Washington Car Accident Lawyer

Did you get hurt in a Washington car accident because of someone else’s negligent or reckless behavior? If so, you deserve fair compensation to aid you in your recovery. Washington-based Mariano Morales Law has over 30 years of experience handling thousands of accident and injury claims, and our team is here to help you secure that compensation. 

We are prepared to handle all types of car accident claims, including highly challenging cases that other firms lack the resources to manage. Contact us at (509) 853-2222 or complete our online form for a free consultation with a Washington car accident lawyer. Learn more about how we can help you get back on your feet.

Why Choose Our Car Accident Lawyers in Washington State?

If you’ve suffered a painful and costly injury in a car accident in Washington, securing monetary compensation for your recovery isn’t just necessary for your recovery. It’s your right. At Mariano Morales Law, we understand the hardships you’re likely facing and are committed to helping you obtain the fair compensation you need to move forward.

With over three decades of experience in handling accident and injury claims, the team at Mariano Morales Law has developed a nationwide reputation for effectively managing cases like yours. As natives of Yakima Valley, we have a deep connection to our community and a commitment to making the legal process stress-free for our neighbors. We take care of everything, allowing you to focus on your recovery without added hassles or headaches.

Our approach includes a thorough review of your medical records to ensure every injury is addressed and treated. We also assist in finding medical professionals whenever necessary.

Our commitment to your well-being is unwavering, and we operate on a no-win, no-fee basis. This means we’ll happily take on your case regardless of your ability to pay upfront. You can start with a free, no-obligation consultation, where we’ll discuss how we can support you in this challenging time. Choose Mariano Morales Law, where your recovery and peace of mind are our top priorities.

How Our Washington Auto Accident Lawyers Can Make a Difference in Your Case?

After a car accident, a lawyer can make a considerable difference in your injury case. They can offer comprehensive support, from filing the claim to representing you in court if necessary. They can also thoroughly investigate the accident, gather relevant documentation, and work to establish liability. 

Lawyers also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, aiming to secure fair compensation for all the harm you have suffered. They provide valuable advice on legal procedures and deadlines, ensuring your case complies with all legal requirements. They guide you through each step of the car accident claim process, offering clarity and support in what can be a confusing and stressful time.

Strong evidence plays a vital role in a car accident injury case. It forms the foundation of your claim, helping your attorney to prove the other party’s liability and the extent of your injuries and losses. Compelling evidence bolsters your case, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Here are possible examples of evidence your lawyer might use in your car wreck case:

  • Police accident reports
  • Witness statements
  • Photographs of the accident scene
  • Surveillance or dashcam footage
  • Medical records and bills
  • Documentation of lost wages
  • Expert testimony (e.g., accident reconstruction experts)
  • Correspondence with insurance companies
  • Vehicle damage reports
  • Personal diary or journal entries

What to Do After a Washington Car Accident?

If you get hurt in a car accident, it’s essential to take specific actions to safeguard your rights and effectively handle the aftermath of the accident. Below are some steps you should consider taking following the car accident:

  • Contact a knowledgeable Washington car accident attorney as soon as possible.
  • Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report.
  • Document the accident scene with photos and videos.
  • Notify your insurance company about the accident.
  • Seek medical attention even if you feel fine initially.
  • Keep a record of all medical visits, treatments, and diagnoses.
  • Follow all medical advice and attend all follow-up appointments.
  • Keep track of any work days you miss due to the accident.
  • Avoid discussing fault or details about the accident on social media.
  • Organize and preserve all accident-related documents and receipts.
  • Call us at Mariano Morales Law before talking to the other party’s insurance company.
  • Avoid accepting any quick settlements from insurance companies without legal advice.
  • Do not sign anything from insurance companies without first consulting your attorney.
  • Discuss your case thoroughly with your attorney before making decisions.
  • Keep a journal documenting your recovery progress post-accident.
  • Stay in regular communication with your attorney for updates and advice.

How Much Could You Get from a Car Accident Lawsuit in Washington?

