Handling the aftermath of a car accident can be challenging, especially in Iowa, where the “No Pay, No Play” law can affect the driver’s rights. The law states that uninsured drivers cannot recover damages from an insured driver in the event of a car accident, even if the insured driver is at fault. This means it is crucial to have insurance in Iowa to protect your financial future.
The Iowa government has put this law in place to encourage citizens to obtain motor insurance and, thus, increase personal responsibility on the road. Therefore, if you get hit by someone recklessly driving on the road and you do not have insurance, you can face financial hardships. If you are stuck in a similar situation, talk to an iowa car accident lawyer today.
Overview of Iowa’s “No Pay, No Play” law
As already mentioned in the introduction of the article, Iowa’s “No Pay, No Play” law restricts uninsured motorists from recovering compensation in the event of an accident from another driver. However, it needs to be mentioned that the uninsured victim can file a lawsuit, but their ability to recover certain types of damages will be affected.
Under Iowa’s law, uninsured drivers cannot recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, if they were engaged in illegal activities at the time of the accident. For example, if the uninsured driver is caught in a theft, they cannot claim damages.
However, the primary goal of the “No Pay, No Play” law is to encourage drivers to buy motor insurance. It is an incentive for drivers to maintain an insurance policy and be more responsible on the road. By restricting drivers from recovering compensation, this law pushes people to get insurance.
How the “No Pay, No Play” law works in Iowa
Now that you know what the “No Pay, No Play” law in Iowa is, it is important to understand a few specifics regarding it. These include the eligibility criteria, limitations on recovery of compensation, and if there are any exceptions to the law.
Eligibility criteria
The ‘No Pay, No Play’ law in Iowa specifically affects uninsured drivers. The law in Iowa does not make it a legal requirement to carry motor insurance. However, through laws like this, they encourage drivers to show financial responsibility. The law applies to anyone who gets into an accident with another driver while committing a felony.
Limitations on recovery
Under the ‘No Pay, No Play’ law, uninsured drivers cannot recover non-economic damages. This includes damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. However, they can recover economic damages, such as medical bills and property damages.
Exceptions to the law
There are certain exceptional situations where Iowa’s “No Pay, No Play” law will not apply. For example, if an insured driver is injured in an accident caused by another driver who was drunk driving or intoxicated, the uninsured driver may have the opportunity to recover damages.
What do you do if you are uninsured and get into an accident in Iowa?
If you are involved in an accident in Iowa and you are uninsured, it is crucial to get help from an attorney. While you may not be able to recover certain damages, you can still file a claim for medical bills and property damage. At the accident site, make sure to call 911 and get the medical assistance you need. Be sure to file a police report and talk to witnesses as well.
Often, uninsured drivers keep quiet at the accident scene because they are scared of not having insurance. However, taking the above-mentioned steps will help you strengthen your claim.
Do not lose your compensation!
In the event of a car accident in Iowa, you should do everything to ensure you do not lose your compensation. One of the best ways to do that is to hire an experienced car accident attorney.
