Serving Seattle and The Pacific Northwest
Award-Winning Car Accident Attorneys
Hurt in a crash? Talk with an attorney about your options. Your consultation is free, with no obligation.
A car crash can turn an ordinary day upside down. One minute you are driving to work, and the next you are dealing with pain, missed shifts, and calls from insurance adjusters. If that is where you are right now, a Washington car accident lawyer at The Advocates can help you understand what comes next.
We have represented people injured in Washington crashes since 1993. From our Seattle headquarters, we help injured people across the state handle insurance claims, track medical bills, and pursue the compensation Washington law may allow.
You do not have to sort this out alone. We are here to listen.
How Our Car Accident Lawyers Help
After a crash, your job is to recover. Our job is to handle the claim around you.
When you work with us, your attorney and team can:
- Talk with insurers for you. The adjuster works for the insurance company, not for you. We take the calls and put requests in writing.
- Gather the evidence. We collect the police report, photos, witness statements, and medical records that show how the crash happened and how it affected you.
- Keep medical bills organized. We check Personal Injury Protection (PIP), health insurance, and other coverage, and track every bill so nothing slips into collections.
- Help with the practical problems. That can include setting up a property damage claim, arranging a rental car, and explaining your situation to your employer.
- Prepare for court if needed. Most claims settle, but we build each one as if it may go to trial. If an insurer will not make a fair offer, our litigation team can file a lawsuit.
You can reach your attorney directly with questions. We return calls and keep you updated as your claim moves forward.
Common Car Accident FAQs
Dealing with an insurance company, or multiple insurance companies, can be intimidating and confusing. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about insurance coverage and how it relates to a personal injury claim:
How will policy limits impact your injury claim?
When you sign up for insurance coverage, there are different limits to choose from. The minimum limit in Washington State for bodily injury liability coverage is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This means that if you are injured in an accident, your policy limit should allow for at least $25,000 to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Many people have insurance policies with limits above the state minimum.
Because limits vary between policies, your attorney will advise you on the specific coverages available and alert you of any concerns regarding the adequacy of the available policy limits.
How do insurance companies address the pain and suffering associated with your accident?
Pain and suffering will be documented throughout your case, and again when we get ready to close your case. Our team will work with you to tell your story to the insurance company. This will give them a full understanding of how your accident has affected your day-to-day life and allow them to provide the appropriate total compensation for your injuries.
Items that might be included in pain and suffering include overall inconvenience, inability to perform specific activities, and ongoing impact to your daily life.
Is your insurance involved even when you’re not at fault?
Even if you’re not at fault for the accident, you will always want to open a claim with your insurance company. There may be benefits on your policy that you can use for your claim. If you do not have benefits on your policy, it’s still good to open a claim so your insurance company is aware of the accident. They will eventually be made aware one way or another, so it’s best to be proactive by opening the claim yourself.
What happens if you’re partially at fault for the accident?
If you are found partially at fault, you probably still have a claim. Consult with an attorney and they will advise you on how to best proceed depending on the circumstances. Your insurance premium may go up due to your partial responsibility for the accident.
What happens if you’re hit by an uninsured driver?
You may have what is called Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage on your auto insurance policy. This coverage protects you if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance. You can submit a claim with your own insurance for your injuries. Washington State does not require you to have this coverage and it does cost extra, so check with an attorney to discuss your options.
Will your rates go up following an accident?
Unfortunately, your insurance rates can go up following an accident. In most instances, your provider will not raise your rates. If you feel like your rates have been raised unfairly, we encourage you to get quotes from several other insurance companies to see if you can get a better rate.
What happens if your necessary treatment exceeds the policy limits?
While in the pre settlement stage, we often do not know the policy limits of the other insurance company. The insurance company is not obligated to disclose the policy limits unless there are specific concerns that the coverage might not be adequate. For this reason, we monitor bills and treatment closely to be sure that you are not in the red. If you do end up in this situation there are many ways your attorney can help.
