When a car accident happens, the resulting injuries can change a person’s life. Not only do you need support with recovery, but it’s also essential to leverage available insurance compensation and financial assistance to help you get back on your feet.
Even with good insurance, things can get complicated when you cross state borders. For example, residents of Oregon often cross into the Vancouver, Washington area, then encounter issues when an accident happens in the other state. It’s challenging to navigate insurance coverage and local accident laws when the rules are different from one state to the next.
How State Accident Laws Differ: Oregon and Washington
It’s important to understand that the accident laws are based on the location where the accident occurred. So, even if you live in Oregon, but the injuries happened in Washington, then Washington laws apply. It can be helpful to hire an experienced accident attorney who understands the state laws in both Washington and Oregon to determine the best way to proceed with the case.
In the state of Washington, the laws are more favorable for victims compared to the laws in Oregon. Washington has laws to help victims minimize problems relating to Uninsured and Under-Insured Motorist coverage, as well as Personal Injury Protection.
The statute of limitations also differs between Oregon and Washington. If the accident occurred in Oregon, then you have two years based on the statute of limitations for personal injuries. Washington offers an additional year: 3 years for the statute of limitations. Understanding this difference is essential because if you don’t file the complaint within the timeframe, then it’s possible that you might miss out on available compensation.
Navigating the Nuances of Accident Laws
Washington State Patrol requires motorists to file Motor Vehicle Collision Reports in the event a person or persons is injured. If any vehicle’s damage is greater than or equal to $1000, you are also required to file an MVCR. In many cases, officers on scene will file this report themselves so it isn’t an extra step to have to take. When law enforcement does not report, it is optional to file the report online. One thing in particular to note in Washington, is that their rear end collision law assumes that the rear driver is held responsible. This driver in the behind position is to be held liable for the damage and injuries caused in the accident. One of the few exceptions to this rule is if the driver in front (who gets rear-ended) has defective car equipment such as broken tail lights or brake lights.
There are other differences that can affect your accident or personal injury case, including the residency location of the plaintiff, the amount of money in question, and whether the case is permitted to be filed in federal court.
You deserve a favorable outcome for your case, so it makes sense to hire an attorney who is familiar with local laws and accident cases. Having a skilled accident lawyer by your side makes a big difference in the amount of compensation you can receive.