Fatal Auto Accidents
A fatal auto accident in Iowa is among the most devastating events a family can endure. In an instant, a life is lost, and those left behind are forced to confront overwhelming grief, painful uncertainty, and the serious legal consequences that follow. Each year, hundreds of fatal crashes occur on Iowa roads, many caused by negligence, distracted driving, or other preventable actions. These cases aren’t just about what happened at the crash site, they’re about uncovering the truth and holding the responsible parties accountable under Iowa law. The legal process is often complex, and those at fault rarely accept blame voluntarily. That’s why it’s critical to have an attorney who knows how to build a powerful case, demand full compensation, and pursue justice through every legal avenue available.
Iowa Fatal Auto Accident Lawyer
McCarthy & Hamrock represents the families of those killed in Fatal Auto Accidents in Des Moines, Polk County, and throughout the state of Iowa. Call our firm at 515-279-9700 to request a free consultation to discuss your potential claims for compensation. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, which means you don’t pay us any legal fees. Instead, our firm gets a percentage of the settlement or verdict or “contingency fee” upon achieving a victory in your case. Learn more important information about fatal auto accidents in Iowa, including how these tragedies occur, who may be held liable, what legal rights families can assert, and how our experienced Iowa fatal auto accident lawyers can guide families through the legal process and fight for the justice and compensation they deserve.
Overview of Fatal Auto Accidents in Iowa
- Types of Fatal Car Accidents
- Fatal Injuries from Car Crashes
- Where Fatal Car Accidents Occur in Iowa
- Determining Who is Liable in a Fatal Car Crash Case
- How an Iowa Fatal Auto Accident Lawyer Helps
- Questions Families Ask After a Fatal Car Accident in Iowa
- Resources
Types of Fatal Car Accidents
Head-On Collisions — These crashes happen when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions strike each other front to front, often at high speeds. They are among the deadliest types of auto accidents in Iowa, especially on two-lane rural highways where drivers may drift into oncoming lanes. Many of these crashes involve distracted or impaired drivers, and liability is often governed by Iowa Code § 321.297, which mandates that drivers must remain on the right side of the roadway unless safely passing.
Rear-End Crashes — While commonly thought of as minor, rear-end collisions can be deadly when they involve large vehicles, high speeds, or when a vehicle is pushed into traffic or off the road. Fatalities in these accidents often happen when the rear vehicle is speeding or the front vehicle is stopped on a highway shoulder. Iowa Code § 321.307 addresses following too closely and may be used to establish negligence when a driver fails to maintain a safe distance.
Side-Impact or T-Bone Collisions — Often occurring at intersections, these crashes involve the front of one vehicle striking the side of another. Because most vehicles offer limited side protection, the risk of fatal injuries is high, especially for occupants on the side that takes the hit. These accidents are frequently caused by drivers running red lights or failing to yield, violations that are covered under Iowa Code § 321.322 and § 321.257.
Rollover Accidents — Rollovers are particularly deadly due to the potential for vehicle ejection and roof collapse. They often involve SUVs, pickups, or vans, which have a higher center of gravity. Rural gravel roads, sharp curves, and high-speed exits from interstates in Iowa contribute to rollover risks. In many cases, driver overcorrection or excessive speed plays a role.
Highway Speed Collisions — Crashes on interstates like I-80 or I-35 tend to result in severe or fatal injuries due to the high speeds involved. These accidents may include multi-vehicle pileups, jackknife incidents with commercial trucks, or high-speed loss-of-control crashes. Poor visibility, driver fatigue, or reckless passing can all factor in. Iowa Code § 321.285 outlines speed restrictions and can be relevant in proving excessive speed contributed to a fatality.
Truck and Commercial Vehicle Crashes — When a fatal accident involves a semi-truck or commercial vehicle, the consequences are often catastrophic due to the vehicle’s size and weight. Common causes include improper lane changes, brake failure, or driver fatigue.
Motorcycle Crashes — Motorcyclists are vulnerable in any crash, but fatalities are particularly common in collisions with larger vehicles. Even a minor impact can result in death due to lack of protection. Many of these motorcycle accidents occur because other drivers fail to see the motorcycle or misjudge its speed.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Collisions — Polk County—home to Des Moines—often ranks among the highest in Iowa for fatal pedestrian accidents. Fatal crashes involving pedestrians or bicyclists often take place in city areas like downtown Des Moines or near schools and parks. These incidents typically occur when drivers fail to yield at crosswalks or do not see pedestrians at night. Iowa Code § 321.327 requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, and § 321.281 addresses reckless driving behavior near pedestrians or cyclists.
