An Attorney Who Helps Drunk Driving Accident Victims Get Justice
If you've been hit by a drunk driver, call attorney Colin Scott
When people drive drunk, they put the lives of others at risk. A drunk driving accident in Vancouver, WA can permanently change someone's life in an instant. But recovering compensation after this type of car accident can be difficult. The Scott Law Firm, PLLC has experience holding negligent drunk drivers accountable and can help injury victims recover financial compensation in these situations.
If you were hit by a drunk driver, you might think your claim for compensation should be fairly straightforward. The other driver was breaking the law and should be held responsible for the damages you suffered as a result of the accident. But drunk driving accident attorney Colin Scott knows the facts aren't always this simple or easy to prove.
The police who investigate drunk driving accidents are concerned with protecting the public by holding drunk drivers accountable and bringing them to justice. But the police unfortunately can do very little in terms of helping you recover compensation for your injuries. A drunk driver may be found guilty of driving under the influence, but their insurance company may still claim that you were partially to blame for the accident. When this occurs, it can negatively affect the amount of any compensation you might receive.
We know how to deal with the insurance company
Insurance companies are supposed to help accident victims, but as publicly held companies, their number one duty is often to their shareholders, which means they must put profits first. One way that insurance companies make money is by collecting premiums from their insureds and keeping payments for claims as low as possible. They can accomplish this objective many different ways, but one of them is to dispute your claim and question the extent of your injuries.
There are thousands of lawyers all over the country looking out for the interests of insurance companies. That's why you need someone who will stand up for your rights. You need an experienced accident attorney who is focused on helping you get the best possible outcome in your case. Colin Scott began opened his practice to help accident victims in Southwest Washington recover the financial compensation they need and deserve. The clients he serves are injury victims just like you. Here at The Scott Law Firm, PLLC in Vancouver, WA, that's all we do.
How can a lawyer help me after a drunk driving accident?
A lawyer can investigate your accident and obtain all the facts available. This includes:
- hiring a private investigator
- reviewing accident reports and medical reports
- identifying witnesses and interviewing them
- consulting experts as needed.
This helps to build a strong case. When successful, these efforts can prove a drunk driver was responsible for the accident that left you injured.
What types of damages can I recover after a drunk driving accident?
An insurance company may offer you a settlement soon after your accident. But it is likely to fall far short of covering all the damages you have suffered. These damages can include all current and future medical expenses related to your injury. They may also include lost wages while you were left unable to work, as well as other damages such as pain and suffering. Properly identifying all the damages that are available to you in a personal injury case is something you should discuss with an experienced lawyer.
Colin is determined to resolve your case in a way that meets your needs. He has no interest in and will not advise his clients to accept lowball settlement offers that fall far short of the compensation to which you are legally entitled or likely to receive. When insurance companies see that he has built a strong case and is ready to fight for his clients in court, they often agree to negotiate a far fairer settlement.
When can I sue after a drunk driving accident?
It's important to get legal representation as soon as possible after your accident, since there is a time limit (referred to as the "statute of limitations") in which you must either resolve your claim or take legal action to preserve your ability to make a claim. In Washington, the statute of limitations is three years. If you wait too long, your claim will expire and your ability to seek compensation for your injuries will be lost forever. Taking immediate action also strengthens your case because your lawyer can act quickly to secure evidence and protect your rights.
If you were injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, learn more about how we can help. Attorney Colin Scott can review the details of your case and answer your questions. Contact us online or call 360-718-3640 to schedule an appointment for a free consultation at our Vancouver, WA office.