Car accidents can have a devastating impact on your life, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional distress, the need for medical support, and financial burdens.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), Spokane County experienced 6,706 crashes in 2023, with 57 fatal incidents and 198 suspected serious injuries. These numbers underscore the importance of having experienced legal guidance to navigate the aftermath of an accident.
In the immediate aftermath, you may struggle to figure out what to do next due to shock and confusion. At the Gilbert Law Firm, our attorneys understand the overwhelming challenges you face and are here to provide compassionate, skilled legal support to help you through this difficult time.
Our dedicated attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of the process to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
What Should I Do After a Car Crash in Washington?
Here are the first steps you should take immediately after a car accident:
- Talk to an Attorney: An experienced personal injury attorney can help guide you through your personal injury claim and, if necessary, represent you in a lawsuit to obtain compensation. Speaking with a lawyer before contacting insurance companies can help you avoid missteps that could affect your claim.
- Call 911: You should notify the police that an accident has occurred. If there are any injuries, you must also ask for an ambulance. According to RCW 46.52.030, Washington law requires drivers to report accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage.
- Take Photos: Take as many photos of the incident as possible to document the damage. You may also want to photograph road conditions if they contributed to the collision. This visual evidence can be crucial in supporting your claim.
- Collect Information: Obtain the driver’s license number, insurance information, and vehicle registration details of all parties involved before leaving the scene. These details are necessary for filing an insurance claim and any potential legal proceedings.
How to Pursue Compensation in Washington
Under Washington law, every driver is required to have auto insurance with specific coverage components, including:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injuries in an accident
- $10,000 per accident for property damage
- $50,000 per accident if more than one person is injured
These coverage requirements are mandated by RCW 46.29.090. If the accident is the other driver’s fault, you should file a claim with their insurer. At this point, the insurer will conduct an investigation. Washington Administrative Code (WAC 284-30-370) gives insurance companies 35 days after receiving proof of loss to settle a claim, either by making a settlement offer or rejecting your claim.
- You can make a counteroffer if you are confident in your position. Include the evidence you collected at the scene to support your claim.
- Offers and counteroffers may go back and forth for several rounds until both parties agree on an amount. You must file a lawsuit to recover damages if no agreement is reached.
If you are seriously injured in the accident and receiving ongoing treatment, the insurer may wait to pay compensation until you fully recover.
What to Expect When Dealing With a Car Accident Lawsuit in Spokane
If you disagree with an insurer about who is at fault for an accident or how much compensation you should receive, you may have to file a lawsuit. It’s important to note that under Washington’s statute of limitations (RCW 4.16.080), you only have three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit.
Here’s what typically happens in a car accident lawsuit:
- Filing the Lawsuit: Your lawyer will file the suit with the appropriate court. This starts the legal process of pursuing compensation.
- Discovery: Both parties will exchange information and evidence to confirm the case details. This stage helps build the foundation of each side’s arguments.
- Settlement Negotiations: Most cases are settled out of court to avoid the costs and risks of a trial. Insurers may negotiate a settlement based on the evidence presented.
- Trial: If no settlement is reached, the case will go to trial, where a judge or jury will determine fault and decide on compensation.
Contact Our Washington Personal Injury Attorneys at The Gilbert Law Firm Today
If you are involved in a car accident, you want a knowledgeable and compassionate personal injury firm to handle your case. At The Gilbert Law Firm, our team has extensive experience negotiating settlements with insurance companies and a proven track record of trial success. We understand the stress and uncertainty that follows an accident, and we’re here to help you navigate this challenging time.
Contact us today at (509) 321-0750 for a free consultation. We are committed to advocating for your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
