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Tacoma Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been in a car accident, you need a car accident attorney who will fight for your rights. Our Tacoma car accident lawyers are dedicated to getting you the compensation you’re entitled to for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. With a proven track record and personalized attention, we’ll guide you through every step of the legal process, handling all the details so you can focus on recovering.
Don’t wait, time is critical in car accident claims. Contact us today for a free consultation at (253) 259-3276 and take the first step toward securing the justice you deserve.
Auto Accidents We Handle in Tacoma
We handle the following types of accidents at Goldberg & Loren:
- Truck Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Bicycle Accidents
- Bus Accidents
- Uber/Lyft Accidents
Our Verdicts and Settlements
$100,000
Settlement
A 34-year-old Tacoma resident suffered whiplash and a herniated disc after a delivery truck failed to stop at a red light on Pacific Avenue and rear-ended his vehicle.
June 2024
$480,000
Settlement
A multi-vehicle accident on I-5 near Tacoma Mall involved a distracted driver who caused a chain reaction crash.
August 2024
$1,200,000
Settlement
A 22-year-old college student was struck by a vehicle while crossing South Tacoma Way.
October 2024
Types of Car Accidents in Tacoma
Car accidents can happen in many different ways, and each type comes with its own set of challenges and consequences. Whether it’s a simple fender-bender or a serious collision, the aftermath can be overwhelming, physically, emotionally, and financially.
- Rear-End Collisions: When one vehicle crashes into the back of another, often due to tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops.
- Head-On Collisions: Occurs when two vehicles collide front-to-front, typically resulting in serious injuries due to the high impact.
- T-Bone Accidents (Side-Impact): Involves one vehicle striking the side of another at a perpendicular angle, often happening at intersections.
- Hit and Run Accidents: When a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without stopping to provide information or assist the injured party.
- Rollover Accidents: When a vehicle flips onto its side or roof, often caused by speeding, sharp turns, or collisions with larger vehicles like trucks.
- Distracted Driving Accidents: Accidents caused by drivers who are not paying full attention to the road, often due to texting, talking on the phone, or other distractions.
- Drunk Driving Accidents: Crashes caused by drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs, leading to a significant increase in risk of injury or fatality.
- Multi-Vehicle Accidents: Involves three or more vehicles, often occurring on highways or congested roads, leading to complex insurance claims.
- Highway and Freeway Accidents: Accidents that occur on high-speed roads, often caused by speeding, sudden lane changes, or failing to follow traffic laws.
- Intersection Accidents: Crashes that occur at intersections, often due to failure to yield, running a red light, or distracted driving.
- Wrong-Way Driving Accidents: When a driver enters a road or highway in the wrong direction, often resulting in head-on collisions or near-misses.
Each type of accident presents unique legal challenges. At Goldberg & Loren, we’re committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve, no matter the type of accident.
Types of Injuries Resulting from Car Accidents in Tacoma
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting effects on your health, well-being, and quality of life.
- Broken Bones
- Chest Injuries
- Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations
- Facial Injuries
- Internal Injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Neck Injuries
- Psychological Injuries
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Whiplash
If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a car accident in Tacoma, it’s important to seek medical attention and consult with a personal injury attorney to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. At Goldberg & Loren, we are here to support you through your recovery process.
What To Do After a Car Accident in Tacoma?
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately afterward is crucial for your safety, health, and potential legal claims. Here’s a guide on what to do after a car accident in Tacoma:
1. Ensure Safety First
Check for injuries. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic, such as the shoulder of the road or a parking lot.
2. Call Emergency Services
Dial 911 to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. A police report will be crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
3. Exchange Information
Exchange names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, insurance information, and vehicle registration with the other parties involved in the accident.
4. Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This documentation will be valuable for your claim.
5. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be apparent right away. You may even think you have no injury due to adrenaline, but a medical record may help support your claim later.
6. Avoid Admitting Fault
Do not admit fault at the scene, as this can complicate legal and insurance matters. Stick to the facts and let the police and insurance companies determine fault.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible, giving them all the details and documentation you’ve gathered.
8 . Consult a Local Tacoma Car Accident Attorney
Contact our auto accident lawyers to understand your legal options and ensure your rights are protected. An auto accident attorney can help you navigate insurance claims and pursue compensation for injuries and damages.
By following these steps, you can protect yourself both physically and legally after a car accident in Tacoma. If you’re unsure of what to do next or need legal assistance, Goldberg & Loren is here to help you every step of the way.
