Seattle is no stranger to car accidents. As the largest city in Washington State known for its vibrant culture, lush greenery, and fast-growing tech and business industries, it is teeming with both long-time residents and new visitors. Due to this bustling activity, the metropolis streets and highways also host more vehicles, leading to congested roads. It is then unsurprising that car accidents in Seattle have become an all-too-common occurrence. Unfortunately, not all drivers know what to do after a car accident.
Vehicular collisions tend to unfold more quickly than victims can process it. The series of catastrophic events can be chaotic, leaving victims overwhelmed and confused about what could have possibly caused the accident, what steps they need to take next, which insurance laws they need to follow and how to choose the appropriate legal representation.
The purpose of this guide is to go through every detail of what to do in a car accident and help prevent the aftermath from worsening. It is a deep dive into all the necessary information that road users must know and provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). Overall, it is a comprehensive read highlighting how affected individuals must be well-informed as they try to endure the trauma and seek compensation for their car accident injuries.
Facts and figures
In 2021, Seattle was still recovering with the rest of the world from the significant damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was safe to assume that it would take time for the public to return to their normal routines and be in the risky situation of determining what to do in a car accident. It was poised to be a safe year for the city’s streets. However, this presumption cannot be further from the truth.
New reports refer to 2021 as Seattle’s deadliest year since 2006. Ironically, while it recorded the most severe and fatal accidents, the total number of crashes for this year was lower compared to the last 15 years. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) 2021 traffic report specifies 6,100 collisions, 221 of which involved serious injuries and lethal collisions. While there was no clear driving factor, experts point to the upward trend of pedestrians, or those walking, biking and rolling.
Causes and consequences
Given its reputation of seeing significant rainfall, anecdotal reports conclude that the Emerald City’s rainy weather is the main culprit. After all, wet conditions often result in slippery turns and reduced visibility. However, recent SDOT data reveal that car accident injuries are not always due to poor weather conditions. In fact, the following are the top contributing circumstances for Seattle car accidents, in order of the most common:
- Not granting the right of way to vehicle
- Being under the influence of alcohol
- Turning improperly
- Following too closely
- Disregarding traffic sign or signal
- Exceeding reasonable and safe speed
All these circumstances can yield a variety of outcomes. The severity of legal consequences varies and depends on the factors involved when the tragedy occurred. Thus, knowing what to do in a car accident is more vital to prevent dire repercussions.
The state mandates that all its drivers carry minimum liability insurance:
- $25,000 for injuries or death per person
- $50,000 for injuries or death for all other people per accident
- $10,000 for property damage per accident
Again, these are just minimum requirements. Although the state does not require it, drivers can still purchase other types of coverage, such as collision and comprehensive insurance, for increased monetary protection.
For uninsured drivers, penalties may include fines or license suspension. The worst consequence is being subjected to liabilities in a personal injury case. Before things escalate and spin out of control, it will be wise for affected parties to consult a car accident lawyer in Seattle for much-needed legal support and direction.
Rights and responsibilities
Seattle, like the rest of Washington State, operates under a fault-based insurance system. This legal framework only means that the individual who sustained injuries or whose property was damaged has the right to file a lawsuit against the liable party. On the other hand, whoever is at fault must be responsible for the harm caused by the car accident.
The city also follows the state’s pure comparative negligence rule, which means that the damage collected by the person who sustained injuries may be reduced if they have contributed in any way to the crash or share a percentage of fault. However, they are still eligible to seek compensation if they are not 100% to blame.
The difference between a stressful and smooth claims process lies in the moments right after a crash. Understandably, it is extremely challenging to have a clear mind and calm composure during such an unexpected and distressing situation, but knowing what to do after a car accident proves critical.
To safeguard their rights, victims must observe the following steps after a tragic impact:
- Ensure safety: Call 911 for immediate medical help and provide aid where necessary. Move vehicles to a safe location to avoid further inconveniences or traffic jams.
- Contact the authorities: Report the accident to the police, no matter how minor it seems. The police report may identify essential nuances that can make or break a case.
- Gather information: Exchange details, such as contact information and car insurance, with the other driver. Document the scene through photos, videos or witness statements, which can all serve as evidence to establish liability.
- Notify the insurance company: Initiate the claims process by providing only relevant information. Never sign any document, admit anything or make conclusive statements until a lawyer is present.
Once the physical and emotional shock begins to subside, the legal battle follows. It is essential that the parties involved contact an attorney to advocate for their rights and guide them in fulfilling their responsibilities. The likelihood of receiving fair compensation increases when affected individuals have legal counsel to help in the negotiations and make sure that insurance companies do not wrongfully deny any claim.
Vision and action
Seattle recognizes that knowing what to do in a car accident can be a daunting situation, and reducing deadly car accidents altogether needs to be a collective pursuit. Policymakers have been making headway on programs that proactively address the root of problems on the road. Launched in 2015, the city has an ongoing initiative known as Vision Zero. Adopting the Safe System approach, this project aims to end severe traffic injuries and deaths by 2030.
One of its proven safety measures to help reduce car accident injuries and fatalities focuses on redesigning roads. The urban landscape has seen improved facilities in biking lanes and school zones. Educational and encouragement campaigns, in partnership with public schools and community centers, are another strategy to influence better travel behavior. Post-crash care is also explored to improve victims’ chances of survival through prompt medical services and effective incident management.
Ultimately, the more people look out for each other, the safer everyone becomes on the road. But when the unfortunate happens, know that legal resources are available for knowledge and protection when facing car accident injuries and processing claims. If you are wondering, ‘Is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident,’ seeking advice from a legal professional can offer clarity and support for your specific circumstances.
FAQs
The following are some of the commonly raised questions when facing car accidents in Seattle, WA:
- How long do you have to report an accident in Washington State?
The time frame for reporting depends on the severity of the incident. Immediate reporting to the Washington State Patrol is necessary for damage over $1,000. Without responding authorities, you must file a report within four days of incurring damage exceeding $1,000. Since insurance companies vary in their reporting requirements, it is advisable to inform them about the incident as soon as possible, or within 24-48 hours.
- Can I receive compensation for pain and suffering after a car accident?
Yes. You may be eligible to receive compensation for the pain and suffering you sustained due to the car accident. Pain and suffering are non-economic damage, which may include emotional distress and loss of enjoyment. Working with medical, legal and economic experts can help quantify the monetary value of these losses.
- How do I file an insurance claim after a car accident?
Once you’ve notified your insurance company, they will provide you with the applicable forms you must fill out. You should come up with supporting documents, such as the police report, medical invoices or repair estimates, to capture an accurate depiction of what happened. Before you engage in any kind of settlement discussion with an adjuster, secure a lawyer for reliable guidance.
- Can I seek legal action for property damage in Seattle?
Yes. Make sure to identify the damage’s severity, whether only minor insurance damage or small claims court. Depending on the circumstances of your case, Washington State requires you to file a lawsuit within three years.
- Can I take legal action against a vehicle manufacturer for product liability?
Yes. Washington State allows consumers to sue manufacturers for defective products, including vehicles. Like other personal injury claims, you usually have three years from the date of injury or damage to file a lawsuit.
