Magnuson Lowell Blog
Each week we post a blog about relevant legal issues. Glance through our various topics to learn more about a particular legal situation.
These articles are for limited informational purposes only and are not, nor are they intended to be, legal advice. You should not rely on this information for your case and should consult with an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
Winter is over and the snow has all melted. Spring may have passed, the rains have (mostly) subsided. Summer fun is finally here. While the dangerous ice and rain hibernate for the next few months, new dangers have emerged. Unless your careful, your summer might be clouded by a car wreck.
To ensure you and your loved ones have a safe and happy summer, here are a few tips:
The warmth weather motivates us to leaves the nestled cocoon of our homes. Use that newfound enthusiasm to get your car a tune-up. A good old-fashioned oil change and a quick trip to the mechanic is all you need to get your car summer ready. This is especially important if you have plans for a summer getaway. Long trips can be difficult on your engine. Put yourself in the best position for success by refilling and changing your fluids and make sure your ride is in tip top shape for the driving to come.
Whether you’re in the big city or the town center, with summer here, there are inevitably going to be many children roaming the streets. Particularly near parks and areas for summer recreation driving carefully might save a life and a significant auto claim. Be on your toes in neighborhoods, too. Look out for small children in their front yards because – at any moment – the proverbial red ball might make its way in front of your vehicle.
Small children might be unpredictable from a pedestrian perspective, but teenagers may be just as unpredictable on the road. School is out for the summer and recently licensed drivers are taking to the roads in droves. A driving class and an exam might qualify a teenager to sit behind the wheel, a lack of driving experience necessitates extra caution from others sharing the road. You might not be able to predict a teen’s driving pattern, but you certainly can provide extra space to fellow motorists.
Driving eastbound in the morning and westbound in the evening has special issues that every driver needs to expect: the sunshine slowdown. The already difficult rush-hour traffic situation is worsened by blinding sunlight radiating through windshields. Packing a good pair of sunglasses is only half the battle. Drive with extra caution while in direct sunlight. Even in slow traffic, a momentary lapse in vision is all it takes to cause a literal and figurative headache for yourself and other drivers.
Washington drivers must carry a minimum of $25,000 in personal auto liability insurance. In addition, Personal Injury Protection insurance is statutorily mandated unless waived in writing. With the summer upon us, it’s a good time to speak with your auto insurance agent to make sure your family is completely protected. With the price of cars and medical treatment at an all-time high, the minimum limits are typically insufficient. Protect yourself and other drivers by ensuring your insurance is up to date.
Washington car insurance claims can be confusing, and the auto insurance adjusters have only one thing on their minds – saving their employer money. The adjusters’ cheery attitude and helpful demeanor is mostly a façade, and they will do whatever it takes to limit your recovery. As Personal Injury Attorneys, the law office of Magnuson Lowell PS is dedicated to providing excellent representation to their clients. This includes free consultations just to ensure potential clients have all the necessary information to prevent the adjusters from taking advantage of the significant power imbalance. If you have any questions about summer driving and insurance claims, call Magnuson Lowell PS to get the Personal Injury advice you deserve.