Car Accident Lawyers in Greater Seattle, WA Area
Seattle has seen its share of fatal motor vehicle accidents. In 2021, it recorded its most severe and deadly crashes in over a decade. Unfortunately, the city’s roads can be dangerous. Even if you are a responsible driver, you may still suffer physical, emotional and financial damage due to reckless road users.
If you or your loved ones were injured in a collision, you may feel alone and think that the world suddenly seems like it‘s spinning out of control as you fight for fair compensation. However, making wise decisions can prevent further catastrophic losses. A legal consultation with a trusted car accident lawyer in Seattle can make all the difference.
Immediately following a motor vehicle accident, the claims process may be too much to bear after having just endured a traumatic experience. You would need someone on your side, who genuinely and profoundly understands your concerns, and advocates for your rights and interests as fiercely as you do.
At this crucial point, our team of auto accident lawyers serving the Greater Seattle, WA area here at Dean Standish Perkins & Associates can come in to help. We can relieve you of the overwhelming burden by getting things done. We will dedicate valuable time, effort and resources to holding your hand throughout the process. We will work with you to arrange car rental and repair arrangements, seek urgent medical care and assess the legal complexities of your insurance policy.
The Recent State Of Motor Vehicle Accident Fatalities In Washington State
The Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) recently announced that the state initially documented 810 crash deaths in 2023, a record high since 1990. The WTSC Director, Shelly Baldwin, calls this a “shocking statistic.” She laments the disturbing findings and reminds drivers to take extra precautions behind the wheel to save lives.
Per WTSC’s preliminary report, drivers’ high-risk behaviors primarily cause the spike in motor vehicle accident fatalities. When compared with the 2022 data, excessive speeding is still a significant concern, resulting in 251 deaths. Drug- or alcohol-impaired driving is up by 4%, while unrestrained vehicle occupants rise by 10%. Distracted driving also surges to 36% with 135 fatalities. Sad to say, these figures are only bound to shoot up as the study becomes final. To date, most victims are pedestrians and motorcyclists, with 157 and 141 deaths, respectively. But, at this point, it only proves that anyone can suffer lethal consequences or unexpectedly face complex legal proceedings.
If you have survived a near-death experience after a traumatic collision, the next challenge to overcome is pursuing fair compensation. It would be wise to consider your legal options and retain a Seattle personal injury lawyer. With so much already lost and still at stake in your future, having an advocate to protect your interests can be your chance to secure a favorable outcome for your legal claim.
Experienced And Compassionate Auto Accident Attorneys
With thousands of victims helped and millions of dollars in compensation recovered, our Seattle car accident lawyers based in Issaquah have a proven track record of providing client-focused and results-oriented services.
Our firm commitment is backed up by our extensive legal experience spanning decades. We have built our personal lives and careers in Washington State. Hence, our decisions are informed and grounded on our genuine care for affected individuals in our community.
We go above and beyond, thoroughly investigating every detail of each claim, and even arranging weekend appointments or home visits if necessary. The legal cases our Seattle car crash lawyers take on are not just numbers in our book. We treat them with the attention and sympathy that every family deserves.
Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
With Seattle’s reputation for a rainy climate, weather conditions often cause hydroplaning and skidding. But wet and slippery roads are not always the case. The following are other reasons for the city’s vehicular collisions:
- Distracted, drunk or drowsy driving
- Aggressive driving, such as excessive speeding, tailgating or running red lights
- Poor construction or road maintenance
- Inexperienced drivers with risk-taking behaviors
- Misunderstanding or deliberate disobedience to right-of-way rules
This list may not include other factors that can still lead to hazardous scenarios. With so many unpredictable elements and dangers on the road, anyone can be a victim anytime and require the legal guidance of a Seattle auto accident attorney.
Car Accident Injuries We’ve Handled
As auto accident lawyers catering to the Greater Seattle, WA area, we have encountered multiple types of crash injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Understanding the types of injuries you may sustain can help you get the appropriate medical attention and evaluate the compensation you deserve.
