What happens if you share some blame for a crash?

If you’re partially responsible for a crash in Seattle, you may be worried about whether it could affect your ability to recover compensation. Maybe you were speeding, missed a stop sign or were distracted by your phone just before the impact.

The good news is that your contribution to the crash doesn’t bar you from recovering damages. However, the amount you receive will depend on how much blame you carry. For example, if your losses total $50,000 and you’re found 20% at fault, you could still recover $40,000. Even if you’re 95% responsible, you’re legally entitled to 5% of your damages.

Don’t accept unfair responsibility

Fault isn’t assigned randomly. Insurance adjusters investigate every detail of the crash to ascertain what role each driver played in the accident. You will then be assigned a percentage of fault, depending on their findings. However, your assigned degree of fault is not set in stone.

You can dispute an inaccurate or unfair assessment of responsibility for the crash. It isn’t just about arguing your position; you need to present supporting evidence. The insurance company will re-examine the circumstances of the accident to determine if the original fault assignment should be adjusted.

There may be several rounds of negotiations with the insurer to reach an agreement. You also have the option of taking the matter to court should talks fail. Here, a judge or jury will review the evidence and determine a fair allocation of fault.

Consider getting legal support

Being partially at fault for an accident can complicate your efforts to recover damages, from proving fault to negotiating with insurance adjusters. It can be a stressful and daunting undertaking. Working with someone who understands the law can help protect your interests as you navigate the settlement process and increase the likelihood of a fair resolution.

Matthew D. Dubin

Matt Dubin has spent more than 20 years honing his skills as one of the top personal injury lawyers in the State of Washington. In his career, Matt has focused on protecting consumers from dangerous household products, medical mistakes, roadway accidents, and many other causes of injury. Matt has recovered nearly $20 million on behalf of his clients.

Education

• University of Washington School of Law, Seattle, Washington – J.D.
• Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut – B.A.

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