When you’ve been in a car accident, your vehicle may be irreparably damaged. Property damage to your vehicle or personal belongings must be compensated if another party is at fault. Our property damage attorneys in Tacoma can help you seek a fair settlement for the losses in an accident, including property damage.
Types of Property Damage in a Car Accident
A car accident can result in a wide range of property damage. Here are the most common types:
- Vehicle damage: Damage to your car, ranging from minor dents to total loss, is typically one of the most expensive types of property damage.
- Damage to personal belongings: Items inside your car—such as electronics, phones, laptops, or other valuables—can be damaged or destroyed during an accident.
- Damage to pets: If you had a pet in the vehicle during the accident, veterinary bills for injuries to your pet could be included in your claim.
- Damage to real property: In some accidents, your property, such as fences, mailboxes, or structures, may be damaged.
Understanding the scope of the damage is crucial when seeking compensation, as these claims can add up, and the legal team at Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers can help you pursue the total amount of your losses.
Washington State Statute of Limitations for Property Damage Claims
In Washington State, the statute of limitations for filing a property damage claim after a car accident is three years from the date of the accident. You have a limited window of time to be “made whole” regarding damaged property. If you fail to file your claim within this period, you lose your right to recover damages, regardless of the extent of the loss. These claims should be initiated as early as possible after the accident.
How Property Damage Cases Differ from Personal Injury Claims
Property damage and personal injury claims are handled differently in Washington State. Personal injury cases often involve complex negotiations for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages, while property damage claims tend to be more straightforward. Physical assets can easily have a monetary value assigned to them, and bills and receipts can record repair services or purchases.
However, just like personal injury cases, property damage claims are still subject to being challenged by the responsible party’s insurance company. Washington’s comparative negligence law means that if you are partially at fault, the compensation for your property damage may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What to Do After Experiencing Property Damage in a Car Accident
If you’ve experienced property damage, taking the right steps can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Here’s what to do:
- Document the scene: Take photos of your vehicle, damaged belongings, and the surrounding area. This evidence will be critical in determining the extent of your losses.
- A police report: Report the accident to the police. The report will serve as an essential piece of evidence for your claim.
- Assess the damage: Take inventory of everything damaged in the accident, including the car, personal belongings, and pets. Get estimates for repairs or replacements.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. However, be cautious if contacted by the responsible party’s insurance company. You are better served by having our team work with them, as they are trained in the strategies to reduce the value of claims.
- Seek legal help: Hiring an experienced property damage attorney in Tacoma can help you navigate the process, avoid unnecessary delays, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers: Serious About Success
At Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers, we believe the most effective way to address serious property damage claims is by working with a team that knows how to get results. With over 25 years of experience, our large team is built on integrity, trust, and a collaborative spirit that is more powerful than what a single attorney can achieve. Each member of our team brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, and we have the resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. When you choose our Tacoma property damage lawyers, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a dedicated team committed to your success.