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Archive for car accident

“Why Legal Representation Matters After a Car Accident in Tacoma”

Posted by David Brown 
· September 17, 2024 

“Why Legal Representation Matters After a Car Accident in Tacoma”

In Tacoma, Washington, a recent court ruling highlighted the importance of legal representation for anyone involved in a car accident. The case, heard in Pierce County Superior Court, centered around a tragic crash on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge that left one person injured and another fighting for their life. The court found the driver at fault and awarded significant damages to the victims, underscoring the critical role that a skilled attorney can play in such situations.

For anyone who has experienced a car accident, the legal process can be overwhelming and confusing. This is especially true when injuries are involved, as medical bills, insurance claims, and the need for long-term care can quickly pile up. In such cases, having an experienced lawyer by your side can make all the difference.

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn into a life-changing event. The victims, who were simply going about their day, suddenly found themselves facing mounting medical bills and the uncertainty of a lengthy recovery. Without legal representation, they might have struggled to secure the compensation they needed to cover these costs.

One of the key benefits of having a lawyer after a car accident is their ability to navigate the complex legal system. Many people are unfamiliar with the intricacies of personal injury law, and insurance companies often take advantage of this. A lawyer can help level the playing field, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

In Tacoma, as in many other places, insurance companies are known for offering lowball settlements to accident victims. These initial offers may seem tempting, especially when bills are piling up, but they often do not cover the full extent of the damages. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf, pushing for a fair settlement that takes into account all of your needs, including future medical expenses and lost wages.

Another crucial aspect of legal representation is the protection it offers. After a car accident, you may be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company or their legal team. These conversations can be tricky, as anything you say could be used against you later. With a lawyer handling these communications, you can avoid potential pitfalls and focus on your recovery.

In the Tacoma Narrows Bridge case, the victims were able to secure a favorable outcome because they had a knowledgeable attorney fighting for their rights. The court awarded them damages that covered their medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional distress they endured. This compensation was crucial in helping them move forward with their lives.

If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to go through it alone. Seeking legal representation can help protect your interests and ensure that you receive the support you need during this difficult time. Whether it’s dealing with insurance companies, filing the necessary paperwork, or representing you in court, a lawyer can take care of the legal matters that you may not be familiar with.

The aftermath of a car accident can be a challenging and stressful time. By hiring an attorney, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your case. In the end, having legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome, providing you with the resources and peace of mind to move forward.

If you’re in Tacoma or anywhere else and have been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

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Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Posted by David Brown 
· May 2, 2024 

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Car accidents can be overwhelming and distressing experiences. Even more so when you’re not at fault. In such situations, it’s natural to wonder whether you need a lawyer. After all, if the accident wasn’t your fault, shouldn’t the responsible party’s insurance cover everything? While that may seem logical, the reality is often more complicated. Let’s delve into why seeking legal counsel after a car accident, even if you’re not at fault, can be beneficial.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that insurance companies, while there to provide coverage, are still profit-driven entities. Their primary goal is to minimize payouts, which can sometimes leave you with less than you deserve. This is where having a lawyer on your side can make a significant difference. A skilled attorney understands the tactics insurers use and can negotiate with them on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Furthermore, the aftermath of a car accident can involve complex legal processes and paperwork. From filing insurance claims to gathering evidence and negotiating settlements, there are numerous tasks that need attention. Without legal expertise, navigating these processes can be daunting and may result in errors that could jeopardize your case. An experienced lawyer can handle all aspects of your claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery without added stress.

Another crucial reason to consider hiring a lawyer is to protect your rights. Insurance companies may try to pressure you into accepting a quick settlement, hoping you’ll settle for less than you deserve. Remember, once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to seek further compensation, even if your injuries worsen over time. A lawyer will ensure that your rights are safeguarded and that any settlement offered adequately reflects the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Additionally, if liability for the accident is disputed or if the other party’s insurance denies your claim, having legal representation becomes even more critical. A skilled attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to support your claim. They can also represent you in court if litigation becomes necessary, advocating for your interests every step of the way.

It’s also worth noting that personal injury laws vary by state, and navigating these laws without proper legal guidance can be challenging. A lawyer who is well-versed in the laws governing car accidents in your state can provide invaluable insights and ensure that your rights are fully protected under the law.

