Contact VanWa Legal PLLC

Do I need a personal injury lawyer after an accident?

You are not required to hire a lawyer, but insurance companies have adjusters and attorneys working to limit what they pay you. A personal injury lawyer investigates your claim, deals with the insurance company, and works to recover the full value of your losses.

How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee, which means you pay no fee unless we recover compensation for you, and your first case review is free.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Washington?

Washington's statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the injury, with some exceptions. Because those exceptions can shorten the window considerably, it is worth confirming your deadline early.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

You may still be able to recover. Washington follows a comparative fault rule, so your compensation is reduced in proportion to your share of the responsibility rather than barred outright. How fault gets apportioned is often disputed, which is exactly where representation matters.

Should I talk to the insurance company?

You should not give a recorded statement to an insurance company without legal advice. Adjusters are trained to minimise what they pay, and an early statement made before the full extent of your injuries is known can be used to reduce your claim.

What compensation can I recover?

A claim can account for emergency medical care, surgery and hospitalisation, physical therapy, future medical care, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, loss of enjoyment of life, and wrongful death damages where applicable. What is available depends on the facts of your case.

Do I have to go to court?

Most personal injury claims settle without a trial. We prepare every case as though it will be tried, because trial ready representation is what insurance companies take seriously, but going to court is the exception rather than the rule.