Our Attorneys Seek Compensation for Victims of Car Accidents in Spokane, Washington
If you’ve suffered serious injuries in a car accident, you understand the difficulty of simply moving on. Whether it was caused by human error, impaired driving, or distracted driving, traffic crashes inflict a physical, mental, and emotional toll on vehicle occupants. A severe injury often comes with excessive medical bills, lost wages, time off work, lost productivity, significant pain, and a loss of enjoyment of the lifestyle you led before the accident.
Making an insurance claim can compound the trauma and leave you feeling overwhelmed as you navigate the many factors involved in pursuing compensation. Don’t face the aftermath of a car crash alone. At Albrecht Law, our dedicated car accident lawyers and legal professionals can provide the representation you need to protect your rights and seek appropriate compensation.
Our clients are more than just cases. We are here to serve you. Even if you’re found to have partial fault under Washington’s state laws, having a skilled Spokane car accident attorney on your side can still help you recover losses and damages.
Contact our experienced car accident attorneys today to schedule a free consultation, where we will review the unique details of your accident and prepare a tailored strategy to help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses caused by the collision. We will seek to guide you regarding the right steps to pursue your interests. At Albrecht Law PLLC, you are known.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Spokane
Spokane, Washington sees its share of car accidents, which can be life-altering for those affected. The leading causes of car crashes include:
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving encompasses any action that diverts a driver’s attention from the road, including texting or talking on mobile phones, eating, or even applying makeup. Distracted driving hinders a driver’s reaction time and impairs their ability to make crucial split-second decisions.
- Speeding: Excessive speed is another common cause of car accidents in Spokane. When drivers exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for road conditions, they increase the likelihood of losing control of their vehicle, running off the road, or colliding with another vehicle.
- Driving under the influence: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and can lead to serious car accidents. Substance-impaired drivers are more likely to make poor decisions, misjudge distances, and lose control of their vehicle, leading to collisions.
- Improper lane changes: Improper lane changes are a common cause of car accidents, especially on highways and interstates. When drivers fail to signal, change lanes without checking their blind spots, or cut in front of other drivers, they put themselves and others at risk of a collision.
- Running red lights and stop signs: Running red lights and stop signs is a dangerous and illegal behavior that can lead to serious car accidents. Drivers who run red lights or stop signs are often in a hurry and may not see other vehicles or pedestrians in the intersection.
- Weather conditions: Inclement weather can also contribute to car accidents in Spokane. Heavy rain, snow, and ice can reduce visibility, make roads slippery, and increase the risk of hydroplaning or losing control of the vehicle.
- Defective vehicle parts: In some cases, car accidents may be caused by defective vehicle parts, such as faulty brakes, tires, or steering components. If a driver’s vehicle is not properly maintained or if it has a known defect, it can increase the risk of a collision.
Drivers can help to ensure road safety for themselves and others by staying vigilant, following traffic regulations, and taking good care of their vehicles. However, many drivers act carelessly on the road, and this unfortunately often leads to accidents that involve serious injuries, expenses, and even fatalities.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence in or near Spokane, Washington, contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at Albrecht Law PLLC today to schedule a free consultation. We will discuss the unique details surrounding the accident and tailor a case strategy to pursue the appropriate compensation you need.
Common Injuries in Spokane, Washington Car Accidents
Road traffic injuries can be severe and life-altering. Some of the common injuries individuals may experience include:
- Brain Injuries: Traffic crashes can lead to various brain injuries, such as concussions, brain contusions, diffuse axonal injuries, hematomas, and skull fractures. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on a person’s cognitive and physical abilities.
- Back Injuries: Back strains, fractured vertebrae, and herniated discs are common injuries vehicle occupants suffer after a collision. These injuries can cause chronic pain and limit mobility.
- Broken Bones: Traffic crashes often lead to broken bones due to the impact and force involved, with drivers and passengers frequently sustaining fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Motor vehicle accidents can cause severe damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or loss of sensation and motor function. Spinal cord injuries can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life.
