Were You Injured Because Of Someone Else's Negligence? Browse Our FAQs

In addition to coping with a lot of stress and frustration, personal injury cases also come with a lot of questions. Here are some of the questions we hear the most at Max Meyers Law.

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  • Could I still have a case if the weather was bad during my car accident?

    We Explain Washington State Car Accident Claims in Bad Weather

    If you’re involved in a collision with another vehicle during adverse weather conditions, it can be easy to blame the weather instead of the other driver, especially if the roads were hazardous at the time of the crash. But as any car accident attorney will tell you, reasons for the collision are often more complicated than they seem, and the cause might not reveal itself until the evidence is examined. 

    Here’s the bottom line: regardless of weather or road conditions, all motorists have a responsibility under the law to drive safely. At Max Meyers Law, our team thoroughly investigates each case to help determine fault in a car accident during bad weather. If a motorist drives recklessly for the conditions, they may be liable for damages. Let’s take a closer look. 

    Hazardous Weather Conditions That Can Cause Crashes Line of cars in traffic on snowy icy roads bad weather car accident

    Several weather events affect roadways' safety, and certain situations create different types of hazardous conditions. 

    Snow and Ice

    As almost every Washington State driver knows, snow and ice can create deadly road conditions. Braking and stopping safely takes longer when surfaces are slick, and sliding and spin-outs are common. Blowing snow also greatly limits visibility.

    Rain and Flooding 

    Rain, like snow and ice, lengthens stopping times and limits visibility. Additionally, standing water, puddles, and flooding lead to hydroplaning, an extremely dangerous out-of-control slide on water that can cause serious accidents. 

    Fog 

    Fog reduces visibility down to almost zero, making it impossible to see more than a few feet ahead of you on the road—and using your regular headlights doesn’t help. Motorists struggling with foggy conditions are one of the top causes of chain reaction crashes involving dozens of vehicles. 

    Wind 

    Many drivers don’t consider wind a dangerous weather condition, but it’s an invisible hazard, whether you’re on the North Cascades Highway, Highway 101, or any of the state’s other scenic roadways. Strong winds can cause vehicles to lose control or—for taller vehicles, like commercial tractor-trailers—tip over. 

    Who’s at Fault for Car Accidents During Bad Weather? 

    It’s often simplistic to say that bad weather caused a car collision. Why? Because drivers have a duty to adjust their speed, driving distance, and overall care in poor conditions. In other words, if you were struck by another motorist in adverse weather conditions, you have to ask: even if they were driving the speed limit, were they reckless for the conditions? This might mean they were traveling too fast on ice, not using their lights in the rain, or following too closely in the fog. 

    It’s also important to realize that even in bad weather, motorists can cause an accident due to other common types of negligence, including: 

    • Distracted driving 
    • Fatigued driving or falling asleep at the wheel 
    • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol 
    • Not obeying traffic laws 

    Other Parties Could Be at Fault, Too 

    It’s not just a motorist who could be found responsible for your bad weather car accident. Other parties are considered liable in many circumstances. For example, a semi could tip over in high winds because the trucking company packed cargo irresponsibly, causing it to be top-heavy. Or a municipality might have neglected to clearly label an intersection, leading to a history of dangerous collisions. Perhaps a commercial operator wasn’t properly trained to drive their vehicle, causing a crash in the snow. Maybe a car had a set of faulty windshield wipers that didn’t properly work in a rainstorm, making it impossible for the driver to see. 

    Some of these causes can be absolutely hidden at the time of the crash and require investigation to uncover. 

    How Our Kirkland and Bothell Car Accident Law Offices Can Help 

    Because car accident claims and litigation can be complicated—and even more so if weather is a factor—a WA injury attorney can help you through every step of the case. Our team at Max Meyers Law will investigate the case, gathering evidence, finding the causes, and getting to the bottom of who was at fault. Then, we’ll present an argument for your case, negotiate with insurers, protect your rights in court, and ensure you have as much opportunity to get the compensation you deserve.

  • What should I do if I'm hit by a car while I'm walking in a parking lot?

    Washington Personal Injury Attorney Max Meyers Discusses What to Do After a Pedestrian Parking Lot Accident 

    Many safety features are installed in and around public roads to keep pedestrians safe, including traffic lights, crosswalks, streetlights, and sidewalks. However, private entities often own parking lots and don’t necessarily have all those safety measures in place. Add dozens of cars navigating the area, with adults, kids, and shopping carts in the mix, and it’s no surprise that pedestrian parking lot accidents are common in Washington. 

    If you or a loved one is involved in one of these incidents and unsure what to do, schedule a free, confidential consultation in person or over the phone so we can learn more about your individual case and determine how we can help. Pedestrians in a parking lot in Washington

    How Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents Happen 

    No one ever intends to hit someone. Most motorists do their best to keep pedestrians safe. However, there’s often a lot going on in a parking lot that puts people on foot at risk. Here are some of the more common reasons for parking lot accidents. 

    Distracted Driving 

    Motorists are often more focused on finding a parking spot or checking their phones than on their surroundings. They might also be on headphones or preoccupied with errands, picking up other people, and checking off their to-do lists and don’t consider parking lots to be high-risk areas. 

    Back-up Accidents 

    Most of us have walked through a parking lot when suddenly, a parked car begins backing up in our direction. Sometimes the driver sees you and stops—other times, a collision occurs. While a motorist might claim a pedestrian was in their blind spot, it’s important to know whoever is behind the wheel is responsible for checking their mirrors and backup cameras, and doing a physical look behind time to make sure the way is clear. If they didn’t do these things, they’ll likely be found at fault for a back-over accident

    Speeding 

    Drivers should go less than 15 mph when in a parking lot. Greater speeds create dangerous conditions for both car accidents and pedestrian accidents. If a driver is acting recklessly, they may be responsible for the accident and its related damages. 

    Wrong Pedal Accidents 

    Pedestrian parking lot accidents often happen when a car is just starting to move out of its spot. Unfortunately, a distracted or unaware driver can sometimes tap the gas instead of the brake, or forget to put their car in reverse instead of drive. These two mistakes can be deadly for pedestrians. 

    Who’s at Fault For Your Seattle Pedestrian Parking Lot Accident? 

    It’s not uncommon for injured victims to blame themselves, especially in the moments after a collision. But sometimes it can be difficult to tell who’s liable and who deserves compensation. Pedestrian accident laws indicate that usually, there are three possible at-fault parties.

    Motorist 

    If the driver was reckless, distracted behind the wheel, under the influence, or careless, they could be at fault for the accident and any related injuries. This means they’re responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages outlined in your claim. 

    Parking Lot Owner

    Most lots are privately owned by individuals or businesses, and they’re obligated to keep all areas reasonably safe for both people and vehicles. It’s possible that your pedestrian accident could have been prevented if the owner had properly maintained the area, responded to past complaints, or put reasonable safety measures in place. 

    Pedestrian 

    People can also be held liable for their injuries. For example, a distracted pedestrian on their phone could walk out in front of a car without warning. Or if someone is under the influence, they might fail to look before stepping off a sidewalk and into the lot. 

    Additionally, other parties might be responsible for a pedestrian accident—or even multiple parties. When the Max Meyers Law legal team assesses the facts of your case, we’ll investigate all aspects of potential liability.

    What to Do After a Washington Pedestrian Parking Lot Accident 

    Even if you’re able to get up and brush yourself off, it’s imperative to treat the situation seriously. Injuries still happen when a vehicle makes contact with a person, even at very slow speeds. Here’s what to do in the minutes, hours, and days after your accident. 

    Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Care

    First, call 911 and if possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so arrange for a thorough medical exam.

    Report the Accident 

    Unlike traffic accidents on roads, law enforcement may not necessarily come to the scene of a parking lot collision and file an accident report. You may need to call them to report an injury and request an officer. Their report will also be essential evidence to support your case

    Exchange Information

    If you’re medically able, collect contact information from the involved parties, including names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, try to obtain their contact information as well.

    Document the Scene

    Again, if you’re able, take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Note the incident's time, date, and other relevant details.

    Avoid Admitting Fault

    Be cautious about admitting fault or making statements that could be perceived as an admission of guilt. Even saying “I’m sorry” to be polite might be misinterpreted. Be aware that there’s often more to these accidents than meets the eye—and you might not have all of the facts. 

    Follow Medical Advice and Keep Records 

    Keep track of all treatments, assistive devices, physical therapy, and other related expenses. Maintain a record of communication with insurance companies and other parties involved.

    Get Legal Assistance

    If there are claim disputes or concerns about liability, or if you want to make certain you’re making the right legal choices and getting the compensation you deserve, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional skilled in handling the complexities of Washington pedestrian accident cases. Our team is happy to consult with you and answer any questions you have—and if we can help you obtain a rightful settlement.

  • Will I have to go to court if I file a car accident case in Washington State?

    When many people think of car accident claims, they often picture a courtroom, with an injured victim sitting on the witness stand in a neck brace, telling their story to a jury. But while this might be a scene they’ve seen on television or read in a book, it’s not the reality for the vast majority of accident cases. 

    In fact, about 96 percent of all injury cases are settled out of court each year in the United States, leaving only four out of 100 decided by a court of law. 

    Still, there’s a small chance that your car accident case needs to go to court. In this article, we take a closer look at why some cases settle fairly, what happens if your case does go to court, and how our experienced car accident team at Max Meyers Law can help you through the process in both instances. 

    Why Do Some Injury Cases Go To Court? 

