Accidents can happen in an instant, turning your daily commute into a complex insurance claim with potential serious personal injuries. Whether you're stuck in traffic on I-5 or navigating downtown Seattle's busy streets, knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath of an auto accident can protect your rights and strengthen your potential car insurance claim.
The moments following a car crash are often chaotic. You might be dealing with injuries, shock, and confusion while emergency personnel arrive at the accident scene. This step-by-step guide by our experienced Seattle auto accident lawyers will walk you through exactly what you need to do, both at the scene and in the days that follow.
Before diving into the claims process, it's important to understand that different types of collisions may require different approaches. Seattle's traffic patterns and weather conditions contribute to various kinds of vehicle damage:
Each type of car accident brings its own challenges for those injured and seeking compensation from their insurance company.
Washington law requires specific actions after a collision. Following these steps can help protect your legal rights and ensure you have proper documentation for your injury claim.
Never leave an accident scene, even if it seems minor. Under Washington State law, leaving can result in license suspension and criminal charges. If possible, move the vehicles to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights while waiting for emergency personnel or the Washington State Patrol to arrive.
When all parties involved in the accident are safe, exchange essential details with the other driver, but keep conversation minimal. What information should you exchange in a car accident? Share the following between you and the other driver(s):
Call 911 to report the accident, especially if injuries or significant vehicle damage are sustained. When police arrive at the scene, the responding police officer will create an accident report. Provide factual statements about how the accident happened without speculating about fault.
If an officer cannot respond, file an accident report within 72 hours of the incident. File a report with the Washington State Patrol.
Document the accident scene thoroughly for your insurance provider:
If anyone witnessed the accident, collect witness statements and contact information. These witness accounts can be crucial for claims adjusters, especially if there's any dispute about how the accident occurred or which party was the at-fault driver.
While it's natural to discuss what happened, avoid admitting fault or making statements about injuries to other parties. Some injuries aren't apparent in the immediate aftermath. Let the claims process determine fault based on the evidence and police report.
The actions you take after leaving the accident scene are just as important as those taken in the immediate aftermath. Here's what you need to do to protect your rights and ensure proper compensation.
Even if you feel fine, seek medical care within 24–48 hours. Many serious injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Medical records create documentation linking your medical expenses to the accident and ensure you receive proper medical attention.
Create a dedicated folder for all accident-related documentation from your insurance provider and medical care:
Contact our automobile accident attorney before providing statements to any insurance adjuster or accepting settlement offers. Claims adjusters often try to minimize claims or pressure quick settlements. Legal representation ensures the protection of your rights.
File an insurance claim promptly, but stick to basic facts about how the accident happened. Your insurance policy likely requires timely reporting, but avoid detailed statements about fault or injuries before consulting legal representation.
Washington's three-year statute of limitations means that legal action should be taken promptly. Evidence disappears, witness statements become harder to obtain, and injuries may worsen. Working with an attorney early helps ensure no parts of the claims process are overlooked.
Washington State follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning injured victims can seek compensation even if they share fault. Your legal fees and settlement may be affected by your percentage of fault, making it crucial to have proper legal representation from the start.
Yes. While it might seem counterintuitive, notifying your insurer is crucial for several reasons.
First, it creates a record of the accident, which can be essential if the other driver's account of the event changes or if they try to blame you later. Second, your own policy may include coverage for things like medical expenses or uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, which can help you even if the other driver is at fault. Failing to report the accident could jeopardize your ability to access these benefits. Third, your insurance company may be able to help you navigate the claims process with the other driver's insurance company, potentially saving you time and stress.
It's always best to be proactive and protect yourself by reporting the accident to your insurer, regardless of fault.
After reporting accidents, you'll likely hear from multiple claims adjusters. Remember:
Many auto accidents have lasting implications requiring ongoing medical care:
Consider these factors before accepting any offers from insurance providers.
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to pay you the least amount of money possible, but you don't have to face them alone. Lehmbecker Law’s accident attorneys help recover millions in compensation for accident victims in Washington State. From dealing with medical bills to negotiating with insurance adjusters, we handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on recovery.
Don't risk undervaluing your claim or missing critical deadlines by trying to handle complex insurance negotiations on your own. Our lawyers have the knowledge and resources to help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries — contact us today.
Don't let a car accident derail your life. The Seattle car accident lawyers at Lehmbecker Law will fight for you to recover the maximum damages you're entitled to, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.