Auto Accident Attorney

What you do immediately after a motor vehicle accident is pivotal in building a successful personal injury claim, regardless of whether it’s a major collision or a minor fender bender. There are several critical steps to keep in mind:

• Ensuring Safety: First and foremost, check on the safety of all parties involved. If there’s any possibility of injuries, call paramedics right away.
• Legal Responsibilities: In Oregon, drivers have specific duties after an accident. These include exchanging contact and insurance information with other drivers and reporting the accident to the DMV within 72 hours. A tip: document the information received from the other driver, including their license plate.
• Medical Attention: Seek medical treatment promptly and adhere to all prescribed treatments and follow-up appointments. It’s essential to establish a thorough medical record documenting your injuries.
• Communicating with Insurance Companies: While it’s advisable to give a statement to your insurance company, be cautious about providing a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance. Keep track of your claim number and the name of your claims adjuster.

In Washington State, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically three years. This means you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit related to the car accident. However, it’s important to understand that there are exceptions and specific circumstances that may affect the deadline for your claim.

It’s highly advisable to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in personal injury cases, especially car accidents, as they can provide you with precise guidance based on the specifics of your situation.

Yes, you can still file a claim if the other driver left the scene of the crash in Washington State. Advising an auto accident attorney is the best way to go about this matter, as each case is different.