    First, let’s talk about the roughly 96 percent of cases that don’t go to court. In those instances, the injured party and their lawyer file a claim for damages with the insurance company (or companies) in question. During this process, both sides examine the case evidence and the insurer either approves or rejects the claim. Then, the party seeking damages can either accept or reject the offer of compensation. In most cases, after appeals, compromises, and negotiation, the parties come to a fair settlement. 

    However, there are a few cases in which a car accident and injury insurance claim could go to court:  

    • The insurance company rejects your claim, but you still believe you’re in the right. 
    • The insurer approves your claim, but you don’t the amount of compensation adequately covers all your accident-related losses. 
    • You and the insurance carrier ultimately cannot come to an agreement about your claim or its amount.  Female judge banging gavel Going to Court After WA Car Accident

    As with many other areas of life, such as a divorce or business dispute, if two parties cannot agree on an outcome, they go to court and have a judge and/or jury decide the case.

    In this way, the decision is taken out of both party’s hands and given to the court system. 

    Pros And Cons of Going to Court for Your WA Car Accident Case 

    There’s a valid reason that most car accident and injury claims don’t go to court: both parties actively try to avoid the option. Why? Court proceedings lengthen the case timeline—sometimes significantly—and often take more resources than settling out of court. Going to court also means that there’s a chance that you could lose the case. 

    But there’s one big upside to the judicial process: you’re calling the insurance company’s bluff and fighting for what’s right. If you and your attorney are confident in the evidence in the case— and that the law is on your side—going to court may be the only way to get fair compensation if the at-fault party refuses to take responsibility or refuses to pay the correct amount.  

    In some cases, insurers decide to settle your case only after you prepare a claim for trial—all to avoid court. 

    All cases are different. It’s imperative that you and your car accident attorney decide if the claim settlement is unfair and that going to court is right for your circumstances. 

    Your Attorney Takes the Lead in Your Court Case

    Many people feel intimidated or overwhelmed by the idea of a courtroom and taking a case to court. While people are free to represent themselves in court, it’s far more advantageous to choose an attorney with extensive knowledge of how to present car accident cases before a judge and jury, and how insurance companies operate in court. 

    A savvy lawyer also takes the burden off of their clients when it comes to navigating the court system, collecting evidence, filing paperwork, and speaking with the judge and jury. 

    The Stages of a Car Accident Trial 

    If you and your attorney decide taking your car accident case to court is the best solution, the legal team first walks you through the entire process, then prepares you for any hearings and ensures that your story is told in full. Here’s how the process usually works.

    Filing a Lawsuit

    Your lawyer formally files a legal document—referred to as the complaint—outlining the case, the damages sought, and the legal grounds. Then the defendant is notified of the lawsuit and provided with a copy of the complaint.

    Discovery Phase

    Next, both parties exchange written questions to gather more information. Witnesses and parties involved may be interviewed under oath in depositions, while relevant documents and evidence are exchanged to support or challenge claims.

    Pre-Trial Motions

    At this point, either party may request the court to rule in their favor based on the evidence, avoiding a full trial. In addition, either side may file motions to exclude or limit certain evidence during the trial.

    Trial

    Finally, the trial itself begins. First, if applicable, a jury is chosen from potential jurors, a group of your peers. Next, each side has the opportunity to argue their case, citing evidence and bringing witnesses to the stand in support of their claims. After all of the arguments are heard, the jury deliberates and reaches a decision. 

    Possible Post-Trial Actions 

    After a trial is over, either party may be able to file an appeal or even request a new trial if they can prove that either option is appropriate. 

    Having an Attorney at Your Side 

    When selecting a Seattle car accident attorney, asking about their courtroom experience, history, and case results during an initial consultation can help you choose the legal representation that’s right for you. You may also wish to ask a few more related questions:  

    • How often do you bring accident cases to court? 
    • What were the outcomes of cases similar to mine? 
    • How do you decide with a client whether or not to go to court? 
    • What are your strengths and weaknesses in court? 
    • How do you bill clients if a case goes to court? 

    Going to court for your accident claim is rare, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t understand all of your options and outcomes when choosing to work with an attorney. Our team is dedicated to seeing cases to their optimal outcome and keeping our clients educated, aware, and informed through every step of their case. 

  • I had pre-existing conditions before my commercial vehicle crash. Can I still file a truck accident case?

    Few of us can claim to have perfect health. Millions of people are born with various health conditions that they manage for their entire lives, and millions more suffer from illnesses and issues as they get older, from age-related conditions like heart disease and diabetes to wear and tear like herniated discs or bad knees. Others deal with lingering problems from past physical trauma, such as broken bones and traumatic brain injuries. 

    So if you were injured in a collision with a big rig, semi, tanker, or another large commercial vehicle due to someone else’s negligence, can you still seek truck accident compensation with preexisting injuries? The short answer is absolutely yes. If you can prove that another party is liable for the accident and that your health was harmed as a result, you’re entitled to economic and non-economic damages for your losses, which could include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Whether your old injury was made worse by the crash or whether you experienced a new medical issue in addition to your other conditions, you may have a valid claim. WA Truck Accident Compensation With Existing Injuries

    At Max Meyers, our legal team is dedicated to fully understanding the consequences of your truck accident as well as the damages you are owed in your case.

    While pre-existing injuries can complicate your claim, they certainly don’t invalidate it. 


    Existing Conditions That May Become Worse After a Truck Accident 

    Really, for the majority of Americans, imperfect health is simply part of living. So it makes sense that many people injured in car accidents are already managing certain aspects of their health at the time of their crash. So for some people, new injuries make their existing conditions worse. 

    For example, a person with spinal cord problems might discover their back now requires surgery following a crash with a commercial truck. Someone else who sustained several concussions in college may find out that the consequences of striking their head during an accident are much more severe due to their injury history. 

    There are a number of preexisting medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the impact of a truck accident—and some of them might surprise you. They may include, but aren’t limited to: 

    • Herniated discs 
    • Spinal cord conditions 
    • Degenerative disc disease 
    • Neck injuries 
    • Concussions
    • Traumatic brain injuries 
    • Old bone breaks and fractures 
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • Arthritis
    • Diabetes
    • Fibromyalgia

    It’s imperative that you disclose your full medical history to the doctors and other health care professionals caring for you in the wake of a truck accident so they can better understand your case and treat your injuries thoroughly. It’s also absolutely vital to see a doctor as soon as possible after the truck accident in order to establish a clear record of your health and how your injuries were affected. If you notice any changes in your existing conditions, be sure to tell your doctor. 

    How the Max Meyers Law Team Secures Truck Accident Compensation With Pre-Existing Conditions 

    If you were suffering from an existing condition before your accident but the incident either made your injury worse or added a new medical concern, it’s all the more important to discuss your car accident case with an experienced attorney with a history of success handling these cases. 

    When our team at Max Meyers Law approaches these cases, we take specific, deliberate steps toward proving that you’re owed compensation even though you had an existing condition at the time of the accident. We also ensure you avoid costly mistakes. Here’s our process: 

    • Establish your preexisting condition through past medical records. 
    • Determine what contributed to the worsening of your condition or injury. 
    • Prove who’s liable in your truck accident case, and whether multiple parties were at fault (such as both the driver and the trucking company). 
    • Consult medical experts who can speak to your individual situation, support your injury claim, and help determine your possible future medical needs. 
    • Prevent the insurance company from claiming that your all truck accident injuries were preexisting. 
    • Take your case to court if necessary. 

    Insurance companies will do everything in their power to reject your claim. In the cases where the car accident victim might have preexisting medical issues, they may argue that your new injuries were preexisting, too—and therefore the truck company owes nothing. But if your condition was made worse by the accident, you and your attorney will have to fight hard to prove it.

  • After an accident, how do I get records for a truck driver's training and certifications?

    Driving a commercial truck comes with significant responsibilities. Not only are drivers tasked with safely getting expensive cargo from Point A to Point B on time, but they’re also in control of an enormous 80,000-pound vehicle that can reach speeds of 70-80 mph. One mistake while behind the wheel could cause catastrophic injury and death

    In order to minimize accidents and keep the roads safe, there are numerous federal and state regulations involving truck driver licensure, training, and certification. Additionally, trucking companies also put safety measures into place to ensure their fleet is in the best hands—and to protect against liability. After a serious collision with a commercial vehicle, a skilled WA truck accident attorney will investigate a series of factors to prove fault. One of the most common is a company uses due diligence to confirm a truck operator’s training and certification. 

    We outline truckers’ commercial operator requirements and other required certifications and training, and explain why this information is imperative to your truck accident settlement. Kirkland Truck Accident | Driver Training Certification

    CDL Training Requirements In Washington State 

    In Washington State, obtaining a Class A commercial driving license (CDL) that allows you to drive full-sized tractor-trailers requires 160 hours of overall instruction, including:

    • 70 hours of combined lab, range, and observation training
    • 40 hours of classroom instruction
    • 18 hours of street driving
    • 16 hours of backing maneuvers
    • 16 hours of proficiency training

    Receiving a Class B CDL (for smaller vehicles like box trucks)  or Class C CDL (for carrying 16 passengers or more) requires 80 hours of various forms of instruction. There are also several other types of CDLs available for drivers of passenger buses, school buses, and Hazmat vehicles. 

    In addition to the training hours, earning a CDL requires all holders to be 18 years or older, have a valid Washington driver’s license, and complete a knowledge test and a skills test. Drivers must also pass vision and hearing tests. 

    It’s important to note that while the operators of smaller vehicles, such as delivery trucks, are only licensed within Washington State, long-haul truck drivers may travel across state lines and received their CDL under the requirements of a different state. 

    Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Truck Driver Requirements 

    In addition to state requirements, there are federal regulations related to driving a truck as well — even if a trucker’s vehicle doesn’t leave the state. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires the following of commercial truck drivers: 

    • Proof of citizenship or lawful residency
    • Proof of a valid driver’s license in one state 
    • A completed driving skill test in a vehicle similar to the one used on the job
    • Proof of residence in the state where the CDL is issued 
    • Education on whistleblower protection, driver wellness, driver qualifications, and legal hours of service 

    Truck Company Employee Requirements 

    Trucking companies also have extensive requirements for drivers. While these vary by employer and cargo, common stipulations include: 

    • Valid CDL for the vehicle the person will operate 
    • Review of 10 years of driving records 
    • A medical exam that includes blood pressure, blood sugar, and overall fitness to drive
    • Background check 
    • Proof of ability to lift a certain weight 
    • On-the-job training, such as shadowing other drivers 

    Who’s Liable for Your Truck Accident Damages? 

    It’s a common misconception that a traffic accident is the fault of one driver or the other. In fact, some large truck wrecks are caused by numerous parties, many of which aren’t physically present at the crash like the vehicle operators are. For example, a trucking company may be to blame if it overloaded the vehicle, had a driver work an illegal number of hours, or didn’t investigate a driver properly before hiring them. At Max Meyers Law, our team conducts a thorough investigation to determine if any of the following parties may be at fault:  

    • The trucker 
    • A truck operator’s employer
    • The cargo loading company 
    • A maintenance company or crew 
    • A truck part manufacturer 
    • The owner of the truck cab 
    • The owner of the trailer 

    In some cases, a local, county, or state municipality could be liable if inadequate road conditions contributed to the accident.

    Truckers Who Should Never be Behind the Wheel 

    There are many truck driver training and certifications required to keep everyone safe. When these regulations are ignored or cheated, people can become seriously injured or killed. It’s easy to understand that some truck accidents happen due to reckless driving, driving under the influence, or distracted driving. But some commercial vehicle crashes happen for other reasons including, but not limited to:  

    • A trucker didn’t have a valid CDL
    • They weren’t properly licensed or trained to operate the vehicle involved in the accident
    • A truck operator lied about their license and their company never investigated it
    • An employer didn’t investigate a trucker’s history of driving offenses
    • A truck driver had a medical issue that compromised their abilities 
    • An employer never completed a thorough background check on its driver 

    How Max Meyers Investigates Truck Drivers

    At Max Meyers Law, we always tell motorists to refrain from taking blame or apologizing after a truck wreck. Why? Because the causes of traffic incidents—especially commercial semi-truck accidents—are more complex than they seem. In fact, the party responsible for economic and non-economic damages in your case, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even wrongful death, might not even be at the scene of the accident. 

    Our legal team is committed to getting to the bottom of your case. That includes investigating the truck driver or drivers to ascertain their licenses, training, and certifications, as well as examining the fleet company’s hiring process and knowledge of the operator’s record. With all of the evidence, we find that the true causes of the crash, and its consequences, become clear.

  • When Should I Contact a Car Accident Lawyer?

    Even minor car accidents can feel overwhelming—and major crashes that involve significant personal injury and property damage can turn your whole life upside down. Because of the stress, confusion, pain, and anxiety of the situation, it can be tempting to make everything go away as soon as possible by simply agreeing to whatever the insurance companies offer, not trying to determine what you’re owed under the law, and just getting everything over with without asking questions. 

    If you genuinely want to receive the compensation you legally deserve after a traffic collision that wasn’t your fault, you need to speak to a Washington car accident and injury attorney. Not only can we determine your damages accurately, but we can fight insurers and argue your claim while you focus on what’s truly important: recovering from your injuries and getting back to your everyday life. When to Contact Washington Car Accident Attorney

    However, if you never contact us, we can’t help you. Below, we outline when it’s okay to skip calling a car accident attorney, when you should pick up the phone after a wreck, and why it’s better to be cautious and consult a legal professional.  

    The Right Time to Call a WA Car Accident Attorney 

    This answer is easy: as soon as possible. The more time you let pass, the greater the chance that essential details will be missed. Additionally, insurance companies will push on building a storyline that negates your claim, even if you weren’t at fault. Also, remember that Washington has a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. This deadline outlines how long you have to file a claim, which is three years from the date of the incident. 

    The following should be your top priorities ASAP after a traffic collision.

    Getting Medical Attention 

    Your health and safety surpass everything, even getting legal help! If you were injured in an accident, go to the emergency room as soon as you can to be evaluated and treated, even if you believe any injuries are only minor (post-accident adrenaline can trick you into thinking you feel fine). It’s just as important to follow through on all appointments, treatments, medications, and therapies that medical professionals assign you 

    Collecting Information and Evidence  

    After your car crash, having as much information as possible is key to arguing your case later. While at the scene, if you’re not too hurt, be sure to get the names and contact information of the other drivers as well as any witnesses or responders. Also, if you’re healthy enough, take pictures of the scene and any damage. 

    Contacting a Lawyer 

    Your third priority should be to request a free consultation with a local injury attorney. Do this before you talk to insurance companies or make any official, recorded statements about what happened. An initial conversation with most accident lawyers is free, and can put you on the right path to getting the compensation you deserve. 

    Car Accidents That Don’t Require an Attorney 

    A limited number of crashes don’t require the help of a Washington car accident attorney. For example, if your crash meets the parameters below, you likely don’t need legal help.  

    • You weren’t injured. 
    • No one else at the scene was injured. 
    • The damage to your car and other involved vehicles is superficial or minor. 
    • The other party was clearly at fault and all parties agree to this fact. 
    • You didn’t miss a significant amount of work 
    • You didn’t incur any significant damages from the accident. 

    However, even if all of the above is true, it never hurts to contact an attorney experienced in this area of law for a free consultation to make sure you have all your bases covered and can handle resolving a claim without legal help. 

    Car Accidents That Often Require an Attorney 

    So when is it necessary to have legal counsel after a traffic accident? Usually in circumstances that involve significant injuries and damages, or when there’s a need to determine negligence or prove fault. So reach out for a consultation if: 

    • You and/or someone else in the crash were injured. 
    • Your loved one lost their life in the accident. 
    • There was serious damage done to vehicles or property at the scene. 
    • The insurance company denied your claim. 
    • An insurance adjuster is asking for a recorded statement. 
    • Fault isn’t crystal clear.
    • You missed a significant amount of work and income because of the incident.
    • You experienced other damages in the accident that may be difficult to calculate. 
    • You suffered injuries that are likely permanent. 

    Even if you believe you’re being treated fairly in this situation, an experienced Washington attorney like the professionals at Max Meyers Law can verify that you’re getting everything you deserve—and on a reasonable timeline. They can also look at the evidence and calculate your damages accurately as someone who is on your side and on your team. 

    How a Kirkland Car Accident Attorney Can Help 

    Sometimes it might feel like contacting a Kirkland car accident attorney is an extra step in an already complicated process, requiring more work. But in reality, an injury lawyer intends to make everything easier so you receive proper compensation and justice. 

    While it can be scary or intimidating to make the first call, the benefits are significant. A knowledgeable attorney can:  

    • Has only your best interests in mind. 
    • Acts as your advocate from the beginning to the end of your case. 
    • Navigate the details of Washington state traffic accident laws.
    • Answer any questions you may have about the legal process surrounding your case. 
    • File the claim and stay on top of other necessary documentation. 
    • Handle all communication with insurance companies for you. 
    • Accurately determine the amount of compensation you deserve. 
    • Make certain your case moves forward so the statute of limitations doesn’t expire. 
    • Prepare for and defend your case before a judge and jury, if necessary.
    • Give you peace of mind that you’ve approached your case correctly. 

    If you aren’t sure if you need an attorney in the wake of your accident, simply request a free consultation. At Max Meyers Law, our legal team listens to your story and examines the facts, then lets you know if you’ll benefit from legal representation or if you can handle the process yourself with good results.

  • What damages can I get if I'm permanently disabled in a truck accident?

    Anyone who has been in a fender bender knows what a mess it can cause to your health, finances, and daily life. It can involve dozens of calls to various insurance companies, weeks to get your car repaired, and even minor injuries that take time to heal. Permanent Injury Damages After Kirkland Truck Accident

    But now imagine you’ve suffered permanent injuries in a Kirkland truck accident that wasn’t your fault. The process of physical, emotional, and financial recovery is heartbreaking and incredibly stressful. What avenues of restitution are available for your damages? The skilled Washington truck accident legal team at Max Meyers Law is ready to help you through the overwhelming process of holding the liable parties responsible.  

    What Is a Permanent Disability? 

    It’s any type of injury that has a lasting, lifelong effect. Rarely are you able to fully restore your health as it was prior to the semi-truck crash.

    If an injury greatly impacts your well-being, changes your ability to move through the world, or alters all aspects of life you previously enjoyed, it’s a permanent disability. Certain permanent injuries may reduce your ability to pursue a career, enjoy hobbies, care for your family, or independently care for yourself. 

    Millions of people with disabilities find ways to adapt, flourish, and live happy and fulfilled lives. However, it’s imperative to remember that if your permanent disability was caused by another party’s negligence, they could be responsible for the costs of your condition. You have a right to seek justice and proper compensation.  

    Why Truck Crashes Can Cause Permanent Disabilities 

    A commercial truck, usually more than 50 feet long, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded with cargo. Hitting one with your car, even a large SUV, is like smashing into a concrete wall. 

