Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bothell, WA

FAQs

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

  The Bothell City Police Department can be reached at (425) 486-1254 for non-emergencies.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Bothell City Police Department, click the link: https://bothellwa.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(cjdyr5xg15grcloovoq4tblm))/SupportHome.aspx. You can also call the Records Unit at (425) 487-5120 for more information.

• Is it important to give a recorded statement to insurance companies after a car accident in Bothell?

  It is important NOT to give a statement to insurance companies as you can be sure that they will find a way to use your statement to justify either giving you a really low amount or just outright denying your claim. The best course of action is to hire a lawyer in Bothell so that they can speak and negotiate on your behalf when dealing with insurance adjusters.

• How do you prove the negligence of a driver who caused you to crash in Bothell without hitting your car?

  This is called a "no contact" accident and is one of the hardest to prove. For situations like this, the aid of an attorney becomes invaluable, as they often work with a team capable of doing extensive investigations that can show the plaintiff's innocence. Some of what they can do include working with the Bothell police and private investigators to gather evidence to back the case.

• Are there any roads in Bothell that are more prone to car accidents?

  Yes, there are. Four of the most frequently used roads in Bothell are the Bothell-Everett Highway, Highway 22, I-405, and Bothell Way. Some of the most serious accidents happen here, partly caused by the busy traffic consisting mostly of college students roaming around town after school or having drinks at the Beardslee Pub.

• What can you do to hire an attorney in Bothell for a car accident claim if you can't afford one?

  It is good to know that the legal aid of an attorney is not out of reach just because you can't afford one. Look for Bothell attorneys who work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they won't get paid unless you win your case. After which, they will be paid about 30% to 40% of the damage award or settlement.

• Is there liability for a driver who crashed because of a poorly maintained vehicle in Bothell?

  Yes, there is. A driver's responsibility extends to the maintenance of their car, not just for their own safety but for that of their passengers and the people around them. A driver in Bothell can be held especially liable if it could be proven that they were aware that their vehicle needed maintenance but failed to provide it.

• 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.