Tacoma Auto Accident Reporting Procedures
If you’re involved in an auto accident in Tacoma, follow the proper reporting procedures to ensure compliance with Washington state law and to protect your rights.
If you are involved in a car accident in Washington and no police report is filed at the scene, you must submit a Motor Vehicle Collision Report (MVCR) to the Washington State Patrol within four days of the accident. This can be done either online or by mail.
Who Needs to File?
Each driver involved in the accident is responsible for filing their own report within the required timeframe.
When to File?
The four-day deadline begins on the date of the accident.
How to File?
- Online: Submit the report through the Washington State Patrol’s website.
- By Mail: Download and print the MVCR form from the Washington State Patrol website, then mail it to:
Collision Records Section
P.O. Box 42628
Olympia, WA 98504-2628 - By Email: Send the completed and signed form to [email protected].
When to Call the Police?
If the accident results in injuries or property damage exceeding $1,000, you are legally required to call the police, and they will file a report at the scene.
Consequences of Not Filing
Failing to submit the MVCR within four days may lead to penalties and could create complications when filing an insurance claim.
Get a Copy of Your Report
After you have filed your report, a copy of your police crash report will be useful evidence for your motor vehicle claim.
Table of Contents
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Tacoma Car Accident Lawyer
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Our Verdicts and Settlements
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Types of Car Accidents in Tacoma
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Types of Injuries Resulting from Car Accidents in Tacoma
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What To Do After a Car Accident in Tacoma?
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Tacoma Auto Accident Reporting Procedures
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Auto Accident Laws in Tacoma, Washington
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5 Most Dangerous Roads in Tacoma
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Types of Compensation Available for Tacoma Auto Accident Victims
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Statute of Limitations for Auto Accidents in Tacoma
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What Our Clients Are Saying About Us - Client Reviews
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Why Hire Goldberg & Loren for Your Auto Accident Case in Tacoma?
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Tacoma Resources for Car Accidents
Tacoma Practice Areas
Auto Accident Laws in Tacoma, Washington
Washington state has specific rules regarding fault, insurance coverage, accident reporting, and legal deadlines that all drivers should be aware of.
- Comparative Fault Rule: Washington follows a comparative fault system [1], meaning that if you are partially at fault for an accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Minimum Insurance Requirements: All drivers must carry at least [2]:
– $25,000 per person for bodily injury
– $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
– $10,000 for property damage
- Distracted Driving Laws: Washington has strict laws against using handheld devices while driving. [3] If the driver who caused the accident was distracted by a phone, it may show liability.
5 Most Dangerous Roads in Tacoma
Certain roads in Tacoma have a higher frequency of serious accidents due to heavy traffic, ongoing construction, and key intersections. Based on crash data from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the following roads have been identified as the most hazardous in the area. [3]
#1: I-5 Stretch from Fife to the 38th Street Exit
The section of Interstate 5 between Fife and the 38th Street exit is considered the most dangerous road in Tacoma. Over a five-year period, this stretch saw 36 serious injury or fatal crashes. Factors contributing to its high accident rate include frequent construction, heavy congestion, and multiple major exits, including Highway 16 and the Tacoma Dome/City Center. In 2022, this section recorded three serious injury crashes and one fatal accident, while in 2023, there were three serious injury crashes and four fatal crashes.
#2: Pacific Avenue from E. 34th – E. 84th Streets
Pacific Avenue between E. 34th Street and E. 84th Street ranks second due to a high number of crashes, particularly near downtown Tacoma. In 2022, this stretch experienced 11 serious injury crashes and three fatal accidents, while 2023 saw 10 serious injury crashes and four fatalities.
#3: 72nd Street from Sheridan – Waller
The portion of 72nd Street between Sheridan and Waller, including the I-5 exit, ranks third due to its high accident rate. Over multiple years, this road recorded five fatal crashes, more than any other on this list. In 2022, there were three serious injury crashes and two fatal crashes, while 2023 had four serious injury crashes and one fatal crash.
#4: Portland Avenue from E. 29th – 72nd
Portland Avenue, another major exit off I-5, comes in fourth. This stretch has been a consistent site of severe collisions. In 2022, there were four serious injury crashes and three fatal crashes, while 2023 recorded six serious injury crashes and two fatal accidents.
#5: 56th from South Tacoma Way – Waller
The stretch of 56th Street between South Tacoma Way and Waller is ranked as the fifth most dangerous road in Tacoma. From 2017 to 2022, this road saw 15 serious crashes, making it one of the more hazardous routes for drivers. In 2023, it recorded three serious injury crashes and one fatal accident. This road is a major connector near Tacoma Mall and intersects with both Pacific Avenue and Portland Avenue, which are also among the most dangerous roads in the city.