    Even simple fender-benders that wouldn’t usually cause serious damage can turn fatal if a tractor-trailer is involved. Certain types of truck accidents often cause more severe and permanent injuries than others:  

    • Head-on truck crashes 
    • Rollover truck crashes 
    • T-bone accidents 
    • Pile-up truck accidents 

    Types of Permanent Disabilities Caused by Truck Crashes 

    When your vehicle collides with a truck, your body experiences blunt force trauma by coming into contact with parts of your own vehicle, parts of the truck, or in some cases, objects outside of the colliding vehicles, like the road. This impact breaks bones, tears flesh, and harms vital organs, such as the brain, spinal cord, and heart. 

    Common medical conditions people suffer in large truck and tractor-trailer accidents include: 

    Permanent Disability Damages After a Kirkland Truck Accident 

    There are astronomical costs associated with catastrophic permanent disabilities. Your compensation claim needs to include not only the immediate recovery costs, but also long-term care, potential lost wages, and more. Here are some key economic damages a knowledgeable truck accident attorney will evaluate when preparing your case.

    Medical bills 

    Everything from the ambulance ride to the hospital to initial care, diagnostic tests, and surgeries should be paid for by the insurer for the at-fault party, whether it’s the large truck driver, the transportation company, or another entity. 

    Future medical bills 

    In addition, the settlement should factor in rehabilitation costs, ongoing care, and follow-up surgeries. 

    Medications 

    Many people who live with permanent injuries from truck crashes require regular medication for pain, trauma, or organ issues. Some may also take medication for PTSD, depression, or anxiety. 

    Nursing care 

    Individuals with the most serious permanent disabilities—such as spinal cord damage and paralysis—may need part-time or full-time nursing care to attend to daily tasks like brushing their teeth, making a meal, or bathing. This care could last until the end of their life. 

    Home alterations and accommodations 

    Many permanent injuries require special accessories or living arrangements. For example, a person who uses a wheelchair after a truck accident will now require a ramp, bars in the bathroom, large door frames, and other home alterations. They’ll also need special supplies and accommodations for the rest of their life. 

    Lost wages and loss of earning potential 

    Sometimes when a person’s health suddenly changes, they lose the ability to continue their career. Not only do they lose wages for every day they can’t work while recovering from their injuries, but they also lose future earning potential. A permanent disability damages claim after a truck accident should take into account the victim’s lost wages and future earnings as well as any re-training or schooling necessary to return to the workforce.  

    The Hidden Costs Of Permanent Disability 

    It’s critical to your wellbeing to choose a truck accident attorney you can trust to evaluate these essential non-economic damages in your case.

    Pain and suffering 

    It’s easy to know how much a wheelchair costs, but it’s harder to put a price tag on the pain of having your legs crushed in an accident or the suffering you endure if you can no longer care for yourself independently. The legal system has specific ways of calculating an injury survivor’s pain and suffering so they may be compensated for it.

    Psychological damages 

    The consequences that a devastating accident and permanent injury can have on your mental health can be equally as dire as physical injuries. Survivors can suffer from anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD after their large truck crash, and these issues may last a lifetime. They may also require therapy, in-patient care, and medication. 

    Loss of marital relationship 

    In some cases, a physical disability might mean that you can no longer enjoy a sexual relationship with your partner. This type of loss is hard to put a numerical value on. 

    Loss of quality and enjoyment of life 

    Having a permanent disability might limit life experiences you can engage in, from playing baseball in the backyard with your child or hiking a mountain. More importantly, it might compromise your independence, such as being able to feed yourself or go to the restroom alone. 

    A permanent injury drastically changes the trajectory and ease of your entire life. If you were hurt in a commercial vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault, we encourage you to review our settlements and verdicts to understand how we’ll assign value to your case and work diligently to secure the justice you deserve.

  • How will I pay for my surgery after a motorcycle accident?

    Even at low speeds, Seattle motorcycle accidents often cause serious injuries to the rider. Without the common safety protections provided in cars—such as seat belts, airbags, and a metal cage—riders are subjected to more instances of blunt force trauma, fractures, damaged organs, spinal cord injuries, and brain injuries. Many of these injuries – from torn ACLs to broken wrists to broken necks – require surgery. Seattle Motorcycle Attorney on How to Pay for Surgery

    How can you afford these expensive surgeries, and who is ultimately responsible for the bill at the end of the day? It’s essential to know all your options for how to pay for surgery after a motorcycle accident—including holding the at-fault driver liable for injury compensation. 

    Using Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or MedPay Coverage 

    Some people assume that if they have car insurance or motorcycle insurance, it covers any expenses related to accidents that they have. Unfortunately, this isn’t necessarily true, and the vast majority of people don’t carry enough insurance or the right type to cover all accident injury expenses.

    Some motorcycle riders in Washington may have optional Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or MedPay as part of their vehicle insurance plan. PIP covers medical bills and other expenses, like lost wages, while MedPay only covers medical expenses.  

    However, it’s important to note that motorists and motorcycle riders aren’t required by Washington state law to carry PIP. Although most insurers are mandated to offer it, riders can reject the coverage in writing. 

    Unless you’ve elected for more coverage, PIP plans often only cover the first $10,000 of medical costs. The surgery or surgeries that you require after a crash may be significantly more than that, especially in addition to other medical expenses such as: 

    • Emergency room treatment 
    • Ambulance rides 
    • Doctors’ visits 
    • Medication 
    • Medical equipment 
    • Therapy and rehabilitation 

    How to Pay for Surgery After a Motorcycle Accident: Health Insurance Coverage 

    Your private or public health insurance plan may be another option for paying for surgeries related to motorcycle crash injuries. However, you shouldn’t assume all your medical costs will be covered by insurance. As you might know from past experience, health insurance often only kicks in after you hit an annual deductible, and many plans require copays or for you to pay a certain percentage of costs. 

    In addition, your insurance may not cover certain medications, medical equipment, and other associated costs of surgery and recovery, like lost wages. 

    The bottom line? Even with PIP, MedPay, and health insurance coverage, the surgeries you require for full recovery are expensive.

    Responsibility of the Parties at Fault to Compensate for Your Injuries

    In Washington, the individual or entities found liable for the accident should also be held responsible for footing the bill. Clearly establishing who was at fault for your bike accident is vital for getting your surgery costs covered and reimbursed—and a skilled motorcycle injury lawyer may be able to help you do that. 

    In many cases, a few of your early medical expenses may be covered by a PIP or MedPay plan. Then, if you have health insurance, it might also cover some or most of your medical expenses like surgery, depending on your policy.

    However, if you file a claim and have the at-fault party’s insurance coverage pay for your medical expenses, you’ll be paid for your out-of-pocket costs and your insurer is reimbursed for its payments as well. 

    Paying for Future Medical Costs 

    It’s imperative to keep in mind that medical costs don’t end after your initial trip to the emergency room or after surgery. Treatment expenses can continue for days, months, or even years after a motorcycle accident. You may require ongoing medications, rehabilitation, or follow-up surgeries—and these costs add up. 

    For this reason, you must ensure that your legal team thoroughly calculates and secures compensation for your past, current, and future medical needs when filing a motorcycle accident claim. 

    Think Before Signing Settlement Offers 

    Insurance companies often attempt to save money by quickly sending motorcycle crash victims settlement offers after a crash, especially if it’s obvious their policyholder was at fault. These settlement offers frequently underestimate all related medical expenses—and signing these offers may result in you getting stuck with more costs in the future.

    Be sure to speak with a knowledgeable Seattle motorcycle accident attorney before giving statements about your accident to insurers and definitely prior to accepting any offers.

  • Should I pursue a dram shop claim in Washington after a drunk driving accident?

    Almost everyone knows that drinking and driving is not only against the law but also patently unsafe. However—and despite years of legislation—a stunning percentage of Americans admit to having driven a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. And with alarming regularity, accidents happen. Understanding Washington State’s Dram Shop Laws

    Under Washington state law, drunk driving accident victims have a legal right to file a claim for compensation against the person or party who caused their accident. When restaurants, bars, and social hosts continue to serve alcohol to clearly intoxicated visitors or to minors, they could be held liable for the costs of their own negligence. 

    Washington State’s Dram Shop Laws

    The Evergreen State, along with most other states, has enacted “dram shop” legislation. Dram shop laws provide a critical opportunity for accident victims to file legal claims against third parties that enable or otherwise facilitate an intoxicated motorist’s inebriation.

    In Washington, dram shop claims are often categorized as either of the following: 

    • First-party dram shop claims. This is a lawsuit filed against a commercial establishment—perhaps a bar or nightclub—that sells or serves alcohol to a person under 21 years of age, resulting in injury to the minor. 
    • Third-party dram shop claims. This lawsuit is filed against a commercial establishment that serves alcohol to a person who’s already intoxicated, resulting in injury or death to another party. 

    Dram shop laws demand that any person or business that serves alcohol presume that a heavily intoxicated person could cause injury to themselves or others. When representatives of bars and other establishments neglect their legal responsibilities and endanger the public, they could be held liable for the costs of any resulting accident. 

    Social Host Liability in Washington State 

    Washington’s dram shop laws provide accident victims with an opportunity to recover damages from irresponsible commercial businesses. 

    However, dram shop laws cannot typically be used to file a personal injury lawsuit against a private party—or social host—who serves alcohol to invited guests. Under most circumstances, a social host can only be found liable for accident-related damages if they serve alcohol to visitors under the age of 21. 

    The Potential Defendants in a Dram Shop Claim or Social Host Liability Lawsuit

    Some accidents are simply unavoidable. However, when another person or party’s negligence causes an accident, they could be held responsible for the costs of any accident-related injuries. 

