Sadly, major accidents are far from rare in our region. According to data from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), nearly 50,000 people are hospitalized for injuries in the state each year. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, it is crucial that you have a basic understanding of your legal rights. Here, our personal injury attorneys in Tacoma highlight the four important rights that all injured victims have in Washington.
You Have the Right to Seek Medical Treatment
No matter what type of accident you were involved in, you have the right to seek professional medical treatment. In an emergency situation, you need to get yourself to the nearest hospital for immediate treatment. Even if in a non-emergency situation, you should still schedule a comprehensive medical examination. You may be far more injured than is apparent immediately after the accident. If you are not sure how to get the right medical help, an experienced Tacoma personal injury lawyer can offer you guidance.
You Have the Right to Select Your Own Medical Provider
Accident victims have a general right to see a doctor of their own choosing. An opposing party does not have the authority to dictate or control the medical treatment that you receive. For example, if you were injured in a car accident in Tacoma that was caused by another driver running a red light, that driver’s insurance company does not get to choose your doctor. You should go to a medical provider that you are comfortable with. Unfortunately, insurance companies often make things difficult for injured victims. To protect your rights, you should deal with the insurance company through a Tacoma, WA personal injury lawyer.
You Have the Right to Fair Compensation for Your Damages
Under Washington state law, negligent parties are legally liable for a victim’s damages. If your accident was caused by the recklessness or carelessness of another party, you can seek financial compensation for the full value of your losses. Compensation should be paid to you and your family for both monetary losses, such as your medical bills and intangible damages, such as pain and suffering. To ensure that you can get the maximum financial recovery that you deserve, you should work with an experienced Tacoma personal injury attorney early on in the claims process.
You Have the Right to Hire the Best Tacoma, WA Personal Injury Attorney
Injured victims have the right to hire an attorney. Your personal injury lawyer can help you make sure that all of your legal rights and financial interests are properly protected. You do not have to deal directly with the defendant or their insurance carrier. You can and should work with these parties through your legal advocate.
At the Alliance Law Group, our top-rated Tacoma personal injury attorneys are strong advocates for victims in Washington. If you or your loved one was hurt in an accident in Pierce County, please do not hesitate to contact our law office today for a free, no-obligation initial consultation at: 253-300-2055.