Intentionally dangerous driving, especially when it targets another motorist, is hazardous to everyone on the road. This behavior is known as aggressive driving, and in extreme cases, road rage. Aggressive driving is dangerous and can cause accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
If your family member was killed, or you were injured, because of an aggressive driver’s reckless behavior, a Seattle aggressive driving accident lawyer can assist you in seeking damages for:
- Medical costs
- Scarring
- Paralysis
- Stress and trauma
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral expenses
- Diminished quality of life
These are just some of the awards to which you may be entitled. To learn more about how a lawyer can help you, call (844) 730-0233 to speak with the team at Ben Crump Law, PLLC.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving happens all the time. In fact, according to the American Automotive Association (AAA), 80% of drivers admit to having let their anger affect their driving behavior. AAA also reports aggressive driving contributed to more than half of all fatal crashes from 2003 to 2007.
Aggressive driving is motivated by anger. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) defines aggressive driving as one or more intentionally committed moving violations that endanger others, or force other drivers to perform defensive driving maneuvers.
Examples of aggressive driving include:
- Speeding, especially in bad conditions or heavy traffic.
- Running stop signs or stop lights.
- Following too closely.
- Illegal passing or weaving in and out of traffic lanes.
- Purposely cutting off another driver.
Extreme instances of aggressive driving are called road rage. According to AAA, drivers with road rage may engage in actions such as running another driver off of the road, throwing objects at another vehicle, or intentionally hitting another car.
To win your case, you will have to prove that the driver who caused your crash acted negligently. Doing this alone may be difficult, but a Seattle aggressive driving accident lawyer can work to gather evidence that shows the other driver was being reckless behind the wheel.
For a free legal consultation with a aggressive driving accidents lawyer serving Seattle, call (844) 730-0233
Washington Accident Laws
All drivers in the state of Washington are required to carry insurance and report accidents to the authorities. Failure to do either could result in fines and penalties.
Seattle Aggressive Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
Reporting
If a law enforcement officer investigates your crash, they will take care of accident reporting. If the authorities were not involved, all drivers involved must file a report within four days of the accident. You can make the report to the local police or sheriff’s department. You may also make an online report with the Washington State Patrol.
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Insurance
Insurance may provide one option for receiving compensation for your injuries. Washington is an at-fault insurance state, so your claims for injuries and property damage should be filed with the responsible driver’s insurance provider.
When it comes to insurance, things can be tricky, so working with a lawyer may benefit you. Insurance companies might want to pay out the lowest amount possible in claims to protect their own bottom line. You may want a lawyer to assist with negotiations, or and possibly take your case to court. If the driver who hit you did not have insurance, your lawyer can file a lawsuit against them.
You can also hold uninsured drivers accountable through the state. If you were in an accident with an uninsured driver, and they do not pay for damages, your lawyer might help you fill out a Motor Vehicle Claim for Damages. To qualify, you must have suffered an injury or at least $1,000 in property damages. You must file your claim within 180 days of your crash. Ultimately, if the uninsured driver does not compensate you, their license could be suspended.
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Fault
Washington’s contributory fault statute, RCW 4.22.005, states that if your actions contributed to your accident, you can still seek damages, but your awards will be diminished in relation to your amount of fault. If you contributed 40% of the fault, you would receive $60,000 from a $100,000 settlement.
The Statute of Limitations
You have three years from the time of your accident to file a lawsuit for recovery of personal property, personal injury, or wrongful death. A lawyer can help you get started on your case immediately, so that you do not miss your window to take legal action. Cases that are not filed within the statute of limitations are often thrown out.
Working with an Attorney
Fighting for compensation does not need to be another source of stress. When you work with an attorney from Ben Crump Law, PLLC, you have a team behind you to guide you through the process of recovering the damages you might be owed.
Aggressive driving is never okay. It puts other people’s safety and lives at risk. We can help you prove your accident was caused by another driver’s aggressive and wrongful actions. If you were hurt because another driver could not control their temper, you should not be stuck with bills for medical treatment and damaged property.
Let our team help you seek compensation. A Seattle aggressive driving lawyer will handle your case from start to finish, and our team will work hard to find a successful resolution for your case.
You can call our offices at (844) 730-0233 for a free consultation. We can discuss your case at no risk to you. You never pay out of pocket. We only collect a fee if we win your case. Reach out to Ben Crump Law, PLLC to find out more.
Call or text (844) 730-0233 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form