Car accidents are an unfortunate reality with an average of six million crashes reported across the U.S. every year. The Washington State Department of Transportation reported 5,587 auto-related accidents in 2023, which resulted in 27 fatalities and 234 serious injuries. When people are seriously injured in a car accident they are left to navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of settling a car accident claim. As personal injury lawyers, we want to help accident victims through the process. In this blog we will provide the basic steps for how to settle car accident personal injury claim.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident due to another driver, speak to a local car accident attorney who can review your case and discuss your legal rights. You don’t have to navigate the claims process alone!
How to Settle Car Accident Personal Injury Claim
Whether you’re dealing with minor damages or significant injuries, understanding the steps involved in settling an accident claim can make a crucial difference in receiving fair compensation. This guide will walk you through the basic steps to take after an accident to ensure your rights are protected and your claim is handled efficiently.
1. Gather information at the scene
Immediately after the accident, collect as much information as possible. This includes taking photos of the scene, exchanging insurance details with the other driver, and obtaining contact information from any witnesses. Washington is a comparative fault state, meaning that the percentage of fault assigned to each party will impact the final settlement. Having detailed evidence can help prove your case.
2. Seek medical attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent. Medical records serve as crucial evidence in your claim, demonstrating the extent of your injuries and linking them directly to the accident.
3. Report the accident to your insurance company
You are typically obligated to notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the information you gathered at the scene and any medical records. Be honest and concise in your statements, but avoid admitting fault, as this could be used against you later.
Note: You are not obligated to speak with the at-fault driver’s insurance company when they reach out to you after the accident. It is not advisable to communicate anything with their insurance adjuster without seeking your own legal advice first.
4. Consult a car accident lawyer
If your claim involves significant injuries or if liability is disputed, consulting a car accident lawyer can be invaluable. An injury attorney can provide legal advice, handle negotiations, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve without any money up front.
5. Document your damages
Keep a detailed record of all damages related to the accident, including vehicle repair costs, medical expenses, and lost wages. Also, document any non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. This comprehensive documentation will be essential when negotiating your settlement.
6. Negotiate a settlement
Once your damages are documented, you can begin negotiating a settlement with the insurance company. Start by determining the minimum amount you’re willing to accept (the best thing to do is get an estimated value of your claim from your car accident attorney first). Be prepared for the insurer to counteroffer, and don’t be afraid to stand firm on a fair amount. If negotiations stall, consider involving an attorney.
How Car Accident Lawyers Help Victims Settle Claims
Navigating the complexities of a car accident claim can be daunting; this is where a car accident lawyer becomes an essential ally. Attorneys specializing in car accidents understand the intricacies of Washington State personal injury law, providing case evaluation and legal advice, negotiation with insurance companies, and litigation support if a fair settlement cannot be negotiated.
Having an experienced car accident lawyer by your side ensures that your claim is handled professionally and that your interests are protected throughout the process. This can significantly reduce stress and increase the likelihood of a favorable settlement, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Contact a Car Accident Personal Injury Attorney
A car accident lawyer can help you recover a full and fair settlement for the injuries you sustained in a car accident with no up-front costs to you. We know the sneaky strategies used by insurance companies to get injured people to agree to settlements far below what they are worth. Our clients typically end up with a settlement or jury award that is five to ten times larger than they could have negotiated on their own. We have been representing people injured in Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. Contact the experienced and hard-working personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Mount Vernon, WA for a FREE consultation today!
