On-road mishaps are rather usual in Washington. More often than not, people don’t realize that they have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver, as this is a tort state. If you were injured in Kent in such an accident, you must consider all possibilities. Here are some key things you need to know.
Right after an accident
Auto accidents are scary and can impact your ability to think right. Here are some dos and don’ts you must follow –
- Don’t run away from the scene.
- Move your vehicle to the side of the road, provided it’s safe to do so.
- Call 911 for emergency medical care if someone is injured.
- Inform the local law enforcement.
- Don’t leave until the police arrive.
- Take photos and videos of your injuries and the accident scene.
- Swap key information with drivers involved in the crash.
- Call your insurance company and share key details.
- Don’t admit fault or engage in fights with other parties.
Call a car accident lawyer
Personal injury law covers auto accidents, but people have a hard time understanding the worth of their claims. Call a car accident lawyer immediately to know how you can proceed ahead with your case. The chances are high that you would need legal support, especially if you are seriously injured. Your attorney can help investigate the accident and gather evidence, police report, and witness statements. Also, lawyers can handle claims better because they know how insurance companies tend to trick people.
You have limited time
The statute of limitations in Washington gives you three years to file your accident lawsuit. This is for civil lawsuits only. However, if you don’t start working early on your claim, you may miss valuable evidence. The deadline starts from the date of the accident, and the clock continues to tick even if you decide to file an insurance claim. This is one more reason why lawyering up for your auto accident claim is a wise decision.
Your previous experience on the road cannot prepare you for a car crash. You have to use your mind on the spot and ensure that you do your best to protect your rights. Don’t forget to share key details with your accident lawyer, even if you had a role in causing the accident. Washington has very simple laws that allow a driver to recover a settlement even when they are at a higher fault.
