Lakewood Car Accident Lawyer

Name: Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers
Telephone: (253) 345-4044
Price range: Free Consultation

Car accidents are scary and disruptive. A severe collision accident can alter your life forever, and even a minor fender bender can cause a big headache. Insurance claims, injuries, and the legal system can all be complicated to work through. Hiring a car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, can help you navigate insurance claims and the legal system and allow you to focus on ‘what’s important to you. Call Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc. today for a free consultation and learn what our experienced legal team can do for you.

What Happens After I Am In A Car Accident?

If the car accident results in damage or injury, you and the other party’s insurance company will begin working on a claim. There may also be legal recourse. A car accident lawyer will negotiate with the insurance companies and represent you in court. They will collect pertinent information, interview witnesses, and help you navigate what can be a highly complex process while advocating for you. Your lawyer will collect:

Medical information: A lawyer compiles all necessary medical records and bills that resulted from the accident.
Evidence of the accident: A vital part of the case is demonstrating who was at fault for the accident. To do this, a lawyer collects police reports, witness statements, photographs and video of the scene, and other accident-related evidence.
Income information: Your lawyer will gather proof of the income you lost due to the accident.

Once your lawyer has compiled a body of evidence, they will prepare for your case. They will study pertinent case law and develop legal arguments to demonstrate how the other party was at fault and the losses you suffered as a result. Hiring a lawyer can result in greater compensation and ensure that you get the result you deserve. That’s why if you are looking for a car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, you should contact Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc. so they can begin working on your case as soon as possible.

What Happens If There Is An Accident And I Am Uninsured?

If you drive a vehicle required to be registered in Washington state, you must have car insurance or another way to prove financial responsibility. If you drive your car without the required insurance, then you might receive a fine of $500. If you are in an automobile collision and do not have insurance, your driver’s license might be suspended if you do not pay for the damages and injuries resulting from the accident. The Department of Licensing or the DOL might suspend your license if you were in an accident without auto insurance. If the accident harmed anyone or caused at least $1000 in property damage, according to RCW 46.52.030, Washington state has the right to suspend your license. The DOL notice if it decides within 180 days of the accident that a court might hold you responsible for the damage, this notice is going to say that they intend to suspend your license. For 60 days, it will inform you of how to avoid the suspension and your right to appeal the suspension. To stop the suspension, you can deposit security in your future insurance. This means you are depositing with the DOL the amount that estimates you over because of the accident, and you provide proof of insurance. The suspension notice is going to say how much you must deposit. You can ask the DOL for forms and instructions for depositing security. This amount will be returned to you if no one sues you within three years of the accident.

You can get the DOL a written statement that is signed by all the other parties releasing you from liability for the accident. The list of who must give the statement is in the contact list that comes with your suspension notice. You can reach a written agreement with the others involved in the accident, which means you and everyone else on the contact list must sign the agreement. Typically, you will admit to owing money and sign an agreement to pay either one payment or installments. You can also file for bankruptcy to get out of having your license suspended. A bankruptcy will discharge the debt you owe because you were uninsured at the time of the accident, discharge meaning you no longer owe the debt if the DOL can no longer suspend your license solely based on that debt. However, not all debts are dischargeable, such as traffic tickets. You have to show financial responsibility or otherwise prove you have insurance even after bankruptcy. After an accident, you must show proof of SR-22 insurance, an expensive type of insurance. You must keep up with this insurance for three years after the accident. You should make sure the DOL has your current address of the move because if you move and do not give them your current address, you may not get the notice, you may not learn that your license has been suspended, and you may lose your appeal rights.

What Is A Car Accident Lawyer?

You are driving on the highway or sitting at a stoplight. Suddenly, there is a car accident. You might have been injured in the crash even if you weren’t involved in it. It’s important to know what steps to take next and who to contact for help with your case. A car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, can be an invaluable resource when sorting out this situation. A car accident lawyer is a specialist who specializes in cases involving injuries sustained during automobile accidents. They are often called to court for their testimony and will help you with the aftermath of your case. Hiring a car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, like Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc, can make all of the difference in your case. This experienced law firm has helped thousands of clients with their injury cases over the years, and they can help you too! If you have been in a car accident, it is essential to consult with a Car Accident Lawyer in Lakewood, WA, who understands the complexities of liability laws. A local injury attorney can help you determine what happened and whether or not someone else was at fault. They will also be able to guide you through all aspects of your case, including documentation, negotiations, settlement offers, and court proceedings. Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc is a leading personal injury law firm with decades of experience. We have the resources and expertise to handle any case, from minor fender benders to catastrophic accidents that result in wrongful death. Our lawyers are compassionate and committed to getting our clients the compensation they deserve for their injuries. We fight hard on your behalf so that you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life after an accident.

How Do I Know That I Need A Lawyer?