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the head is forcefully jerked back and forth during a collision. It can lead to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. Whiplash is not always immediately symptomatic, which underscores the need to seek medical attention even if you do not have symptoms of an injury.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue road traffic injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruising can lead to discomfort, limited mobility, and prolonged healing time.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a car accident can cause internal injuries, including organ damage, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs. Although these injuries may not be immediately apparent, they can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Burn Injuries: Burn injuries can occur due to various factors, including vehicle fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces. These injuries can range from minor burns to severe third-degree burns that penetrate deep into the skin layers. Burn injuries often require immediate medical attention and specialized care, as they can lead to complications such as infections, respiratory issues, and organ damage. Treatment may involve surgery, skin grafting, wound care, and rehabilitation to promote healing and maximize functionality.
Each car accident arises from its own unique circumstances, and the severity of injuries can vary depending on factors like the average speed of the motor vehicles involved, the angle of impact, the number of car occupants, and the use of seat belts.
What To Do After a Car Accident in Spokane, Washington
Experiencing a car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. As an experienced car accident lawyer can attest, taking the steps outlined below after a collision can support your case when it’s time to seek compensation.
- Ensure Safety: Prioritize safety above all else. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and use flares or warning triangles if available.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others involved in the accident for any injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
- Report the Accident: Contact the police and report the accident. They will create an official report that documents important details about the incident. Be cooperative, provide accurate information, and secure a copy of the report later.
- Gather Information: Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Collect their name, contact details, insurance information, and license plate number. It’s also helpful to collect contact information from any witnesses present.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, tire marks, and any relevant factors that may have contributed to the accident. This evidence can be valuable during the claims process.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t believe you’re seriously injured, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or soft tissue injuries, may not manifest immediately, and documenting your injuries can strengthen your case.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company and report the accident. Provide them with factual information about the incident, but avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements. Consult a car accident lawyer before giving any recorded statements. Let your attorney handle insurance negotiations and communications beyond this initial notification.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer: Consult an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the road traffic crash. Our attorneys at Albrecht Law PLLC are prepared to provide you valuable legal guidance, protect your interests, and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Determining Liability in a Car Accident in Spokane, Washington
Determining liability in a car accident is crucial for the victim seeking compensation and the insurance companies involved. Washington law considers several factors when determining liability in a car accident.
- Negligence: The concept of negligence plays a significant role in determining liability. To establish negligence, it must be shown that a party failed to exercise reasonable care, thus causing the accident and related injuries. Negligence can include actions such exceeding speed limits, driving while distracted, running red traffic signals, or driving with a blood alcohol concentration higher than the legal limits.
- Evidence Gathering: Gathering evidence is crucial in determining liability. This effort includes collecting police reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, and any available CCTV footage or dash cam recordings. These pieces of evidence help to establish the sequence of events leading up to the accident and identify the responsible party.
- Police Reports: Police reports are often a critical piece of evidence in determining liability. When law enforcement responds to a car accident, they create an official report that includes important details such as the location, time, weather conditions, and statements from involved parties and witnesses. Insurance companies and legal professionals rely on these reports during the claims process.
- Witness Testimony: Eyewitnesses can provide valuable testimony regarding the events leading up to the accident. Their statements can help corroborate or dispute the claims made by the involved parties. Witness testimony can be crucial in establishing fault and determining liability.
- Expert Opinions: In complex cases, experts such as accident reconstruction specialists, forensic engineers, or medical professionals may be consulted to provide their expertise and opinions. These experts analyze the available evidence and provide insights into factors like vehicle dynamics, speed calculations, or the extent of injuries. Their opinions can contribute to determining liability.
- Comparative Fault: Washington follows a comparative fault rule, which means liability can be divided among multiple parties based on their percentage of fault. Even if a victim has some degree of fault, they may still be eligible to pursue compensation. However, their awarded damages may be reduced proportionally to their assigned level of fault.
Comparative Negligence in Washington Car Accident Cases
Washington follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning that individuals can still recover compensation for their damages even if they were partially at fault for the accident.
Under Washington law (RCW 4.22.005), contributory fault applies, which means that both parties involved in an accident can be assigned a percentage of fault based on their actions or omissions, including negligent or reckless acts or omissions toward a person or property.
In cases where multiple parties share fault, the total recovery of the claimant is reduced by their share of the total fault. For example, if a claimant is found to be 20% at fault and the other party is 80% at fault, the claimant’s compensation will be reduced by 20% accordingly.
It’s important to note that Washington’s pure comparative negligence system allows for recovery even if a claimant is predominantly at fault. However, their awarded damages will be proportionally reduced based on their assigned level of fault.
