Seattle Personal Injury Attorney Answers Law Questions
Q: How do I know how much my case is worth?
Q: Should I settle my case with an insurance adjuster?
Q: Should I try to obtain a partial settlement from the insurance company for my injury?
Q: What are some steps I should take to preserve my rights if I have been injured by another?
Q: How do I know if I have a claim?
Q: How do I know how much my case is worth?
A: The monetary compensation you may obtain for your personal injury depends upon many factors, including the following items:
- The type of injury you suffered
- The permanency of your injury
- Any preexisting injuries
- Your present and future medical bills
- The pain and suffering caused by your injury
- Your loss of income due to the injury
- Your ability to proceed with your life as you did prior to the injury
A skilled personal injury attorney can guide you through the complexity of these factors, which is why it is essential to seek counsel earlier rather than later in the negotiation process.
Q: Should I settle my case with an insurance adjuster?
A: Often, the nature and extent of your injuries are not clear until some time after the accident. An adjuster will try to encourage you to quickly settle based on a formula. Do not be misled. Do not settle your case with an insurance adjuster until you have sought the advice of counsel.
Q: Should I try to obtain a partial settlement from the insurance company for my injury?
A: No. An insurance company will only settle if they can dispose of your entire claim.
Q: What are some steps I should take to preserve my rights if I have been injured by another?
A: You can greatly assist in your own recovery if you document everything about the injury. For instance, write down everything you remember and keep names, addresses, and phone numbers of all those involved who may have observed the accident. Also, any photographic evidence you can obtain can also be very helpful. Most importantly, talk to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible, before making statements to insurance company representatives, so that your ability to recover will not be jeopardized. Remember, there is a time limit on your right to file a claim.
Q: How do I know if I have a legal claim?
A: A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can advise you of the law and whether you have a claim against another for your injuries.
The law applicable to your legal claim depends upon the type of case. For instance, in a motor vehicle accident scenario, you must be able to prove that another person’s negligence, that is, the failure to exercise ordinary care, caused your injury. If your carelessness contributed to your injury, your damages may be reduced proportionately under Washington comparative negligence law. However, there are different standards applicable to product liability and medical malpractice claims. Speak with a personal injury attorney for laws specific to Washington State.
