Passenger Accident Injury Attorneys Olympia, WA

Were you or a loved one a passenger during a motor vehicle accident? Being a passenger during a motor vehicle accident can leave you with lasting injuries, and worse, may affect children or minors who were also passengers in the vehicle. It can be confusing and traumatic after an auto accident in which you were a passenger, and depending on the accident, your injuries may not be evident in the days or weeks that follow. Contact an Olympia personal injury attorney as soon as possible to determine the next steps to take and make sure you and your loved ones are compensated for your injuries and pain.

Understanding Passenger Accident Cases

Olympia Passenger Accident Injury Attorneys

As an occupant of a vehicle in which someone else is driving, you are entitled to certain rights and even compensation from insurance. In fact, in some instances, a passenger may even have more rights to compensation than the driver in the accident. One of the first and most important legal steps is to meet with a medical professional for a thorough medical examination. If you eventually need to take legal action against the driver of the vehicle, this will become crucial evidence in your case.

It must first be established which party is at fault for the accident. If the driver of the vehicle you were a passenger in is determined to be at fault, you have a right to file a claim with their insurance company or even your own insurance company. You are generally allowed to seek the maximum compensation from the insurance company even if your driver shares liability for the accident.

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If the other driver is found to be at fault for the accident, you may file a claim with their insurance company, and for more severe injuries, you may consider filing a lawsuit against the driver. There is even the possibility that a passenger may be found to be at fault for the accident, in which case, a claim could be filed with their insurance company as well. Regardless of fault, you may still even be able to seek assistance with medical bills through your own insurance policy.

Dealing with insurance companies, policies, and claims can be incredibly overwhelming and confusing, but we at Ron Meyers & Associates are experts at dealing with insurance companies and will work hard to afford you the highest amount of compensation for your injuries. We also know how difficult it can be to focus on something as stressful as insurance claims or lawsuits when you are dealing with painful and traumatic injuries. Let us take over your case so you can focus on your recovery.

Case Results

$850,000

Hazardous waste truck collision resulting in loss of spleen, gallbladder and liver damage in King County.

$620,000

Two auto collisions resulting in spinal surgery in Thurston County.

$600,000

Improper lane change by semi-truck caused neck, back and concussion-mild brain injury to retired career military NCO in Pierce County.

Our Approach to Passenger Accident Cases

At Ron Meyers & Associates, we understand the unique challenges that passengers face after being involved in motor vehicle accidents. As experienced personal injury attorneys in Olympia, WA, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective representation to passengers who have suffered injuries in accidents.

Comprehensive Legal Guidance: When you choose our firm to handle your passenger accident case, we take the time to understand the specific details of your situation. Our team of skilled attorneys will provide you with comprehensive legal guidance, explaining your rights as a passenger and the available options for seeking compensation.

Determining Liability: One of the critical aspects of a passenger accident case is determining liability. Our attorneys have extensive experience in investigating accident scenes, analyzing evidence, and identifying the party or parties responsible for the accident. Whether it involves the driver of the vehicle you were in, another driver, or multiple parties, we will work diligently to establish liability and build a strong case on your behalf.

Maximizing Compensation: Our primary goal is to help you recover the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. We understand that passenger accidents can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Our team will meticulously assess the extent of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the long-term consequences to pursue fair compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Dealing with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming and stressful, especially when you are recovering from injuries. We have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies, and we will handle all communication and legal aspects on your behalf. Our goal is to protect your rights and ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the claims process.

Client-Centered Representation: We believe in providing client-centered representation, which means your needs and best interests are at the forefront of our legal strategy. Our attorneys will keep you informed at every stage of your case, address your concerns promptly, and offer personalized attention to your unique circumstances.

Trial-Ready Advocacy: While many passenger accident cases are resolved through negotiations, we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Our attorneys are skilled trial advocates with a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes in the courtroom. We will fight vigorously for your rights and seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

Compassion and Support: We understand the emotional toll that a passenger accident can have on you and your loved ones. Our team is committed to providing compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring that you are not alone in your journey towards recovery.

How Ron Meyers & Associates Can Help with Passenger Accident Cases

Serving Injured Passengers in Olympia & Western Washington

At Ron Meyers & Associates, we have represented thousands of clients across Western Washington who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, and we will take your case seriously to ensure you have the best representation available. Our team of dedicated and experienced attorneys will work hard to get you fair compensation for the pain and trauma that can result from being a passenger in an auto accident. Contact Ron Meyers & Associates today if you or a loved one has been a passenger in a motor vehicle accident.

Frequently Asked Questions About Passenger Accident Cases

After a passenger accident, the first priority is to seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Then, gather as much information as possible, such as the names and contact details of all involved parties and witnesses, and take photos of the accident scene if you can do so safely. Report the accident to the police and inform your insurance company about the incident.

Yes, as a passenger, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries regardless of who was driving the vehicle. In these cases, your claim is typically made against the insurance policy of the driver responsible for the accident.

Washington follows a “comparative fault” rule, which means that each party involved may be assigned a percentage of fault. Even if both drivers share some responsibility for the accident, you can still seek compensation. The amount of compensation you receive may be reduced based on your assigned percentage of fault.

Yes, if you are unable to reach a fair settlement with the insurance company or if the responsible party’s insurance coverage is insufficient to fully compensate you for your injuries, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine the best course of action.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Washington is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, it is essential to act promptly and seek legal advice as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

As a passenger, you may be eligible to recover various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future medical costs if you suffer long-term or permanent injuries.

When choosing an attorney, look for experience in handling passenger accident cases, a track record of successful outcomes, and a commitment to personalized client service. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case with the attorney and ensure they understand your needs and concerns.

Yes, you can still pursue a claim for your injuries even if you do not have health insurance. An experienced attorney can help you explore options to receive necessary medical treatment and seek compensation for your medical expenses from the responsible parties.

If the at-fault driver does not have insurance or does not carry sufficient insurance coverage to fully compensate you for your injuries, you may still have options. You can turn to your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you have it. This coverage is designed to protect you in such situations, and an attorney can help you navigate the process of filing a UM/UIM claim.

Yes, if you experienced emotional distress as a result of the accident, you may be eligible to seek compensation for it. Emotional distress damages can be awarded in addition to compensation for physical injuries and other losses.

Washington follows the “pure comparative fault” rule, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still seek compensation. However, your awarded damages will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.

Yes, passengers injured in rideshare vehicles or taxis have the same rights to seek compensation for their injuries as passengers in private vehicles. Depending on the circumstances, the liable party may be the rideshare company, the taxi driver, or another negligent driver involved in the accident.