On Everett’s busy streets, drivers head to work, students travel to school, and families go about their routines. We all lead busy lives, but it’s important to remember that car accidents can occur without warning. An unexpected screech of tires, the jarring crunch of metal on metal, and suddenly, your life is upended.
Having a trusted Everett car accident attorney from Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner by your side can make a difference during these trying times. Working with a trusted car wreck lawyer with extensive knowledge of Everett’s local laws and a genuine commitment to helping clients ensures you receive the guidance and support you need to navigate the legal system. From handling paperwork and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary, a dedicated car crash attorney will stand up for your rights and pursue the full value of your claim.
Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner has represented the residents of Everett for over 50 years. We know it’s distressing when someone else’s negligence injures you. And the process of recovery can be a challenging, confusing, and financially stressful time. We also know that every case has a personal story behind it and we work to turn that experience into a path toward healing and justice.
Keep reading to learn more about how you can get financial compensation for the losses you experience from your car accident injuries and what steps you can take to streamline the process. Then, reach out to Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner to schedule your free consultation with an Everett car accident lawyer who knows this city and how to protect your recovery.
What Types of Car Accident Cases Do We Handle in Everett?
Drivers in Everett make choices every day that put others at risk. That includes looking at a phone instead of the road, ignoring a red light, or speeding through a busy intersection. Even one careless decision can cause a crash that interrupts your ability to work, care for your family, or continue your daily routines.
The car accident cases we handle often involve:
- Distracted driving. Looking down to send a message, adjust music, or eat behind the wheel leads to rear-end collisions and failure to yield. These crashes often occur in seconds, without time to react.
- Speeding. Driving too fast makes it harder to slow down or stop. Higher speeds also increase the chance of multi-vehicle wrecks when traffic suddenly backs up.
- Ignoring traffic signals. Running stop signs or red lights leads to side-impact crashes at busy intersections.
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving. Alcohol and drugs affect reaction time, vision, and decision-making, especially at night or during peak travel hours.
- Aggressive driving. Drivers cause crashes when tailgating, weaving through lanes, or reacting with road rage.
- Poor road conditions. Unmarked construction zones, faded lane markings, and potholes make driving more dangerous, especially during rain or fog.
One of the first things we do is determine how a crash occurred. An Everett car accident attorney will review the facts, gather evidence, and work to hold the at-fault party accountable.
What Are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries?
Injuries from a car crash don’t always show up right away. Pain can set in later, making it harder to work, sleep, or keep up with everyday tasks. Even low-speed collisions can lead to complications that last for weeks or longer.
We’ve worked with people throughout Everett who experienced a wide range of crash-related injuries, including:
- Whiplash. The sudden force of a collision can stretch or tear soft tissue in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Broken bones. Collisions can fracture arms, legs, ribs, or hips. Some breaks require surgery and months of physical therapy.
- Head injuries. Concussions and brain injuries affect memory, balance, concentration, and mood, even without a visible wound.
- Back injuries. Herniated discs or spinal compression can cause nerve pain, numbness, or limited movement.
- Internal injuries. Organ damage and internal bleeding may not show symptoms right away but can quickly become serious.
- Burns and scarring. Airbags, seatbelts, and pavement contact can leave lasting skin damage and visible scars.
- Shoulder and knee trauma. Joint injuries often result from bracing for impact or striking interior parts of the vehicle, sometimes requiring orthopedic care or surgery.
- Facial injuries. Broken teeth, eye trauma, and lacerations from shattered glass or airbag deployment can leave permanent damage.
With support from a car crash lawyer, your medical records, diagnoses, and treatment history can be presented clearly, tying the injuries to the crash and strengthening your claim.
What Are the Potential Emotional and Psychological Impacts of Everett Auto Accidents?
Everett auto accidents affect more than bones, joints, or muscles. The emotional toll can feel just as real—and just as difficult to manage. Many people experience lasting psychological symptoms after a collision, even when their physical injuries begin to heal. Let’s look at some potential issues you may face after a crash.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can accompany almost any traumatic event, and car accidents are no exception. Intrusive memories, flashbacks, feelings of being emotionally numb, nightmares, or overall anxiety may continue long after the crash. Some people begin to avoid driving or even riding in a car altogether.
Depression
Depression can set in during recovery or after routines are interrupted. Lingering pain, missed work, and isolation from friends or activities may worsen the feeling. Over time, that weight can lead to fatigue, hopelessness, or emotional withdrawal.
Insomnia
In the aftermath of a crash, your brain can be overstimulated by chemicals that keep you awake at night. Such neurochemicals include adrenaline and epinephrine. You might also find it difficult to relax at night if your body feels like it has to be “on guard” because you feel exposed to danger because of the vulnerability felt from the crash.
