Car Accident Attorney in Kirkland, WA: Why You Need One and What to Look For

Car accidents can happen to anyone at any time. They can be incredibly stressful, especially when you or a loved one is injured. In such situations, it is important to seek legal representation from a qualified car accident attorney in Kirkland, WA. This article will discuss why you need a car accident attorney, what to look for in one, steps to take after a car accident, and how Wiener & Lambka can help you.

The Importance of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney in Kirkland

Understanding the Legal System

Understanding the legal system can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to car accident cases. There are various laws and regulations that come into play when determining liability, negligence, and insurance coverage. A car accident attorney can help you navigate these issues and ensure that your rights are protected.

In addition, they can help you gather the evidence needed to prove your case. They can investigate the accident, interview witnesses, and gather medical records and other documentation that can be used to support your claim.  Wiener and Lambka has extensive experience in insurance law, trial work and evidence law, working with health care providers and expert witnesses, and many other aspects of the law that are integral to a personal injury case. 

Navigating Insurance Companies

Navigating insurance companies can be a frustrating and complicated process. Insurance companies are in the business of making money, which means that they try to minimize the amount they pay out in claims. This can make it difficult for individuals who have been injured in car accidents to receive the compensation they deserve.

Car accident attorneys have experience working with insurance companies and understand the tactics they may use to minimize your claim. They can review your insurance policy, determine what coverage is available, and help you file a claim in a timely and effective manner.

In addition, your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. They can use their experience and knowledge to negotiate for a fair settlement, and can push back against any attempts by the insurance company to minimize your claim.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a car accident attorney can also represent you in court. They can prepare your case for trial, present evidence and arguments in front of a judge or jury, and fight for your rights every step of the way.

Calculating Damages

Calculating damages is an important part of any car accident case. Damages are the financial compensation that you are entitled to for the injuries and losses you have suffered as a result of the accident. An attorney can help you determine the damages you are entitled to and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

There are several types of damages that may be available in a car accident case, including:

  1. Medical Expenses – This includes the cost of medical treatment you have received as a result of the accident, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, and physical therapy.
  2. Lost Wages – If you are unable to work as a result of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
  3. Pain and Suffering – This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish that you have suffered as a result of the accident.
  4. Property Damage – If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.

Qualities to Look for in a Car Accident Attorney

Experience and Expertise

Experience and expertise are important qualities to look for in a car accident attorney. An experienced attorney has a track record of success and has handled cases similar to yours. They have the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights in court if necessary.

It is a good idea to look at their track record of success. This includes their success rate in settling cases, as well as their success rate in court. An attorney who has a high success rate can give you confidence that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to handle your case effectively.

Other factors to consider include their knowledge of the law, as well as their understanding of the medical and financial aspects of your case. An attorney with expertise in car accident cases will be able to identify and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and develop a strategy that maximizes your chances of success.

Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential for building a strong attorney-client relationship, ensuring that you understand your legal rights and options, and advocating for your interests throughout the legal process.

An attorney with strong communication skills is able to explain complex legal concepts in a clear and understandable way. They can also communicate with insurance companies, witnesses, and other parties involved in your case in a professional and effective manner.

Good communication also involves being responsive and available to clients. An attorney who promptly returns phone calls and emails, and who takes the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions, can provide you with peace of mind and confidence in your legal representation.

Availability and Accessibility

When you are dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, it is important to have an attorney who is available and accessible to answer your questions and provide you with guidance and support.

An attorney who is available and accessible can provide you with peace of mind and confidence in your legal representation. They can promptly return phone calls and emails, and can provide you with updates on the progress of your case. They can also make themselves available to meet with you in person if necessary, to discuss your case in detail and answer any questions you may have.

In addition, an attorney who is available and accessible can help you navigate the legal process in a timely and effective manner. They can help you file your claim and meet any deadlines or requirements that need to be met. They can also help you gather the evidence and information needed to build a strong case, such as medical records and witness statements.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Kirkland, WA

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not think you have been seriously injured, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not present symptoms immediately, but can become more serious over time if left untreated.

In addition, seeking medical attention can help you document your injuries and establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries. This documentation can be used as evidence in your case and can help you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

When seeking medical attention after a car accident, it is important to follow the instructions of your doctor and attend all follow-up appointments. This can help ensure that you receive the necessary treatment and can help document the extent of your injuries.