Treatment and medical billing look different for every case, so your attorney will communicate any concerns with you to develop the best plan for your circumstances.
Questions about an injury? Call for a free consultation!
Hiring a lawyer to handle your case takes the pressure off of you and can have a profound impact on the potential settlement you receive. The Advocates staff negotiate with insurance adjusters, obtain important records, ensure medical bills are paid, keep bills out of collections, help get you into a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired, and will argue your case in court if required.
Pain and suffering is documented throughout your case, and again when we get ready to close your case. Our team works with you to tell your story to the insurance company. This will give them a full understanding of how your accident has affected your day-to-day life and allow them to provide the appropriate total compensation for your injuries.
Items that might be included in pain and suffering include overall inconvenience, inability to perform specific activities, and ongoing impact to your daily life.
What It Costs to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
We handle car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no attorney’s fee up front, and you owe no attorney’s fee unless we recover compensation for you.
We explain fees and costs in writing before you decide to hire us.
What to Expect After You Call The Advocates
Every claim is different, but most follow the same general path. How long this takes depends on your recovery, the insurance coverage, and whether a lawsuit is filed.
- Free consultation. We listen to what happened, answer your questions, and tell you honestly whether we think we can help.
- We step in. Once you hire us, we notify the insurance companies and medical providers that we represent you.
- You focus on treatment. We track your care and bills while you recover. We usually wait until treatment is complete so your claim reflects all of your medical costs.
- We build and send a demand. We gather records and bills and send the insurer a demand that explains your injuries and losses.
- Negotiation. We review each offer with you and give you our recommendation. The decision to settle is always yours.
- Lawsuit, if needed. If the insurer will not make a fair offer, we can file a lawsuit. Many cases still settle before trial.
Injured in a car accident?
We’re here to listen, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence.
Start with a free consultation. No pressure.
Choose A Car Accident Attorney Who Cares
We don’t call ourselves Advocates without reason. We truly care about the clients we represent and will go the extra mile to help them fully recover. As a client of The Advocates, we will treat you as if you are our one and only client. Your needs will always be our first priority. After The Advocates accept your case, you’ll never be just one more case among thousands.
The advocates are awesome. I have been to the office many times and am always greeted with a smile. They work so hard day in and day out to get all my needs met. There is no other law firm I would trust more than The Advocates. Seattle’s finest law firm, I highly recommend.
Katie Burns
Getting Maximum Value for Your Car Accident
In order to receive top value for your car accident claim, you need an attorney who fully understands the intricacies of auto injury law. At The Advocates, we have car accident attorneys who specialize solely in car accident claims. We know how to properly value your case.
The award-winning litigators at The Advocates have extensive experience handling auto accidents resulting from all types of circumstances.
The most common types of car accidents include:
- Aggressive Driving
- Distracted Driving
- Failure to Yield
- Head-On Collisions
- Multi-Vehicle Accidents
- Rear-End Collisions
- T-Bone Accidents
- Fender Benders
- Hit and Runs
- And, Accidents Involving Uninsured Motorists
We also help people hurt in rideshare crashes, semi-truck crashes, and pedestrian crashes, which each have their own rules.
When it comes time to deal with the insurance companies, our attorneys will negotiate on your behalf to get you top dollar for your injuries and losses. If they refuse to play fair by offering too small of a settlement, then our litigation attorneys will take your case all the way to court and fight for every last dime you are legally owed.
Still have questions?
Get clear, straightforward answers in our FAQ. Explore Accident FAQs.
Common legal issues after auto wrecks
Disputed Liability: One of the first tactics insurance companies use to get out of paying fair settlements is to refuse that their insured client was at fault for the auto accident. Without rock-solid evidence proving the other person was to blame, it can be a difficult for anyone outside of a skilled attorney to prove liability. The attorneys with The Advocates have the legal knowledge and expertise you need to hold the at-fault parties responsible for the injuries and losses you have suffered. Read on about Disputed Liability.
