Motor vehicle accidents are an hourly occurrence in Des Moines, Ames,  and across Polk County. Many crashes are completely avoidable, caused by drunk drivers or distracted drivers. Whatever the cause, car accidents are a major safety and economic issue for the communities in this vast region.

Get information on car crashes from Des Moines and Ames law enforcement

The Des Moines Police Department and the Ames Police Department offer information on accidents. The Polk County Sheriff's Department is also a useful resource for information.

The Iowa Department of Motor Vehicles provides information on traffic and safety laws.

These departments are good resources after a car crash.

When someone is injured in a Des Moines or Ames car crash, what needs to happen next?

In an injury accident, it is crucial to get appropriate medical treatment, regardless of the financial cost.

The major hospitals in the area include:

Iowa Methodist Medical Center;

Iowa Lutheran Hospital;

Mercy Medical Center;

Mary Greeley Medical Center.

As soon as possible, an injured person should contact their insurance company to find out if medical treatment is covered under their insurance policy.

When an accident is serious or fatal, get help from an experienced Des Moines - Ames car accident lawyer

When an injury is serious or a death occurs, the next step is to find an experienced Des Moines - Ames car accident attorney to start the financial recovery process by launching an insurance claim. Major injury or wrongful death claims are complicated and difficult to manage. Having a great Des Moines - Ames personal injury lawyer on board is a great relief to injured people, or to the family left behind when an accident proves fatal.