Seattle Car Accident Lawyer

What to Do After a Car Accident in Seattle, Washington

Hurt in a crash in Seattle or elsewhere in King County? It is crucial that you take a proactive approach to protect your well-being and your legal personal injury claim. Do not rely on any insurance company to provide you with guidance after a crash without the help of a Seattle car accident attorney with experience in personal injury law. Here are five steps to take after a motor vehicle collision in Seattle: 

1. Stop Your Car and Exchange Information: At the scene of a crash, be sure to immediately stop your vehicle. Under Washington law, motorists must exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Stay at the scene unless there is an emergency. 
2. Contact Local or State Law Enforcement: All injury crashes should be reported to law enforcement. Report your collision to the Seattle Police Department, the King County Sheriff’s Office, or another state or local law enforcement agency. 
3. Get Prompt Medical Care for Any Physical Injuries: Any injury in a motor vehicle wreck needs to be evaluated by a doctor. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident—even if they seem minor. You will not be able to pursue a claim for financial compensation without supporting medical records. 
4. Proactively Document the Crash: You need to be ready to prove how and why your accident happened. Take detailed notes and photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from any witnesses who can provide additional perspectives on the accident.
5. Speak to a Seattle Lawyer Before an Insurance Adjuster: It is likely that you will receive a phone call from one or more insurance adjusters after a motor vehicle crash. Before you provide any recorded statement, be sure to consult with a Seattle auto accident lawyer. Insurance companies—even your own—are not on your side. Hire a Washington car accident attorney as soon as possible.

We Handle All Types of Motor Vehicle Accident Cases in Seattle

Our Seattle personal injury attorneys at The Walthew Law Firm has advocated for injured victims and their families in Seattle and elsewhere in Western Washington for more than nine decades. With vast experience, we always put the rights and well-being of our clients first. Our experienced car accident attorneys are committed to personalized legal advocacy for Seattle car accidents. Our Seattle car accident attorneys have the experience needed to take on all types of motor vehicle accident cases in Seattle, including: 

• Car accidents; 
• Semi-truck accidents; 
• Motorcycle crashes; 
• Pedestrian collisions; 
• Bus accidents; 
• Uber & Lyft accidents; 
• Distracted driving collisions; and
• Intoxicated driving crashes. 

At-fault, Negligent, and Aggressive Drivers Must Be Held Accountable

When you have been in an auto accident, you may have a sense of who caused it. Issues of fault, however, can be complicated by who acted when their action took place and which laws governed the situation. If the other driver was negligent, you may have to prove that the negligent driver breached a duty of care to you and that the breach caused your damages. The assistance of an attorney in Seattle auto accidents is immensely valuable at this time, whether you are battling an insurance company, seeking compensation for your car accident injuries or defending yourself in court.

Actions, on the part of either driver, that may have contributed to the accident include:

• Failure to stop at a red light or stop sign
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Failure to compensate for dangerous weather or road conditions
• Driving above or below the posted speed limits
• Driver distraction caused by a cell phone, passenger, radio or another source
• Failure to obey traffic laws regarding turn signals, rights-of-way and other rules

Sometimes the at-fault driver is more than merely negligent; he or she may have acted recklessly or even intentionally. A reckless driver acts with “conscious disregard” for the probable consequences of his or her actions. Road rage incidents often involve reckless behavior, and they can escalate into intentional behavior. Road rage in particular can be extremely dangerous, leading to injuries and criminal charges. Generally, aggressive drivers are a serious threat to safety because excessive speeding, cutting off other drivers and taking other risks can result in serious injury–causing or fatal accidents.

Washington is a Comparative Negligence State for Motor Vehicle Accident Injury Claims

Multiple parties may share fault for the same motor vehicle collision. Under Washington law (RCW § 4.22.005), a pure comparative negligence standard applies to these cases. Each party to a collision will bear fault for their “share” of the blame for causing that accident through negligence. Notably, injured victims in Seattle can still recover compensation for their damages even if they are partially responsible for their own crash. However, their settlement/verdict will be reduced. 

