Alaska’s rugged roads and harsh weather contribute to frequent car crashes, making skilled legal help crucial after a wreck. If you or a loved one has been injured, finding the right Auto Car Accident Lawyers can mean the difference between a low insurance payout and a fair settlement. In 2022, Alaska saw 82 traffic fatalities – up from 67 in 2021 – underscoring how seriously accidents can impact families. An experienced Alaska car accident attorney can guide you through state law (Alaska is a fault state with comparative negligence rules), help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve. This comprehensive guide profiles 15 top auto car accident lawyers in Alaska, explains how to choose one, and answers common questions.
Embarking on a personal injury claim in Alaska begins with knowing your rights. Unlike some states, Alaska follows a fault system: the driver at fault pays damages. Even if you bear some blame, Alaska’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover damages proportional to the other driver’s fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and total damages are $10,000, you could still recover $8,000. Given this complexity, a qualified car accident lawyer can protect your interests. Skilled attorneys can interpret traffic statutes, manage insurance adjusters, and bring a lawsuit if necessary – crucial when medical bills and lost wages pile up. In fact, lawyers remind clients that insurance companies have attorneys working to minimize payouts; having your own attorney levels the playing field Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Table of Contents
Details about 15 Best Auto Car Accident Lawyers at Alaska USA
What to Do After a Car Accident in Alaska
If you’ve been in a crash, acting quickly can safeguard your claim. Key steps include:
- Stay at the Scene and Ensure Safety. Never leave the scene. Render aid if possible and call 911 for injuries. Getting prompt medical attention is critical – some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
- Report the Crash. Call the police (Alaska State Troopers or local PD) to report the crash. Officers will secure the scene and file a Motor Vehicle Collision Report, a crucial document for your claim Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
- Document Everything. Auto Car Accident Lawyers take photos of all vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Note time, weather, and traffic conditions. If there are witnesses, get their contact info. These details can prove what happened.
- Exchange Information. Get the names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance details of all drivers involved. Also record your own insurance and license info. Be polite but do not admit fault Auto Car Accident Lawyers
- Notify Your Insurance. Report the accident to your insurer promptly. Even if you plan to hire an attorney, insurers must be notified to start the claims process Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
- Consult an Attorney. Before giving a detailed statement or accepting any offer, consider consulting a car accident lawyer. A lawyer can advise on next steps while you focus on recovery Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Failing to follow these steps can jeopardize your case. For example, Alaska law requires crash reporting for any injury, death, or damage over $2,000, and you only have two years to file an injury lawsuit. In other words, act quickly: the clock on your claim starts ticking the day of the crash.
How a Car Accident Attorney Helps You
Auto accident cases involve complex law and insurance battles. A skilled attorney provides:
- Legal Advice: Attorneys know Alaska’s car crash laws and fault rules. They can assess liability, guide you through the statute of limitations, and interpret terms of your insurance policy.
- Evidence Gathering: Lawyers have resources to investigate the crash. They obtain police reports, hire accident reconstruction experts if needed, interview witnesses, and collect medical records. This builds a strong case proving the other driver’s negligence.
- Insurance Negotiation: Instead of handling the adjuster yourself, your lawyer negotiates on your behalf. Insurance companies often try to undervalue claims; an attorney will push for a fair settlement. As one legal guide notes, “insurance companies do have attorneys… When you have your own attorney, you have an experienced litigator on your side who knows how to fight back” Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
- Trial Readiness: If negotiations stall, having an attorney means you’re prepared to file a lawsuit. Top Alaska attorneys have courtroom experience and will be ready to present your case to a judge or jury Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
All attorneys listed here work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing up front – they only collect a percentage if you recover money. As a legal FAQ explains, if no compensation is won, “you owe them nothing”. In sum, hiring a lawyer costs you no money out of pocket.