Other Emotional Consequences
Other potential psychological consequences can include the following:
- Panic attacks,
- Anxiety,
- Phobias related to cars,
- Mood disorders or mood swings,
- Anger or episodes of anger,
- An inability to concentrate,
- Memory loss or difficulty remembering things,
- Unexplained episodes of crying,
- Lack of interest in pursuits that once brought you pleasure, and
- A loss of appetite.
When emotional injuries interfere with daily life, it may be time to speak with a mental health professional and an Everett auto accident lawyer who understands how to present those damages as part of your claim.
How Can an Everett Car Accident Attorney at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner Help Me?
At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, our Everett car accident attorneys know you are likely experiencing stress and uncertainty. We’re here to provide the professional and compassionate support you need during this challenging time. By taking on the legal burden, we allow you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Our dedicated team handles every aspect of your case—from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court. This comprehensive approach increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome and gives you peace of mind knowing experienced professionals are advocating for your best interests. Choosing Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner means you’re not alone; we stand by your side at every step and are committed to achieving the best possible resolution for you and your family.
Who May Be Liable in a Car Accident Case?
Liability in a car accident case comes down to who caused the collision and why. Fault may rest with a single driver or involve several parties whose decisions led to the crash and your injuries. Drivers, vehicle owners, companies, or public agencies may all be part of the equation.
For example, a commercial vehicle company could be liable for skipped maintenance, while a manufacturer might share responsibility for brake failure or steering defects. In other cases, poorly designed intersections or missing road signs raise questions about municipal oversight.
Washington follows a pure comparative fault rule. Each party is held accountable for their percentage of fault, and any compensation awarded is adjusted accordingly. Someone found 25% at fault would recover 75% of their damages.
An auto crash lawyer can examine whether liability extends beyond the people behind the wheel—and how that affects the total value of your claim.
What Can a Car Crash Attorney Help Me Recover in Damages?
In Washington state, car accident victims may seek various damages if another party is at fault for causing the collision. An experienced car crash attorney helps you recover compensatory damages in the form of economic and non-economic damages. Compensatory damages include the following:
- Medical expenses. Medical expenses include all costs related to your medical treatment, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and any future medical care you may require. If your injuries require ongoing treatment, your attorney also covers these future expenses.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may seek compensation for lost income. Such damages can include the wages you have lost up to this point and any potential future earnings if your injuries impact your ability to work in the long term.
- Pain and suffering. Pain and suffering non-economic damages compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries. Pain and suffering damages are challenging to quantify without a skilled attorney to gather and present the necessary evidence to support your claim.
- Property damage. You may seek compensation for repairs or the replacement of your vehicle if it suffered damage in the collision, including any other personal property that sustained damages.
- Loss of consortium. If your injuries have negatively affected your relationship with your spouse or family, you may be entitled to damages for loss of consortium. These damages compensate for the impact on your family life and relationships.
In cases where the at-fault party acted with extreme negligence or recklessness, the court may award punitive damages. The compensatory damages listed above compensate victims for their losses. Punitive damages do not seek to compensate but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
Obtaining the full value of damages you need and deserve after an accident is vital to getting your life back on track and moving in the right direction. Your Everett car accident lawyer gets to work immediately calculating the value of your losses and negotiating a settlement.
How Insurance Companies Can Complicate Things
Car accident claims often involve back-and-forth communication with insurance carriers—both your own and the other driver’s. Insurance carriers frequently dispute how you describe your injuries or when you sought treatment.
Common insurance tactics include:
- Asking for recorded statements early in the claim;
- Offering low settlement amounts before medical treatment is complete;
- Disputing the seriousness of injuries or need for continued care;
- Blaming unrelated health conditions for your symptoms; or
- Questioning treatment costs, time off work, or emotional harm.
These practices can delay your case or reduce the final payment amount. We have experience dealing with the unscrupulous practices insurance companies routinely employ. We won’t let them trick you into settling for less compensation than your case is worth.
How Can an Everett Car Accident Lawyer Help Me Secure Compensation for My Injuries?
An Everett car accident lawyer at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner can help you file your car accident claim with the following steps.
Step 1: Collect Evidence of the Car Accident
Evidence gathering is central to proving your negligence claim. Common evidence you can use includes the following:
- Medical records;
- Income and tax records;
- Photos of the accident, your injuries, the crash scene and vehicle damage;
- Video surveillance footage;
- Police reports;
- Witness statements; and
- Expert testimony.
Our experienced attorneys will help you collect this evidence to build your demand letter.
Step 2: File a Demand Letter
First, we will calculate the appropriate amount of compensation your losses are worth. We will then draft and send a demand letter to the insurance company. In it, we’ll explain your losses and request fair compensation. This letter will be the basis for negotiations with the insurance company.
