Let Our Seattle Personal Injury Lawyer Guide You Through the Steps of a Car Accident Case
Being injured in a car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Dealing with the physical and emotional effects of the injuries you suffered is just the beginning. You may be facing high medical bills, a potential loss of income, and the daunting task of dealing with insurance companies who are only out to protect their bottom line. Fortunately, you don't have to face this battle alone.
At Kode Law, Seattle car accident lawyer Preet Kode is ready to guide you through each step of your case. Our goal is to help you hold the negligent party accountable for their actions and receive the money you need to move forward with your life.
10 Steps of a Washington Car Accident Case
Taking certain steps after a car accident can help protect your rights so you can secure the compensation you deserve. Let’s take a look at what you can expect when you work with Kode Law to resolve your Seattle car accident case.
1. Initial Consultation
After you’ve been treated for your injuries, schedule an initial consultation with our experienced car accident lawyer, Preet Kode. During this meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss the details of the accident and the injuries you suffered. Preet will evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case to help you determine your next steps.
Knowing you have a reliable lawyer on your side will make the entire process of resolving your claim less stressful. “As a past Kode Law car accident client remarked about Preet and her team, “They always promptly returned my calls and emails and explained the process well. They took care of everything so we didn't have to worry about all the details after the accident.”
2. Investigation
Once Preet has reviewed your case, she'll work to gather evidence to support your claim. This may include obtaining police reports, witness statements, and medical records.
3. Establishing Liability
Determining who was at fault for the car accident is vital. Preet will work diligently to establish liability based on the evidence gathered during the investigation. This may involve analyzing traffic laws, accident reconstruction, and consulting with expert witnesses.
4. Calculating Damages
Once liability has been established, Preet will assess the full extent of damages resulting from the crash. This evaluation covers everything from medical expenses and property damage to lost wages, anticipated future medical costs, and pain and suffering. Preet’s thorough approach ensures that every aspect of your loss is recognized—helping you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.
5. Demand Letter
Once Preet understands your case and the damages involved, she will write a demand letter to send to the at-fault party's insurance company. The demand letter will contain the details of the car crash, the types of injuries you sustained, and the compensation you’re requesting.
6. Negotiation
Often, insurance companies will attempt to rush the settlement process, presenting offers that are less than the actual value of your claim. Preet, an experienced Seattle personal injury lawyer, will negotiate on your behalf and advocate for a fair settlement that fully acknowledges the extent of your damages.
Preet’s approach has earned her multiple positive reviews from past clients. As a past client said, “She is an effective communicator and kept us updated on every step of the process. She was great at negotiating with insurance companies and got us the full covered amount.”
7. Filing a Lawsuit
It is not uncommon for the insurance company to refuse a reasonable settlement offer or to deny your claim. However, our experienced car accident lawyer is prepared to take decisive action. Preet can initiate a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf, ensuring it is filed within the required statute of limitations. In addition, she will meticulously prepare and submit all necessary legal documents to the appropriate court in Washington.
8. Discovery
During the discovery phase, both parties involved–you (the plaintiff) and the defendant (typically the other driver or their insurance company)–exchange vital information and evidence related to the accident and the resulting injuries or damages. Preet will walk you through this process, ensuring that all relevant details, such as medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any other supporting documentation, are thoroughly and accurately disclosed.
9. Mediation
Mediation offers the opportunity to resolve your claim before going to trial. Through mediation, Preet will advocate for a fair settlement that accounts for your injuries, losses, and the impact the accident has had on your life. Her commitment is to ensure that any resolution truly reflects the full value of your claim, taking into account not only the tangible damages but also the intangible toll on your well-being.
10. Trial
Most personal injury cases settle out of court, but Preet Kode and her team are fully prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what’s needed to maximize your compensation. Whether your case is handled before a judge or a jury, you can be confident that Preet will use every piece of evidence and legal avenue available to secure a fair outcome.
