Dealing With Insurance After a Washington State Car Accident

After a motor vehicle accident in Washington State, dealing with insurers can quickly become one of the most stressful parts of your recovery. Insurance representatives don’t make things easy, and what you say or do early on can impact the entire outcome of your claim.

Our Issaquah car accident attorney helps crash victims effectively handle insurance adjusters and protects their rights. Below, we outline key steps to follow after a collision and tips for navigating the claims process effectively.

What to Do To Protect Your Rights In An Insurance Claim After A Car Accident In Washington State

According to the Washington State Traffic Commission, over 100,000 motor vehicle crashes are reported throughout WA each year. If you or someone you love is involved in a car accident in Issaquah, use caution in dealing with insurers afterward.

Whether filing a claim through your own or the other driver’s insurance, provide thorough documentation and proceed with caution. Here’s how to protect your rights from day one:

• Call 911 and Get a Police Report: Even if the accident seems minor, an official report can strengthen your claim.
• Exchange Information But Keep It Simple: Provide your name, contact, and insurance info, but avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements.
• Document the Scene: This includes taking videos or photos at the scene and getting names and contact information from any witnesses.
• Seek Prompt Medical Care: Delaying care can hurt both your health and your claim.
• Notify Your Insurer Promptly: Most policies require timely reporting of the incident. Just be factual and save the details for your legal representative.

In Washington, fault matters. Because we are an at-fault insurance state (per RCW 4.22.070), the driver responsible for causing the accident is typically the one whose insurance company is liable. However, that doesn’t stop insurers from trying to shift blame to reduce their payout.

Handling the Insurance Claims Process in Washington State

Once the dust settles, you’ll likely get a call from an insurance adjuster. While it’s their job to assess the claim, it’s important to remember that they work for the insurance company, not for you. Here’s how to stay protected:

• Do not provide a recorded statement.
• Keep all documentation, including medical bills, repair estimates, prescription costs, and time missed from work.
• Review settlement offers carefully, as they are likely lower than what you may be entitled to.
• Keep a daily journal to track your injuries, the emotional distress they cause, and the impact on your daily life.

Insurance companies have teams of lawyers on their side. You need someone in your corner who knows how to negotiate and, if needed, take them to court.

Speak With an Experienced Washington State Car Accident Attorney Today

Navigating insurance claims after a crash in Washington can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Injury Law Group NW, we help injured drivers get the compensation they deserve, whether from their own insurer, the other driver’s company, or both. To speak with our experienced Washington State car accident attorney, contact our office and request a consultation today.

Sources:

wtsc.wa.gov/dashboards/fatalities-dashboard/

app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=4.22.070