Step 3: Negotiate with the Insurance Company
Once the insurance company receives and reviews the demand letter, negotiations begin. You don’t have to talk to the insurance companies. At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, we’ll handle everything.
Insurance companies try to maximize profits and minimize expenses. That means their goal is to pay you the least amount of money possible. Many times, they will offer you money right away. But this offer is usually significantly lower than what your case is worth.
Alternatively, they may drag out the proceedings and later offer a low settlement. They’re hoping your morale weakens over time, making you more likely to accept the low amount.
Alternatively, the insurance company could fight the case and attempt to push the responsibility back onto you. Because Washington is a pure comparative negligence state, the more blame they push on you, the less compensation they have to pay.
We have experience dealing with the unscrupulous practices insurance companies routinely employ. We won’t let them trick you into settling for less compensation than your case is worth. If the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
Step 4: File a Lawsuit
We resolve most cases are resolved through a negotiated settlement. But if the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable amount of money, we will file a lawsuit with the court. Our law firm has extensive litigation experience. We know how and when to file motions, demand and dissect discovery, depose witnesses, and take your case to trial. But please know that during trial preparations, negotiations never stop. We will continue negotiating with the insurance company, and should they decide to be reasonable, a trial will no longer be necessary.
What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Car Accident?
Knowing what to do immediately following a car accident is essential to protect your health and legal rights. Here are the critical steps you should take:
- Ensure safety. First and foremost, check yourself and others for injuries. If it’s safe, move to a location away from traffic to avoid further accidents.
- Call emergency services. Contact 911 to report the accident. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to have a police report, a crucial component for your insurance claim and legal case.
- Document the scene. Take detailed photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries. Also, you should collect the contact information for any witnesses and other drivers involved in the accident.
- Exchange information. Share your contact and insurance details with the other driver(s) involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so promptly documenting your injuries is crucial for your case.
- Notify your insurance company. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Be honest, but avoid making recorded statements without consulting an attorney.
- Avoid admitting fault. Refrain from admitting fault at the scene of the accident or when speaking with the insurer. Let insurance companies and legal professionals determine who was at fault.
- Keep records. Maintain a detailed record of all medical treatments, expenses, and communications related to the accident. This information supports your case as you seek compensation.
By taking these steps, you can help protect your rights and ensure that you have the necessary documentation for your insurance claim or legal case.
Local Everett Resources That May Help After a Car Accident
Medical appointments, police records, and insurance paperwork often follow in the days after a car crash. Several Everett-based services—from hospitals to insurance offices—may be helpful as you manage the details related to your injuries and claim.
Medical Care
Whether your injuries feel urgent or not, getting medical attention helps document what you’re experiencing. Local facilities that treat car accident patients include:
- Providence Regional Medical Center—1700 13th St.;
- Everett Clinic Urgent Care—3901 Hoyt Ave.; and
- Walk-In Clinic at Walgreens—220 164th St. SW (Mill Creek area).
These providers can supply medical records, test results, and discharge summaries that may support your claim.
Mental Health and Counseling Services
Emotional injuries like anxiety, sleeplessness, or post-traumatic stress can be just as real as physical ones. Local counseling and therapy providers include:
- Compass Health Everett Campus—4526 Federal Ave.;
- Sea Mar Behavioral Health Everett—1920 100th St. SE; and
- Providence Behavioral Health Services—916 Pacific Ave.
Some offices accept insurance or offer sliding-scale fees based on income.
Police Reports and Records
Police documentation can serve as key evidence in a car accident case. If Everett Police responded to your crash, you can request the report at:
- Everett Police Records Division—3002 Wetmore Ave.; and
- City of Everett’s official website—You can also request an accident report online.
Insurance Offices
You may need to visit or contact your insurance company regarding vehicle repairs or medical bills. Several companies maintain offices in Everett:
- State Farm—Evergreen Way;
- GEICO Local Office—SE Everett Mall Way;
- Allstate— Colby Ave.; and
- Farmers Insurance—19th Ave. SE.
Contact an auto accident lawyer before speaking to the other driver’s insurer. These conversations can affect your claim.
Transportation for Medical Appointments
When injuries keep you from driving, Everett Transit provides fixed-route and paratransit services throughout the city. Healthcare providers and Medicaid plans arrange Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for eligible patients. These services help many people in Everett get to doctor visits, physical therapy, or follow-up care without relying on friends or family to drive.
What Is Needed to Build a Strong Car Accident Case in Everett, Washington?
Building a solid car accident case requires a comprehensive approach to gathering evidence, establishing fault, and demonstrating the impact of the accident on your life. Here’s what is typically needed:
- Accident report. Obtain a copy of the police report, which provides an official account of the accident. This report can include details about the scene, witness statements, and officer observations.
