If you’ve been injured in a single-vehicle accident in Bellevue, it’s essential to understand your legal rights. A Bellevue car accident lawyer from Bernard Law Group is here to guide you through the process.
What Are Single-Vehicle Car Accidents?
Single-vehicle accidents occur when a driver crashes into a stationary object or loses control of their vehicle. Common examples include:
- Collisions with guardrails, trees, or poles
- Driving off the road
- Rollovers
- Skidding on ice or wet pavement
While these accidents involve only one vehicle, the causes can vary widely. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial when determining liability and pursuing compensation.
Causes of Single-Vehicle Accidents
Several factors contribute to single-vehicle accidents. These may include:
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, uneven pavement, or inadequate signage can create dangerous driving environments. Weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice can further worsen road safety, making it harder for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Poorly lit roads or sudden changes in road design can also catch drivers off guard.
Mechanical Failures
Vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering issues, can lead to unexpected accidents. Lack of regular vehicle maintenance or manufacturing defects can increase the risk of these failures, leaving drivers unable to react in time to avoid a crash.
Driver Error
Actions like speeding, texting while driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are common causes of single-vehicle accidents. Fatigue can also impair reaction times, reducing a driver’s ability to make safe decisions, especially during long trips or late at night.
Third-Party Negligence
Sometimes, another driver’s careless or aggressive behavior can indirectly cause a single-vehicle accident. For example, reckless driving, sudden lane changes, or tailgating may force you to swerve or brake abruptly, potentially leading to a crash even if the other driver remains unscathed.
Determining Liability in a Single-Vehicle Accident
Unlike multi-car collisions, single-vehicle accidents often leave drivers questioning who is at fault. While drivers are sometimes responsible, other parties may also be liable, such as:
- Municipalities for poorly maintained roads
- Vehicle manufacturers for defective parts
- Construction companies for improperly marked zones
- Other drivers who indirectly cause an accident
A single-vehicle accident attorney in Bellevue, WA, can thoroughly investigate your case to identify the responsible party and hold them accountable.
Common Injuries in Single-Vehicle Accidents
Single-vehicle accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Internal injuries
Even if your injuries seem minor initially, seeking medical attention is essential. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or a concussion, may not show immediate symptoms.
Steps to Take After a Single-Vehicle Accident
The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps is essential to protect your health, legal rights, and future peace of mind. Here’s what you should do:
Ensure Safety
If safe, relocate to a secure area away from traffic and assess yourself and others for injuries. Prioritize safety, and do not attempt to move anyone seriously injured unless necessary to prevent further harm.
Call Emergency Services
Report the accident to the police, regardless of how minor it may seem. A police report can be a crucial piece of evidence later. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention to rule out hidden injuries that may not be immediately apparent, such as whiplash or internal damage.
Document the Scene
Take detailed photos of the crash site, including road signs, skid marks, vehicle damage, weather conditions, and any visible injuries. These photos can serve as critical evidence to support your claim.
Gather Information
Exchange contact and insurance details with all involved parties. Collect contact information from any witnesses, as their statements may provide valuable support for your case. Note any road hazards, weather conditions, or other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
Contact a Lawyer
After ensuring your immediate safety and well-being, contact a Bellevue car accident lawyer. The best single-vehicle accident lawyer in Bellevue can help you understand your rights, evaluate your options, and guide you through the next steps to seek compensation for damages, medical expenses, and other losses caused by the accident.
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Compensation for Single-Vehicle Accidents
If you’ve been injured in a single-vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Emotional distress
Determining the full scope of your damages requires an in-depth evaluation of your case.
How Bernard Law Group Can Help
At Bernard Law Group, we understand that every accident is unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach to each case. Here’s how we can assist:
- Investigating Your Case: We collect evidence to determine the cause of the accident, whether it’s poor road maintenance, a vehicle defect, or another factor.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our team fights to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Litigating When Necessary: If a settlement can’t be reached, we’ll take your case to court to pursue justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
After being hurt in an accident, it is natural to have many questions about your rights and legal options. Here are answers to some of the most common questions that we are asked:
Can I file a claim if I am partially at fault?
Yes, Washington follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation will be adjusted to reflect your share of fault.
What if a pothole or poor road maintenance caused my accident?
You may be able to file a claim against the city or municipality responsible for maintaining the road. A lawyer can help handle the specific requirements for these claims.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically three years. Acting quickly ensures that evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.
The Role of Insurance in Single-Vehicle Accidents
Collision coverage typically pays for repairs to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. In contrast, comprehensive coverage may apply to incidents like hitting an animal or damage caused by weather events.
However, if another party’s negligence contributed to the accident, their insurance might be responsible for compensating you for damages, including medical expenses or repair costs.
Handling insurance claims can be challenging, especially when determining fault or dealing with resistant insurers. A no-win, no-fee accident lawyer from Bernard Law Group in Bellevue can provide the experience, resources, and knowledge you need to guide you through the process.
With their knowledge, you can ensure your claim is handled efficiently and your rights are fully protected, giving you peace of mind during a stressful time.
Why Choose Bernard Law Group?
When dealing with the aftermath of a single-vehicle accident, having the right legal representation makes all the difference. Bernard Law Group is dedicated to helping accident victims in Bellevue and beyond. Here’s why clients trust us:
- Experience: Decades of handling car accident cases
- Results: A track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts
- Compassion: A commitment to understanding your needs and advocating for you every step of the way
Contact Our Bellevue Single Vehicle Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a single-vehicle accident, you don’t have to face the challenges alone. Contact Bernard Law Group to schedule a free consultation with our Bellevue single-vehicle car accident lawyer. Let our team handle the legal challenges while you focus on recovering.
Call us today to get started.
