Driving in the United States of America is accompanied by several risk factors. A staggering 6 million car accidents take place every year in the U.S.A. and approximately 90 people die every day. You never want to find yourself in a situation where your or a loved one’s life is at stake. 29% of motor accidents in the city of Spokane occur when the driver is at fault. If you are the victim of such an accident, contact a Spokane car accident lawyer immediately to assist you with your case.
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Types of Cases
Auto accidents can result in various types of injuries. You should seek compensation if you have suffered any of the following injuries.
- Cuts, bruises and scrapes
- Broken bones, torn ligaments and tendons
- Serious injuries and fractures to your hips, shoulders, ribs or collarbones
- Spinal injuries and displaced discs
- Other damage to the spinal cord or brain stem
- Concussions, fractured skull and internal bleeding
- Damage to body parts that requires amputation
- Whiplash
Common Causes
In Washington state, the number one cause of premature death and fatal injuries are motor accidents. However, most of these are not accidental and it is the drivers’ reckless behavior that results in these. The following are the conditions under which the victim may be eligible for compensation:
- Distractions:Driving while consuming food and beverages, texting or using a cell phone, changing radio stations or doing anything else other than paying attention to the road.
- Aggression: Aggressive driving, speeding, changing lanes illegally or overtaking vehicles incorrectly.
- Impaired: Driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol or feeling sleepy or fatigued.
- Weather: A driver’s ability to see and navigate can be affected by strong winds, icy roads, snow and heavy rain.
What to Do After an Accident
While you’re still at the scene of the accident, make sure you do the following to ensure you get the most compensation:
- Call the police. A detailed police report will take note of everything and aid in your case.
- Call an ambulance if someone hasn’t already called for it. Tend to your wounded loved ones and ensure you get stitched up as well. An ambulance or hospital record showcasing the injuries will help your case as well.
- It is important to gather evidence. Take pictures and videos of the scene, your injuries and the perpetrator’s reaction as well.
- Make a note of the perpetrator’s license plate, vehicle model and color. Speak with the witnesses and gather their contact information. This will help should the court require eyewitness statements.
- Once all this is done and you’re back home, file a report with your insurance company. Even if the accident was someone else’s fault, explain everything clearly to the company.
Seek legal counsel from the best lawyer possible. They will ensure that you get fair compensation. Hiring a lawyer is important because the perpetrator may already have one to defend them. Stand your ground because you deserve justice.