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Car accidents are a common sight in Seattle. Whether you are traveling on Interstate 5 or driving through a side street, it is not unusual to see two or more vehicles smashed up on the side of the road waiting for a tow. According to state statistics, Seattle saw over 7,800 crashes in 2021—with more than 200 resulting in a serious injury.
If you were struck by a car in Seattle, you must take certain steps to comply with the law and protect your ability to receive compensation. As always, contact one of our pedestrian accident lawyers if you have questions.
Stop Immediately
Washington requires that anyone involved in an accident resulting in bodily injury or property damage stop immediately. If you don’t, you could face charges for fleeing the scene of an accident, which is a misdemeanor or felony.
Of course, you might end up blocking traffic if you stop immediately, in which case you can pull over to the shoulder to free up traffic. But always remember to stop as soon as possible.
Check if Anyone Needs an Ambulance
Some accidents cause life-threatening injuries, and victims need to get to the emergency room ASAP. Always check with anyone involved in the wreck if they need an ambulance and call one if they do.
If you’re too hurt, then ask a bystander or passenger in your car to call for you. Put safety first.
Call the Police
You also need to inform the police of the accident. You can do this by calling at the scene. A responding officer should make a crash report. If there was only minor property damage, the police might not send anyone out—but you still should call.
Swap Personal Information with the Other Driver
You want to get:
- License number
- Insurance information
- Registration number
- Name and address
- Contact information, such as a phone or email
Share your personal information with all drivers involved in the crash.
Avoid Admitting Fault
For example, if you admit, “I wasn’t even looking both ways!” then the other driver can use that statement to show you were admitting fault. Washington recognized contributory fault, and admissions like these could prove costly.
Take Pictures of All Vehicles & Anything Else Relevant
Photographs help document the collision. If possible, get some pictures of the cars immediately following the crash. After you pull to the side of the road, you can also take pictures of the sides of each vehicle, zooming in to focus on dents and dings.
Also, get a picture of anything else that seems relevant. If you lost control because you struck a giant pothole, then take a picture of it.
Receive Medical Treatment
Even if you feel “alright” following a crash, go to the hospital. You might be surprised that you have suffered a brain injury or something serious of that sort. Always follow your doctor’s orders so you can show you have taken your injuries seriously.
Contact Khan Law
This is the final step—but also the most important. Hire an experienced Seattle car accident lawyer to represent you in negotiations. Call us today to learn more.