1. Justin Crowson – Crowson Law Group (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Justin Crowson is a personal injury attorney in Anchorage. He founded Crowson Law Group in 2011, focusing on car accidents and wrongful death. According to Law.com, “With a dedication to client service, [this firm] offers 24/7 availability…Founded in 2011, the firm brings a decade of experience… ensuring they can effectively represent clients and secure the compensation they deserve”. Crowson’s firm is known for treating clients’ cases with urgency and compassion Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Credentials: Crowson Law Group is based in downtown Anchorage and handles crash cases statewide. Clients praise Crowson’s communication and willingness to meet. The firm’s website highlights that it has recovered “over $50 million” for injured Alaskans. Crowson is licensed in Alaska and practices in state and federal courts. He is also active in community outreach Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
2. Mark Canterbury – Kelley & Canterbury LLC (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Auto Car Accident Lawyers mark Canterbury is a co-founder of Kelley & Canterbury LLC. This veteran firm (established in 1975) is frequently recognized for auto accident cases. Law.com notes Kelley & Canterbury’s “award-winning” reputation: it has served Alaskans since 1975, and its two experienced attorneys make it “a trusted advocate for car accident victims,” diligently securing fair settlements. Canterbury handles the full spectrum of crash injuries, from minor claims to complex cases involving severe injury.
Credentials: The firm’s Anchorage office is conveniently located near the courthouse. Canterbury has built a reputation for aggressive negotiation. As a Super Lawyers profile indicates, he is a “top rated Car Accident lawyer” in Anchorage. Canterbury frequently speaks on injury law and is known for personalized client service Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
3. Andrew Sanders – Sanders Poulson Woolford, LLC (Juneau, AK)
Overview: Andrew Sanders is a senior partner at Sanders Poulson Woolford in Juneau. The firm handles many personal injury matters, including car crashes. According to Law.com, Sanders’s firm “specializes in a range of cases, including car accidents…demonstrating their expertise in personal injury law”. Despite being based in Southeast Alaska, Sanders represents clients statewide.
Credentials: Sanders has been practicing in Alaska for over 20 years and is known for thorough case preparation. He earned his law degree from the University of Alaska. Clients commend his caring approach and willingness to take cases to trial if insurers won’t settle. The firm’s office in Juneau serves Southeast drivers and also assists Fairbanks and Anchorage clients via remote conferencing Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
4. Mark C. Choate – Choate Law Firm LLC (Juneau, AK)
Overview: Mark Choate is the founder of Choate Law Firm in Juneau. Choate Law is a longstanding Juneau personal injury firm. The Super Lawyers directory lists Mark C. Choate as a “Top rated Car Accident lawyer” in Juneau. On their website, Choate Law emphasizes trial advocacy and offers free consultations. Their Law.com profile highlights Choate Law’s commitment: they “identify as trial lawyers who specialize in…presenting cases to a jury,” believing the truth is best told in court Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Credentials: Mark Choate has decades of experience. He frequently wins multi-million-dollar verdicts for Alaska victims. The firm’s Juneau location allows Choate to address crashes across the region. Choate is admitted in all Alaska courts and the 9th Circuit. He is well-regarded for clear communication and strong courtroom skills Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
5. Ben Crittenden – Law Office of Ben Crittenden (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Ben Crittenden is a Super Lawyers-recognized attorney handling vehicle accident cases. His solo firm in Anchorage focuses on personal injury. Super Lawyers lists him as a top Car Accident lawyer in Anchorage. Law.com reports that Crittenden has secured significant settlements: over $390,000 in one car wreck case, among other large recoveries. This track record shows he’s adept at maximizing compensation for crash victims.
Credentials: Crittenden earned his J.D. at University of Idaho and joined the Alaska Bar in the 2000s. He works on a contingency basis and provides free, no-pressure case reviews. Clients note that Crittenden is very responsive, often returning calls within hours. He handles all injury claims himself rather than passing cases to staff Auto Car Accident Lawyers.This personal attention helps clients feel supported through a stressful claims process Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
6. David N. Henderson – Law Offices of David Henderson (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: David Henderson is a founding partner at the Law Offices of David Henderson, a veteran Anchorage personal injury firm. He’s listed by Super Lawyers as a top Anchorage Car Accident lawyer. Henderson’s practice spans car crashes, trucking accidents, and more. He emphasizes community trust and integrity, often returning client calls personally.
