Best Car Accident Lawyers in Richland, WA

FAQs

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

  For non-life-threatening concerns or to report suspicious activities, contact the Richland Police department at (509) 628-0333.

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

  To get a copy of your collision report, visit the Richland Police Department at the address below to make a records request in person. Richland Police Department 871 George Washington Way Richland, WA 99352

  You can also mail your records request to: Police Public Records Officer 625 Swift Blvd. MS-17 Richland, WA 99352

  You can download the public records request form at www.ci.richland.wa.us. Your request should include identifying details of the collision report you need, such as the date and time of the incident. Please also include your name, contact number, and mailing and email address. Receipt of your request should be acknowledged within five business days.

  For more assistance in making your request, you can contact the Public Records Officer at (509) 942-7619.

• How long do you have to submit a personal injury claim for your car accident in Richland, WA?

  Based on the Revised Code of Washington Section 4.16.080, you have three years from the date of injury to commence a personal injury claim in Richland, WA. The same two-year statute is applied for car accident-related wrongful death claims, but the clock starts counting from the date of the victim’s death.

• Who can you sue if you were hit by an autonomous car in Richland, WA?

  Depending on the investigation results, you can file a lawsuit in Richland against the driver, the car manufacturer, or both. If the autonomous vehicle did not function like it was supposed to and the car driver could not remedy the situation, the car manufacturer may be liable. If the driver could correct the error in function to avoid the accident but did not because they were distracted, then the driver may be at fault.

• Can you still claim compensation for your car accident injuries in Richland, WA, if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt?

  Even if you weren't wearing a seatbelt when the accident happened, you can still claim damages. Although wearing a seatbelt while inside a moving vehicle is a legal requirement in Richland, the Revised Code of Washington Section 46.61.688 stipulates that not doing so is not admissible as evidence of your negligence. The insurer can't reject your claim, just because you weren't wearing a seatbelt.

• Does Richland, WA, use a fault or no-fault insurance system for car accidents?

  Richland employs the at-fault insurance system for car accidents. The car accident victim must prove the other party’s fault in order to claim damage compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance. Also, Richland uses the pure comparative negligence system stipulated in the Revised Code of Washington Section 4.22.015. Based on this code, if the victim has a percentage of fault in the accident, for example, 20% for speeding, their damage award of $50,000 will also be minimized by 20% to $40,000.

• How much do car accident lawyers in Richland, WA, charge?

  The majority of Richland auto accident lawyers offer a contingency fee arrangement. This means that the attorney won't be paid until they successfully settle your auto accident claim. The attorney will be paid a percentage of your insurance settlement or verdict reward. The typical contingency fee for auto accident attorneys ranges from 25% to 40%. With this agreement, the car accident victim won't have to pay anything out of their personal account.

• 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.