Sometimes minor accidents can quickly be settled out of court if you are willing to pay small out-of-pocket expenses, and the case seems straightforward. But sometimes, there are unanticipated legal obstacles, and even minor costs can add up fast. Consider hiring a lawyer if you:

Are facing high out-of-pocket costs. Car accidents can be expensive. Even a minor fender bender can require replacing expensive car parts. If you feel your out-of-pocket expenses are too high, contact a lawyer to see if the responsible party should be covering these costs.
Are having a challenging time with insurance companies. Insurance companies often try to cover as little as possible to protect their interests. A lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies to get you the settlement you deserve.
Were injured in the car accident. If you are missing work or have large medical bills from a car accident, a lawyer can seek compensation for damages from the responsible party.
Have to go to court to settle the case. A lawyer is a trained professional who understands the rules of Washington, which increases the likelihood your case will be successful.

Car accidents can be stressful and time-consuming. Hiring a lawyer can make your life easier. If you are looking for a car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc. can help you. Our experienced multilingual team will pursue the maximum compensation to assure your recovery.

Effective Ways to Stay Safe On The Road

Take a Safe Driving Course

If it’s been a few years since you last studied road law, a safe driving course is a great way to brush up on your knowledge! It can refresh you on the laws you know, and it can inform you of any new laws you may not be aware of. Most auto insurance providers offer safe driving courses, and some offer discounts for completion! If your provider doesn’t offer this, consult a car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, or visit your local DMV to learn what your options are.

Don’t Drive Drowsy

Countless studies have shown that driving drowsy and driving drunk share many of the same negative symptoms. This means that getting behind the wheel while you’re tired can lead to reduced reaction time, poor coordination and impaired vision. Parker Chenaur & Associates wants you to stay safe, so if you’re sleepy or not well-rested, don’t get on the road. If you can, ask someone else to drive; if this isn’t an option, stop as often as you need to stretch your legs, get a cold drink or even take a power nap.

Wear Your Seatbelt

Any car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, will tell you that a seatbelt can make all the difference in your safety on the road. The CDC suggests that wearing a seatbelt can increase your chances of surviving a car crash by up to 50%, and it can reduce your risk of serious injury by as much as 45%. Always wear your seatbelt in the car, and encourage anyone else in the vehicle to do the same. Even if you’re only driving a short distance, it’s a good idea to buckle up.

Don’t Drink and Drive

Parker Chenaur & Associates cares about the safety of all drivers on the road, and being intoxicated behind the wheel can jeopardize everyone’s safety. It only takes 2 beers to raise your blood alcohol content to 0.02%, which is enough to impair your judgment, vision and more. If you plan to drive at any point, avoid consuming alcohol beforehand. For days when you know you’re going to drink, save yourself a consultation with a car accident lawyer in Lakewood, WA, and have a designated driver ready to come pick you up. The most effective form of protection on the road is prevention, and the only thing that can sober you up is time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dealing With a Car Accident Case

Do: Remain Calm

An accident can be a terrifying event, and you or other individuals on the road may be scared, worried, or in pain. Try to remain as calm as possible throughout the situation; if you haven’t already, call 911 or your local emergency services right away. After everyone has received adequate medical attention, get in contact with your Car Accident Lawyer in Lakewood, WA, and your insurance company to find out what you should do next.

Don’t: Accept Fault

Any Car Accident Lawyer will tell you that accepting or accusing fault is never a good idea right after a collision. By admitting fault too soon, you may be faced with harsh penalties and expenses even if there were circumstances you weren’t aware of. The same scenario also applies when accusing another driver of causing a collision, so it’s best not to act too quickly. Speak with the professionals at Park Chenaur & Associates before making or accepting any accusatory claims.

Do: Exchange Information

When all drivers, passengers, and bystanders are safe, remember to exchange information with everyone involved in the accident. Be sure to share and receive names, driver’s licenses, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance policy information, and find out the year, model, and make of any cars impacted. Also, don’t forget to capture the license plate number of any vehicle involved in the collision.

Don’t: Discuss Without a Lawyer

You never know all of the necessary information to make a thorough claim right after a car accident, and it’s easy to speak too soon and end up wrongfully blaming or accepting responsibility for the incident. While you should get in touch with your insurance provider and let them know about the accident, don’t share information, sign any paperwork or agree to be recorded or give statements until you’ve spoken with your Car Accident Lawyer. They can carefully guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the justice you deserve.

Do: Remain At The Scene

You should never leave the scene of an accident until emergency responders have arrived and everyone involved has received proper medical care. You also need to exchange information before leaving. If you’re involved in a crash and leave the scene without taking these measures, you can severely hurt your chances of successfully filing a claim and may even be faulted for a hit-and-run. Stay on-site and contact Park Chenaur & Associates for additional support before leaving.

