Given the complexity and challenges involved in many car accident cases, hiring a competent attorney is vital for getting an outcome in your favor. Securing a knowledgeable and experienced attorney can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome. Beyond simply understanding the relevant laws and precedents, you need someone deeply familiar with the Washington legal landscape and the involved parties.
Additionally, you will need someone with outstanding negotiation and strategizing skills if you are dealing with an opponent with deep pockets, like a trucking company. Our team at the Gilbert Law Firm is here for you.
Our car accident lawyers based in Washington have the legal experience, personal experience, and courtroom experience to fight for you and your case. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring you feel heard and supported every step of the way. Here’s a look at the top three factors to consider when choosing your car accident lawyer in Washington:
1. Quality of Representation
While legal proceedings may seem like a technical back-and-forth between attorneys citing statutes and case precedents, there is a vital human element that should not be overlooked.
A lawyer with extensive experience dealing with key stakeholders—such as insurance companies, judges, and healthcare providers—can often secure cooperation that could provide a critical advantage to your case.
Look for an attorney who understands all the legal statutes and concepts that apply to your situation and excels at translating those details into compelling arguments before a judge, jury, or insurer.
Prior experience with similar cases in Washington can be an advantage, particularly when negotiating settlements or navigating court procedures.
2. Personability and Willingness to Listen
While legal qualifications are essential to handle your case, don’t let that be the only criteria. You are entrusting your future to this legal representative, so it is wise to choose someone you can trust and feel comfortable with.
You might spend significant time with your attorney, so having someone you genuinely like and trust can ease the process.
Prioritize a lawyer who is competent and committed to open communication. The best attorneys are those who prioritize client well-being, such as by:
- Returning calls promptly
- Keeping you informed of case developments
It is comforting to have an attorney who not only informs you about the progress of the case but will also make the extra effort to help you through every aspect of your struggle beyond legal matters, providing support during your financial recovery, such as addressing concerns about:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Potential disabilities
3. Proven Trial Record
While statistics show that only about 5% of auto accident cases go to trial, having an attorney with a strong trial record is still important.
Even if your case is likely to settle out of court, having a lawyer with proven courtroom experience strengthens your bargaining position.
A skilled negotiator with trial experience can leverage this advantage to secure better settlements, as insurers and opposing parties know they are prepared to litigate if necessary.
Statute of Limitations in Washington for Car Accident Claim
In Washington, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including car accident cases, is three years from the date of the accident (Revised Code of Washington § 4.16.080). This means:
- You must file your lawsuit within three years of the accident date.
- If you miss this deadline, you may lose the right to pursue compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- The statute applies whether you negotiate with insurance companies or pursue a court case.
Acting quickly is crucial, as building a strong case often requires gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, collecting documentation, and conducting investigations—tasks that are best handled early on.
Contact Our Washington Car Accident Lawyers at The Gilbert Law Firm Today
If you need a compassionate and dedicated legal team to handle your personal injury case, the Gilbert Law Firm is ready to assist. With decades of combined experience in handling accident settlements and litigation, we’ve successfully secured millions of dollars in settlements for our clients. Our commitment to the Washington community has made us a trusted name in personal injury representation.
Contact us today at 509-321-0750 to discuss how we can help you protect your rights and confidently face the legal process.