- Medical records. Your medical records document the nature and extent of your injuries. These records are crucial for connecting the injuries to the crash, proving the severity of your injuries, and showing the necessity of medical treatments.
- Witness statements. Statements from witnesses who saw the accident provide valuable testimony about what happened. Witnesses help corroborate your version of events and establish fault.
- Photographic evidence. Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries are powerful evidence. They provide a visual record of the impact and extent of the damage.
- Expert testimony. In some cases, expert testimony may be needed. For example, accident reconstruction experts can provide insights into how the accident occurred and the factors involved.
- Proof of financial loss. Gather documentation of all financial losses resulting from the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and evidence of lost wages. Proof quantifies the economic damages you seek.
- Documentation of pain and suffering. Keep a journal or detailed account of how the accident and your injuries affect your daily life and emotional well-being. This documentation supports claims for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Consultation with an attorney. An experienced Everett car accident lawyer guides you through building a solid case. They help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
By gathering and organizing these elements, you and your attorney build a compelling case demonstrating the full impact of the accident on your life and supporting your compensation claim.
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Everett can be overwhelming, but knowing what damages you are entitled to recover, the steps to take immediately after the accident, and what is needed to build a strong case makes a significant difference. Engaging an experienced car accident lawyer provides the expertise and support necessary to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses. Remember, taking prompt and informed action influences the outcome of your case and helps you move forward with your life.
Our goal is your financial recovery and peace of mind.
FAQs
How Soon Should I Contact a Car Wreck Attorney After a Car Accident?
Contact an attorney as soon as possible after a car accident. The earlier you consult a Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner attorney, the better we can protect your rights, preserve critical evidence, and ensure you don’t make mistakes when dealing with insurance companies.
How Do I Know If I Need a Car Accident Attorney?
If the car accident injured you, parties dispute fault, insurance companies are not cooperating, or you are unsure how much compensation you’re entitled to, you may need a car accident attorney. At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, we can help you maximize your compensation and handle the legal aspects of your claim.
What If I Am Injured as a Passenger in a Car Accident?
Injured passengers can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. If both drivers share fault, you may be able to make claims against both insurance policies. As a passenger, it’s important to speak with us after an accident to explore all your options for compensation.
Can I Still File a Claim If the Crash Involved a Hit-and-Run Driver?
Yes. You may still recover compensation through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage when the at-fault driver leaves the scene and no one identifies them. Washington insurance policies often include UM coverage unless you declined it in writing. An attorney can review your policy and help you file a claim if a hit-and-run driver caused your injuries.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in the State of Washington?
In Washington, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally three years from the accident date. Acting quickly is essential, as waiting too long could result in losing your right to seek compensation. One of our skilled car accident lawyers can review your case and ensure you file promptly.
What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to recover compensation through your insurance policy if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. One of our skilled advocates can help you navigate this process.
Can I Still Recover Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault for The Accident?
Yes, Washington follows a pure comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Local Everett Car Accident Lawyer?
Brett, McCandlis Brown & Conner car wreck lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case. Typically, our fee is a percentage of your settlement or award, making it easier for you to afford legal representation.
Meet Your Everett Car Accident Lawyers
Meet some of our top attorneys and negotiators at Brett, McCandlis Brown & Conner.
Paula McCandlis
Paula is a Gonzaga University School of Law graduate with almost three decades of legal experience. She believes in a personalized approach, where she takes the time to understand her clients and how their lives were affected by the car accident. This is the foundation of her impeccable legal representation.
Since 2016, Paula has also been a part-time U.S. magistrate judge in the Western District of Washington. Paula knows the law, and you can count on her to maximize your recovery.
David Brown
David fights zealously to represent his clients against big insurance companies. He’ll keep you informed of your case every step of the way. He’ll explain the complex legal issues so you can fully comprehend your case and make the best well-informed decisions.
David is a University of Colorado graduate with 17 years of legal experience. Since 2013, Super Lawyers Magazine has recognized David as a Rising Star.
Matt Conner
Matt graduated magna cum laude from the Seattle University School of Law. Over and above his stunning decade of legal experience, Matt also has extensive experience in finance. Before law school, he majored in mathematics and economics and worked in the mortgage banking and real estate industries for a time. This financial background provides him with a unique perspective on the precarious financial situation most accident victims face.
You won’t be just another case file to Matt. He cares about his clients and wants them to recover quickly from their ordeal.
Start Your Path to Financial Recovery with the Top-Rated Legal Team at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner
Contact Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner for a free case evaluation with a seasoned local Everett auto accident attorney. Since 1972, we have had experience handling personal injury cases in Everett. We treat every client with the respect and dignity they deserve. Contact us today and allow us to set you on the road to recovery.
Our office in Everett, WA
- Address: 2722 Colby Ave #105, Everett, WA 98201
- Open hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm
- Phone number: 425-374-1491
