When a person is involved in an auto accident and injured by another party, chances are that a lawsuit can be filed. In Washington, the victims in an auto accident are treated more favorably than in some states, but the injured party must still be able to prove the other driver was at fault. An auto accident attorney in Silverdale will help those hurt in automobile accidents to be in the best possible position when they pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Here are some things to know about automobile accidents and the laws in Washington.
Understanding Auto Accident Law in Washington
Like other personal injuries in Washington, the injured driver has three years from the date of the accident to file the lawsuit in a civil court. If the other driver was a local or state government vehicle, the injured driver must first file a formal claim with the agency within the three-year period and then can file the personal injury lawsuit no sooner than 60 days after that. If this procedure is not followed exactly, the injured driver may forfeit the opportunity to have the case heard, and there will be no possibilities of damages being awarded.
More About Auto Accident Law in Washington
Washington employs the pure Shared Fault Rule that states if the injured party is found to be any part at fault for the accident, the percentage found at fault will be reduced from the damages that may be awarded. Even if the injured party is found to be 99 percent at fault, one percent can still be collected for the injured party. Of course, the injured party will want a better chance of recovering the maximum damages, which is why having an attorney is a wise move.
Who to Call in Silverdale
If an injured person in an accident wants to stand the best chance at winning the personal injury lawsuit, hiring an attorney with a known track record for success is key. The Law Offices of Anthony C. Otto is an example of a law firm that represents clients successfully in automobile accident lawsuits. Anyone in need to talk with an auto accident attorney in Silverdale can contact this law firm. Contact us at website.
