Washington is a varied state covering the coastal areas around Seattle to the mountain range of the Cascades. All sorts of vehicles use the network of highways that stretch in all directions across the state, including I-5. Drivers don’t always pay attention to the road rules and while speeding is commonplace, so is merging into the traffic from a side road or when overtaking and merging into a busy, adjacent lane.
Care is expected but as this doesn’t always happen, unfortunate accidents are the result, causing injuries to drivers who are unable to avoid the situation. Fortunately, it may be possible for anyone who is injured in a merging accident to file a claim for compensation from the driver who caused the accident. However, before doing this you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney who will help you get the compensation you deserve.
Interstate-5 in Washington
Interstate 5 in Washington (I-5) is 276.62-miles long and runs from its border with Oregon up to Canada. Along its route it serves Vancouver, Kelso, Chehalis, Olympia, Centralia, Seattle, Tacoma, Everett, Mount Vernon, and Bellingham.
I-5 is the busiest interstate in Washington with around 240,000 motorists using the road daily. The Interstate Bridge carries I-5 over the Columbia River from Portland to Vancouver.
What to Do If Hit While Merging On I-5
If you live in Washington State and you have been injured in a merging accident on the I-5 you will need to know something about personal injury law before starting the claim’s process. First of all, you have to file your claim within 3 years from the date of your injury. Secondly, Washington State has comparative fault laws, which means if you are partly to blame for the accident you may not be entitled to the full amount of your claim.
The insurer will take away a percentage of your claim that is equal to your percentage of fault. This is a good reason to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer who will fight to get the amount you deserve. In Washington State there are no caps on the amount of money you can claim. The first thing to do after a merging accident is talk to a personal injury attorney about your options.
Evidence to Gather If Hit While Merging On I-5
To ensure you have a foolproof case you must provide as much evidence to back up your claim. This includes:
- photos you or a passenger took at the accident scene;
- witnesses’ reports;
- police reports;
- your physician’s report indicating the extent of your injuries and likely recovery time;
- any receipts for medical treatment you have already paid for;
- vehicle damage report as well as receipts for repair bills;
- evidence of lost earnings.
You will Need a Personal Injury Attorney
With so much at stake and your future to think of you should talk to a personal injury attorney first before submitting your claim. Experienced attorneys have negotiation skills that will help to get you the claim you deserve. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation on this page to be connected with an attorney who may be able to help with your claim.