    The potential defendants in a drunk driving or dram shop claim include, but aren’t limited to:   

    If successful, a dram shop personal injury lawsuit could provide victims with the resources needed to begin rebuilding their lives. 

    Damages Awarded in Dram Shop Claims

    If a Washington court finds that a drunk driver or dram shop defendant is liable for an accident, it may award damages to the victim, which are defined as compensation for injuries caused by a negligent third party. Injuries can be physical, financial, or emotional. 

    Damages are typically categorized as any of the following: 

    • Economic damages. This award provides financial recovery for objective, tangible losses, including reimbursement for paid medical expenses, compensation for anticipated care, and lost income from work
    • Non-economic damages. These cover comparably intangible losses, such as emotional pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment. 
    • Punitive damages. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are a court- or jury-imposed award intended to punish an incredibly negligent defendant. 

    Washington, unlike some states, currently doesn’t cap the damages available in most dram shop claims. However, a strict statute of limitations applies to most personal injury claims. If you wait too long to contact an experienced Seattle-area dram shop attorney, the statute of limitations could lapse, and your claim could be dismissed on a technicality.

  • Can the insurance company spy on me after I file a motorcycle accident claim?

    After an accident, motorcyclists face a high risk of sustaining severe and potentially life-altering injuries. Even when a full physical recovery seems likely, unexpected medical debt accumulates quickly. With the high costs of health care only continuing to rise, any accident—no matter how minor—could leave individuals on the verge of insolvency. 

    Motorcycle accident victims don’t need to pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Under Washington state’s tort-based insurance system, motorcyclists injured in an accident that wasn’t their fault have a legal right to file a claim for compensation. However, insurance company surveillance is a common tactic used to reduce or even deny a claim.  Insurance company surveillance in Seattle motorcycle accident

    Insurance Companies and Surveillance 

    Accidents can be expensive. Since most Americans cannot afford to pay collision-related expenses out-of-pocket, every state—with the exception of New Hampshire—requires motorists to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance

    Since Washington has a fault-based insurance system, motorcycle accident victims can file a claim for compensation against the at-fault motorist’s insurance company. However, insurance companies are fundamentally for-profit enterprises. While obliged to offer benefits to an injured rider, rarely do they offer a fair settlement without first issuing an investigation. During this process, an adjuster assigned to your claim could: 

    Even if you have the necessary evidence to establish the other driver’s fault and substantiate your injuries, their insurance company could proactively search for a reason—any reason—to undermine your claim, watching your every move until you make a mistake. This surveillance can be intrusive, inconvenient, and unnerving. 

    Unfortunately, the practice is largely legal. So long as the insurance company’s investigators don’t trespass upon your property or attempt to enter your place of business, they may follow you, photograph you, and even take videos of you. 

    How Insurance Investigators Keep Tabs on Motorcycle Accident Claimants 

    Here are just a few ways insurance investigators sometimes keep tabs on motorcycle accident claimants.

    Pictures and Video Footage 

    When an adjuster believes a motorcycle accident claim has been exaggerated or falsified, they could contract a private investigator to monitor an individual in many ways, such as when they: 

    • Run errands
    • Go to the gym
    • Take a vacation 

    If the investigator finds a claimant participating in activities that wouldn’t be possible if the injury were genuine, they’re permitted to take pictures or covertly create a video record to use as evidence in later negotiations.  

    Interviewing the Victim’s Associates 

    Insurance company surveillance sometimes includes soliciting interviews from people it believes could have knowledge about the motorcycle accident victim’s physical well-being. Potential interviewees include:

    • Friends and family members 
    • Neighbors 
    • Coworkers 

    During investigative interviews, an adjuster may ask questions about the individual’s routines, habits, and lifestyle. The purpose of such interviews is to determine any inconsistencies between the victim’s claims and their post-accident actions.  

    Monitoring the Victim’s Social Media 

    After an accident, investigators may seek limited access to the victim’s social media accounts, including: 

    • Facebook 
    • Twitter 
    • YouTube profile 
    • Instagram 
    • TikTok

    While social media has many advantages, an unsecured account can act as a veritable treasure trove of information for insurance investigators, who could use vacation pictures, routine updates, and location check-ins as evidence that a claimant has exaggerated their injuries.

  • How much insurance money should I get after a Seattle motorcycle accident?

    Motorcycle crashes can have life-altering consequences. After an accident, victims often struggle to regain control of their lives and reestablish their independence. While Washington state law affords survivors the right to file a claim for compensation against the person or party who caused their accident, obtaining damages can prove unexpectedly difficult. There are three critical factors that affect your motorcycle accident claim—here’s what you should know.Seattle Motorcycle Accident Claim

    Assessing Damages and Estimating Compensation in a Seattle-area Motorcycle Crash Claim 

    Washington has a tort-based insurance system. Under the Evergreen State’s at-fault insurance laws, accident victims may file a claim for compensation against the motorist who caused their crash. However, securing fair compensation—even in an at-fault insurance state—poses considerable challenges. It might seem you have an open-and-shut case, yet your settlement’s size and success could be contingent on the following factors. 

    Determination of Fault 

    Establishing fault after a Washington motorcycle accident is potentially difficult if there weren’t eyewitnesses and physical evidence is inconclusive. Unless the other motorist is willing to admit they made a mistake, it could be your word against theirs. 

    Since insurance companies are fundamentally for-profit enterprises, they often seize any excuse—no matter how minor—to devalue or deny compensation. If their client claims the accident wasn’t their fault, they could try to pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement by demanding never-ending evidence of your injuries, paid medical expenses, and other damages. 

    Insurance Coverage Limits 

    Washington state law requires any person who owns a motor vehicle or motorcycle to purchase liability insurance that meets or exceeds the following amounts:  

    • $25,000 for injuries or death to another person. 
    • $50,000 for injuries or death to other persons. 
    • $10,000 for property damage. 

    Even if you can establish that the other motorist definitively caused your Seattle-area motorcycle accident, your recovery could be limited—at least initially—by their policy limits. However, if your damages exceed the at-fault motorist’s coverages, you could still obtain additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit

    Anti-Motorcycle Bias 

    While it may not be fair—or even particularly sensible—anti-motorcycle bias exists, and it can present a significant impediment to accident victims’ rights. When insurance adjusters, judges, and juries are impacted by anti-motorcycle bias, they may be more inclined to believe that the motorcyclist’s own misconduct caused or contributed to the accident. 

    Since Washington has enacted comparative negligence laws, any finding of fault—even partial fault—could chip away at an injured victim’s award, depriving them of the same compensation they need to eradicate their medical debt or replace lost income from missed work. 

    How a Washington Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Helps Fight for Your Rights 

    Insurance negotiations are rarely straightforward. However, you don’t have to entrust your physical health and mental well-being to an adjuster who may be more motivated by profit margins than your pain and suffering. A savvy Washington motorcycle accident lawyer stands up for your rights by: 

    • Assessing your damages. Currently, the state doesn’t cap damages available to motorcycle accident claimants. Your lawyer could help review your medical bills, total your property damage, and consult with health care professionals to determine your long-term and continuing care needs. We will only begin negotiating a settlement after we comprehensively understand the resources necessary to reclaim your independence. 
    • Analyzing evidence from the crash site. Your attorney is an essential ally in analyzing evidence from the accident site, such as photographs of your visible injuries or vehicle damage. If you were unable to collect evidence from the scene of the crash, we could dispatch investigators to preserve any evidence that might otherwise be lost or disposed of. 
    • Interviewing eyewitnesses. Eyewitness testimony can make or break a motorcycle accident claim. We provide assistance by interviewing eyewitnesses whose information you have already collected, or locating potential witnesses who may have seen the collision firsthand. 
    • Negotiating a fair settlement. An experienced Washington motorcycle attorney has spent years litigating claims against insurance companies and negligent motorists. Your lawyer should know what to expect going into negotiations and have the means to overcome even the most vigorous of defenses. 

  • Why is the insurance company delaying my car accident claim?

    In the aftermath of a serious Washington car accident, survivors often look to the at-fault motorist’s insurance company to recompense. However, negotiating a fair settlement is rarely easy. Even if you have a seemingly open-and-close case, the adjuster could take days, weeks, or even months to offer a settlement—a settlement that may fall short of your expectations, leaving you in debt and on the brink of financial insolvency. Insurance company delayed car accident claim in Washington

    Understanding Why Insurance Companies Delay Negotiations 

    Washington State requires every vehicle operating on public roads to be supported by liability coverage. Under the state’s fault-based insurance system, this liability coverage can be used to pay down the costs of an accident. 

    However, insurance companies often have motivations beyond good-faith negotiations. While they might have a legal obligation to provide compensation, they sometimes try to delay payment for as long as possible. A carrier might delay a claim for any one or more of the following reasons:  

    • The adjuster needs additional evidence to adjudicate or make a formal decision on the claim. 
    • The adjuster believes a claim is either fraudulent or exaggerated. 
    • The insurance company wishes to avoid incurring a loss and hopes the victim will either grow tired of never-ending negotiations and accept a lower settlement or simply bear the accident and medical expenses out-of-pocket 

    Some claims—especially claims relating to serious, life-altering injuries—take time to assess and adjudicate. The adjuster may be obliged to obtain, inspect, and evaluate a wide range of evidence, from crash scene data to medical records. Depending on the severity of an accident, simply poring over this paperwork can take weeks. 

    However, some delays have less to do with formalities than the insurance carrier’s own financial incentives. Since these companies are fundamentally for-profit enterprises, they may seek to preserve their profit margins by intentionally taking time to even initiate negotiations. 