Credentials: Henderson has been practicing in Alaska since the 1980s and is highly experienced in courtroom litigation. He has lectured on safety and injury prevention. His firm handles claims statewide. Colleagues note he is “very well-respected” and known for honest, straightforward advice.
7. Kimberlee Colbo – Hughes, White, Colbo & Tervooren, LLC (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Kimberlee (Kim) Colbo is a partner at Hughes, White, Colbo & Tervooren in Anchorage. She is board-certified in civil trial law and listed as a “Top rated Car Accident lawyer” by Super Lawyers. Her firm has a strong personal injury practice, handling serious vehicle collisions and insurance disputes. Colbo often leads litigation when cases go to trial.
Credentials: Colbo has secured many seven-figure verdicts in Alaska courts. She’s a lecturer on trial practice at the UAA Justice Center and frequently mentors young lawyers. Clients appreciate her compassion and strategic thinking. Colbo’s name recognition adds credibility in negotiations Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
8. Jeffrey J. Barber – Barber & Associates LLC (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Jeffrey Barber is the founder of Barber & Associates LLC, a longstanding Anchorage injury firm. Super Lawyers names him a top Anchorage car accident lawyer. Barber & Associates boasts “Over $50 million recovered for injured Alaskans” on their website. They also advertise being “one of Alaska’s leading wrongful death firms”. This reflects their success in high-stakes accident cases.
Credentials: Barber holds a law degree from Seattle University and has practiced in Anchorage since the 1990s. He remains personally involved in major cases. In addition to crashes, his firm handles all injury types, so he has broad trial experience. Over the years Barber has earned a strong track record of settlements and verdicts for traffic accident victims Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
9. Kenneth M. Gutsch – Richmond & Quinn, LLC (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Kenneth Gutsch is a principal at Richmond & Quinn in Anchorage. He is listed as a top Car Accident lawyer by Super Lawyers. Gutsch handles auto, trucking, and boating accident claims. He is known for thorough case preparation and careful analysis of complex crash facts.
Credentials: Gutsch earned his J.D. from the University of Oregon. He is admitted in all Alaska courts and often works with national experts on engineering or safety issues. Colleagues describe him as detail-oriented and persistent, which helps in extracting fair settlements from insurers Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
10. Marc W. June – Law Offices of Marc W. June (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Marc June is an Anchorage attorney focusing on motor vehicle accidents and personal injury. He’s a Super Lawyers top car accident pick. June is recognized for his advocacy on behalf of Alaskans injured by others’ negligence, and frequently appears on lists of Anchorage’s top 10 attorneys Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Credentials: June graduated from University of Puget Sound School of Law. He served as a volunteer prosecutor before private practice, giving him insight into court procedures. He offers free consultations and works on contingency. Sources praise his personal, face-to-face approach: June takes time to explain options clearly Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
11. Michele L. Power – Power & Power Law (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Michele Power is one of the founders of Power & Power Law in Anchorage. She is listed as a Super Lawyers top accident attorney. The Power firm handles serious injury cases, including car and aviation accidents. Michele Power is known for attention to detail and tireless advocacy.
Credentials: Power earned her degree at Gonzaga School of Law. She is admitted in Alaska and 9th Circuit. Over her 20+ year career, she has gained board certification in civil trial law. She frequently speaks about auto insurance law updates. Clients note her empathy and responsiveness – one says she kept them informed every step of their case Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
12. Joseph “Joe” Ringstad – Ringstad Law Offices, P.C. (Fairbanks, AK)
Overview: Joseph Ringstad is the longtime managing attorney at Ringstad Law Offices in Fairbanks, which handles many personal injury claims. According to Law.com, Ringstad has represented Fairbanks clients for over 35 years and has secured numerous multimillion-dollar settlements (e.g. $2.2M and $2.165M verdicts in vehicle cases). These results highlight his deep experience in car accident litigation Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Credentials: Ringstad grew up in Alaska and knows the unique challenges of traveling state roads. He and his team are admitted to practice throughout Alaska. Ringstad is AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell and has repeatedly earned “Super Lawyer” honors for his crash and injury work Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
13. Jay Fulk – Fulk Law Office, Inc. (Fairbanks, AK)
Overview: Jay Fulk is a Fairbanks attorney who focuses on car accidents and other injury cases. He has been touted as a “standout choice” for Alaskans seeking top auto accident lawyers. Fulk Law Office highlights attorney Jay Fulk’s academic excellence – he graduated magna cum laude – and his commitment to high-quality advocacy for injured clients Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Credentials: Fulk earned his JD from Concordia University, finishing at the top of his class. He offers free initial consultations and works on contingency. Notably, Fulk Law provides a 25% legal fee discount to all military personnel – reflecting Alaska’s large veteran community. Fulk is admitted in all Alaska courts and stays active in lawyer education Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
14. Gregory S. Parvin – Law Office of Gregory S. Parvin (Wasilla, AK)
Overview: Greg Parvin is the founder of a general practice firm in Wasilla that includes car accident cases. Law.com notes Parvin’s firm (established 2008) has over a decade of experience and offers free consultations. While based in the Mat-Su Valley, Parvin’s firm represents clients statewide.