Medical Billing: Too often, reading medical bills is like trying to assemble a jigsaw puzzle in the dark. We get it. Remembering which doctor you saw on what date and where can be a nightmare to keep track of. Before you know it, medical bills are piling up, insurance adjusters are calling on the hour, every hour, and the next thing you know, the other party’s insurance provider wants you to settle before your treatment is complete, leaving you unsure as to what comes next. Thankfully, The Advocates will track down all of your medical bills, compile them in a comprehensive file, and make sure each and every one is paid for by the end of your case. We will help you through the entire medical process. No one should have to pay medical expenses caused by another person’s recklessness and mistakes.
Property Damage Claims: The Advocates understand that you want to be compensated for your damaged or totaled vehicle. If we take your case, our auto wreck lawyers will help you set up a property damage claim so you can recoup the actual value of your wrecked vehicle. In the meantime, our professional staff will help you get into a rental car until your vehicle is replaced. The Advocates will get you back on the road again.
Talk With a Washington Car Accident Lawyer
You do not have to figure this out alone. If you were hurt in a crash, we are here to listen and explain your options. Your first consultation is free, with no obligation. No attorney’s fee unless we recover compensation for you.
Our attorneys have helped thousands of car accident victims get back on their feet again after they were injured. We’ve recovered over $500 million for our injured clients and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. See more on our case results page and in our client stories.
You shouldn’t have to settle for second best. Don’t wait to contact The Advocates for a free consultation. We work strictly on a contingency basis, so we don’t get paid until you do. We’re available 7 days a week to answer all of your legal questions. Call us to find out how The Advocates can help you. You deserve an Advocate!
For Further Reading
Navigating the personal injury claims process can be overwhelming. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about how personal injury cases typically unfold:
How long before you must decide whether to hire a lawyer?
In the state of Washington, the statute of limitations on a negligence claim is generally 3 years, with some minor exceptions. If you feel you need legal representation, we recommend securing an attorney as early as possible, since it can often be difficult to find representation when nearing the expiration of the statute of limitations.
What happens if you retain an attorney?
When retaining an attorney, you leave most of the work to your attorney and their team. We will first notify all involved parties (insurance carriers, medical providers, etc.) that we are representing you. We will make sure all your bills will be taken care of. Once your treatment is complete, we will begin working to get you a fair, reasonable bodily injury settlement. We take care of your case so you can concentrate on getting better!
Do you have to sue?
At The Advocates, we do our best to settle your accident claim fairly and equitably before resorting to filing a lawsuit. However, we will always do what’s best for you, to be sure you’re appropriately compensated for your injuries. This may include filing a suit or litigating your case if the insurance company refuses to agree to a fair offer.
Will you have to go to trial?
Some cases do go as far as a trial, but not without exhaustive efforts by our firm to settle your case first. Your legal team will be in full communication with you through every step of your case. We will discuss your options with you as the case proceeds. In many instances, pushing for a trial when it’s in your best interest will lead to a higher settlement offer before the trial even starts.
Although it’s a last resort, going to trial is one of the best tools available when the insurance company refuses to do what’s right.
How long is the process going to take?
While you are still being treated, we usually don’t move your case toward the settlement process. This is to ensure your request for compensation includes all relevant medical treatments and that no additional or unexpected bills will arise after closing out your injury claim. Once your treatment is complete, we can then start moving your case forward.
Once care is complete, we begin gathering information such as medical bills and medical records, which can take around 8-12 weeks. Once the information is forwarded to the insurance company for settlement purposes, your case may be completed in 60-90 days. However, it can take much longer if litigation is needed.
Your attorney will be in direct contact with you throughout the settlement process to discuss offers and recommendations.
What if you need money now?