Aside from minor strains, sprains and bruises, typical car crash severe injuries include:
- Spine injury
- Traumatic brain injury
- Internal organ damage
- Bone fracture
- Amputation
- Disfigurement
Not all symptoms of motor vehicle accident injuries manifest right away. Some show upon impact, while others take weeks before your body can feel them. So, it is critical to consult a doctor, regardless of apparent or lack of symptoms. Also, ensure proper documentation, such as your check-up billings or prescription receipts, as it can be evidence when building your injury claim with our Seattle car crash attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Automobile Accidents in WA
The moments after a motor vehicle accident can be daunting. Here are answers to some usual questions related to car accidents in Seattle:
What should you consider when choosing a car accident lawyer serving the Greater Seattle, WA area?
Reflect on the attorney’s years of legal experience. Review their success rate with claim settlements or court decisions. Ensure they are well-versed in Washington’s specific traffic and insurance regulations. Client reviews and testimonials can provide insight into their credibility and effectiveness. Verify their legal credentials and their standing with the Washington State Bar Association. Effective communication is vital, so choose a Seattle auto accident lawyer whose style aligns with your preferences, making you feel comfortable and understood.
How does the car accident claim process work in Seattle, WA?
In Washington, the accident claims process begins with an in-depth investigation to gather evidence and establish fault. This requires the knowledge and skill of a personal injury attorney who has handled many claims and can help negotiate fair compensation with the insurance company. However, if reaching a fair settlement proves unlikely, your Seattle car crash attorney may take the case to court. They may also guide you in adhering to Washington’s statute of limitations, which typically allows three years from the accident date to initiate legal proceedings.
What kind of compensation can you expect to receive for a car accident in Seattle, and how are attorney fees handled?
The compensation you might receive after a car accident can cover various damages, including:
- Medical costs
- Lost earnings
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
The amount is determined by the details, such as the extent of your losses. For instance, fatal car accident injuries may yield more significant compensation for lives lost and the impact of such tragedy on survivors. Regarding attorney fees, a Seattle car accident lawyer often operates on a contingency fee basis. This arrangement means they receive a portion of your compensation only if they successfully secure a settlement or court award for you.
How long after a motor vehicle accident can you file a lawsuit?
In Washington, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a car accident is three years from the crash date. It is recommended to consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to help ensure you file within this period and preserve your right to seek compensation.
How long does it take to get a settlement for a car accident?
The time frame for receiving a claim settlement after the incident varies. Straightforward cases may settle within a few months, while more complex ones can take years. Factors influencing the duration of processing include the severity of the injury, the clarity of liability and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate.
What should you do after a car accident?
Following a car crash, here are some of the immediate steps you must keep in mind:
- Ensure safety by checking for injuries and moving to a safe location
- Call the police to report the accident
- Exchange information with the other driver/s
- Document the accident scene
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Notify your insurance company about the accident
Finally, contact a Seattle car accident attorney to understand your rights and options.
What if the driver who caused the car accident doesn’t have insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, Washington State’s law provides some avenues for compensation. You can file a claim with your insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Alternatively, you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
What is comparative negligence, and what does it mean for your personal injury claim?
Washington State implements a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning that your compensation can decrease by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the motor vehicle accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. Your Seattle car accident lawyer can guide you in recovering damages even if you are partly to blame for the incident.
Schedule A Free Consultation With A Car Accident Attorney In Seattle
Our auto accident lawyers at Dean Standish Perkins & Associates will work hard to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. We have a proven record of success in helping victims recover from so much loss. If you have lost a loved one in a Seattle, WA car accident, we can help you obtain recovery for funeral costs, lost income potential, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship.
Let us use our experience representing victims of motor vehicle accidents to work for you. Call 206-981-5043 today to speak with a car accident lawyer in Seattle for a free legal assessment.