Seattle Car Accident Lawyer

Kornfeld Law Can Help You Move Forward After an Accident

Each time you get behind the wheel, you put your trust not only in your own driving skills, but also in the driving skills of every other driver on the road. Motor vehicle accidents can be extremely frightening, especially if the crash is especially severe or results in major injuries or fatalities. Rollover accidents, for example, often cause major damage, which can make them more traumatizing and difficult to recover from.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) recorded that Washington state reached a high of 565 fatalities due to traffic accidents in the year 2017. This means that every day, someone lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence. Car accidents were the leading cause of death in 2017 for various ages, and there are more ride-share accidents occurring due to ride-share companies. When you are faced with unexpected injuries, seek compensation for your losses with our successful and compassionate attorneys at Kornfeld Law.

If you were involved in an accident, Kornfeld Law can help. Attorney Kornfeld understands what it's like to be injured in a traumatic car crash because he has had firsthand experience. He survived a traumatizing motor vehicle accident that rendered him unconscious and resulted in significant physical harm and numerous surgeries.

Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle

Our Seattle car accident attorneys understand that being involved in any type of accident can be very traumatizing. There are many different types of car accidents that occur daily and some are more common than others.

Kornfeld Law handles the following types of auto accidents in Seattle:

• Uber and Lyft Accidents
• Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists
• Rollover Accidents
• Distracted Driving
• Drunk Driving
• Accident Claims Involving a High or “Stoned” Driver

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Washington?

If you’re the victim of an auto accident, you have a limited amount of time to seek compensation for your personal injuries and property damage. In the state of Washington, the statute of limitations requires that you file a claim within three years of the accident date.

In order to abide by the statute of limitations, you need to speak with an attorney about your potential case as soon as possible. The sooner you can file your claim, the more likely your lawyer will be able to gather clear witness statements, evidence and other pertinent facts to strengthen your claim. If you wait too long, you may also have to pay more out-of-pocket expenses before you receive a settlement.

Can I Still Receive Compensation If I am Partially At Fault?

Insurance companies do not have the injured party’s best interest at heart, no matter how they may try to convince you otherwise. Unfortunately, insurance companies commonly attempt to argue injured individuals out of their rightful monetary compensation by stating that the injured victim was partially or completely at fault for the accident. Even if there is proof that you, the driver, share fault, you can still receive compensation through Washington's comparative fault law.

Through comparative fault, the plaintiff and defendant in the car accident case are each assigned a percentage reflecting how much they are responsible for the accident. The court will then deduct the plaintiff’s at-fault percentage from the recovery they were initially awarded. For example, if you were awarded $20,000 in compensation, but 20% of the fault was attributed to you, you would only receive $16,000 in total compensation.

Is it Worth Hiring an Attorney for a Car Accident?

Car accidents can be harrowing experiences, often leaving individuals dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills. In the aftermath of a collision, you might be wondering whether it's worth hiring an attorney to navigate the complex legal process. While not every accident requires legal representation, there are several key factors to consider when deciding whether to hire a car accident attorney.

• The Extent of Injuries and Damages: The severity of injuries sustained in a car accident plays a significant role in determining whether you should hire an attorney. If you or a loved one suffered severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment, surgery, or long-term rehabilitation, hiring an attorney becomes more crucial. An experienced attorney can help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical needs.
• Liability Disputes: In many car accident cases, liability is not always straightforward. If there is a dispute over who is at fault for the accident, or if the other party is denying responsibility, it's advisable to consult an attorney. Attorneys can investigate the accident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work to establish liability, helping to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize payouts to accident victims. An attorney can serve as a buffer between you and the insurance company, negotiating on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. They have the experience to understand the tactics insurance adjusters may use and can protect your rights throughout the claims process.
• Navigating Legal Procedures: Car accident cases involve complex legal procedures and deadlines. Filing paperwork, adhering to statutes of limitations, and meeting court requirements can be overwhelming for someone without legal expertise. An attorney can guide you through these processes, ensuring that you don't miss critical deadlines or make costly mistakes.
• Assessing the True Value of Your Claim: Determining the full extent of your damages and calculating a fair settlement can be challenging. Experienced car accident attorneys can help you assess the true value of your claim, taking into account both current and future expenses related to your injuries. They can help ensure that you receive compensation that adequately covers your needs.
• Peace of Mind: Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of hiring an attorney is the peace of mind they can provide. Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is stressful enough. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can alleviate some of that stress and allow you to focus on your recovery, knowing that your legal matters are in capable hands.

Hear From Our Satisfied Clients!

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Since he began practicing personal injury law in 1980, Robert Kornfeld has helped people like you receive compensation for their car-crash-related injuries and damages. Rob was involved in a serious collision in 1985, so he understands exactly how your case can affect you, and he wants to use his knowledge and resources to provide you with the legal advocacy you need and deserve to win.