We know sustaining injuries in an accident can come with considerable financial ramifications. If you need money urgently before your claim is settled, there are legal loans that can be taken against your future settlement. However, these loans typically come with significant penalties and high interest rates, so we tend to discourage our clients from taking them. Because everyone’s circumstances are unique, we are happy to discuss your options with you should the need arise.
Questions about an injury? Call for a free consultation!
When seeking assistance with handling your injury claim, there are several commonly asked questions about hiring a personal injury lawyer. Here’s a brief rundown of what it is likely to cost, whether you should hire an attorney, and what separates a skilled personal injury lawyer from the rest of the field:
Do you have to pay anything out of pocket?
We do everything we can to help you avoid paying out of pocket. We will check for any medical coverage (i.e., PIP and MedPay) available on either your own policy or the other party’s insurance. If that is not an option, or becomes exhausted, we will move to your personal health insurance. If copays and deductibles become an issue, we will work with your medical providers directly to do everything we can to get those balances held until settlement. If there is no medical coverage and no health insurance, we will find providers who will treat you on a lien and hold all costs until settlement.
While we can’t guarantee that there will be zero out-of-pocket expenses, we will do everything we can to find a solution.
How much will it cost to hire a lawyer?
There is almost never any up-front cost to hire a personal injury lawyer. We don’t get paid unless you get paid. When we recover a settlement for you, we retain 1/3 of the total amount as our fee. If we have to file suit, the fee goes up to 40%.
In almost all instances, we only retain clients when we believe we’ll be able to add value to their injury claim. If it’s a straightforward matter and injuries are minor or nonexistent, we’ll typically suggest that you try to work with the insurance company directly. For more complex matters, injured parties tend to receive 350% more in total compensation when represented by an attorney than when handling their claim independently.
Since consultations are always free, it’s beneficial to talk with an attorney as early as possible to determine the best course of action for your circumstances.
What should you look for when hiring a personal injury attorney?
When looking for a personal injury attorney, you should look for someone with a history of success, a team well-versed in how the claims process works, and a serious litigation team that’s willing to push the insurance company when necessary.
By selecting a firm that’s not afraid to litigate, you guarantee the insurance company takes you seriously from the start. This increases your chances of obtaining a favorable result early in the process.
Are there instances where hiring a lawyer is a bad idea?
In situations where there are little to no injuries, it may be beneficial to handle your claim on your own. Similarly, property damage claims tend to be relatively straightforward, and attorneys are frequently unable to add sufficient value to your claim.
Fortunately, consultations are always free, and you can speak with an Advocate to determine whether hiring an attorney is likely to increase your total settlement.
What will my attorney expect from me during the process?
During this process, your attorney will expect you to follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations, be honest about your injuries, and be open to the advice and suggestions your attorney gives you. We’re on the same team and your best interests are always our number one priority.
Questions about an injury? Call for a free consultation!
You may have what is called UIM Coverage (Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage) on your auto insurance policy. This coverage protects you if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance. You can submit a claim with your own insurance for your injuries. Washington State does not require you to have this coverage and it does cost extra, so check with an attorney to discuss your options.
Pain and suffering is documented throughout your case, and again when we get ready to close your case. Our team works with you to tell your story to the insurance company. This will give them a full understanding of how your accident has affected your day-to-day life and allow them to provide the appropriate total compensation for your injuries.
Items that might be included in pain and suffering include overall inconvenience, inability to perform specific activities, and ongoing impact to your daily life.
Hiring a lawyer to handle your case takes the pressure off of you and can have a profound impact on the potential settlement you receive. The Advocates staff negotiate with insurance adjusters, obtain important records, ensure medical bills are paid, keep bills out of collections, help get you into a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired, and will argue your case in court if required.
No two accident cases are the same, so this question is difficult to answer. If you are done treating your injuries and your case settles out of court, your case will likely be concluded in a 4-to-12-month range. If your case requires a lawsuit filed your claim may take years to settle. Fortunately, most personal injury cases do not go to trial.