When you file a car accident injury claim, you are seeking money for the harm you have suffered due to the accident and the impacts it has had on your life. This includes both economic and non-economic compensation. Economic compensation addresses the financial losses you have incurred, while non-economic compensation recognizes the personal, non-monetary impacts of the accident. 

Here’s a list of common types of compensation you can seek in car accident injury cases:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Out-of-pocket expenses 
  • Reduced quality of life
  • Vehicle repair/replacement

What is the Deadline for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Washington?

In Washington, you have a three-year deadline from the date of the car accident to file an injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to sue. Once the filing window passes, courts will typically refuse to hear your case, effectively closing the door on your chance to seek compensation. 

The good news is that you can work with a Washington car accident law firm to keep your case on track. They can identify important filing deadlines and handle your motor vehicle accident lawsuit in a timely manner, avoiding potential pitfalls that might jeopardize your claim.

What Are the Top Causes of Car Crashes in Washington?

Car accidents can occur due to a multitude of reasons, often leading to serious consequences for those involved. Understanding the common causes of these accidents is crucial in fostering safer driving habits and preventing future incidents. Below, we explore some of the prevalent factors that contribute to car accidents, each with its unique set of circumstances and consequences:

  • Distracted Driving – Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, particularly as smartphones and other attention-grabbing devices grow in popularity. Distracted driving occurs when drivers engage in activities that divert their attention, hands, or eyes from the task of driving, such as texting or eating behind the wheel. Distractions significantly impair reaction times, which often leads to collisions.
  • Speeding – Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions is another major cause of accidents. Speeding reduces the driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or road obstacles, extends the vehicle’s stopping distance, and increases the severity of an accident when it occurs.
  • Drunk Driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs drastically impairs a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time. This impairment can lead to accidents that can seriously harm the driver as well as passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians.
  • Reckless Driving – Reckless driving includes aggressive driving behaviors like changing lanes rapidly, tailgating, and ignoring traffic signs. Such actions create unsafe conditions for other road users, often leading to avoidable accidents.
  • Poor Weather Conditions – Bad weather, such as rain, snow, fog, and ice, can make driving treacherous. Slippery roads and reduced visibility require drivers to be more cautious. Accidents in these conditions often happen when drivers fail to adjust their speeds or driving styles to match the weather conditions.
  • Running Red Lights and Stop Signs – Ignoring traffic lights or signs is a dangerous practice that often results in intersection collisions. Drivers who run red lights or stop signs typically cause a side-impact auto collision, which can be particularly severe due to the relative lack of protection along the sides of vehicles.
  • Driver Fatigue – Fatigue impairs a driver’s concentration and reaction time, making it a significant factor in many accidents. Tired drivers are more likely to miss important cues or fall asleep at the wheel, which can result in catastrophic car accidents.
  • Uber/Lyft Accidents – If a driver for a ridesharing service like Lyft or Uber causes a crash and injuries while carrying passengers, the company’s insurance policy should cover a victim’s damages. 

What Injuries Often Happen in Washington Car Accidents?

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening or death. These injuries can have significant impacts on the lives of those involved, often requiring medical attention and sometimes resulting in long-term consequences. Here are some common examples of injuries that can result from an auto wreck:

  • Death
  • Whiplash
  • Concussion
  • Internal bleeding
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Lacerations
  • Bruises
  • Burns
  • Fractured bones
  • Knee trauma
  • Herniated discs
  • Sprains and strains
  • Dislocated joints
  • Amputations
  • Crush injuries
  • Eye injuries
  • Seat belt injuries
  • Airbag injuries
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Need to Discuss Your Car Accident? Contact Our Washington State, Law Firm Today.

Ready to take the next step in your journey to recovery? Call now at (509) 853-2222 or complete our online form for a free consultation with a car accident attorney in Washington. Our experienced team is ready to explore your unique situation and get you the compensation you deserve. Let us handle every aspect of your complex injury case while you heal.