As an example, imagine that you sustained $50,000 in total damages in a car accident in Seattle. After an investigation, it is determined that you are 20 percent at fault for the crash due to distracted driving. According to Seattle car accident statistics and under Washington law, you would still be able to pursue compensation for 80 percent of your damages ($40,000). With that being said, you would be liable for 20 percent of your own losses ($10,000). Every percentage point of fault matters in serious car accident injury cases. 

Special Considerations in Drunk Driving Claims in Seattle, WA

Drunk driving accidents can lead to both criminal charges and a civil lawsuit against the intoxicated driver. Additionally, the business that sold alcohol to a drunk driver may be held liable if it served the driver when he or she was visibly intoxicated; this is known as “dram shop liability.” This, however, does not take any responsibility away from the driver who drove while intoxicated. If you have been in an accident involving alcohol or drugs, seek the help of an experienced car accident lawyer and personal injury attorney who will explain your legal options.

Remember, any criminal case pursued against a drunk driver—while an important part of the justice system—will not get you the full and fair financial compensation that you deserve. You need to bring a civil legal claim. A Seattle motor vehicle accident lawyer with experience representing DUI crash victims can help. Your lawyer can review the crash, answer your questions, and help you take legal action to secure justice and the maximum financial recovery. 

Auto accidents not caused by the drivers

Sometimes, no matter how carefully you drive, you cannot avoid an accident. In certain cases, a vehicle’s manufacturing or design defect causes an accident or makes it worse. This might happen if, for instance, the brakes on your car fail or the airbag does not deploy when it should. The law of products liability applies in this situation, protecting consumers when products create an unreasonable risk of harm. If a product defect caused your injuries, you may have a case against the designer, manufacturer or distributor of the product.

Another responsible party could be a mechanic or technician who improperly repaired a car that caused an accident. Both the mechanic and the his or her employer could be liable in such a case.

Poorly maintained roads, messy and confusing construction, unclear signage, improperly designed roads and similar problems could also contribute to an accident. Government entities are typically responsible for the roads and highways, so they might be liable for accidents caused by the above factors. Special rules apply to lawsuits against negligent drivers and government entities, and a lawyer will be able to explain them in detail. If you have any questions about a claim against a non-motorist, our Seattle motor vehicle accident lawyers are standing by, ready to help you determine the best path forward.

Know the Deadline: Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Injury Claims

Be proactive. You have a limited period of time to bring a car accident injury claim in Seattle. Under Washington law (RCW 4.16.080), there is a three-year statute of limitations to bring your claim. What happens if you do not file a lawsuit in a timely manner? You may not be able to take legal action at all. Do not miss out on your chance to get justice and compensation. Only very limited exceptions apply. Speak to a Seattle motor vehicle accident lawyer right away after a crash. 

Recovering the Maximum Compensation After a Car Crash in Seattle

Hurt in a motor vehicle collision in Seattle? It is imperative that you are able to secure full and fair financial compensation for your damages. Notably, in Washington State, car accident victims have the right to pursue a settlement or verdict that accounts for both their out-of-pocket expenses and their intangible damages. However, unfortunately, insurers can make the legal process extremely challenging. They fight hard to pay out less in claims to our personal injury victims. At The Walthew Law Firm, our Seattle car accident lawyers go above and beyond to fight for the maximum compensation for our clients. Along with other types of damages, you may be able to recover monetary damages for: 

• Property loss, such as vehicle repairs; 
• Ambulance costs and emergency medical treatment; 
• Medical expenses and hospital bills; 
• Long-term rehabilitative care; 
• Loss of income, including future earning power; 
• Pain and suffering & mental distress; 
• Disability, disfigurement, and impairment; 
• Reduced quality of life; and
• Wrongful death of a family member. 

