Best Car Accident Lawyers in Arlington, WA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Arlington, Washington?

  Non-emergencies can be reported by contacting the Arlington Police Department at 425-407-3999.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Arlington, Washington?

  To obtain a copy of the Arlington Police Department report for the accident, you can submit a request at the online Public Records page of the department at https://arlingtonwa.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(ujru5ofkmspxursxmvcdn3nl))/supporthome.aspx. You must create an account and provide the required information to allow you to search and monitor your request. You will receive essential correspondence from the agency via email. For more inquiries, call Police Support Services at (360) 403-3400.

• When is a lawyer not necessary following a car accident in Arlington?

  In Arlington, you may not require the services of an attorney if (a) no one was in the car at the time of the collision; (b) the individual walked away from the incident without any soreness, bumps, bruises, or other delayed symptoms; or (c) the incident resulted in only property damage. If you believe that the insurance company is acting in bad faith, you can take advantage of law firms that provide free case consultations.

• Who is liable when a weather-related car accident occurs in Arlington?

  Arlington drivers are held liable in the event of a car accident caused by inclement weather. Drivers must always exercise proper duty of care by practicing safe driving techniques and driving a vehicle that is well-maintained and capable of withstanding any weather conditions. If either of those elements is not followed, resulting in or contributing to an accident, the driver is without a doubt at fault.

• How can a pre-existing condition affect your car accident compensation in Arlington?

  It cannot, particularly if the car accident aggravated the victim's pre-existing injuries, introduced new complications, increased discomfort, or exacerbated pain. Arlington adheres to the Washington law known as the Eggshell Skull Doctrine, which states that injured people, including those with pre-existing injuries, have the right to seek compensation for any damages caused by the negligence of another person. A crash can aggravate pre-existing conditions such as arthritis, hernias, back strains, shoulder injuries, and bone fractures.

• How can insurance companies counter the eggshell plaintiff case in Arlington?

  Insurance companies may contest your eggshell plaintiff case following a car accident in Arlington by presenting evidence to show that any pre-existing injuries were not aggravated or worsened as a result of the collision, or that they were unstable to begin with. The claim may also be rejected or undervalued by the insurer on the grounds that it should only be responsible for paying for your immediate medical expenses rather than your long-term care requirements.

• How serious is a delayed symptom of bruising after a car accident in Arlington?

  A delayed indication of bruising after an Arlington car accident may suggest internal bruising, which may cause serious health issues and possibly irreversible organ damage. High body temperature, nausea, blood in urine, discomfort or soreness at the injury site, hematoma surrounding the lesion, problems with memory, and decreased mobility are all possible signs of internal complications. Even if you think the accident wasn't too severe, you should see a doctor immediately.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.