Washington Car Accident Laws

There are a number of motor vehicle laws that when disobeyed can cause a car accident or make the outcome of an accident worse. Unfortunately, some of these laws are commonly disregarded by many drivers, creating an unsafe environment on our roads. It is important to remember that traffic laws were created for the protection of all drivers and passengers, and those who fail to comply with these laws put themselves and everyone else in danger. If a driver does not obey traffic laws and car accident occurs, the driver is likely to be found liable for the resulting damages to the other vehicle, the driver, or any passengers. A car accident lawyer can help victims collect compensation from the responsible party.

Seat Belt Laws

In the state of Washington, it is illegal to drive or ride in a car without a proper restraint system. All adults must wear a seatbelt and all children must be in the appropriate car seat, booster seat, or seat belt, according to their age and size. Each seat belt may only be buckled around a single passenger, and the shoulder portion of the belt may not be placed under the arm or behind the back. The driver is responsible for all passengers under the age of sixteen.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes

Certain lanes on Seattle, Tacoma, and other Washington highways have been designated for certain uses. Those known as high occupancy vehicle, or HOV, lanes may only be used by vehicles which meet specific requirements. HOV lanes are not to be used for passing other traffic and cannot be entered into or exited from except where designated. The far left lane, not including the HOV lane, is also restricted to certain kinds of traffic. On any highway that has at least three lanes in one direction, vehicles towing trailers or that weigh over 10,000 pounds are not allowed to travel in the far left lane. All vehicles are required to keep to the right side of any road except to pass another vehicle.

Passing Vehicle Laws

When passing a vehicle traveling in the same direction, a driver is required to keep to the left of the vehicle, unless the vehicle is making or about to make a left turn or the road has at least two lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. No vehicle may pass another in any circumstance in which it is unsafe to do so or would require driving off of the roadway.

These are only a few of the laws that were created to protect drivers and passengers on the roads. If an accident occurs, it must be determined whether or not the drivers involved were following the appropriate laws at the time of the collision. If one of the drivers failed to obey traffic laws and caused injury or damage as a result, he or she is most likely liable for the damages caused.

There is a certain amount of time in which liability must be determined or the question becomes moot. The statute of limitations in the state of Washington for personal injury, damage to personal property, and product liability is three years. If you have been in a collision in the Seattle or Tacoma, Washington area, do not hesitate to contact a car accident lawyer at Phillips Webster.

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Car Insurance Laws

All states have mandatory minimum liability car insurance laws, but the amount varies from state to state. In Washington, the minimum liability insurance policy limit is 25/50/10. That means that at least $25,000 must be available in the event that the driver causes injury to another person, $50,000 for injury to multiple passengers, and $10,000 for damage to property. The driver must also carry an identification card that provides proof of insurance. Drivers who fail to carry the mandatory insurance required by law are subject to fines, as well as the costs associated with any damage or injury they cause.

Insurance companies are also required by law to honor their policies and act in good faith toward all policyholders. However, they will often attempt to minimize any payouts or avoid paying a claim altogether. A car accident attorney experienced in insurance law can help to ensure that accident victims get the compensation to which they are entitled.

Contact Seattle and Tacoma Car Accident Lawyer

Motor vehicle laws are in place to protect you, but they can be confusing for most people. If you have been involved in an auto accident in Seattle, Tacoma, or another area of Washington, contact a car accident lawyer at Phillips Webster today. We are here to help.

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