehicles or personal property, and in some cases loss of consortium related to the impact on family relationships.

Last updated on January 6, 2026

Motor vehicle accidents can create serious, life-altering problems for you and your family. You may be facing regular hospital visits and stacked medical bills as well as lost time at work, not to mention the cost for vehicle damage repairs.

At Foster Law Office, we serve clients in Iowa City and throughout eastern Iowa in a broad range of motor vehicle accident claims. Our skilled personal injury attorneys will help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

Fighting For The Compensation You Deserve

Every motor vehicle accident case is different, and every case requires its own unique strategy. Decades of experience handling personal injury claims inform us on how best to approach your case. We handle a broad range of motor vehicle accident cases, including those arising from:

Car accidents
Trucks accidents (including 18-wheeler wrecks)
Bicycle and pedestrian accidents
Motorcycle crashes
Distracted and drunk driving accidents

Sometimes the simplest matters can keep you from receiving your due compensation. Or, it may appear to be difficult to prove another person’s negligence caused the accident. Whatever the situation, we will examine the facts of your accident in detail to make sure you get what you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions On Motor Vehicle Accidents

The following FAQs can guide injured individuals as they decide their next steps.

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

Iowa law gives most injured individuals two years from the date of the accident to file a motor vehicle accident claim in Iowa. This deadline is part of the state’s statute of limitations.

Missing the deadline usually prevents a person from recovering compensation, even if the injuries are serious. Working with an Iowa motor vehicle accident lawyer can help ensure the claim is filed correctly and on time.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident? Can I still recover compensation?

Iowa follows a comparative fault system. This rule allows an injured person to recover compensation as long as they are not more than 50 percent responsible for the crash. Their total recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault.

For example, if someone is found 20 percent responsible, their compensation is reduced by 20 percent. An Iowa car accident attorney can assess fault issues, gather evidence and help protect a person’s right to recovery.

What types of compensation can I recover in a motor vehicle accident case?

Iowa accident victims may be able to recover several categories of damages. These fall into the following groupings:

Medical expenses: This includes emergency care, follow-up treatment, physical therapy, medication and long-term medical needs.
Lost income: Injured individuals may recover income lost during recovery and income that may be lost in the future.
Pain and suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional impact tied to the accident and the injuries involved.
Property damage: This includes repair or replacement costs for a damaged vehicle or other personal property.
Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress and reduced quality of life.
Loss of consortium: In some cases, compensation may be available for the impact on your relationships or family life.

These categories show the devastating financial effects that a motor vehicle accident can have, making legal guidance very beneficial. Working with an Iowa personal injury law firm can help accident victims understand available compensation, gather documentation and pursue the claim efficiently.

Contact Us Today For Your Case Review

You do not have to face this battle alone. Learn more about how we can help you pursue damages in your auto accident claim. Call our office at 319-383-0405 or send an email to arrange an initial consultation.