Drunk Driving Crashes — Alcohol-related fatal accidents remain a serious problem across Iowa. Drunk driving accidents often occur at night and on weekends, with victims including other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Iowa Code § 321J.2 prohibits operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Distracted Driving Crashes — Using a phone or other devices behind the wheel continues to be a major cause of fatal accidents in Iowa. These distracted driving crashes often involve sudden lane departures or missed traffic signals. Even a brief lapse in attention can lead to irreversible consequences when a fatal crash occurs. Iowa Code § 321.276 limits the use of electronic communication devices while driving and is often cited in cases involving driver distraction.
Rideshare and Passenger Vehicle Accidents — Fatal accidents involving rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, or other hired transportation vehicles, introduce complex legal questions regarding liability. These crashes can occur while a driver is actively transporting passengers, while en route to pick someone up, or even when logged into the app and awaiting a ride. Rideshare companies are required to provide up to $1 million in liability coverage during active rides, which can come into play in fatal accident claims.
Fatal Injuries from Car Crashes
Traumatic Brain Injuries — These injuries often happen when the head strikes a hard surface like a windshield, steering wheel, or pavement. In fatal auto accidents, brain trauma can include skull fractures, bleeding inside the brain, or swelling that cuts off oxygen.
Spinal Cord Injuries — The force of a crash can damage the spinal cord, leading to immediate death when the nerves controlling breathing or heartbeat are affected. High-impact crashes, especially rollovers or side-impact collisions, increase the risk of spinal damage.
Blunt Force Trauma — A common cause of death in serious crashes, this injury occurs when a person’s body is violently struck without penetration. Internal organs such as the heart, lungs, or liver may rupture or bleed. Fatalities are frequent when vital organs are crushed, especially in T-bone crashes or when the vehicle collapses inward.
Crushed Organs and Internal Bleeding — In many fatal accidents, a person may appear stable for a short time but die due to internal bleeding. This type of injury usually happens when the chest or abdomen is compressed in a collision.
Severe Burns or Ejection Injuries — Fires or explosions during a crash can cause burns that may lead to death, either from the burns themselves or from inhaling toxic smoke. In other cases, victims may be ejected from the vehicle and suffer fatal trauma upon impact with the ground or other objects.
Where Fatal Car Accidents Occur in Iowa
Des Moines Intersections – High-crash areas like East University Ave and Hubbell Ave (near East 30th and 42nd Streets) see frequent fatal accidents due to red-light running, speeding, and poor visibility. Many involve T-bone collisions or pedestrian strikes.
Highways & Interstates – I-235 through Des Moines and interchanges on I-80/I-35 (especially the West and East Mixmasters) are hotspots for deadly crashes, often involving high speeds, tailgating, and sudden lane changes.
Rural Roads – Highways like 65 and NE 56th Street outside Des Moines are especially dangerous at night, with narrow lanes, poor lighting, and wildlife crossings contributing to fatal crashes.
Pedestrian & Nightlife Zones – Areas near Drake University, Court Ave, and the East Village see more pedestrian fatalities, especially at night, due to alcohol, low visibility, and distracted driving.
Construction Zones – Roadwork on I-235, MLK Jr Parkway, and other metro roads often leads to confusion, sudden lane shifts, and fatal wrecks.
While Iowa has a smaller population, most fatal crashes still occur on rural roads—where poor conditions, limited lighting, and slow emergency response create deadly outcomes.
Determining Who is Liable in a Fatal Car Crash Case
Negligent Drivers — When someone drives carelessly or breaks traffic laws, they may be legally responsible for a fatal crash. This can include speeding, running a red light, texting while driving, or driving under the influence. In fatal accident cases, these traffic violations often serve as key evidence of negligence or recklessness.
Trucking Companies and Commercial Vehicle Operators — If a fatal accident involves a semi-truck or commercial vehicle, the driver’s employer may be held responsible under vicarious liability laws. Iowa Code § 321.449 incorporates federal motor carrier safety regulations, and failure to comply with hours-of-service rules, maintenance standards, or driver qualifications can make the company legally accountable for a death caused by its employee.
Bars Or Restaurants That Overserve Alcohol — In cases involving drunk driving, the business that provided alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person may be held liable under Iowa’s Dram Shop law. Iowa Code § 123.92 allows victims’ families to file claims if the over-service of alcohol contributed to a fatal crash. This law applies even if the at-fault driver was not breaking any other traffic law at the time of the sale.