Why You Need Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc. as Your Car Accident Lawyer in Lakewood, WA

If you’ve been injured in an auto accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages from missed work due to injury-related doctor visits and physical therapy sessions, pain and suffering damages for emotional distress that resulted from the crash; even if no one was hurt! Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc is your best choice for legal representation after an injury from a car accident. We are committed to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve so that they can focus on their recovery instead of worrying about money. Our experienced attorneys will work with you every step of the way and fight aggressively for what you deserve so that we can get your life back on track as quickly as possible.

Our firm is here to assist you through this challenging time by providing professional legal representation at affordable rates so that we can help alleviate some of the financial stress caused by your injuries following an automobile crash. Our car accident lawyers in Lakewood, WA, can help if anyone has suffered from an injury due to another person’s negligence. Not only do we know how this process works, but our team also cares about each client’s needs and wants throughout this challenging time in their lives. We understand how stressful it can be with all the paperwork involved after an accident, so we take care of everything while still getting results for our clients.

Collecting Damages for a Car Accident

As a victim, a car accident lawyer from Lakewood, WA, will tell you that medical treatments and recovery should be your number one priority following an accident. However, it’s possible that with missed time from work and medical expenses, that you may be wondering whether filing a legal claim should be a consideration. Car accidents happen in numerous ways, but when the victim can prove the other party was at fault, legal action is imperative. In some situations, the victim may have contributed to the accident somehow. A lawyer from Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc. can assist with understanding comparative negligence and how it may impact the value of the accident claim.

How Car Accidents Happen

Car accidents are widespread, and depending upon the nature of the accident, the impact can be severe. There are several ways that a car accident can happen, changing the following days, months, and even years. Common reasons for car accidents are:

Driving While Intoxicated
Driving While Fatigued
Distracted Driving
Cell Phone Use
Reckless Driving
Road Rage
Poor Driving/Road Conditions
+More

After a car accident, it’s essential to seek medical treatment to diagnose any sustained injuries. Medical treatment can rule out underlying conditions and provide an opportunity for the best possible recovery.

Prove Fault with Crucial Evidence

Any car accident lawyer in Lakewood, Washington, will share that it is the victim (or the plaintiff)’s responsibility to prove the case by a preponderance of the evidence when pursuing an accident claim. This form of the burden of proof is met when there is more than a 50% chance that the claim brought forth is valid. Evidence proving the following is imperative:

Duty of Care
Breach of Duty of Care
Damages
Causation

When working with a lawyer, they strategize a case that proves fault to gain max compensation for your losses.

Understanding Comparative Negligence

It will be necessary to prove that the other party was liable for the accident to receive damages. However, it’s important to note that Washington observes comparative negligence laws, meaning both parties can be at fault somehow. As a result, the plaintiff may find a possible settlement offer valued less because of their portion of the blame. For example, the defendant may be responsible for 90% of the accident and the plaintiff accountable for 10%. This means that the total amount of damages provided through a settlement will be reduced by 10%.

How a Lawyer Will Value the Case

When taking legal action, it’s crucial to know what the claim could be worth. The case value will be significant for victims looking for enough compensation to cover their losses and a lawyer working on a contingency fee basis. With a lawyer’s experience, they will be able to assign an average case value by:

Researching outcomes of past cases similar to yours
Evaluating medical documentation, including the extent of injuries and the expense associated with past, present, and future costs
Assessing lost wages due to inability to work
Calculating any property damage

Injuries from a car accident can be catastrophic and may even impact victims long-term. While nothing can turn back the clock, compensation from a settlement may be a way to assist in helping victims get back on their feet again. Learn more about our Lakewood, WA car accident lawyer at Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc. by calling our office for a consultation.

Client Reviews

Highly recommend! I was in a car accident in November of 2023 and my insurance didn’t do much to help me so I contacted Park Chenaur Law to see if I can get someone that will help me out. Paty and Natalya were working on my case and were very helpful and communicative throughout the whole case. Thank you guys again for ...

Bri

I was in a car accident and tried to deal with the other insurance company on my own. The person I was dealing with was very aggressive and not easy to work with. She offered me a settlement that was very low and didn't include much for my medical expenses. I reached out to a law firm and was lucky to be connected with Nataly...

Max Terterov

Lola is a great person/paralegal to work with. She helped me with my case few years back and she did a fantastic job. I recommended my husband to Park Chenaur because of the great service I got from this firm.

Suze

Not only did the team (multiple people- very hands on!) get me the maximum insurance settlement for a car accident I was in, but they went above and beyond to stay engaged and work for me. They helped me find effective, compassionate chiro care, and were helpful in discussing case details along the way. I highly recommend Pau...

Arianna S.

