Best Car Accident Lawyers in Auburn

FAQs

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

  253-931-3080 is the non-emergency contact number of the Auburn local police station.

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

  If you have been involved in a collision and require assistance finding your report, please go to www.wsp.wa.gov and choose "Collision Reports" under the Driver section.

• What are the most common injury types suffered in car accidents in Auburn?

  Some of the most common injury types suffered in Auburn car accidents include broken bones; internal injuries; traumatic brain injuries; and spinal cord, head, and facial injuries. These injuries can be debilitating and require medical attention, and may even result in permanent paralysis or long-term damage. It's important to seek medical attention if you've been involved in a car accident, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

• What damages can you recover in a car accident claim in Auburn?

  You may be eligible for compensation for damages incurred in a car accident claim, including medical expenses, lost wages and benefits, pain and suffering, and property damage. Compensation for economic and non-economic losses is available, and surviving family members can also seek compensation in the event of a death resulting from an Auburn accident.

• What if it is not clear who was at fault in a car accident in Auburn?

  In some circumstances, it may not be evident who was at fault in a vehicle collision. In these cases, an Auburn car accident attorney could hire private investigators to assist in establishing liability. To determine who is at fault, attorneys may also look into the accident scene, speak with witnesses, and engage expert witnesses to recreate the incident.

• If the driver who caused the Auburn car accident was driving as part of their job, can you recover damages from their employer?

  Yes, you may be able to recover damages from an Auburn employer through the doctrine of respondeat superior ("let the master answer"), which applies in commercial operator cases like truck drivers, bus drivers, and Uber drivers. To apply this doctrine, the driver must be an employee working within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. Washington state law defines these terms broadly in favor of victims, even if the driver is an independent contractor for other purposes.

• What should you do after a car accident in Auburn?

  • Call 911 and let them know what happened.
  • Get medical help as soon as you can.
  • Take as many photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and both automobiles as you can.
  • Get the other driver's name, address, insurance information, and license.
  • To manage your claim, get in touch with a vehicle accident lawyer in Auburn.

  Note that the steps you take right away after the incident will directly affect your claim. Gather and record as much evidence as you are able if it is still safe for you to move around the accident scene without risking further harm.

• 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.