    How Insurance Companies Create Self-Serving Delays 

    If the carrier wishes to avoid making an offer, it could fabricate delays by: 

    Demanding Endless Amounts of Evidence 

    After a serious Washington car accident, an adjuster needs limited access to: 

    • Crash scene evidence 
    • Medical records 
    • Eyewitness statements and testimony 

    When assessing an individual claim, the adjuster may consider the totality of this evidence to determine fault and calculate an initial settlement offer. However, insurance companies sometimes ask for records they know most people cannot procure, especially if weeks or months have passed since the initial accident. 

    Claiming Your Injuries Are Fraudulent or Exaggerated 

    Adjusters are sometimes skeptical of certain claims, especially those involving: 

    Insurance providers can’t be faulted for doing their due diligence on every case. However, if the adjuster takes an inordinate amount of time to conclude an investigation, they may not suspect fraud—they may simply be searching for an excuse to reduce your compensation or deny benefits. 

    Acting in Bad Faith 

    In a worst-case scenario, a carrier could act in bad faith, making it difficult to establish an initial point of contact. Even if it received your claim and stated it’s actively being reviewed, an adjuster might refuse to take your phone calls, ignore emails, and ask questions they know you can’t answer. 

    Why Delays Can Devastate Legitimate Insurance Claims 

    Insurance companies sometimes need more time to finalize a claim—but if they act in bad faith to avoid paying a significant settlement, they put accident victims’ lives and livelihoods on the line. 

    A delay could cause difficulties including, but not limited to: 

    • Late compensation. Even if the company eventually offers a fair settlement, you may have already accrued significant medical debt—expenses that you might be able to pay off with this compensation, but meanwhile, you experienced difficulties sustaining yourself in the months after an accident. 
    • Loss of evidence. If an adjuster or the court has any questions about liability, delayed negotiations can result in the loss of critical evidence. Without the right evidence, the insurance company may refuse to even consider your claim. 
    Legal limitations. Washington doesn’t limit compensation in most car accident claims, but it does have a strict statute of limitations. If a carrier takes too long assessing your case, the statute of limitations could lapse, preventing you from filing a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages.

  • What is a truck accident lawyer?

    Truck accident lawyers in the Seattle areaThe aftermath of a semi-truck crash can be catastrophic. If you were injured in a Seattle-area semi-truck accident that wasn’t your fault, you might feel fortunate to have simply survived. However, securing the compensation needed to move past serious and potentially life-altering injuries might seem impossible. Even if the semi-truck driver was clearly at fault, they—or their employer—could dispute the claim, telling the court that your negligence either caused or contributed to the collision. 

    You likely stand your best chance at reaching a fair settlement with competent legal representation. But do you know what semi-truck accident attorneys do and what makes them more qualified to handle commercial vehicle claims than other lawyers? We’ll explain.

    Why Semi-Truck Lawyers Differ From Other Personal Injury Attorneys 

    A personal injury attorney must be admitted to the Washington state bar and licensed to practice law in the Evergreen State. Some personal injury attorneys have general practices: they might accept premises liability claims, defective product cases, and the occasional wrongful death action. Others almost exclusively represent people injured in certain types of accidents. 

    Semi-truck lawyers are personal injury attorneys who have litigated numerous commercial vehicle claims. They’re well-versed in the local, state, and federal laws that regulate the interstate transportation industry and are familiar with the strategies that trucking companies and their insurers employ in court and know how to counter them. A savvy truck accident attorney also has the results to prove that they know how to fight for their clients’ rights.  

    Understanding What Makes Truck Accident Claims Unique 

    Semi-truck accident lawsuits are, at least on the surface, similar to other motor vehicle claims. If a truck driver clearly caused a collision, then they could be found liable for the costs of any resulting injuries

    Otherwise, the similarities between semi-truck accident claims and other motor vehicle claims are superficial. Since the interstate trucking industry is regulated at the local, state, and federal levels, truck drivers—and their employers—are required to follow many regulations. 

    For example: 

    • Truck drivers are mandated by law to take regular drug and alcohol tests.
    • Commercial vehicle operators are only allowed to operate their vehicles for a set number of hours each day and must have scheduled meals and rest.
    • Tractor-trailers must be regularly inspected, maintained, and repaired.

    Companies must keep records proving they comply with these laws. If a trucking company fails to maintain the right records, this could be evidence that it violated a legal duty to exercise a reasonable standard of care. 

    How a Semi-Truck Lawyer Can Help You Win a Personal Injury Lawsuit 

    An experienced Seattle-area truck accident lawyer knows how to build a compelling, evidence-based claim for recoverable damages. Your attorney could help you: 

    • Investigate the crash site, collecting, preserving, and analyzing any evidence to substantiate your injuries and prove the other driver’s fault. 
    • Compile and assess your medical bills to prove the accident resulted in serious injuries. 
    • Determine who should be held liable for your crash-related injuries. The potential defendants may be the truck driver, the trucking company, a cargo shipper, or even a  vehicle manufacturer
    • Interview eyewitnesses and consult industry experts. 
    • Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
    • Take the case to trial if the adjuster refuses to offer a fair settlement.

  • What does a car accident lawyer do?

    young woman sitting next to rear-end car crashMaking sense of a car accident can be difficult without the right assistance. You might know that the other motorist was at fault yet still struggle to negotiate a fair settlement with their insurer. Even if you have evidence of their wrongdoing and medical records to substantiate your injuries, the adjuster might refuse to listen to reason, coming up with a never-ending list of excuses to delay your claim.

    An experienced Seattle-area car accident attorney can not only help you overcome the insurance company’s excuses, but he can also fight to secure the compensation you need and the justice you deserve.

    The Advantages of Hiring a Washington Automobile Accident Attorney

    Your Washington car crash lawyer does far more than argue your case in court. An experienced advocate can help you by:

    Proving You Have Standing to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit

    Car accident claims are often dependent on the availability of evidence. Like most other states, Washington’s civil code requires that personal injury plaintiffs establish the following elements when pleading a case:

    1. The at-fault motorist owed you a duty of care, meaning that they had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle in a reasonable and safe manner.
    2. The at-fault motorist breached their duty of care by acting negligently.
    3. The at-fault motorist’s negligence caused your injuries.
    4. You suffered damages that can be recovered in court.

    An attorney will help you establish the standing needed to file a lawsuit by collecting evidence of the other motorist’s wrongdoing.

    Collecting Evidence of Fault

    Even if the other motorist has openly admitted liability, their insurance company might still refuse to grant the damages you deserve if you lack the evidence needed to not only establish fault but substantiate your injuries.

    Your Seattle-area car crash lawyer could help you collect the evidence needed to prevail in court by:

    • Reviewing law enforcement reports
    • Taking photographs of the crash site
    • Subpoenaing surveillance camera footage
    • Obtaining a court order to review the at-fault driver’s cell phone call log and text message history 
    • Analyzing your medical records
    • Interviewing eyewitnesses
    • Collaborating with safety experts to prove that you did not cause the accident
    • Referring you to medical specialists to assess your immediate medical needs and long-term care requirements

    Calculating Your Damages

    Washington allows automobile accident victims to obtain compensation for:

    • Economic damages. Economic damages reimburse objective, quantifiable monetary losses resulting from an accident. Your economic damages could include your medical expenses, physical rehabilitation costs, and lost income from work.
    • Non-economic damages. Non-economic damages are compensation for comparably subjective losses, such as emotional pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment in life, and disfigurement.

    Since the Evergreen State does not cap the damages available in most personal injury claims, you could receive the compensation you need to rebuild your life and reclaim your independence.

    However, calculating damages can be difficult, especially if you have continuing care needs or harder-to-quantify non-economic damages. Your attorney will refer to state law, court rulings, and precedents to determine a fair amount of compensation.

    Standing Up to the Insurance Company

    Insurance companies often do little to alleviate the pain and suffering caused by a car crash. All too often, accident victims expect that the at-fault motorist’s insurer will reimburse their medical costs and lost wages. However, this expectation is routinely challenged by adjusters who seem skeptical of every claim—adjusters who, it may seem, do everything in their power to deprive victims of their deserved compensation.

    Since car crash lawyers have extensive experience advocating for their clients’ rights, we understand the strategies that insurance companies use to save money. We do not let adjusters bury our clients with paperwork or subject them to never-ending demands for ever-more medical examinations, phone calls, and statements.

    Your attorney could take over communications with the insurance company, letting you focus on your physical recovery while we focus on holding the at-fault motorist and their insurer accountable.

    How to Choose the Right Seattle Car Crash Attorney

    When you visit a Washington car crash attorney for your initial consultation, you should prepare a list of questions. Consider asking the following:

    • Do you have experience handling Washington car crash claims?
    • What steps do I need to take to protect my legal rights to recovery?
    • What information do you need to evaluate my case?
    • Who will handle my claim: a senior lawyer or an associate?
    • How often will you communicate with me about my claim?
    • Do you expect clients to pay out-of-pocket, or do you take new cases on a contingency fee basis?
    • Do you think that I have a worthwhile claim?

    Before committing to a car crash attorney, do your due diligence: visit their website, read client testimonials, and see whether they have delivered worthwhile results to similar clients. Remember: a consultation is not legally binding, and you should never feel obliged to hire a lawyer who makes you feel uncomfortable or undervalued.

  • Do I need a lawyer if another driver caused my crash by running a red light?

    red light at city intersectionEverybody knows that travel in and around Seattle can be stressful. However, motorists are still expected to respect the rules of the road, regardless of whether they are late to work or on their way to an important appointment. Unfortunately, not everybody exercises due diligence. When drivers run through red lights—whether intentionally or by accident—they endanger not only themselves but everyone around them.