While it may be tempting to handle a car accident claim on your own, especially if you believe you’re not at fault, seeking legal counsel is often in your best interest. A qualified attorney can help level the playing field against insurance companies, navigate complex legal processes, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. So, if you find yourself asking, “Do I need a lawyer after a car accident that wasn’t my fault?” the answer is likely yes.

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In a Car Accident…Should You Hire a Lawyer?

Posted by David Brown 
· August 29, 2023 

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, you are probably wondering what you should do next. There are a lot of emotions going through your head, but it is important for you to reach out to an attorney after you have seen a doctor to make sure any injuries you have are properly treated.

Many people simply want to resolve the situation as quickly as possible, so they end up reaching out to the insurance company to see if they can get everything covered. The reality is that you should not talk to an insurance company without a lawyer because you never know if you are going to say something that will jeopardize your ability to get the damages covered.

In addition, if you are injured, your medical expenses could be very high. You need to make sure the insurance company is going to pay for all of those damages, so you don’t want to jeopardize the opportunity for you to come back for more money later.

An attorney who specializes in car accidents has a significant amount of experience in this area that he or she can use to make sure your rights are protected and that you get the money you deserve. Furthermore, what happens if the cost of your property damage and medical expenses are greater than the liability of the insurance company? In that case, you will need to file a lawsuit against the other driver directly to recover the remaining funds. This is another area where a car accident lawyer can help you.

Of course, if you are involved in an accident that leads to serious injuries or a long-term, disabling condition, you certainly need to reach out to a car accident lawyer for help. On the other hand, even if the car accident is minor, you need to reach out to a car accident attorney for a case evaluation. Many attorneys will offer you a free consultation, and they will be honest about whether it is worth your time to file a lawsuit against anyone. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, seek medical attention first. Then, reach out to a car accident attorney for a consultation.

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Washington Supreme Court Offers More Protection in Civil Court Against Racism

Posted by David Brown 
· December 22, 2022 

SEATTLE — The Washington Supreme Court has issued a unanimous opinion that a new trial is warranted in civil cases in which racial bias was present in court proceedings. The judges on the court found that there had been race-based misconduct that is not a harmless human error.

This opinion by the judges is the latest one they have issued with the goal of addressing racism and removing it from the state court system.

The case before the court involved personal injury that was sustained from a car crash. The court found that the trial court should have held a hearing in which allegations of racial bias and prejudice were raised by the defense in the case. It was ordered back to the King County Superior Court for a hearing on the allegations of racial bias and to get a new trial in the case.

The 33-page opinion from the justices found that the plaintiff in the personal injury case, who is black, and her Seattle-based attorney, who is also black, had to endure statements made by the defense that played into racist tropes and even suggested improprieties between Henderson and her black witnesses. The justices also found that Superior Court Judge Melinda Young had abused her own discretion by not punishing the defense when they withheld evidence from Henderson’s lawyers before the trial even took place.

The opinion of the judges also stresses that an evidentiary hearing about racial bias has to be held if the court is presented with evidence by an objective observer who is able to conclude there was a racial bias and that that was a factor in the verdict of a trial.

The case that is cited in the opinions of the justices was in court in 2019 for a jury trial in which the defense portrayed Henderson as very combative and confrontational. The justices found that this is a harmful stereotype of an angry black woman. The defense also suggested that there was some type of racial collusion between Henderson and her witnesses, three of whom happened to be black women who all use the same terminology when describing Henderson in their testimony as “life of the party.”

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The Top Benefits of Working With a Personal Injury Lawyer Following a Car Accident

Posted by David Brown 
· December 20, 2022 

Even though you probably put safety at the top of your priority list every time you get behind the wheel of a car, a car accident can happen at any time. Not everyone drives as safely as you do, and even a minor accident can result in serious injuries. You may feel like you can handle everything on your own, but it is important for you to work with an experienced personal injury attorney. There are several benefits of having legal support in your corner.

First, there is a chance that the insurance company may not pay out your claim. If the accident was not your fault, then the insurance policy held by the other driver should cover your expenses and medical bills. What happens if the limits of the policy are not enough to cover all of your expenses? You should not be responsible for the remaining bills, and a lawyer can pursue compensation on your behalf.

