Seattle Fatal Car Accident Attorney

Unfortunately, fatal vehicle accidents do occur in and around the Seattle area. When they do, family members can struggle to understand what steps to take next. At Washington Injury Law, we are here if you need a Seattle car accident attorney by your family’s side, working to recover the compensation and closure you need to move forward. We know this is the last phone call you thought you’d ever have to make. We’ll be here when you’re ready just contact us.

Why Choose Our Team for Help?

At Washington Injury Law, we understand the emotional toll a fatal collision can take on families, and we are committed to providing the legal support you need during this difficult time.

  • We know this is a devastating time for you and your family, and we handle every case with care and sensitivity.
  • Our attorneys have extensive experience in representing families who have lost a loved on in a tragic car collision. We want you to have a strong advocate in your corner.
  • We take wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. What does that mean? Well, you will not have to worry about paying fees until the case concludes, and then only if we secure compensation on your behalf.

Common Causes of Fatal Seattle Car Accidents

Fatal car accidents in Seattle can happen for many reasons, often involving driver negligence or hazardous road conditions. Some of the most common causes of fatal car accidents in Seattle include:

  • Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to rapid traffic changes or road conditions. High-speed crashes are more likely to result in fatalities due to the greater force of impact.
  • Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted while behind the wheel are at a higher risk of causing accidents. In fatal cases, distracted driving often leads to head-on collisions or rear-end crashes.
  • Driving under the influence: Unfortunately, impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal accidents. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of a fatal crash.
  • Reckless driving: Aggressive driving behaviors, which can include tailgating, running red lights, racing other vehicles, and weaving in and out of traffic, significantly increase the risk of a fatal accident.
  • Inclement weather: Seattle is known for its rainy weather, and wet, slick roads can contribute to serious accidents. Drivers who don’t adjust their speed and operate more cautiously in poor weather conditions can cause fatal collisions.

Common Types of Injuries from Car Accidents

While any vehicle collision can lead to injuries, certain types of injuries are more common in fatal crashes. These injuries are often catastrophic and lead to the loss of life either at the scene of the accident or later in the hospital. Common fatal injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): A TBI can occur when the head is violently struck during a collision. Severe brain injuries often result in death, particularly if the brain swells or internal bleeding occurs.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Injuries to the spinal area cause paralysis or even death, particularly if the injury results in damage to the brainstem or upper spinal cord.
  • Internal injuries: Internal bleeding or trauma to internal organs, such as the liver, lungs, or heart, can be fatal if not treated immediately. These injuries are common in high-impact crashes.
  • Severe fractures: In some cases, multiple broken bones can lead to internal bleeding (or even external bleeding in the case of compound, open fractures) or damage to vital organs, resulting in death.
  • Burn injuries: In accidents where a vehicle catches fire, burn injuries can be fatal, especially if a person is trapped inside the vehicle.

What Damages Can I Recover?

In the aftermath of a fatal car accident, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. In Washington, wrongful death claims allow families to recover compensation for a variety of damages, including:

  • Medical expenses: Any medical bills related to the treatment of your loved one before their passing can be recovered, including emergency room costs and surgeries.
  • Funeral and burial costs: The sudden loss of a family member can result in unexpected funeral and burial expenses. A wrongful death claim can help cover these costs.
  • Lost income and financial support: If your loved one was a primary source of income for your family, you can seek compensation for the loss of their financial support, including future earnings they would have provided.
  • Loss of companionship: Losing a loved one often means losing the companionship, guidance, and emotional support they provided. Family members may be compensated for the loss of these relationships.
  • Pain and suffering: Both the pain and suffering endured by the deceased prior to their passing, as well as the emotional distress experienced by surviving family members, can be included in a wrongful death claim.

Contact Our Seattle Fatal Car Accident Lawyers Today

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident in Seattle, the team at Washington Injury Law is here to help. We understand the challenges you are facing, and we are committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation. Let us help you seek justice for your loss and recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation by filling out our contact form or calling us at (206) 960-4522.