A car accident can leave you dealing with unexpected challenges like medical bills and lost income. Multiple parties, such as employers or manufacturers, may bear liability as well. This can complicate the process of seeking compensation.
At NextLaw, our Kent car accident lawyers bring 50 years of combined experience to help clients pursue financial recovery. We can help you file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit to seek a variety of damages. Our Kent personal injury lawyers offer personalized, dedicated legal representation.
Injured in a car accident? Call Dan Next! We can discuss your case during a free consultation.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
A Kent car accident attorney can explain what to do after a car accident to help you protect both your health and your claim for compensation. Taking the right steps after a crash can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal case. Here’s what you should do:
- Get medical care: Even if you feel fine, some injuries have latent symptoms and worsen without treatment. Visiting a doctor creates a medical record that connects your injuries to the accident, which is crucial for any compensation claim.
- Call the police: If officers come to the scene, they will file a report, which can serve as key evidence in your case. If the police are not called, you should still report the crash to the relevant authorities to document the incident.
- Report the crash: Even if police don’t come to the scene, many states require you to report the accident to local authorities or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This ensures the incident is officially documented.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the vehicles, damage, injuries, traffic signs, and road conditions. This evidence can help establish the cause of the accident and the extent of your damages.
- Do not discuss your case: Avoid talking about the accident with anyone other than your attorney, insurance company, or medical providers. Speaking to others could harm your case or lead to statements that may be misinterpreted.
By taking these steps, you can safeguard your health and strengthen your claim for compensation.
For a free legal consultation with a car accident lawyer serving Kent, call (253) 238-2558
Our Kent Car Accident Attorneys Can Seek Various Damages
Potential compensation after a car accident depends on many factors, such as the extent of your injuries, the financial losses you’ve suffered, and the long-term impact on your life. Our experienced Kent car accident attorneys can help you pursue a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments related to your injuries.
- Lost income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for the income you’ve lost, including future earnings if you’re unable to return to work.
- Pain and suffering: These damages account for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Property damage: You may recover the costs to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, you may be compensated for this loss.
- Wrongful death damages: If you lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
Our Kent car accident attorneys can evaluate your case thoroughly to determine what damages you may be entitled to and fight for fair compensation.
Kent Car Accident Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558Potentially Liable Parties in a Car Accident Case
Determining who is responsible for a car accident can be complicated. Liability may not always rest solely with one party; multiple individuals or entities could share responsibility. Here are some potentially responsible parties:
- Other drivers: The most common cause of car accidents is driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.
- Vehicle owners: If the at-fault driver was using someone else’s car, the vehicle owner could be held liable under certain circumstances, such as negligent entrustment.
- Employers: If the driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer might be liable under vicarious liability laws.
- Vehicle manufacturers: Defective parts, such as faulty brakes or airbags, can lead to accidents. In these cases, the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty product may be held accountable.
- Government entities: Poorly maintained roads, missing traffic signs, or unsafe road designs may make a government agency liable for the accident.
- Pedestrians or cyclists: In some cases, pedestrians or cyclists who act carelessly, such as by jaywalking or ignoring traffic signals, may share responsibility for the accident.
Determining liability often involves a thorough investigation. Our Kent car accident attorneys can analyze the evidence, consult with experts if needed, and identify all parties that may be responsible for your accident. This allows us to pursue full compensation in your case.
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The Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits
In Washington State, there is a strict deadline for filing a car accident lawsuit. Under RCW 4.16.080, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for injuries or damages caused by the crash.
Failing to file your lawsuit within this three-year timeframe can result in losing your right to pursue compensation through the court system. It is important to act promptly. Building a strong case often requires gathering evidence, obtaining medical records, and identifying all potentially liable parties.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait until it’s too late. Our Kent car collision attorneys can help you understand your legal options and take timely action to protect your rights.
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Contact Us for Help From Our Kent Car Accident Lawyers
A car accident can bring unexpected challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. The Kent car accident attorneys at NextLaw have the experience necessary to help you seek compensation for all your losses.
From identifying liable parties to pursuing damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and more, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let time run out on your opportunity to take legal action. If you are injured, Call Dan Next! We can discuss your case during a free consultation.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form