Furthermore, there might be some debate regarding whose fault the accident was. You need a lawyer who has experience handling motor vehicle accidents. That way, you can make sure that your voice is heard, and you can ensure that blame is properly assigned following the collision. You should not be blamed for an accident that is not your fault.

Following a motor vehicle accident, you deserve to focus all of your attention on your medical recovery. You do not want to be saddled with paperwork, but there will probably be a lot of people reaching out to you. For example, there might be a collision center that wants to provide you with information regarding the status of your vehicle. Your insurance company, as well as the insurance company of the other driver, may have some paperwork they want you to fill out. This can make it difficult for you to figure out what to do next, and you need a lawyer who can handle all of this for you.

If you work with a personal injury lawyer, you can ensure your rights are adequately protected while also pursuing compensation to which you are entitled. You should always see a doctor following a car accident, but don’t forget to reach out to a personal injury attorney as well.

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What You Need To Know About Filing a Lawsuit After a Car Accident

Posted by David Brown 
· November 22, 2022 

Every year, car accidents are among the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the United States. Even though car accidents vary in terms of their scope and severity, the reality is that even a minor motor vehicle accident can result in significant injuries. If you have been hurt in a car accident, you might be looking at repair expenses, medical bills, and lost income. You should not be responsible for these expenses if the accident was not your fault, and that is where a car accident lawsuit can help you.

There are numerous moving parts involved in a lawsuit following a motor vehicle accident. Once an accident has been reported, the insurance company of the at-fault driver is going to start a detailed investigation process. It is important to be vigilant during this process, as insurance companies are always going to look for a way to avoid paying. That is another area where a car accident attorney can help you. They can make sure that you do not put yourself in jeopardy of being paid less than what you are owed.

You can help your attorney by collecting pictures of the accident, asking for a copy of the police report, and keeping a record of all of your expenses. You should also try to get the contact information of eyewitnesses who can support your version of events.

The insurance company will either approve or deny the claim. Regardless of how it plays out, you should get an explanation regarding their calculations. If the insurance company is not going to cover all of your expenses, you need to make sure you are entitled to fair compensation.

A car accident attorney can make sure you receive the best possible settlement from an insurance company. Then, if the settlement from your insurance company is not enough, your lawyer may be able to pursue compensation from the other driver. There may be a statute of limitations regarding your injury claim, which is why you need to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible following your accident. Always see a doctor first, but do not forget to contact a car accident lawyer who can help you.

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What Is the Average Whiplash and Concussion Settlement?

Posted by David Brown 
· September 20, 2022 

A car accident can leave victims with painful injuries that affect their lives in almost every way. It also means they face extensive medical bills and long treatment times that keep them from working. Two of these common car accident injuries are whiplash and concussions.

If you’re one of the millions of people who are suffering from whiplash or concussion after a car wreck, you’re probably wondering how much a legal claim may be worth. Here’s what you need to know about claim settlements for these types of injuries.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a common injury after a motor vehicle collision that results from the neck being snapped forward and then backward quickly and forcefully. It affects the muscles, nerves, and spinal joints in the neck—causing pain and numbness. Common symptoms include:

  • Shoulder and back pain
  • Stiffness in the neck
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Arm numbness and tingling

What is a concussion?

A concussion occurs when there is an impact that causes a sudden back and forth movement of the head and brain. The brain will often bounce against the skull, causing a brain injury known as a concussion.

Concussions are considered to be a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and can cause:

  • Pressure in the head
  • Dizziness and balance issues
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Feeling sluggish or confused
  • Memory or concentration issues

What is the average car accident whiplash or concussion settlement?

Whiplash and concussion settlements can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury and the impact it has on the victim’s life. On average, a minor car accident whiplash claim can settle anywhere from $10,000 to upwards of $100,000.

However, a more catastrophic case of whiplash or concussion can settle for $1 million or more. Again, it varies based on how the injury affects the victim and for how long.

What factors affect the settlement amount?

