Have you, your family member, or friend been involved in a car accident in Washington? You deserve compensation for the injuries, pain, and loss that you have incurred.
A car accident changes your life. The process of filing a claim, gathering evidence, and determining the fault can take a toll on you.
Insurance companies have adjusters and a team of lawyers who ensure the company parts with as little money as possible. Facing them alone is not a wise idea.
You need a car accident lawyer to represent you and negotiate the settlement to the rightful amount.
Table of Contents
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
1. Negotiate on Your Behalf
Since you may not know your legal rights in a personal injury claim, the professional lawyers working for the insurance company may take advantage and deny you your rightful compensation.
Your Washington car accident lawyer will negotiate with the insurer to ensure you’re paid the right amount to cater for your injuries and loss.
Your lawyer also opens a line of communication with the driver’s insurer to have a good relationship and communication with the adjuster as it’s critical for your case.
2. Gather Necessary Evidence for Liability
Every piece of evidence is essential to prove the liability of the at-fault driver. Even though you might have taken pictures of your injuries and the accident scene, they can go back to see if you missed anything.
They will obtain reports of the case and speak to the investigating officer. A good lawyer will also talk to any witnesses who can help your case and build solid evidence to prove the other driver was at fault and thus liable for the damages.
3. Obtain Evidence of Damages
In case you were injured in the accident, your lawyer will obtain medical records from your doctor, including tests, X-rays, and doctor’s reports, so that you can prove damages.
It is not easy to obtain the necessary documentation as some healthcare providers may not respond to requests to obtain medical records on time. And when others do, they are sometimes incomplete.
Medical records should clearly state what your injury is and show that the defendant’s negligence caused it. A good lawyer will help you to obtain these.
You’ll also require medical bills, including future treatment costs such as physical therapy, medications, and medical procedures, if any. Without these, you might be compensated for less than you actually spent.
4. Organize and Present the Evidence
You have to present evidence of liability and damages when settling the claim. Your lawyer will organize and present it on your behalf.
It would be challenging for you to do this yourself. The attorney organizes the files in a way that compellingly tells your story using photos, witness accounts, reports, and documents.
They might also incorporate animations, exhibits, videos, and any other visual means.
5. Represent You in a Lawsuit
In case the insurer refuses to settle for the amount you deserve, the case can proceed to a lawsuit. However, very few cases reach this level, as the insurer aims to save money, not spend more.
But, in case it gets there, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will also present the evidence of liability and injuries before the jury and fight for the rightful amount.
However, this may take more time than the settlement, but a good lawyer will never let you settle for less than you deserve.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in an accident in Washington, the at-fault driver should pay for their negligence. You don’t have to suffer from injuries and hospital bills while they walk free.
A car accident lawyer will help you settle your claim with their insurer and ensure you’ve been paid what you deserve.
