Tacoma Car Accident Lawyers
Last updated on September 25, 2024
In Tacoma, Washington, a bustling hub with three major educational institutions – University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma Community College and Bates Technical College – the roads are often filled with newer, less experienced drivers. This influx of youthful motorists, combined with a significant portion of the workforce (7.53%) employed in transportation and warehousing, means more large trucks and vehicles are on the move.
Your Allies In Navigating The Aftermath Of An Auto Crash
The average commute time here stretches to 29.6 minutes, creating an abundant ground for traffic mishaps. At Pendergast Law, our car accident attorneys understand the dynamics of our local roads and are committed to supporting our community members through tough times. We offer free consultations and answer our phones 24/7 so that you can get the help you need when you need it.
Understanding The Causes Of Car Accidents In Tacoma
Car accidents are a common occurrence in the Tacoma area, with several roads notorious for high accident rates and fatalities. Notable among these are Pacific Highway (SR 99) near Seattle–Tacoma International Airport and the I-5 stretches from South 96 Street to Exit 133 and from Exit 119 to 124 near McChord Air Force Base. Pacific Highway through Federal Way also sees a significant number of accidents.
Common causes of car accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Poor weather and road conditions
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
We want our fellow community members to stay safe while navigating these roads, but accidents can happen despite precautions. Common injuries from car accidents include head and neck injuries, back and spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and, in severe cases, fatalities. Our personal injury attorneys are here to help you obtain the compensation you need to heal and move forward.
Our ‘City Of Destiny’
The “City of Destiny,” Tacoma, Washington, once suffered a prolonged decline in the mid-20th century, when suburbanization and divestment were adversely affecting many central cities in the United States. Over the years, however, the city recovered, even flourished, and is now considered one of the best and biggest cities in the Evergreen State. The city’s downtown core boasts the highest density of art and history museums in Washington. The Port of Tacoma is considered a center of international trade. Seven highways reach or cut through Tacoma, and gridded streets support the city’s automobile-based community.
The auto accident attorneys at Pendergast Law want the people of Tacoma to know the dangers they face on the roads each day in order to stay safe and recover quickly in the event of a crash with a rideshare vehicle, large truck, bus, or another vehicle. Below, we provide in-depth information on Tacoma auto accidents and how you can protect yourself each day.
What Is The Car Accident Fatality Rate In Tacoma?
Tacoma, considered one of the “most livable” cities in the nation, is experiencing growth, meaning there will be more people and consequently more vehicles on the city’s roads and highways. In 2011, a total of 10 fatal vehicle accidents were reported in the city (six of them involved drunk drivers). They resulted in the same number of deaths. This rate is not excessive, especially when compared with that of other, denser cities. However, vehicle accident rates, along with injuries and deaths, may see increases in the future as the city’s population expands.
What Are The Common Causes Of Auto Accidents In Tacoma?
While single-vehicle accidents in which no other motorist is at fault are entirely possible and do, in fact, occur, most car crashes can be attributed to human error. The more common causes of car collisions are:
- Distracted driving: Distraction can be brought about by cell phones, conversations, loud music, eating, reading and other sources.
- Intoxicated driving: Drugs or alcohol can significantly impact an individual’s judgment and reaction time, making him or her very dangerous and unreliable as a driver.
- Tailgating: Considered a form of aggressive driving, tailgating is ill-advised since it gives the offending driver much less time to react to an emergency.
- Speeding: Another form of aggressive driving, speeding has many potential repercussions. An offending driver may fail to navigate a tight curve and lose control. He or she may not be able to stop in time in an emergency situation. Basically, speeding is never worth it.
If a person causes a car crash committing any of the above, he or she may easily be held liable for damages in a court of law, as long as evidence of such wrongful driving behavior remains.
What Should I Do if I’ve Been Injured In A Tacoma Car Accident?
First and foremost, you should receive medical attention, whether you have been noticeably injured or not. Then you should consult with an attorney who can protect your rights and provide you with legal guidance as to how to attain compensation from the party responsible for your damages through a personal injury lawsuit in Tacoma. Upon filing a claim, your attorney should perform the following in order to strengthen your claim case:
- Collect vital documents, such as medical and police reports.
- Talk to an accident reconstruction specialist and other professionals who can piece the accident together and provide testimonies that support your claim.
- Preserve material evidence, such as pictures and damaged property.
- Advise you on how to deal with the insurance adjuster.
It is important that you seek financial support for your damages through legal means. Medical bills and other expenses can pile up, and it would be a grave injustice if you were to pay for all of it, even though another was at fault.
Who Can Help Me With My Tacoma Car Accident Injury Case?
The Tacoma car accident lawyers of Pendergast Law have dedicated their careers to helping those injured as a result of another’s negligence and aim to give you the personalized attention and compassion you deserve after a crash has disrupted your life. We will work diligently to make sure you get the compensation you need to recover to the best of your ability. Call 888-539-9211 today for more information about how we can help.
How Our Attorneys Can Help You
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident requires a personal injury lawyer who is skilled and deeply familiar with the local legal landscape. Our office is strategically located to be accessible to clients throughout Tacoma, ensuring we are here when you need us the most.
Our successful track record speaks volumes about our commitment to our clients. We have secured significant settlements for Tacoma residents, including $1,850,000 for a man injured between two commercial trucks, $1,250,000 for a woman in a pedestrian accident and $500,000 for another with a fractured kneecap following a vehicle collision.
Take The Next Step With Pendergast Law, Call Us Today
Choosing the right Tacoma car accident lawyer can make all the difference in your case. We encourage you to reach out and take advantage of our free consultations. We answer our phones 24/7, ensuring we are always available when you need us. Schedule your consultation today by calling 888-539-9211 or by filling out our online contact form.