Several factors can affect an injury settlement amount that fairly represents the accident victim’s losses. You may be able to claim compensation for the following damages after suffering whiplash or a concussion:

  • Medical bills
  • Property damage
  • Surgical and treatment expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Future medical care
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent impairment

The more severe the injury, the more you can expect in a legal settlement. This also applies to the pain and suffering you’ve endured as a result of the accident. Typically, pain and suffering compensation is commensurate with actual financial losses.

Speak with an experienced car accident attorney to see if you qualify to take legal action for your whiplash or concussion injuries after an accident.

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What You Must Know About Car Accident Lawsuit

Posted by David Brown 
· August 4, 2022 

What You Must Know About Car Accident Lawsuit

Have you or your loved one been injured in a car accident? Filing a lawsuit may be in your best interest. However, it would be wise to understand your rights before moving forward. Take note of timelines and legal requirements to ensure you get the best compensation for your personal and property damages.

The Deadline for Filing Your Car Accident Lawsuit

Each state has unique laws and deadlines. They determine how long legal proceedings should be initiated after a car accident. This timeline is a statute of limitations. It is the maximum timeline for a party to go to court and initiate legal proceedings. This typically takes one to six years.

The deadline for filing your claim isn’t the same as filing an accident claim under your insurance. Most policies require that you make claims as soon as possible. Reach out to your insurer for more details of your policy requirements.

Should You File an Auto Accident Lawsuit?

Many car accident lawsuits can be settled before filing the lawsuit. Most of them are settled before a court hearing. You typically have the opportunity to settle your claim before filing a lawsuit. This way, you can avoid expensive legal costs, litigation stress, and time.

However, you may need to go to court if there is a dispute over critical evidence. It could include proving the plaintiff’s guilt or the extent of their injury. Many states have negligence laws. In other words, the insurance company that caused the accident must compensate for the damage.

Twelve states have no-fault laws. This is to say that your insurance should cover your injuries regardless of who is at fault. However, sometimes it is necessary to sue the perpetrator of a traffic accident. You may receive lower settlement offers that do not cover all property damage and personal injury costs. The offer may not take into account actual and projected long-term medical costs. You should file a lawsuit if your loved one died wrongly in an accident.

Potential Damages In a Car Accident

If you file a lawsuit, you could receive compensation for:

  • Permanent disability and disfigurement
  • Medical expenses
  • Pain and suffering/mental anguish
  • Property damage
  • Lost wages/earning potential
  • Loss of affection or companionship from a spouse

The amount you receive in damages for a car accident depends on the extent of property damage or severity of your injury. The more severe the injury, the higher the compensation should be.

Mild soft tissue injuries, for example, will fetch less compensation than concussions. In addition, soft tissue injuries may be more difficult to establish than broken bones.

 

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Why Attorneys Can Help With Car Accident Claims

Posted by David Brown 
· June 9, 2022 

Nobody likes being involved in a car accident, but unfortunately, they do happen. However, knowing what to do afterward can save you a lot of headaches, and having an attorney can help.

Most people are aware that they should exchange insurance information with the other driver after an accident, but what many people don’t realize is that this is just the beginning. If you’ve been injured in the accident, you will likely have to deal with insurance adjusters who will try to minimize the amount of money that you receive for your injuries.

Additionally, if the other driver was at fault, their insurance company may try to place some of the blame on you in order to avoid paying out a large settlement. An experienced car accident attorney can help you deal with all of this. With more than three million injuries every year from car-related crashes, it’s important to have this information at-hand.

Auto Accident Attorneys Have The Right Knowledge

The last thing you want is to be held accountable for something you didn’t do or to receive less money than you deserve because the insurance company took advantage of you. Additionally, if your case does go to court, having an attorney by your side who knows the ins and outs of personal injury is always in your best interests. If you are due for monetary compensation, they can help you get it.

More Payout For Damages

These individuals can help you understand all the elements of your case that you may make a claim for should it go to court, as well as any settlements you may negotiate.

For example, you may be able to include the following in your claim:

  • Lost wages from time taken off work
  • Property damage
  • Medical bills
  • Emotional trauma

Every case is different, but having someone who has training and experience in the legal system by your side can help ensure that you are fairly compensated for car damage and personal injuries. Trying to get an insurance payout on your own or even being successful in a trial without an attorney is possible, but is certainly more difficult. If you have involvement in a car accident, the best thing to do is seek legal counsel as soon as possible.

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