Types of Compensation Available for Tacoma Auto Accident Victims
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident in Tacoma, you may be entitled to various types of compensation to help cover your losses.
The amount and type of compensation depend on the severity of the accident, the extent of injuries, and who was at fault. Below are the main categories of compensation available to accident victims.
Medical Expenses
Accident victims can recover costs for medical treatment, including:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
- Physical therapy
- Medications
- Future medical expenses related to the accident
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If the accident caused you to miss work, you may be eligible for compensation for:
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job
- Loss of future income if your ability to work is permanently affected
Property Damage
Victims can seek reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement, as well as compensation for any other damaged property, such as personal belongings inside the car. If you have experienced property damage only, small claims court would be the appropriate place to settle the claim.
Pain and Suffering
This covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. Compensation may include:
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety and depression
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Disability and Disfigurement
If the accident results in a permanent disability or disfigurement, victims may be compensated for the long-term impact on their quality of life and future earning potential.
Wrongful Death Compensation
If a loved one dies due to an auto accident, surviving family members may be entitled to:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
Punitive Damages
In cases where the at-fault driver acted recklessly or intentionally, the court may award punitive damages to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident in Tacoma, consulting our auto accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and maximize your compensation.
Statute of Limitations for Auto Accidents in Tacoma
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident in Tacoma, it’s necessary to understand the Statute of Limitations, which sets a legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. In Washington State, including Tacoma, the time limits for filing claims depend on the type of damages you’re seeking.
Personal Injury Claims – 3 Years
If you suffered injuries due to an auto accident, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. §4.16.080 Missing this deadline may result in losing your right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Property Damage Claims – 3 Years
If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you also have three years from the accident date to file a claim for property damage.
Wrongful Death Claims – 3 Years
If a loved one was killed in an auto accident, surviving family members have three years from the date of death (which may differ from the accident date) to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Claims Against Government Entities – Shorter Deadlines
If your accident involved a government vehicle or hazardous road conditions caused by a government entity, you may need to file a formal claim within months of the accident. The specific deadlines and procedures vary, so it’s important to act quickly.
What Our Clients Are Saying About Us – Client Reviews
Why Hire Goldberg & Loren for Your Auto Accident Case in Tacoma?
When dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident, choosing the proper legal representation can make all the difference. With over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of success, Goldberg & Loren have recovered over $500 million for accident victims, helping them secure the compensation they deserve.
As auto accident attorneys serving Tacoma, we understand the complexities of Washington’s traffic laws and the challenges victims face when dealing with insurance companies. Our Tacoma car accident law firm is dedicated to fighting for maximum compensation, whether it’s for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, or pain and suffering.
We provide aggressive legal representation combined with personalized attention, ensuring that your case is handled with the care and expertise it deserves. We are available to meet in-person, or you can schedule an online appointment. Our local car accident lawyers are ready to answer your questions 24/7, 365 days a year, and we are open now for new clients.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident in Tacoma, don’t settle for less; let us help you get the justice and financial recovery you need. Contact us today for a free consultation at (253) 259-3276 and take the first step toward securing your future.
Tacoma Resources for Car Accidents
If you have been in a recent auto accident in Tacoma, here are a few resources that might help you:
Trauma Hospitals
St. Joseph Medical Center – Level 2 Trauma Center
Address: 1717 S. J Street, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: (253) 426-4101
Tacoma General Hospital
Address: 315 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: (253) 403-1000
Chiropractic Clinic
Tacoma Chiropractic Center
Address: 2611 N. Stevens St, Tacoma, WA 98407
Phone: (253) 759-1500
Auto Repair Shops
Midland Automotive
Address: 102 131st St S, Tacoma, WA 98444
Phone: (253) 531-4331
Disclaimer: Goldberg & Loren provides this list for informational purposes only and does not endorse or have any affiliations with these businesses—please research independently to find the best option for your needs.
Sources:
[1] Chapter 4.22 RCW: CONTRIBUTORY FAULT—EFFECT—IMPUTATION—CONTRIBUTION—SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS. (n.d.-b). https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?
[2] RCW 46.61.672: Using a personal electronic device while driving. (n.d.). https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?
[3] Washington Car Crash Data. (n.d.). https://remoteapps.wsdot.wa.gov/highwaysafety/collision/data/portal/public/
Our Tacoma car accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights. You won't pay for anything, unless we win your case. Call us today for a free consultation!
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