Tips for Dealing With the Insurance Companies After a Crash

For the most part, people hurt in car crashes in Seattle will need to bring a claim against an insurance company (or multiple insurance providers) to get compensation for their damages. Sadly, insurers can make the claims process hard on people. The company wants to pay out as little as possible. It is interested in protecting its own bottom line (profitability). Here are four tips for dealing with insurance company representative after a Seattle motor vehicle accident: 

1. Avoid a Recorded Statement: Insurance adjusters may request a recorded statement relatively soon after the accident. You are not required by law to provide one. Indeed, it is wise to decline. Anything you say in a recorded statement can be used against you to minimize your claim. It is best to handle questions through your lawyer. 
2. Beware of Sign a Release for Medical Records: Insurance companies often ask for a release of your medical records—which can include your entire medical history. Signing such a release can give them access to irrelevant information, potentially used to dispute your claim. Only provide medical records directly related to the accident. 
3. Know the Value of Your Case Before Settling: You should not settle a car accident injury claim in Seattle until you know the true value of your case. Along with other types of damages, you may be entitled to recover financial compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. 
4. Deal With Insurance Companies With an Attorney: You do not have to take on any insurance company on your own after a motor vehicle collision. Seek professional legal representation. A top-rated Seattle, WA auto accident attorney will advocate on your behalf, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure your rights are protected. 

Why Injured Victims Trust Our Seattle Car Accident Lawyers 

Auto accident injury claims are complicated. Following a bad crash, it is normal to have a ton of questions about your rights, your options, and what comes next. It is important to take prompt action when you have been in a motor vehicle accident. This will help you preserve your rights and seek proper compensation for your injuries. At The Walthew Law Firm, we are here to be by your side each and every step of the way. It is our mission to help you secure every dollar that is available under the law. Among other things, our Seattle car accident lawyers will: 

• Listen to your story and answer questions about your legal rights and legal options; 
• Conduct a thorough investigation and evaluation of your crash, gathering evidence; 
• Guide you through the paperwork and represent you in insurance settlement talks; and
• Develop a comprehensive strategy with a mission to maximize your financial recovery. 

We Represent Car Accident Victims in Seattle On a Contingency Fee Basis

Are you concerned about the potential cost of hiring a top-tier Seattle car accident lawyer? It is not an issue with our law firm. We represent motor vehicle accident victims on a contingency fee basis. There are never any upfront costs or out-of-pocket expenses for our clients. Instead, we only get paid when you get paid. No recovery, no fees. Contact The Walthew Law Firm in Seattle, WA today to schedule a consultation with an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer. Your initial consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligations. 

Motor Vehicle Accidents in Seattle: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I Speak to an Attorney After a Motor Vehicle Collision in Seattle?

Yes. If you or your loved one was hurt in a motor vehicle collision in Seattle, it is highly recommended that you consult with an attorney. Your lawyer will ensure that your rights and interests are protected each and every step of the way. Initial consultations are free. 

How Long Does a Car Accident Claim Typically Take?

It depends. The duration of a car accident claim can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the extent of the injuries and damages involved. With a more minor claim, it could take a few months to get a settlement. However, with more complicated or highly disputed cases, it could take more than a year to reach a resolution. 

What is the Average Settlement in a Car Accident Case in Seattle?

There is no true “average” settlement for a motor vehicle accident injury claim. Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, a settlement could be in the five, six, seven, or sometimes even eight figures. You need to know the value of your claim before you reach a settlement with the insurance company. An experienced Seattle auto accident lawyer can help.  

Will My Car Accident Claim Go to Trial?

It is possible—but it is somewhat unusual. Indeed, only a relatively small share of motor vehicle accident claims in Washington end up in court. Most car accident claims are settled out of court and do not go to trial. However, if the parties involved cannot agree on fault or the compensation amount, the case may need to be resolved in court. A trial-tested Seattle auto accident lawyer can help. 

Contact Our Seattle, WA Auto Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation

At The Walthew Law Firm, our Seattle motor vehicle accident lawyers are standing by, ready to protect your rights. If you are suffering from a personal injury, do not put off contacting an experienced personal injury lawyer. There is no reason for you to try to tough it out when it comes to pain and suffering, thinking that you can recover from your injuries on your own. Take the necessary steps that Western Washington residents have taken for over 90 years. Contact us for aggressive and compassionate advocacy when you need it most. With an office in Seattle, we handle motor vehicle accident and personal injury claims in King County and throughout the wider region.