I use this firm for the first time on 2012 and over the years I had an excellent experience but, I have to say is thanks to Lola. She goes above and beyond, twice I had cases that they couldn't help me with, but she always takes her time to talk (at least an hour), she listen and finally always comes with something to help, i...

James G.

Kimberly was so reliable, honest and helped me with integrity. I recommend to contact her to anyone who is looking for great help when you go through unexpected car accident. I was really frustrated when the accident was happened. Kimberly always took the time to answer any questions I might have, went throu...

Hye C.

This is my second time coming back to Park & Chenaur. I came back because Lola was an amazing Team member And unfortunately, she had gone to retirement. But reassured me that I would be Taken good care of and put in good hands with colleagues of Park & Chenaur Talia was one that I would communicate with more and I'm p...

B. Cruz

I’ve been incredibly pleased with the support and dedication from Komo Thiara and Marco Martinez as they work on my personal injury case. Even though my case is still ongoing, I’ve been impressed by their professionalism and commitment. Komo Thiara is attentive to every detail and has been proactive in keeping me ...

Jasmin T.

This is a great firm to work with. I’ve been working directly with Lola Serna and Mr. Kim. They’ve been working diligently on my case and keeping me up to speed each step along the way. Lola has been extremely communicative of the entire process. When I’ve mentioned to others that they are working on my case...

C. Rhzie

Lola and her team are incredible! Top notch law firm with a deep, rich knowledge of the system and how to best take care of their clients.

Preston D.

Gina Kim is a great attorney! She is very experienced and explained the process every step of the way. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case. I highly recommend her!!

Donna G.

After I had my auto collision, I reached out to Park Chenaur and Lola quickly reached out and immediately took my case. Since hiring the law firm, and working with Lola, I have been able to concentrate on my healing knowing that my claim is in good hands. Lola has been super responsive throughout this process which I apprecia...

Jacob L.

I have been so impressed with the level of care this group has provided in my auto accident case. Especially Lola, who on the first meeting made me feel at ease. She explained everything throughout the process and kept me informed every step of the way. The value of peice of mind is beyond anything I could have expected. I wo...

Trina P.

I got into a bad accident where I lost my car back in 2017, I was young, scared and anxious. I contacted Park Chenaur & Associates when I was offered $500 from the other driver’s car insurance…let’s just say that was a spit in the face compared to what I actually received thanks to their help. They took...

Chels

Park Chenaur Law Offices was great helping me navigate everything after a MVA in 2016. They were recommended to me several months after and I wish I had contacted them sooner!

They listened to my concerns, patiently explained next steps, figuratively held my hand through mediation, and helped calm me as I expressed my ...

인정

In the summer of 2022, I found myself in a stressful situation after a car accident. Despite it not being my fault, dealing with insurance was intimidating. A friend recommended Parks Chenaur & Associates LLP, and it turned out to be a lifesaver. They not only guided me through the insurance process but ...

Hyuna J.

I highly recommend Park Chenaur for assisting me with my case. I was involved in an accident and Lola made the process very easy for me and my family.

She was very understanding, she listened to all our concerns. I can't say thank you enough.

Kristy C.

I cannot thank Kimberly and her team enough. Between two accidents that were very complex, Kimberly and her team helped me get settlements for both. I couldn’t have gotten through this without her dedicated work. I highly recommend using Kimberly and her team - I will be recommending them to anyone I personally know. I ...

Morgan G.

Senior Manager Yoon and her team took care of my two traffic accident cases and achieved satisfying results. Highly recommend this legal group.

Minwoo L.

I would like to thank Park Chenaur Lawyers for helping my Son with his injury claim. Lola has been very helpful and supportive in this process. It’s good to know that my Son is being treated well and we appreciate all the help! The Hutchinson family.

Tamara H.

Kimberly Yoon helped me resolve my car accident. She helped me a lot during difficult times. She was very accurate in her work and always responded. I think she is the best.

Yunmi L.

Angel Chenaur & Rick Park are very good excellent lawyers because of unstoppable care and energy to win your case. They are a Team that are professional and asure a thorough understanding of the processes throughout the wait for the results of your claim. They've been my lawyers for my claims and &...

Linda C.

I appreciate the phone call back first of all. The case taken was two years old. Something was gotten out of it. Appreciated, but I will Never understand how 40 percent of $15,000 leaves me with $4,600 and No explanation good enough Can be given Even with the so called breakdown. Make it make sense. But still I appreciate eve...

Annaray H.

Paula Burger is wonderful! She is a person I go to when I know things will get done. Her communication skills are excellent and anyone who works with her can expect nothing but the best.

Annette T.

A Case Manager Gina Kim, she was always kind and considerate when my wife and I had a car accident. Usually people panic when they have a car accident. And there are many cases where we don't know how to handle it. After this traffic accident, my family has learned a lot about how important experienced lawyers and experienced...

Jay