Whiplash injuries can have a long-lasting impact on your life. If you’ve been in an accident, particularly a rear-end collision, and suffered from whiplash, we understand the pain and confusion you’re going through.
At Bernard Law Group, our dedicated team of Seattle whiplash injury lawyers is here to help you navigate the legal process, get the compensation you deserve, and ensure you have the resources you need to recover fully.
What Is Whiplash and Why Is It So Common in Car Accidents?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a rapid back-and-forth head movement, similar to a whip’s cracking. This sudden motion can damage the neck muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
It is a common injury, especially in rear-end accidents, which are frequent in Seattle. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, in 2021, there were over 22,000 rear-end collisions across the state, and many of these resulted in whiplash injuries.
While whiplash might seem like a minor injury, it can cause long-term discomfort, chronic pain, and even disability. Symptoms often include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. Left untreated or poorly compensated, it could severely impact your ability to work and enjoy life.
The Role of a Seattle Whiplash Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and are experiencing symptoms of whiplash, it’s important to consult with a qualified whiplash injury attorney in Seattle. Our legal team at Bernard Law Group specializes in helping victims of whiplash injuries get the compensation they deserve. We understand whiplash cases and are ready to fight for your rights.
Whiplash injuries can be difficult to diagnose and prove in court, which is why having an experienced car accident attorney in Seattle, Washington on your side is crucial. We work with medical professionals and accident reconstruction experts to present a clear case for compensation, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
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Why Choose Us as Your Seattle Whiplash Injury Lawyer?
At Bernard Law Group, we have over 30 years of experience representing accident victims throughout Seattle and the state of Washington. Our commitment to clients has resulted in over half a billion dollars recovered in settlements and verdicts. When you choose us as your Seattle auto collision lawyer, you choose a team that will relentlessly pursue justice.
We handle all aspects of your case so you can focus on healing. This includes investigating the accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking your case to trial. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Washington State Laws and Whiplash Injury Claims
Washington follows a comparative fault system when it comes to personal injury claims, including those related to whiplash injuries. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.
The state also imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. Under Washington law, you generally have three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. This makes it essential to contact a Seattle accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t lose your right to pursue compensation.
How a Seattle Auto Collision Lawyer Can Help Maximize Your Compensation
Insurance companies often downplay the severity of whiplash injuries, attempting to minimize the payout. This is where we step in. As your Seattle whiplash injury lawyers, we take on the insurance companies and ensure that you get a fair settlement. We have experience negotiating with large insurance providers, and we won’t back down until you receive full and fair compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
We understand that whiplash injuries can cause significant disruption to your life, and we’re committed to helping you recover the compensation you need to move forward.
Rear-End Accidents and Whiplash Injuries
Rear-end accidents are the most common cause of whiplash injuries. In Seattle, traffic congestion and distracted driving contribute to many rear-end collisions. According to a report by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, distracted driving is a factor in 23% of all accidents in Washington. If you were injured in a rear-end collision, seeking legal counsel from a rear-end accident lawyer in Seattle is essential.
These accidents often occur at stoplights, intersections, and during heavy traffic. Even at low speeds, the force of a rear-end collision can result in whiplash. Our Seattle auto collision lawyers will investigate the details of your accident, including reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing any available video footage to build a strong case on your behalf.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Seattle
Rear-end accidents, which frequently result in whiplash injuries, can happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes we’ve encountered in our years as Seattle whiplash injury lawyers include:
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or other distractions can lead drivers to rear-end the vehicle in front of them.
- Speeding: Drivers going too fast may not have enough time to stop when traffic slows down.
- Following too closely: Tailgating is a leading cause of rear-end accidents.
- Weather conditions: Rainy weather, common in Seattle, can lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility, increasing the likelihood of a rear-end collision.
What to Do If You Suffer a Whiplash Injury in a Seattle Car Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident in Seattle and believe you’ve suffered a whiplash injury, there are a few steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, whiplash symptoms can take hours or even days to appear. Seeking a doctor as soon as possible is crucial for a proper diagnosis.
- Document everything: Record all medical treatments, expenses, and any symptoms you experience. This will help establish the severity of your injury and support your claim for compensation.
- Contact a Seattle whiplash injury lawyer: The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building your case and protecting your rights.
How We Handle Whiplash Injury Claims
- Free Consultation: We offer a free consultation to discuss the details of your case and help you understand your legal options.
- Investigation: We thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and consult with experts to build a strong case.
- Negotiation: We negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation. If they refuse to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court.
- Litigation: If necessary, we will take your case to trial and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve suffered a whiplash injury in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Bernard Law Group, your trusted Seattle whiplash injury lawyers, today. We have the experience, resources, and commitment needed to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Call us or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. Let us fight for you while you focus on your recovery.
