Seattle had set a target in 2015 to stop traffic deaths by 2030. However, since then, 175 individuals have lost their lives, and 1,200 others have suffered severe injuries.

While you cannot avoid car accidents in Seattle, it is important to follow the right steps to ensure your safety and legal protection. If you get into a car accident on a vacation in this city, it is necessary to hire Seattle car accident lawyers.

Car accident laws are different in every state, and it can be difficult to handle legal matters on your own.

But with the help of a Seattle car accident attorney, you can easily file a claim and get a fair settlement.

To know more about the steps involved in dealing with a car accident when on a vacation in Seattle, keep reading.

Car Accident Laws in Seattle, Washington

1. Washington Is a “Fault-Based” Auto Insurance State

In Washington, the auto insurance system operates on a “fault-based” principle. This means that if you’re involved in a car accident in Washington, you have the right to file a claim or take legal action against the person responsible for the crash. There’s no obligation to first make a claim with your own insurance company.

Anyone driving a motor vehicle in Washington must purchase an auto insurance policy that meets the minimum liability coverage requirements:

· $10,000 for property damage per accident

· $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person

· $50,000 for bodily injuries or deaths per accident

If you’re driving a car registered in another state and you’re involved in an accident in Washington, you must comply with the financial responsibility laws of the state where your vehicle is registered.

2. Washington Is a Pure Comparative Negligence State

In Washington, the law operates under a system called Pure Comparative Negligence. This means that when an accident happens, blame can be shared among multiple parties involved.

Even if you’re partially responsible for the accident, you can still seek compensation for damages. But the amount you receive will be reduced based on your level of fault.

Let’s say you’re found to be 50% at fault for an accident, and you’re awarded $100,000 in damages. With pure comparative negligence, you would ultimately receive $50,000, as your percentage of fault is subtracted from the damages.

Steps to Follow After a Car Accident During Seattle Vacation

If you are in a car accident during your Seattle vacation, follow these steps:

Step 1: Make sure everyone is safe

After a crash, your first concern should be your safety and the safety of the other passengers in your car. Don’t move your vehicle until you’re sure everyone is safe. Check yourselves for cuts or injuries, and make sure there’s no unseen bleeding. Once you get a confirmation that everyone is safe, move the car to the side of the road.

Step 2: Dial 911 and call the police

Call 911 or reach out to the police immediately after the accident, especially after an injury. Seeking medical help promptly is vital. Even if you feel okay, it’s still wise to visit the emergency room.

Some injuries, like head trauma or soft tissue damage, might not show up right away. Having medical and accident reports will be essential if you choose to pursue legal action against the responsible party with a car accident law firm in Seattle.

Step 3: Don’t run away from the accident scene

Stay at the accident scene, even if you feel shocked or confused. Wait for the police to arrive, even for minor accidents. Leaving is against the law and could harm your credibility if you make a personal injury claim.

Step 4: Take pictures and collect evidence

Collect evidence if you can. Use your phone to take pictures of the accident, your vehicle damage, and the intersection. All these things will work as evidence to prove negligence.

Along with taking the pictures, you also need to get details from the other driver. Take a picture of their license and number plate and get their as well as their insurance provider’s contact details.

Step 5: Find witnesses and get their contact details

If there are people around who have witnessed the accident, you need to get their contact details. These people can support your claim and make it strong. They have observed the accident from outside and can give clear testimonies about who was at fault. Get their name and contact details.

Step 6: Keep conversation to a minimum

After a car accident, be careful with what you say. Even saying “I’m sorry” can cause problems later. Wait for the police before talking to the other person involved.

Only talk about the accident with the police, and don’t admit fault. You might not be responsible for what happened, so don’t blame yourself.

Step 7: Inform your insurance provider

After getting the okay from the doctor and talking to the police, let your insurance company know about the accident. But don’t speak with an insurance adjuster until you’ve talked to a car accident law firm in Seattle. Adjusters might push you to say it’s partly your fault to lower what they owe you later.

Step 8: Contact a car accident law firm in Seattle

Find a good Seattle car accident attorney and contact them right away. As you are just visiting the city on vacation, you might not know about the laws. So, it is important to contact a car accident law firm in Seattle.

They’ll deal with the insurance companies, allowing you to concentrate on getting better at your home. Your Seattle car accident attorney will make sure your rights are protected and that you get compensated for your injuries and any damages.

Step 9: Find a way to go back home

Plan how you’ll finish your trip and go back home. If your car is damaged or if you are injured, you need to find a way to go back home. Check if the insurance covers a rental car immediately. If not, look for other ways, like renting a car or using public transportation.

Wrapping Up

So, these are the nine steps you need to follow in order to avoid getting into a car accident when visiting Seattle for vacation. Remember that it is always advisable to hire a Seattle car accident attorney to deal with all the legal work. They will carry out all the important steps for you while you focus on getting better. Top of Form