Burden of Proof in Renton Car Crashes

Posted Friday, November 17, 2023 by Chris Thayer

According to a report on King 5 local news, a Renton car crash left one man killed and one 72-year-old woman critically injured.

According to the Renton Police Department (RPD), the crash occurred at the 154th Place SE Intersection on Mapply Valley Highway.

Renton police reported that Washington State Patrol (WSP) had attempted to pull the driver over, when he fled, traveling at a high rate of speed. The suspect ran through a red light and crashed into the victim’s SUV. Officers are investigating the crash.If you or a loved one have been involved in a car crash, talking with an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer can help provide peace of mind.

*The Burden of Proof in Renton Car Accident Cases*People making a car accident claim often settle claims with insurance companies.

Typically, you will need to explain to an adjuster how the insured person was at fault. You will also need to provide documentation as to how much the accident cost you.

While many cases settle out of court, evidence is still key in demonstrating your version of events.

*What Does Burden of Proof Mean in Washington Car Accidents?*In Washington, the burden of proof standard for car accident personal injury cases is “beyond a preponderance of evidence.” This is the responsibility of the person bringing the case, also known as the plaintiff.

A plaintiff must provide sufficient evidence to convince the court that the person being sued, also known as the defendant, is responsible.

While it may seem unbalanced or unfair, the defendant is not required to prove their innocence. It is the responsibility of the plaintiff to provide enough evidence that monetary damages can be awarded.

*What Kind of Evidence is Needed in Renton?*In proving fault for an accident, much of the most effective evidence is documented in the police report. Typically, this is where you will find photographs, witness statements, and eyewitness testimony of the accident.

In addition, as a plaintiff, you may have medical records documenting the injuries, as well as financial records showing the impact on earnings.

*If You are Injured in a Renton Car Crash*If you are the plaintiff, it is not enough to believe that your case is ironclad and that the other person is at fault. You will need to show all the evidence above and also prove that the injuries were not caused by other factors.

While these rules may seem challenging to a non-lawyer, a personal injury attorney is skilled in the rules of evidence and familiar with what constitutes a burden of proof in Washington courts.

*When to Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer in Renton*In Washington, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of an accident to file a legal suit. If you have been involved in a car collision, the clock starts ticking on the date of the accident.

If you have been involved in a car accident, you may have questions about how to receive compensation for your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney in King County skilled in Washington Law may help answer your questions.