Best Car Accident Lawyers in Kirkland, WA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency cases, you may call the Kirkland police department at 425-577-5656.

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

  If you need to obtain a copy of the accident's police report, you may call the Kirkland police department's records unit at 425-587-3481. You may also send an email request to policerecords@kirklandwa.gov.

• What is the first thing that you need to do when filing a car accident case in Kirkland?

  The first step in filing a car accident lawsuit in Kirkland is to ensure that a complete record of all expenditures incurred as a result of the vehicle accident has been preserved. This type of proof can help you get the compensation you deserve. It is critical that you keep detailed records of items like:

  • Pay slips
  • Repair costs
  • Medical expenses
  • Individual income tax returns
  • Items showing lost wages
  • Any additional incidental costs

• Are you still eligible to recover compensation in Kirkland when you are partially at fault for the car accident?

  Yes, you can still recover damages in Kirkland even if you are partially responsible for the car accident. Washington follows pure comparative negligence, which means that if the plaintiff is partially to blame for the accident, they may be assigned a share of the culpability. They can, however, claim damages even if they were the primary cause of the accident. A person may be more than 50% at fault for a personal injury accident and yet receive a portion of the damages.

• What can a car accident lawyer in Kirkland do for you?

  Car accident attorneys in Kirkland build a solid claim by using various resources and knowledge on the matter. These are the services that a lawyer can do for you:

  • Examining the responsible parties and the extent to which they contributed to the accident
  • Examining your wounds and how they affect your life in the long run
  • Setting the insurance policy limits for each party
  • Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
  • Assessing the accident scene to ensure that no information is overlooked

• What is the timeframe for filing a car accident lawsuit in Kirkland?

  After a car accident, you only have a certain amount of time to make a claim in Kirkland, so you must act immediately. The deadline for filing a claim is three years after the date of the occurrence. If you miss this deadline, the court may decide not to hear your case, denying you compensation for your losses.

• Should you settle a car accident claim in Kirkland without a lawyer?

  Accepting a settlement for a car accident injury in Kirkland without getting legal representation may result in compensation that does not appropriately pay you for lifelong injuries and losses. Once a claim is settled, it can never be reopened. The rule is to avoid signing a release for at least six months after an injury. If you are not sure whether to settle, consult with a personal injury attorney.

• 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.