Get Help For Any Type Of Injury Case

Personal Injury Cases in Spokane: A Step-by-Step Guide

CASE EVALUATIONS ARE FAST, EASY, AND FREE.

Washington personal injury law covers a wide range of situations where an individual suffers physical, emotional, or financial harm due to another person’s or entity’s negligence. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or reckless actions, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the best path forward. Personal injury cases in Idaho can be a complex process, requiring a thorough understanding of Washington’s laws and how to build a convincing claim.

At Craig Swapp & Associates, we understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of an injury while facing a legal battle. That’s why, our Spokane personal injury lawyer is dedicated to helping injured individuals receive the compensation they rightfully deserve throughout the case.

Reporting the Accident

The moment an accident occurs, reporting it to the proper authorities and your insurance company becomes paramount. This initial report is a fundamental step, serving as the first official account of the incident.

In some situations, the law mandates this reporting, underscoring its importance not just for compliance but as a cornerstone of your claim. This documentation is critical, as it provides an official record that can support your case.

Seeking Medical Attention

Health should always be your primary concern following an accident. Immediate medical evaluation is essential, even if your injuries appear minor. The significance of obtaining medical attention promptly cannot be overstated; it creates a medical record that serves as direct evidence of your injuries and their link to the accident. This step is crucial for substantiating your claim, and highlighting the direct consequences of the incident on your well-being.

Documenting the Accident and Injuries

Compiling evidence is a critical step in building your personal injury claim. This involves taking comprehensive photographs of the accident site, your injuries, and any relevant property damage. Securing the contact details of witnesses and maintaining a detailed diary of your medical care and its impact on your life are also vital.

These actions collectively contribute to a robust evidence base, crucial for demonstrating the extent of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Knowing Your Rights Under Personal Injury Laws in Washington

An understanding of Washington’s personal injury laws is indispensable. This knowledge encompasses such awareness of the state’s comparative fault rules.

Washington State follows a system called “pure comparative negligence” when assigning fault in an accident. This means that even if you were partially to blame for the accident, you may still be eligible to receive compensation. However, the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.

For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault in a car accident, your total compensation for the damages you suffered would be reduced by 20%.

Such legal insights are instrumental in navigating your rights and obligations, providing a foundation for your actions and decisions throughout the legal process.

Evaluating if You Have a Viable Personal Injury Claim

To have a successful personal injury claim in Washington, you need to be able to prove the following four key elements:

Duty of Care: The person or entity who caused the accident had a legal obligation to act in a way that would prevent harm to others.
Breach of Duty: The at-fault party violated their duty of care through a negligent or reckless act.
Causation: The at-fault party’s violation of their duty directly resulted in your injuries.
Damages: You suffered measurable losses as a result of the accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

If you can establish these elements, you likely have a viable personal injury claim.

Consulting a Spokane Personal Injury Lawyer

Seeking the counsel of a Spokane personal injury lawyer is a critical juncture in your case. They can offer invaluable insights, evaluate the strength of your claim, and advise on the best course of action. Their knowledge and experience are vital for navigating the complexities of Washington personal injury law, ensuring your rights are upheld at every stage.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Interactions with insurance adjusters are fraught with challenges. Their primary aim is to limit the company’s financial exposure, often leading to settlement offers that fall short of adequately compensating for your losses. Before engaging in discussions or accepting any offers, consulting with your personal injury lawyer in Spokane is advisable to protect your interests and avoid jeopardizing your claim.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

Should negotiations with insurance providers reach an impasse, proceeding with a personal injury lawsuit may be the recommended course. This step involves a detailed preparation of your case, including the drafting of legal documents, the compilation and presentation of evidence, and, if necessary, articulating your case in court.

The goal is to secure fair compensation that reflects the true extent of your losses and injuries, a process that can be significantly bolstered by the support of an experienced personal injury lawyer.

Increasing Your Chances in Personal Injury Cases by Having an Attorney

Having an experienced Washington personal injury lawyer on your side significantly improves your chances of a positive outcome in a personal injury case in Spokane. Here’s why:

Understanding Complex Laws – Personal injury law is complex. Your lawyer navigates the legal complexities on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected.
Investigating the Accident – Personal injury attorneys have the resources to thoroughly investigate the accident, building a stronger case.
Accurately Assessing Damages – They calculate the full extent of your losses, including future medical expenses, lost income potential, and pain and suffering.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies – Attorneys have experience dealing with insurers and aggressively negotiate to maximize your settlement.
Taking Your Case to Trial – If necessary, your attorney will represent you in court and fight for your rights.

At Craig Swapp & Associates, we have a track record of helping people like you in Spokane obtain the compensation they deserve. Our team of dedicated Spokane personal injury lawyers possess the knowledge and competence to handle even the most complicated cases.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, evaluate your case, and help you understand your options.

Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp

Schedule a Free Consultation

Full Name(Required)

Telephone(Required)

Email(Required)

Preferred Contact Method(Required)

Brief Description of Case(Required)

Phone

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Client Reviews

“I was concerned with all the paperwork”

Before calling your firm I had 2 big worries. One was I didn’t want to do more paper work, and that fear was resolved when I had to do very little, but Craig Swapp and Assoc. did most of it, and when I did have to come in to sign papers they worked around the times I could do it. Worry 2 was I didn’t want people to think I was “sue happy” and that I was just out to get money. I just wanted my bills to be paid for that were from the accident, and that was resolved I think by Mr. Wes Mortenson and Theresa because they listened to what I had to say.

Amber W.,

Spokane, WA

"I would hire them in a second"

My biggest fear was not having all the expenses caused by the accident paid for in full. I was assured they would be taken care of but I admit I was skeptical. When we wrapped everything up (which happened quicker than I was originally told) I had extra money in my pocket. I honestly thought there was a catch but my attorney explained everything to me in detail. If I am ever in that position again I’ll be giving Craig Swapp a call.

Robert N.,

Spokane, WA

"I was afraid of the fees"

I was afraid of the fees I would have to pay a lawyer. I waited over a year before hiring your law firm. I finally reached out to your online help where they were able to help me understand the process and what would happen. In all honesty I absolutely loved working with the individuals that were involved in my case. They were genuine & heartfelt about my case. It felt as though they really cared and were concerned about me, not just as a client but as a person.

Lacey B.,

Salt Lake City, UT

"I was afraid that my issue was too small"

I was afraid that my issue was too small to be handled, and that it would just be rejected. Or that I’d end up having to pay for my medical expenses and any of your teams expenses. I would definitely answer yes, it was resolved! I wasn’t ever made out to feel like my little issue didn’t matter, and my expenses were paid for- just what I wanted/needed.

J. Rohas,

Caldwell, ID

"I am very pleased with the results"

My biggest fear was that it would be pointless to pursue legal action in my case. I felt like maybe I didn’t have much of a case. After speaking with Paul, I realize it was not of my own fault and that others can be held responsible for the pain and suffering I went through.

Dollie J.,

West Jordan, UT

READ ALL TESTIMONIALS