Bellevue Car Accident Lawyer

Car Accidents | Truck Accidents | Motorcycle Accidents | Bicycle Accidents

Car Accident Attorneys in Bellevue, WA

For many people, driving is second nature, part of daily life. Indeed, commuting is a routine activity  for many of those who work in Bellevue, Washington and surrounding areas. But, being comfortable behind the wheel is not necessarily equivalent to being safe. When a crash occurs due to a driver’s negligence, the injured party deserves to be compensated for the harms they suffer. If you or a loved one have been the victim of a car accident, Premier Law Group’s trusted team of Bellevue car accident lawyers can help.

When Should You Call a Car Accident Lawyer?

Car accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in Bellevue and throughout the state of Washington. A Bellevue car accident is more likely to be fatal if it occurs at a high speed, especially if occupants are not wearing seatbelts. Even if the accident is not fatal, there is still a high likelihood of injury. Common car accident injuries that have been suffered by past clients include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Limb crush and loss of limb
• Bone fractures
• Bruising and abrasions
• Whiplash
• Facial injuries
• Internal trauma

Victims involved in serious car accidents, especially those that result in injuries, often incur psychological harm as well. For example, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder commonly result from a car accident.

Time Is of the Essence

After a Bellevue car accident, time is of the essence. First, you must report your car accident to your insurer within a required amount of time. Second, you should gather evidence as soon as possible so that it is not destroyed. Finally, if you wish to file a lawsuit, you must do so within three years of the date of your accident in accordance with the statute of limitations.

Types of Car Accidents in Bellevue

• Rideshare Accidents
• T-Bone Accidents
• Sideswipe Accidents
• Rear-End Accidents
• Speeding Accidents
• Left-Hand Turn Accidents
• Rollover Accidents
• Multi-Vehicle Accidents

Common Injuries Suffered From Auto Accidents

Our firm understands that injuries can vary from accident to accident and have differing levels of severity. Some commonly seen accidents our firm helps clients recover from are:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries
• Broken Bones
• Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage
• Lacerations, Scrapes, and Cuts
• Sprains, Strains, and Tendon/Muscle Tears
• More

How Our Bellevue Car Accident Attorneys Will Help

The legal team at Premier Law Group will help you determine if you need to hire a Bellevue car accident lawyer to handle your case. If you suffered a serious injury, need help paying your medical bills, or are having a hard time dealing with the insurance company, our car accident attorneys in Bellevue are here to help. We know how the big insurance companies operate, and our car accident lawyers ready to take action to protect your rights. Among other things, we will:

• Conduct a free, comprehensive review of your car accident case
• Answer your most pressing questions and explain your legal options
• Investigate the accident by obtaining the evidence needed to build a strong case
• Gather all medical bills, diligently documenting your injuries and damages
• Handle the insurance company representatives, letting you focus on your recovery
• Walk you through the auto accident claims process, communicating with you regularly
• Provide personalized attention to your case

Other Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents Our Firm Handles

• Golf Cart Accidents
• ATV Accidents
• RV and Motorhome Accidents
• Seatbelt Injuries
• Aggressive Driving Accidents
• Distracted Driving Accidents
• Driverless Car Accidents
• Drowsy and Drugged Driving Accidents
• DUI-related Accidents
• Rear-End Accidents
• Teen-Driver Accidents
• Uninsured Motorist Claims

What Constitutes a Property Damage Claim in Bellevue? 

A property damage claim in a Bellevue car accident is damage to anything other than the victim, including personal property found in the car like a laptop, glasses, or cellphone. Damages for these belongings are demonstrated by their replacement value, the cost of repairing the items, and the loss of items until they can be replaced. These types of claims are typically handled by insurance companies. If the accident was caused by another Bellevue driver, you have two choices when filing a claim: 

• You may file your property damage claim with your own insurance company.
• You may file your property damage claim with the other driver’s insurance company.

You may be unsure of which selection is best for you. This can be dependent on several factors: 

Payment of a Deductible on Bellevue Collision Coverage 

Your insurance company will require you to pay for the deductible amount on your collision coverage. If another driver is at-fault, your insurance company can recover the deductible amount from the negligent driver’s insurance policy and then repay you for your payment. This can be a lengthy process and can take months to be reimbursed for the deducible payment. If you file with the other driver’s insurance company, you do not have to pay a deductible. 

Payment for a Rental Car in Bellevue 

Your insurance company is not under obligation to pay for your rental car while you await vehicle repairs unless that is a part of your policy. The insurance company of the other driver will likely provide you with a rental car while yours is being serviced or until a settlement offer is reached. 

Pursuing a Bellevue Personal Injury Claim 

If you are pursuing a Bellevue personal injury claim, it is imperative to be aware of the connection between your property damage claim and the amount you can recover for a personal injury. Insurance adjusters may argue that the property damage was too minimal for you to have suffered substantial injuries.

If you file a property damage claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, then they may fight to decrease the value of your claim in an attempt to save money down the road in negotiating a personal injury claim. In instances where you are not at-fault for the accident, your own insurance company may not have that motive, and the other driver’s insurance company will pay for property damage and personal injury claims. 

Contractual Relationship With Your Insurance Company 

A benefit to filing a property damage claim with your own insurance company is that you already have a solidified, contractual relationship with them through your policy. This means that your insurance company is held to a high standard to protect your concerns. If they neglect to provide an adequate service in protecting your interests, you have a strong case for legal action against them. Additionally, due to the legal duty of “good faith,” it is less likely that they will act unfavorably in your interests.

Unlike your solidified relationship with your own insurance company, the other driver’s insurance company has no contractual relationship with you and is more likely to act in their own best interest.  

Steps to Take After a Car Accident for a Successful Property Damage Claim in Bellevue 

After experiencing a Bellevue car accident, it is essential to remember the following steps in order to have a successful property damage claim in the future: 

1. Speak to Your Insurance Company Immediately Following Your Accident 

If you are a Bellevue car accident victim, it is essential to contact your insurance company immediately following an accident, even if the accident was not your fault. While your claim against the at-fault driver is processing, your insurance company may be able to handle your property damage claim on your behalf. This guarantees that your insurer has the information they need to start your claim and obtain the documentation required for property damage estimates, preferred car repair shops, and determining total losses. 

2. Gather Essential Documents for Your Bellevue Property Damage Claim 

Essential documents may be needed for your property damage claim, including police reports, witness contact information, damage repair estimates, and other pertinent information. You may also need to obtain your vehicle title and any vehicle maintenance receipts that show the estimated value of your vehicle.

3. Speak With Your Bellevue Property Damage Lawyer to Protect Your Interests 

To protect your interest in a property damage claim and to make sure that the insurance adjusters are not taking advantage of you, speak to a Bellevue property damage lawyer. We are seasoned in handling insurance companies and are expert negotiators. It is essential to recover the compensation you deserve. 

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers in Bellevue, WA Today

The car accident attorneys at Premier Law Group know that being involved in a car accident can be terrifying. For help navigating the claims process and recovering the compensation you deserve, please contact our experienced Bellevue personal injury lawyers today. You can call us at (206) 880-7518 or fill out our contact form here for a free consultation.