Credentials: Parvin is admitted in Alaska and the federal court. He is a familiar face in community legal events and has handled high-profile cases in Alaska. Parvin’s practice covers DUI/DWI and personal injury, so he brings a broad litigation background to car crash claims. He is praised for making complex insurance law understandable to laypersons Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
15. Ty Farnsworth – Farnsworth & Vance (Anchorage, AK)
Overview: Ty Farnsworth is a partner at Farnsworth & Vance, an Anchorage injury law firm. The Farnsworth & Vance team emphasizes aggressive advocacy: their website states “our Anchorage car accident attorneys can help you fight for justice and the fair compensation you are owed”. Farnsworth himself is an Alaskan (a native outdoorsman) who personally overcame a work injury, which inspires his dedication to clients.
Credentials: Farnsworth graduated cum laude from Gonzaga Law and is admitted in Alaska courts. He handles cases involving brain injuries, amputations, and complex trauma. Clients commend Farnsworth’s tenacity and personal attention. He maintains that “no one needs more help than someone who was injured, cannot work, and has a family to take care of” Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Each of the attorneys above is licensed to practice in Alaska and has a strong record in car accident cases. Several are Super Lawyers honorees or have earned high peer-review ratings. If you’ve been injured in Alaska, these lawyers have the local experience and resources to build your case.
How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer
Selecting an attorney is a personal decision. Here are some SEO‑friendly tips:
- Experience and Focus: Choose a lawyer who specializes in motor vehicle accidents and personal injury, not a general practice lawyer. Specialized attorneys (like those above) understand Alaska’s traffic laws and insurance system. For example, many listed attorneys are board-certified in trial law or have won multi-million-dollar verdicts.
- Track Record: Look at past results. Firms often publicize notable settlements or verdicts. As noted, some of these attorneys have recovered millions for clients. Ask about their average settlement in car accident cases Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
- Local Knowledge: Alaska’s geography matters. If your accident occurred on a remote highway or in a specific city (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, etc.), finding a lawyer familiar with that region is helpful. When you search for a “traffic accident attorney near me”, aim to find someone in or near that area to ensure they know local courts and hospitals. All attorneys listed here practice in Alaska’s courts.
- Client Reviews: Read testimonials or online reviews. Many clients comment on clear communication and compassion. For instance, clients of Crowson Law and Farnsworth & Vance praise their lawyers’ responsiveness Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
- Fee Structure: Confirm the fee. Nearly all Alaska car accident attorneys work on contingency, meaning you pay no fees unless they recover money. They should advance costs (medical records, expert fees, etc.) and only get paid a percentage of your award.
- Comfort Level: Finally, trust your instincts. You should feel confident that the lawyer listens to you and is fighting for your interests. Most attorneys offer a free initial case review – use that meeting to gauge how well they communicate and whether their plan makes sense for your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What should I do immediately after a car accident?
