Call an Auto Accident Lawyer in Bellingham WA for Help and Guidance

by | Mar 15, 2019 | Law Firm

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After an auto accident in Washington State, someone who’s been injured or suffered property damage will undoubtedly want to know how they can get compensation. In this guide, victims will learn about a few state laws that affect auto accident claims, and they will also find out about their legal obligations when it comes to filing an accident report.

The Statute of Limitations

As in other states, Washington has a statute of limitations that puts a time limit on a victim’s right to file a claim in court. For most accident lawsuits brought by drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists, the statute of limitations is three years. In cases involving fatalities, the lawsuit must be filed within three years of the victim’s death, which isn’t always the same date the accident took place. Consider hiring an Auto Accident Lawyer in Bellingham WA to avoid missing the deadline.

Comparative Negligence

In Washington auto accident cases, liability isn’t always clear-cut. After hearing all the evidence, the jury may decide that the victim and the other driver share the blame. Such a verdict may affect a victim’s eligibility for compensation, due to Washington’s pure comparative negligence law. While a victim who’s partially to blame may still recover damages, the award will be reduced according to their share of fault.

Reporting an Auto Accident in Washington State

According to the Washington State Highway Patrol, anyone involved in an auto accident in the state must complete a collision report if the incident resulted in:

  • Damage of more than $1000 to any vehicle or piece of property, and/or
  • Injury to a person

If a law enforcement officer gets to the accident scene and indicates that they will prepare a report, it’s not necessary to fill out another one.

Washington State’s Auto Insurance Requirements

In most auto accident cases, car insurance coverage plays a crucial role. Therefore, it’s vital for victims to understand Washington’s liability coverage requirements and other rules that may affect their auto accident claims.

Call an Attorney Today

Washington State’s auto accident laws are complex, but an Auto Accident Lawyer in Bellingham WA will explain them to clients.