1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Seattle?
If you’re involved in a car accident in Seattle, call 911 if there are injuries, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, gather contact and insurance information from the other driver, and file a police report. Then contact a Seattle auto accident attorney to protect your legal rights and help with your claim.
2. Do I really need a lawyer after a minor car accident in Washington State?
Even in seemingly minor collisions, injuries can emerge later, and insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. Working with a Seattle personal injury lawyer ensures that you are not taken advantage of and that you receive full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
3. What types of compensation can I recover after a Washington car accident?
You may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages, including medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability or disfigurement. A Seattle car accident attorney can help assess the full value of your claim.
4. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Washington State?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Washington is three years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation. Speak with a Seattle auto accident lawyer as soon as possible to preserve your claim.
5. Who pays for my medical bills after a car crash in Washington?
Washington is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the crash is typically responsible. However, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage or health insurance may pay initial medical bills. A car accident attorney can help you recover those costs from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
6. Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident in Seattle?
Yes. Washington follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. A skilled Seattle car accident lawyer can help limit your liability and maximize your recovery.
7. What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or fled the scene?
If the other driver was uninsured or involved in a hit-and-run, your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may cover your losses. Scott & Scott can help you navigate these complex claims and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
8. Will I have to go to court if I hire a car accident lawyer?
Most cases settle out of court. Our goal is to resolve your claim efficiently and privately, without putting you through a long trial, unless it’s absolutely necessary to get the compensation you deserve. You also have the power to stop the process at any time. While we will give you advice every step of the way, you are the driver of your case.
9. How much does it cost to hire a car accident attorney in Seattle?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front, and we only get paid if we win or settle your case.
10. I’m not a “lawsuit person.” What are my options?
We hear this often. Pursuing a claim doesn’t mean you’re suing anyone unnecessarily; it’s about protecting your rights and recovering what you’re entitled to, so your life isn’t derailed by someone else’s mistake.
11. How long will this process take?
It depends on your case type and whether we reach a settlement or go to trial. We aim for timely resolution and will keep you updated at every step so you’re never left in the dark.
12. Do I have to talk to the insurance company?
No. Once you hire us, we deal with the insurance companies on your behalf — so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing or being pressured into a lowball offer.
13. What if I already started the claim process myself?
That’s okay — many clients come to us after trying to handle things alone. We can step in at any point to make sure your rights are protected and deadlines aren’t missed.