Contact the Police

The police can document the details of the accident, interview witnesses, and create an official police report. This report can be used as evidence in your case and can help establish liability for the accident.

In addition, contacting the police can help ensure that all parties involved in the accident receive the necessary medical attention and that the scene of the accident is properly managed. The police can also help direct traffic and prevent further accidents from occurring.

It is important to provide the police with accurate and detailed information about the accident, including the location, time, and any other relevant details. This can help ensure that the police report is accurate and can be used effectively in your case.

Collect Information

Collecting information is a crucial step to take after a car accident. This includes obtaining the names, addresses, and contact information of all parties involved in the accident, as well as the names and contact information of any witnesses. It is also important to collect information about the vehicles involved in the accident, including the make, model, and license plate number. This information can be used to help establish liability for the accident and can be used as evidence in your case.

Document the Scene

Documenting the scene of the accident includes taking photos and videos, including any damage to the vehicles involved, skid marks on the road, and any other relevant details. It is also important to take notes about the weather conditions, the time of day, and any other factors that may have contributed to the accident.

Documenting the scene can help establish the cause of the accident and can be used as evidence in your case. It can also help prevent disputes about what happened and can provide a clear record of the facts.

In addition, documenting the scene can help you remember important details about the accident that may be forgotten over time. It can also help you recall any witnesses who may have been present at the scene.

Notify Your Insurance Company

When notifying your insurance company, it is important to provide them with accurate and detailed information about the accident. This includes the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the names and contact information of all parties involved.

In addition, you should provide your insurance company with any documentation you have collected, such as photos and videos of the scene, police reports, and witness statements. This can help establish liability for the accident and can be used as evidence in your case.

Your insurance company will then begin the process of investigating the accident and determining the extent of your damages. They will also communicate with the other parties involved in the accident and their insurance companies.

How Wiener & Lambka Can Help You

Free Consultation

At Wiener & Lambka, we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and determine how we can help you. This consultation is an opportunity for you to ask questions and get to know us.  There is no obligation to hire us, and you can make certain that you are properly navigating the insurance and medical industries properly. 

Contingency Fee Basis

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we do not get paid unless you win your case. We believe that this fee structure is fair and allows us to provide high-quality legal representation to all of our clients without the client having to pay for the services up front.

Personalized Attention

We believe in providing personalized attention to each of our clients. We will work with you to develop a strategy that meets your unique needs and goals. We are committed to providing you with the highest level of legal representation.

Looking for a Car Accident Attorney in Kirkland?

A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. It is important to seek legal representation from a qualified car accident attorney to help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected. When hiring an attorney, look for experience, expertise, communication skills, and availability. Remember to take steps to protect yourself after a car accident, such as seeking medical attention, contacting the police, collecting information, documenting the scene, and notifying your insurance company. Contact Wiener & Lambka today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.

Powerful Representation

  • We are a Team of Trial Attorneys
  • Registered Nurse on Staff
  • We are Former Insurance Company Attorneys
  • 70 Plus Years of Experience

Personal Attention

  • Free Consultations
  • We Come to You!
  • 24 Hour Service
  • An Attorney Handles Every Case (many firms use only paralegals)
  • We Charge No Fees Unless We Collect (costs only)
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Proven Results

  • Over $65,000,000 Collected for Our Clients
  • Thousands of Satisfied Clients
  • Six and Seven Figure Awards and Settlements
  • Greater than 85% of our Cases Resolve Without Needing a Lawsuit

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will it cost to hire Wiener & Lambka as my car accident attorney?

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we do not get paid unless you win your case. Our fee is typically a percentage of the amount you receive in a settlement or verdict.

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Washington State?

In Washington State, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Washington State follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means that damages are awarded based on each party’s percentage of fault. Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation.

Can Wiener & Lambka help me if I was injured in a hit and run accident?

Yes, we can help you if you were injured in a hit and run accident. We can help you identify the other driver and pursue compensation for your injuries.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

  1. If the insurance company denies your claim, we can help you file a lawsuit to recover damages. We have extensive experience representing clients in court and will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected.

If you are looking for a proven professional, then please give us a call.
Contact your local Wiener & Lambka office today.