Comparative negligence in Washington can be complex, involving the analysis of evidence, witness testimony, and expert opinions. Seek the assistance of an experienced car accident lawyer to navigate the process and protect your rights.
Wrongful Death Claims in Fatal Motor Vehicle Crashes
In Washington, wrongful death claims can be filed in cases where a person has died due to someone else’s negligence, including fatal crashes. The following are important elements involved when pursuing a wrongful death claim due to road traffic fatalities:
- Filing a Claim: In Washington, a personal representative of the deceased person’s estate must file the wrongful death claim within three years from the date of the person’s death.
- Eligibility: The personal representative must be appointed by the court or designated in the decedent’s will. If the decedent did not appoint a personal representative, the court may assign one.
- Establishing Liability: To pursue a successful wrongful death claim, it must be proven that the death was caused by the negligent or wrongful act of another party. In the case of fatal car accidents, this could involve demonstrating that the other driver acted negligently, such as by speeding, driving under the influence, or disregarding traffic laws.
- Types of Compensation: Wrongful death claims seek to provide compensation to surviving family members for various damages that may include medical expenses related to the accident, funeral and burial costs, lost future earnings, loss of companionship, and emotional pain and suffering.
- Distribution of Damages: In Washington, damages awarded in a wrongful death case are distributed among eligible beneficiaries according to their relationship to the deceased person. Beneficiaries can include spouses, children, parents, and siblings, among others.
- Proving Damages: It is essential to gather evidence to establish the extent of the damages suffered by the surviving family members. This evidence can involve medical records, financial statements, expert testimony, and other relevant documentation.
Washington Car Accident Statistics Highlight the Role of Negligence in Road Fatalities
According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, 2022 saw the highest percentage of traffic deaths on Washington roads since 1990. There were 698 fatal crashes, with 48% of crashes involving an impaired driver, 32% involving a speeding driver, 23% involving a distracted driver, and 44% involving a multi-vehicle crash.
Given the complexity of wrongful death claims, seek legal representation from an experienced wrongful death attorney who can navigate the legal process, collect evidence, and advocate for fair compensation on behalf of the family.
Car Accident Insurance Claims in Washington
Insurance law governs transportation, yet insurance companies focus on one thing: making money. When you submit an insurance claim, the insurance company will often minimize your settlement, even if you present solid evidence and information. Washington ensures specific rights for drivers when dealing with insurance companies; however, this doesn’t ensure that your settlement will cover the damages caused by the accident. It’s in your interest to consult a competent car accident lawyer to assist with your claim
When considering car accident lawyers to represent you, knowledge, experience, and competence matter. At Albrecht Law, our Founder Matt Albrecht is the only planner and lawyer to have received the AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) award for innovative new planning proposals to fund safety improvements. He prioritizes protecting children and pursuing safety for the traveling public by making roads and transportation systems safer. Matt’s profound understanding of insurance law, which he draws upon when representing clients, helps him build robust cases and pursue fair compensation following car crashes.
Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer with Trial Experience?
A significant number of plaintiff’s lawyers have never been to trial. Although nobody wants to go to the Washington State Court of Appeals, what if your case proceeds to that point and your lawyer has no experience? They will dump you, leaving you with no recourse to seek compensation for your injuries. Choose a lawyer from the outset who can handle going to trial if it is needed for your case. At Albrecht Law PLLC, we have represented clients cases at the Washington State Supreme Court multiple times. If you stick with us, we’ll stick with you.
Furthermore, Matt Albrecht is also recognized by the state of Washington as an expert in insurance law; he authored the book, Washington Insurance Law and Litigation, 2023-2024 ed. (Vol. 35, Washington Practice Series).
Seeking Compensation for Serious Injuries Sustained in a Car Accident? Schedule a Free Consultation at Albrecht Law, PLLC, Where You Are Known
Whether pursuing a wrongful death claim for motor vehicle deaths of fatally injured loved ones or seeking compensation for debilitating injuries due to a crash, trust the knowledgeable and experienced car accident lawyers at Albrecht Law PLLC.
During a free consultation, we will review the details of your case and devise a strategy to seek compensation based on the unique factors of the crash. We combine cutting-edge technology with loyal, personalized, and courteous attention.
Contact us at (509) 495-1246(509) 495-1246 or complete our online form today to schedule your free consultation. We are here to serve you.
Albrecht Law PLLC — Our Clients Are More Than Just
