Fault Determination & Car Accidents
A successful auto accident personal injury claim starts and ends with determining whether another driver or some other third party may have been at fault in causing your injuries. If it is clear that you were involved in a no-fault accident, no reputable Issaquah personal injury attorney will take on your case. On the other hand, if another party may have been – or clearly was – at fault in causing your injuries, then you have a valid personal injury claim; and, whether through an insurance settlement or a full-blown trial, you will have a fair opportunity to seek just compensation for your losses.
At the Dean Standish Perkins and Associates, our Issaquah personal injury attorneys have decades of experience evaluating auto accident cases and representing personal injury victims in claims for financial compensation. To learn more about our services, please use the link to our contact form below to schedule a free consultation.
How To Establish That A Driver Was At Fault In A Washington Auto Accident
Establishing fault in a Washington auto accident requires proof of negligence. Even if another driver caused the accident that resulted in your injuries, if he or she was not negligent in doing so, then you will not be able to pursue a claim for damages. Examples of no-fault accidents include those caused by weather conditions and natural disasters, and those in which the driver was justified in causing the collision (e.g., in order to avoid a more-serious accident, or because you slammed on your brakes and even a competent driver could not have been expected to avoid hitting your vehicle).
That said, there are numerous ways to establish fault in an auto accident. Common examples of fault constituting negligence for purposes of a Washington personal injury claim include:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Drunk driving
- Texting or talking on the phone
- Falling asleep behind the wheel
- Tailgating
- Running a red light or stop sign
These are all examples of ways to establish driver fault. However, in some cases it is possible for third parties to be held responsible as well. Examples of successful third-party fault claims in Washington auto accident cases include:
- Serving alcohol to an individual who is underage or clearly intoxicated
- Negligent hiring or supervision by a trucking company
- Inadequate or improper truck maintenance
- Negligent highway design
At Dean Standish Perkins & Associates, we thoroughly investigate all potential causes of each client’s injury and seek compensation from all parties at fault in the accident.
Speak With An Auto Accident Attorney In Issaquah, Washington
If you were involved in an auto accident in Washington and believe a negligent driver or some other party may be at fault for your injuries, contact us today. Our attorneys will review your case; and, if appropriate, help you pursue maximum compensation for your personal injury claim.
With 30 years of experience representing Washington auto accident victims, you can rely on the lawyers at Dean Standish Perkins & Associates to give your case the focus and attention it deserves.