Getting a fair compensation after a Seattle accident can be overwhelming, because you need to first deal with the trauma and medical emergencies.
Still, you shouldn’t avoid the compensation as it makes for the medical expenses and car repair. By hiring a Seattle personal injury lawyer, you can go through that legal process and fight for what you deserve – including justice.
Still, the process is not easy and straightforward. That’s why you need to take the following steps and our practical tips to ensure you’re getting a fair outcome:
1. Document Every Detail
A strong personal injury case is based on strong evidence. The immediate reaction is to panic, but don’t forget to:
- Take pictures and videos from the scene, including the car damage and visible injuries
- Collect the medical records related to the accident, like prescriptions, doctor’s reports, x-rays, etc.
- Always ask for a copy of the police report
- Get written statements from the witnesses who want to contribute
- Keep all the bills from medical interventions, transportation costs, and other expenses related to the injury
2. Always Seek for A Medical Attention
Your health condition should be the top priority. Get medical attention immediately! Call an ambulance on the scene so they can assist. If there are injured passengers, you must act even faster. Also, they document the condition and create an independent report, which is crucial for estimating the value of your claim.
3. Understand the Value of the Claim
Remember, personal injury cases include both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In Seattle, the laws allow you to calculate fair compensation based on both economic and non-economic damages.
4. Don’t Settle too Quickly
This is one of the most common mistakes people make in cases of accidents. We’re sure you don’t want to spend months claiming your rights, but it leads to unfair compensation that won’t cover the transportation expenses to the hospital. Surely, the other party may want to take advantage of your panic and distress, but it’s up to you to never allow that.
5. Always Have a Personal Injury Lawyer By Your Side
This case can be complex, so the right Seattle personal injury law expert will help you understand all the aspects of the case, like the investigation process and negotiation and deals with insurance companies. They can even represent you in court if necessary.
By following these tips and hiring the right personal injury lawyer in Seattle, you can get the fair compensation you deserve and move forward with your life.