    Red-Light Accident Claims Aren’t Always Open-and-Shut

    If you or a loved one has been injured after another motorist ran a red light and struck your vehicle, you could be entitled to significant compensation through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.

    While common sense should suggest that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident, establishing fault in insurance negotiations or in court could present unexpected challenges. Insurance companies are, after all, for-profit enterprises: for better or for worse, they are motivated primarily by profit—and paying large, comprehensive accident settlements is usually anything but good for profits.  

    Instead of accepting the evidence and taking you at your word, the insurance adjuster will likely try to save their employer money by finding any reason to devalue or deny your claim. They could:

    • Use your words against you. Shortly after your accident, the insurance adjuster might ask you to provide a recorded statement. While providing a recorded statement might seem like an ideal way to tell your side of the story, the adjuster likely has motivations beyond hearing your account of the accident: in all probability, they will analyze your statement for any and all discrepancies, hoping to find a way to minimize their liability. Since simply apologizing for the accident could jeopardize your settlement, you should never consent to a conversation with an insurance adjuster without first consulting an experienced Washington car accident attorney.
    • Use your medical history against you. Washington law allows insurance companies to request that accident victims submit to an “independent medical examination.” These examinations are conducted by supposedly impartial physicians, who will assess your post-accident injuries and write a report for the adjuster. However, independent medical examinations are often anything but impartial. While the examiner might be a trained and highly experienced practitioner, insurance companies usually refer clients to the same pool of physicians—physicians who are very aware of the fact that they owe much of their business to the insurance company and may be more inclined to issue adverse decisions against prospective claimants.
    • Use your evidence against you. Even if you have a dashcam recording or other seemingly unassailable evidence, the insurance company could still find a way to use it against you. If you had been talking on your cell phone at the time of the accident—or even changing radio stations—the adjuster could claim that you were also negligent. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, then the insurance company could reduce your settlement proportionate to its, or the court’s, determination of fault.

    How an Attorney Could Help You Overcome the Insurance Company’s Obstacles

    You should never have to pay the price for another motorist’s negligence. Max Meyers Law could help you overcome the insurance company’s attempts to minimize your settlement by:

    • Investigating the causes and circumstances of your accident
    • Subpoenaing critical evidence, such as surveillance camera footage, the other motorist’s cell phone records, and vehicle “black box” data
    • Interviewing potential eyewitnesses
    • Referring you to skilled medical practitioners who could help evaluate your injuries and determine your long-term care needs
    • Communicating with the insurance company on your behalf, letting you focus on your physical health and mental well-being while we advocate for your best interests in court

    While Washington state does not currently cap the damages that car accident victims could receive in a settlement or court award, the Evergreen State does have a strict statute of limitations: if you wait too long to take action, the court could dismiss your complaint without giving you the chance to tell your side of the story.

  • Do I need a truck accident attorney?

    Semi-Trucks Traveling on a Busy RoadwayAny automobile accident could have catastrophic consequences. However, semi-truck collisions are often devastating to another level, thrusting victims to the brink of physical collapse and financial ruin. While Washington law affords victims the right to file a claim for compensation, negotiating a fair settlement could prove an immense challenge, with the insurance company’s attorneys and adjusters employing every imaginable strategy to reduce their own liability—often, unfortunately, at the accident victim’s expense. Our Kirkland auto accident attorney explains more.

    The Biggest Signs You Need to Speak to an Attorney

    People often make the mistake of thinking they can take on the insurance company by themselves. However, transportation and logistics is a multi-billion-dollar industry: even small, mom-and-pop companies—let alone their Fortune 500 competitors—usually have their own attorneys, whose sole objective is ensuring that their clients remain as profitable as possible.

    Unfortunately, paying big settlements is rarely good for a corporation’s bottom line. While the trucking company and its insurer might offer compensation, their settlement may not account for the totality of your damages.

    Before negotiating with the adjuster or signing off on a settlement, consider whether:

    • You have suffered serious injuries. If your injuries have left you in debt, unable to work, or in need of additional medical care, the insurance company might be reluctant to offer compensation beyond what you already owe—even if you need more money for future expenses.
    • The accident has left you disabled. Semi-truck accidents can be so catastrophic that transportation companies are required by law to retain large liability insurance policies. While the policy may be able to accommodate disability-related expenses, calculating the costs of your long-term health care requirements, anticipated medical expenses, and loss of opportunity can be incredibly difficult without the right legal background.
    • A third party contributed to your accident. Any collision involving a commercial vehicle has the potential to quickly become complicated, especially if a third party’s misconduct caused or contributed to the accident. An experienced Washington semi-truck accident attorney could help investigate the circumstances of your crash, holding every wrongdoer—be it the semi-truck driver, the trucking company, a vehicle parts maker, or a cargo shipper—responsible for their negligence.

    How a Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Could Help You

    A semi-truck accident attorney could help you:

    • Determine liability. Semi-truck accidents often involve multiple defendants. Even if the truck driver single-handedly caused your accident, their mistake could have been influenced by poor employer policies, inadequate maintenance, or a cargo loading oversight. An attorney could help you establish liability and file claims against multiple defendants, maximizing your chances of receiving a fair settlement. 
    • Construct a case. Your 18-wheeler accident lawyer could investigate your case, analyze law enforcement reports, review the trucking company’s safety history, and interview eyewitnesses—building a compelling, evidence-based claim for compensation while you focus on maintaining your physical health and emotional well-being.
    • Advocate your interests. While you might think that you have an open-and-close case, you will still need to persuade the insurance company or the court that the trucking company’s negligence caused your accident. Oftentimes, this is far easier said than done, requiring repeated exchanges of evidence and out-of-court attempts at mediation. 

    Your Potential Damages After a Commercial Vehicle Collision

    Max Meyers Law could help you claim compensation for damages such as:

    Washington state does not currently cap the compensation available to semi-truck accident victims. However, you have to act fast: the Evergreen State has a strict statute of limitations on all personal injury claims. If you wait too long to take action, the court could automatically dismiss your claim, preventing you from recovering anything.

  • Can I afford to hire a truck accident lawyer?

    lawyer highlighting no win no fee wordsHiring a Washington Truck Accident Lawyer

    The aftermath of a Washington truck accident can be catastrophic. While you might feel fortunate to have simply survived, the costs of recovery could be enormous. You might be forced to take time away from work, even as your medical bills continue to mount. Regaining your physical and financial independence could seem impossible, especially if you do not have the money to hire an experienced attorney.

    Fortunately, Seattle-area auto crash victims can get skilled representation at a price anyone can afford. 

    Max Meyers Law Knows You Can Afford an Experienced Attorney

    People often make the mistake of thinking that experienced personal injury attorneys charge massive amounts of money for their services. However, Max Meyers Law is not like other law firms. While we do have years of experience advocating for semi-truck accident victims across the state, we work exclusively on what is called a “contingency fee” basis.

    Attorneys who operate on a contingency fee basis do not charge their clients any money up-front. Instead, we only accept payment as a percentage of your eventual settlement. If we cannot win your case, we do not get paid—period. 

    The Benefits of Working With a Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer

    Every semi-truck accident case is different. Max Meyers Law could help you win yours by:

    • Investigating the causes of your wreck. Even if you have a seemingly open-and-shut case, the court will still expect that you have the evidence needed to show that the semi-truck driver, or their employer, was responsible for your accident. While this might not seem challenging, transportation logistics companies often have dedicated attorneys who do nothing except fight accident claims. Even if the company does not have its own counsel, its insurance company almost certainly does. A lawyer could help you review the driver’s safety history, subpoena the company’s violation records, and analyze any crash-site evidence needed to demonstrate that fault.
    • Identifying the right defendants. Semi-truck accident cases are very different from ordinary car crash claims. Oftentimes, 18-wheeler collisions involve multiple defendants, such as the semi-truck driver, the trucking company, or even the truck manufacturer.
    • Preserving your evidence. A semi-truck accident attorney could help you obtain and protect the evidence needed to win your case. For example, we could petition the court to compel the trucking company to preserve the internal documents, correspondences, and records relevant to your case.
    • Consulting experts. Recovering from a semi-truck crash can take time. If you sustained particularly severe injuries, you might not be able to return to your pre-accident condition in a matter of weeks, months, or even years. Max Meyers Law could refer you to medical specialists who can help assess your long-term care needs, allowing us to negotiate a settlement that covers damages beyond your existing hospital bills.
    • Negotiating a comprehensive settlement. Negotiating a holistic settlement can be difficult. While the insurance adjuster might feel some sympathy for your injuries, their ultimate loyalties lie with their employer. Since insurance companies are for-profit businesses, it is rarely in their best interest to provide an accident victim with the largest permissible settlement. A Seattle-area semi-truck accident attorney could help you protect your rights to a fair recovery by aggressively advocating for your best interests.

  • Who is at fault for a backover car accident?

    Man Using a Backup Camera When Parking in WashingtonBackover car accidents are so common that most automobile manufacturers consider rear-facing cameras a practical necessity. However, our Washington semi truck accident even advances in modern technology have failed to drastically reduce the annual death and injury toll of these tragic and often preventable accidents.

    How Do Backover Car Accidents Happen?

    A backover car accident happens when a motorist who is reversing their vehicle causes a collision. A backover car accident could occur when:

    • An inattentive or distracted motorist reverses out of their driveway into oncoming traffic.
    • A driver who missed a turn attempts to back up from a stop sign or traffic control signal without realizing there is a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcycle rider behind them.
    • An apartment resident or shopper pulls out of a parking spot without checking behind them.

