Washington, DC Car Accident Lawyers & Essential Guides

What should I do if I get in a car accident in Washington?

First and foremost, after a car accident, it's important to stay safe. Request immediate medical attention if necessary and notify law enforcement about the crash. The police can help you write an official report and exchange driver information. If possible, collect photo evidence of the point of contact, road conditions, and traffic signs, as well as witness statements and other relevant documents.

What is the average settlement for a car accident in Washington?

It's not easy to determine the average settlement amount for a car accident in Washington. That's because settlement information is often kept private. Even when it's public, amounts tend to vary widely according to the unique nature of each accident.

Determining a fair settlement value can be complex and may depend on factors such as medical expenses, the severity of injuries, and the presence of traffic violations.

Is hiring a car accident lawyer in Washington necessary?

It's completely up to you whether you choose to hire a car accident lawyer in Washington. But it's worth noting that accidents can result in expenses, injuries, and paperwork that can be tough to manage alone. A local car accident lawyer can assist you through the claims process and help you seek appropriate compensation.

How much does a Washington car accident attorney cost?

Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you'll only pay if you receive compensation. For cases that settle prior to a lawsuit being filed, lawyers generally charge a “pre-suit” fee of 33% of the final settlement amount. Cases involving lawsuits generally carry a “post-suit” fee of 40%.

What does the process of working with a car accident lawyer look like?

Typically, you would start by contacting a car accident lawyer to discuss your case. If you decide to proceed, your legal team will begin collecting documents and investigating your claim.

Once the medical bills are in, your lawyers will assemble your claim and submit it to the insurance company. They'll negotiate to try to reach a satisfactory settlement offer. Most cases settle, but if an agreement is not reached, your lawyer may file a lawsuit on your behalf.

How long will it take to investigate a car accident claim in Washington?

The time it takes for personal injury cases to settle in Washington can vary widely. On average, it might take around 1.5 years, but this depends on several factors, such as the insurance companies involved, the details of your car accident, and whether a lawsuit is necessary.

Some cases settle within a year, while others may take longer. A dedicated legal team will work to expedite your case as much as possible.

What happens once my Washington car accident case is settled?

Once your case is settled, any outstanding fees—for your lawyers, your medical care, loans, and beyond—will be deducted from the gross settlement amount. The remainder will be disbursed to you.