Government Entities Responsible for Roads — When poor road conditions, missing signs, or faulty traffic lights contribute to a fatal crash, a city or state agency might be liable. While claims against public entities are more complex and subject to notice requirements, Iowa Code § 670.2 allows lawsuits against governmental bodies for negligence, unless the act falls under one of the statutory immunities.
Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers — If a fatal accident is caused by a defect like brake failure, steering problems, or airbag malfunction, the manufacturer of the vehicle or component may be legally responsible. These cases usually fall under product liability law, which is based on strict liability rather than negligence.
How an Iowa Fatal Auto Accident Lawyer Helps
A skilled Iowa fatal accident lawyer steps in quickly to protect the family’s rights. They investigate the scene, gather police and medical records, work with crash reconstruction experts, and handle all legal filings. Experienced auto accident attorneys understand Iowa’s wrongful death law (Iowa Code § 611.20) and are familiar with unique rules involving estates, beneficiaries, and liability. Their goal is to make sure the full story of the crash is told—and to make sure families are treated fairly.
The lawyer handles insurance claims, including auto policies, uninsured motorist coverage, and life insurance issues. If the case goes to court, the lawyer fights for damages like funeral costs, pain and suffering, and loss of future income under Iowa Code § 633.336 and § 613.15. These cases are not just about compensation—they’re about accountability and helping families move forward with dignity and justice.
Questions Families Ask After a Fatal Car Accident in Iowa
How does a wrongful death case work in Iowa?
The estate’s representative files a lawsuit to recover money for losses caused by the death.
Who can file the case for a family member who died?
Usually the executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate files the case.
How much time is there to file a claim?
Under Iowa Code § 614.1(2), a wrongful death claim must be filed within two years of the person’s death.
Can a family still sue if the other driver also died?
Yes. A claim can be made against the driver’s estate or their insurance provider.
What types of damages can families receive?
Damages may include funeral costs, lost wages, medical bills, and emotional suffering.
What if the crash involved a drunk driver?
The family may also have a dram shop claim under Iowa Code § 123.92 if alcohol was illegally served.
Does the case have to go to trial?
Not always. Many wrongful death cases are settled through insurance negotiations or mediation.
What does a fatal accident lawyer charge?
Most lawyers work on a contingency fee—you only pay if the case is successful.
What if the crash happened in a construction zone?
Liability may involve multiple parties, including contractors or government agencies.
Can more than one person be held responsible?
Yes. More than one person or company can be liable under Iowa law, depending on how the crash happened.
Resources
Iowa Department of Transportation — 2025 Iowa Traffic Fatality Count — This source provides an official breakdown of motor vehicle-related fatalities in Iowa, categorized by year, month, vehicle type, crash location (urban vs. rural), and seat belt usage. It includes comparative statistics from 2020 through 2025, offering insight into trends in traffic deaths and how they have changed over time within the state.
National Library of Medicine — Causes of Fatalities in Motor Vehicle Occupants — This article reviews different types of fatal injuries seen in vehicle crashes, such as blunt force trauma, penetrating injuries, fire, drowning, and asphyxia. It summarizes findings from forensic literature and autopsies and outlines what may cause or contribute to death in motor vehicle occupants.
Iowa Department of Public Safety — Be a Traffic Safety Advocate — This resource from the Iowa Department of Public Safety focuses on driver behavior and safety awareness. It includes information about speeding, seat belt use, impaired driving, and distracted driving. It encourages individuals to make safer choices and explains how these actions can help reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities on the road.
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety — Fatality Facts 2022: State by State — This page from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety provides statistics on motor vehicle fatalities by U.S. state for 2022. It includes death rates by population and vehicle miles traveled, differences by vehicle type, road user type, crash type, impairment, seat belt use, and whether crashes occurred in rural or urban areas. The data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Hire a Fatal Auto Accident Attorney in Des Moines, Iowa
If a loved one of yours was killed in a fatal auto accident in Des Moines, Iowa, hire a skilled, experienced personal injury attorney to fight for you. The lawyers at McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C. have more than seven decades of combined legal experience. We represent accident victims the Des Moines area, including Polk County, Dallas County, Story County, Warren County, Marion County, Mahaska County, Adair County, Madison County, and throughout the state of Iowa.
We will seek just compensation for your family’s pain and suffering. We can negotiate with the insurance company to get the highest settlement they will offer. Our attorneys are trial attorneys. We can take the case to trial, if necessary, to maximize how much your case is worth. Call us today at (515) 279-9700 to schedule a consultation.