    Who Is Most Likely to Get Injured in a Backover Automobile Collision?

    Backover car crashes are most likely to affect:

    Where Do Backover Car Accidents Most Often Occur?

    Perhaps not surprisingly, backovers most often occur in non-traffic conditions. These accidents are frequently reported in:

    • Driveways
    • Residential areas
    • City streets
    • Nonresidential parking lots

    How Common Are Backover Car Accidents?

    Unfortunately, while backover accidents are almost always preventable, they happen with alarming regularity. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

    • An estimated 292 people are killed in backover car accidents each and every year.
    • An additional 13,000 to 14,000 people are injured in backover collisions annually.

    While semi-trucks and other heavy, commercial vehicles are responsible for a disproportionate number of backover-related facilities, these accidents are most often caused by ordinary passenger vehicles.

    Are Backover Car Accident Injuries Serious?

    While most backover car accidents happen at relatively low speeds, they can still have devastating consequences. Common backover car accident injuries include but are not limited to:

    • Serious bruises and contusions
    • Cuts, scrapes, and lacerations
    • Road rash
    • Broken or fractured bones
    • Head injuries
    • Traumatic brain injuries
    • Internal organ injuries
    • Amputation

    Children are at especially high risk for sustaining serious backover car accident injuries, since the at-fault motorist may not be immediately aware that they have caused an accident.

    How Can I Demonstrate Fault After a Backover Car Accident?

    If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a Washington backover car accident that was not your fault, you could be entitled to significant compensation through an insurance settlement or personal injury claim. You could bolster your chances of making a successful legal recovery by:

    • Seeking immediate medical attention. Even if you do not believe the backover accident caused any serious injuries, you should always seek medical attention after being involved in a backover collision.
    • Collecting evidence. If you do not require emergency medical services, you could take photographs of the accident site, as well as any visible injuries or property damage caused by the at-fault motorist.
    • Speaking to eyewitnesses. If you believe that another person may have witnessed the backover accident, ask them for their full name, phone number, and other contact information.
    • Contacting an attorney. You likely stand your best chance of making a comprehensive recovery when you have a Washington personal injury attorney on your side. Even if you were not able to gather evidence after the incident, Max Meyers Law could immediately dispatch professional investigators to review the circumstances of your accident and begin creating a compelling case for recovery.

    While these accidents can have long-lasting effects, Max Meyers Law believes that nobody should have to bear the financial burden of another person’s negligence. Our experienced attorneys could help you fight for fair compensation, hold a wrongdoer accountable for their misconduct, and secure the settlement you need to begin rebuilding your life after a tragic and preventable accident.

  • How long does it take to get compensation after a Washington semi-truck accident?

    injured and annoyed man sitting by bed in hospitalCompensation After a Washington Truck Accident

    Truck accident claims can pose unexpected difficulties, especially if they involve serious injuries and multiple defendants. While you should never have to wait to receive compensation for an accident that was not your fault, insurance negotiations and litigation can be time-consuming processes. Although you could receive a settlement offer in a matter of weeks, your case’s timeline will likely depend on an assortment of other circumstances, including the at-fault party’s willingness to admit liability and agree to a fair resolution.

    An experienced Washington semi truck accident attorney can help you resolve your claim quickly. However, you should be skeptical of anyone who promises a settlement check within a matter of days, weeks, or even months.

    The Timeline for Typical Semi-Truck Injury Settlements

    Nobody—not even an experienced lawyer—can tell you how long it will take to settle your claim.

    Every personal injury case is different. In general, semi-truck-related litigation takes longer to resolve than automobile-related lawsuits. Before you can receive a settlement, you must still:

    • File an accident report in accordance with Washington state law.
    • Notify the trucking company and its insurer of your claim.
    • Document your accident-related injuries.
    • Provide evidence of the semi-truck driver and trucking company’s negligence.
    • File an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
    • Negotiate a settlement, or prepare for a court trial if negotiations fail.

    Why Semi-Truck Accidents Take Longer to Resolve Than Car Crashes

    Even though semi-truck companies are required by law to purchase and maintain high-limit liability policies, insurance agencies are still for-profit enterprises. Consequently, insurance companies are usually more concerned about their profit margins than an accident victim’s physical and financial well-being. Even if the semi-truck driver or their employer was clearly at-fault, the insurance adjuster might still try to devalue your settlement by challenging your treatment or arguing over the costs of your long-term care.

    You likely stand your best chance of recovery when you have an experienced, competent attorney advocating for your rights. Without legal counsel, the defendants and their insurers are unlikely to take your claim seriously. They could present you with unfair settlement offers or try to use your own words against you. Even if you are clearly entitled to compensation, they might still try to wear you down, asking for never-ending documentary evidence and disputing your calculation for compensatory damages.

    What Influences the Duration of a Semi-Truck Accident Claim

    While there is no “average” time to settle a semi-truck accident claim, your lawsuit could be affected by:

    • How fast you act. Washington affords every resident the right to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit after a serious semi-truck-related accident. However, the state also has a strict statute of limitations. If you wait too long to take action, the statute of limitations could prevent you from securing compensation, even if you had an otherwise open-and-shut case.
    • The quality of available evidence. Insurance companies will not usually negotiate high-value settlements in the absence of compelling evidence. Even if you were unable to take photographs of the accident site or speak to law enforcement after the crash, an experienced Seattle-area semi-truck attorney could help you investigate the cause and circumstances of your accident.
    • The extent of your injuries. Semi-truck companies and their insurance carriers are usually less likely to offer “easy” settlements if you sustained serious injuries, like a lost limb or irreversible cognitive damage, that require expensive medical treatment and long-term care.
    • The number of potential defendants. Unlike conventional automobile accidents, semi-truck-related lawsuits usually involve multiple defendants. You might have to file separate claims against the semi-truck driver, the trucking company, and even an automotive parts maker. Max Meyers Law could help you determine who should bear the costs associated with your legal recovery.
    • Whether you hire a lawyer. Insurance companies often recommend that claimants negotiate a settlement independently, saying that a lawyer will “only make things more difficult.” However, research has shown—time and time again—that semi-truck crash victims who have lawyers are more likely to both successfully settle their claim and receive more compensation than victims who do not have an attorney.

  • Do I need a lawyer if a driver hit me while I was riding my bike?

    two men riding bikes in a citySeattle and its suburbs are among the most bicycle-friendly cities in the United States. However, accidents still happen with alarming regularity. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a bicycle crash, you could be entitled to significant compensation. An experienced Washington bicycle accident attorney could help you secure the settlement you need and the justice you deserve.

    Determining If You Need a Washington Injury Attorney

    Bicycle accidents are not always serious. If you did not sustain any significant injuries in the crash, you might not require legal representation. However, you should consider contacting an attorney if:

    • You had to take an ambulance to the hospital.
    • You were forced to take time away from work to recover from your injuries.
    • You are unable to resume work or partake in ordinary activities because you are in pain or disabled.
    • You suspect you suffered a concussion or other traumatic brain injury but have not yet received a diagnosis.

    Washington law is clear: if you have been injured in an accident that is even partially attributable to another person’s negligence, you may initiate a claim against the at-fault individual and their insurance company.

    However, before you can expect the insurance company to enter negotiations, you will have to convince the adjuster that another motorist’s negligence caused your injuries. 

    Proving Negligence After a Washington Bicycle Accident

    Even if you have a seemingly open-and-shut case, securing a fair and equitable settlement after a Seattle-area bicycle accident can present unexpected challenges. While you might know that a motorist’s misconduct caused your crash, the other motorist’s insurance company might demand a seemingly unreasonable mass of evidence to support your claim.

    Before the insurance company is willing to negotiate, you will have to demonstrate that:

    • The at-fault motorist owed you a “legal duty of care,” meaning that they had an obligation to ensure your safety;
    • The at-fault motorist negligently abrogated their legal duty of care;
    • The at-fault motorist’s negligence caused your injuries; and
    • Your injuries constitute practical, compensable damages that can be recovered in court.

    Max Meyers Law could help you secure legal relief by constructing a compelling, evidence-based claim for recompense.

    What to Do After a Serious Seattle-Area Bike Crash

    If you have been injured in a serious Seattle-area bicycle crash, you could bolster your chances of securing a fair and equitable settlement by:

    • Seeking immediate medical attention. You should always seek immediate medical attention after a bicycle accident, even if you do not believe you have been seriously injured. A physician could help you identify latent injuries, such as a traumatic brain injury, that may have taken days or weeks to begin showing symptoms. Furthermore, visiting the doctor shows the insurance company that you have genuine concerns about your physical well-being and are not simply seeking to profit off your injuries.
    • Notifying law enforcement. If you do not require on-site or emergency medical treatment, call 9-1-1 and request that an officer be dispatched to the scene of the accident. While the police may not be able to determine fault, an officer’s report could be entered into evidence in insurance negotiations or at trial.
    • Collecting evidence. You could protect your right to compensation by carefully collecting and preserving evidence from the crash. You could take pictures of the damage to the other vehicle, to your bicycle, and photograph any nearby traffic control signals, road signs, and road markings, such as a bicycle lane boundary. If another person witnessed your accident, ask them for their full name, phone number, and other contact information.
    • Contacting an attorney. Even if you were unable to gather evidence after your Seattle-area bicycle accident, Max Meyers Law could dispatch professionally trained investigators to investigate and identify the causes of your accident. We could subpoena surveillance camera footage, interview eyewitnesses, and consult medical experts who could assess the extent of your injuries and determine whether you need compensation for long-term care.