The attorney you hire makes a huge difference in the outcome of your personal injury case. If you are injured in an accident caused by someone else, you may be unsure what to do next or what legal rights you have – this is normal.
You will likely wonder how you will pay your medical bills, handle the insurance claim, and deal with your recovery while navigating the financial and legal hardships you are facing.
At Bernard Law Group, our Bellevue personal injury lawyers understand the impact an accident can have on your life. We are here to help you navigate the legal process. Our lawyers have over 30 years of experience representing accident victims.
Coming to us means you have a dedicated team of professionals who will work to help you get on the road to recovery while helping you gain the financial security you need.
Overview of Bellevue, Washington Personal Injury Laws
Our process ensures our clients understand the law and their rights. Laws that apply to personal injury cases in Bellevue include:
Statute of Limitations
In Bellevue, as well as all of Washington state, personal injury victims have a limited window to either settle their claims or file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations is typically three years from the date of the injury.
Acting promptly is crucial if you’ve suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence. Failing to settle or file within this timeframe usually results in losing the right to seek compensation.
Comparative Fault Rules
Washington follows the “comparative fault” rule. If you are found partly responsible for the accident that caused your injuries, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found to be 30% at fault, you would receive $70,000. This rule underscores the importance of a thorough legal analysis of your case.
Damage Caps
Unlike some states, Washington does not impose a cap on the damages that can be awarded in personal injury cases. This means there are no upper limits to the compensation you can receive for damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This aspect is particularly crucial in cases of severe injuries where long-term care and substantial loss of income are involved.
Understanding these key aspects of Washington’s personal injury laws is essential. They shape how your case is handled and the compensation you may receive.
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The Importance of Legal Representation in Personal Injury Cases
There is no requirement to have legal representation when seeking compensation through a personal injury claim. While this is true, hiring a Bellevue personal injury lawyer offers several benefits, including the following:
Navigating Complex Legal Waters
Personal injury cases can be complex and challenging to navigate. Legal representation is crucial. Hiring an experienced attorney who understands Washington State laws and legal procedures is necessary.
Hiring us means you have someone to manage the legal process on your behalf. This includes interpreting laws, understanding how they apply to your case, and handling court filings and paperwork.
Maximizing Compensation
An experienced personal injury lawyer plays an essential role in maximizing your compensation. They can calculate the true extent of your damages, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
We are skilled negotiators who can deal with insurance companies and opposing counsel, ensuring you don’t settle for less than your case is worth.
Providing Objective Insights
Emotions can run high during a personal injury case, and personal biases may cloud your judgment. A lawyer provides an objective perspective, offering guidance based on legal principles and experience. This objectivity is crucial for making informed decisions throughout your case.
Advocacy in Court
If your case goes to trial, legal representation is indispensable. Personal injury lawyers are experienced in courtroom procedures, evidence presentation, and argumentation. Their advocacy ensures your story is heard and your interests are vigorously represented in court.
The Process of Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Bellevue
Knowing what to expect when filing a personal injury claim is beneficial and can help relieve some of the stress. While each case is unique, you can expect the following to occur:
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
The first step in filing a personal injury claim in Bellevue is to consult with a qualified attorney. During this initial meeting, you’ll discuss the details of your case, including the circumstances of the injury and its impact on your life. This is a critical phase where the attorney evaluates the strength of your claim and advises on the best course of action.
Gathering Evidence and Documentation
Once your attorney takes on your case, they will begin gathering evidence. This includes collecting medical records, police reports, witness statements, and other documentation supporting your claim. Proper documentation is essential to building a strong case and establishing the extent of your injuries and other losses.
Filing the Claim
After gathering sufficient evidence, your attorney will file a personal injury claim on your behalf. This typically involves submitting a claim to the at-fault party’s insurance company. The claim will detail the circumstances of the incident, the injuries suffered, and the compensation being sought.
Negotiations and Settlement
Most personal injury claims are settled out of court. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. They’ll leverage the evidence gathered to ensure that the compensation reflects the full extent of your damages.
Litigation
Your attorney may recommend taking the case to court if a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached. Your attorney will present your case in court and fight on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Bernard Law Group
As mentioned, the Bellevue personal injury lawyer you hire significantly impacts the outcome of your case. Some of the reasons you should hire us include:
Decades of Experience
At Bernard Law Group, we bring decades of experience to the table. Our history in personal injury law has equipped us with unparalleled expertise and understanding of the legal landscape in Bellevue. This extensive experience enables us to handle even the most complex personal injury cases with precision and skill.
Personalized Attention
We understand that every personal injury case is unique. That’s why we provide personalized attention to each of our clients. We listen to your story, understand your needs, and tailor our approach to suit your situation. We commit to being your lawyers, advocates, and supporters throughout the legal process.
Proven Track Record
Our firm prides itself on a proven track record of success. We have secured substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients, reflecting our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. Our success is measured in dollars and our positive impact on our clients’ lives.
No Upfront Costs
We offer our services on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and our fees are only collected if we win your case. This approach ensures that our services are accessible to all who need them without the burden of financial strain.
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Client-Centric Approach
At Bernard Law Group, we prioritize your well-being and satisfaction. We keep you informed at every stage of your case, offering clear communication and accessible support. We aim to make the legal process as stress-free as possible for you while we work tirelessly to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Trust Our Bellevue Personal Injury Lawyers
At Bernard Law Group, we are more than just lawyers; we are dedicated advocates committed to securing justice for our clients. With our deep expertise, personalized approach, and proven track record, we stand ready to navigate the complexities of personal injury law on your behalf.
Choose us to ensure your rights and well-being are a priority. We ensure your voice is heard and your interests are fiercely represented. Contact us today to begin your journey towards recovery and rightful compensation. We are here to guide you every step of the way.