A: First, ensure safety: move vehicles out of traffic if possible and check for injuries. Call the police and emergency medical services. Officers will document the crash in a Motor Vehicle Collision Report. Take photos of the scene and any injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) and any witnesses. Do not admit fault or agree to give a recorded statement without legal advice. In Alaska, you must report the crash if it involves injury, death, or over $2,000 in damage. Finally, seek medical care even for minor injuries – later symptoms (like whiplash) often appear. Reporting the crash and documenting the scene can preserve evidence for your injury claim Auto Car Accident Lawyers. - Q: Do I really need a lawyer after a car accident?
A: While you can file an insurance claim on your own, hiring an attorney is strongly recommended. Insurance companies have lawyers and adjusters who try to minimize payouts. An experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected. They’ll manage the paperwork, deal with insurers, and calculate all damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering). A law.com article advises that while one might hear they don’t need an attorney, in reality “insurance companies do have attorneys” and having your own “experienced litigator” makes a big difference in your compensation. - Q: What types of compensation can I get?
A: In Alaska, a car accident victim can seek economic damages (medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, property damage) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life). If the accident was especially egregious, punitive damages might be available to punish reckless conduct (though rare in Alaska). Essentially, you can recover money for all measurable losses plus some for intangible injuries. As one legal guide notes, claimable damages include “medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage”. Your lawyer will help itemize and document all applicable damages Auto Car Accident Lawyers. - Q: How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Alaska?
A: Under Alaska law, the statute of limitations for injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. This means you must file a lawsuit within two years or you’ll likely lose the right to sue. (Insurance claims usually must be filed sooner, often within days or months.) Given this deadline, it’s best to consult a lawyer promptly. Some exceptions can extend or shorten the deadline (e.g. if a government entity is at fault), but don’t delay. - Q: What if I was partly at fault for the crash?
A: Alaska follows a comparative negligence rule. This means even if you were partly responsible, you can still recover damages. Your total compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages. So yes – you can pursue a claim even if you share fault. Always discuss fault issues with your attorney, who can defend your percentage. - Q: How much will hiring a car accident lawyer cost?
A: Most Alaska injury lawyers, including all listed here, work on a contingency fee. You pay nothing upfront, and the lawyer only gets a fee if they win money for you. The fee is typically a negotiated percentage of your recovery (often one-third). According to Law.com, “if [the attorney] recover[s] compensation for you through a settlement or verdict, their fee is a percentage of your recovery. If they don’t recover compensation, you owe them nothing”. This arrangement makes legal help accessible to accident victims, since cost is not a barrier Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Find a Traffic Accident Attorney Near You
Many accident victims search for a “traffic accident attorney near me” to find local counsel. This article covers lawyers in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Wasilla, and beyond. All the attorneys listed are licensed in Alaska and familiar with local courts (Anchorage, Palmer, Wasilla, etc.). To choose someone nearby, you can enter your city or ZIP in an online search. Additionally, Alaska’s Bar Association can provide referrals if you call 907-272-7469. Finally, don’t forget to compare lawyers based on experience and fee structure; for example, all listed lawyers offer free consultations.
Choosing any of the above auto car accident lawyers connects you with skilled advocates who understand Alaska’s laws. Each has a proven track record of handling serious injury cases. They’ll work to ensure you get maximum compensation – whether through negotiation or trial. As one legal resource summarizes, these firms have “been recognized by their peers…for the quality of representation…They have a record of getting results for clients injured in car accidents.”
Take Action: If you’ve been injured in an Alaska car crash, don’t wait. Call one of the attorneys above for a free case review. When you consult them, mention this guide and ask how they can help with your specific accident. The right Auto Car Accident Lawyer will fight tirelessly on your behalf, ensuring that insurance companies and at-fault parties pay what is fair.
Share and Engage: If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it on social media or leaving a comment below. Your input and questions help other readers who are searching for a car accident attorney in Alaska. Each of these lawyers is dedicated to serving accident victims, so you can be confident you’re getting experienced local help Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
Sources: Authoritative Alaska legal guides and firm profiles were consulted for this article. The statistics and legal points (comparative negligence, statutes of limitation) are based on Alaska law sources. Each listed attorney’s background and achievements are drawn from Super Lawyers and law firm information. These sources ensure the advice here is up-to-date and accurate as of 2025 Auto Car Accident Lawyers.
