Seattle Car Accident Attorneys

Who Is Liable for a Car Accident?

Car accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. When a collision results in harm caused by negligence, the at-fault party may be liable for damages in a car accident lawsuit. Common liable parties in car accident claims include: 

• Other drivers. Other motorists may be responsible if they caused the accident by acting negligently, such as running a red light, failing to yield the right-of-way, or operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. 
• Vehicle manufacturers. In some cases, the manufacturer of the vehicle may be liable if a faulty part or defective machinery contributed to the car accident, such as collisions caused by brake failures or steering wheel defects. 
• Government entities. If the accident was caused by debris, uneven pavement, potholes, or other roadway hazards, the government entity responsible for maintaining safe roadways may be liable if it failed to address unsafe conditions. 

What Compensation Is Recoverable in a Car Accident Claim?

Depending on the case, you may be entitled to various types of compensation in a car accident claim. There are two primary types of recoverable damages, including:    

1. Economic damages. These compensate the victim for direct financial losses, such as medical expenses, surgeries, treatment costs, property damage, and lost earnings and earning capacity. 
2. Non-economic damages. These compensate the victim for indirect losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, permanent scarring or disfigurement, and loss of consortium.

In rare cases involving extreme negligence, the court may also award punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. No matter the extent of your injuries, seeking sound counsel is critical to maximizing the amount of compensation available to you. Our attorneys are well-versed in these legal intricacies to help you assess every avenue for financial recovery and pursue a full settlement for all your immediate and future care needs. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Seattle? 

What Should I Do If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?

If you are involved in a crash with an uninsured driver, inform your insurance company right away and review your policy for uninsured motorist coverage. Washington law requires insurers to offer this protection, which can pay for your injuries or property damage, even if the at-fault driver lacks insurance. You may need to provide proof of loss and cooperate with your insurer’s investigation to pursue these benefits.

How Long Does the Claims Process Take in Seattle?

The time frame for resolving a car accident claim in King County depends on the complexity of the crash, the severity of injuries, and how quickly facts are established. Most cases settle within a few months, but some involving extensive injuries or disputed liability can take a year or longer, especially if a lawsuit is necessary. Timely communication and documentation can speed the process.

What If I Was Partly at Fault for the Crash?

Washington State follows a comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover compensation after a car accident even if you were partly to blame, but your damages are reduced in proportion to your share of fault. Work with an attorney who understands local law to present clear evidence and limit any unfair assignment of blame.

What to Do After a Car Accident?

After a collision on Seattle streets or highways, take immediate action to protect your health and your right to recover damages. Your first priority is safety—move to a secure location if possible, check everyone for injuries, and call 911 to report the incident to local authorities. After obtaining medical care, collect the names, license plate numbers, and insurance details of all involved drivers. Document the scene with photos of vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.

Seattle police usually respond and file an official report at the scene, so always ask how to obtain a copy for your records. Notify your insurer about the accident, but do not provide a detailed statement or accept a settlement without understanding your rights. If you suspect another party’s negligence caused your crash, consult a car accident attorney in Seattle as soon as possible. Fast action helps preserve critical evidence, strengthens your claim, and avoids complications under Washington’s legal deadlines.