Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Everett

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Everett, Washington?

  425-407-3999 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Everett.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Everett, Washington?

  To obtain police records, you can go in person or send mail to The Police Records Unit 3002 Wetmore Ave. Everett, WA 98201. You can make a request by calling 425-257-8539 (voicemail). Online requests can be made at: https://everettwa.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(cwkagcc3nkqi2epncyvg3gy5))/supporthome.aspx?lp=3.

• How often do car accidents and personal injuries occur in Everett?

  Based on the available data in a given year, there were around 3,000 car accidents in Everett, which resulted in 39 severe or fatal injuries. Pedestrian accidents have also been on the rise with around 70 people injured or killed while walking on foot. To avoid personal injuries, drivers should be cautious and refrain from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, obey traffic laws, and avoid distractions while driving. Pedestrians can also reduce their risk of accidents by being aware of their surroundings and using designated crosswalks.

• What is the initial cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer in Everett?

  The initial cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer in Everett is typically zero, as most of them work on a contingency fee basis. A percentage of the total financial recovery for the client is used to calculate the attorney's fee, which is contingent upon obtaining the recovery. The cost structure of a contingency fee case is very important and you should make sure that your attorney fully explains it to you.

• What should you do if the insurance adjuster in Everett is being unreasonable?

  If an insurance adjuster is imposing unreasonable demands or mistreating you, seek legal guidance. It may be a tactic to reduce the value of your claim. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Everett can guide you through the claims process, help you comprehend your rights, and provide the necessary support.

• What is the time limit to file a personal injury lawsuit in Everett?

  A personal injury lawsuit must be filed in Everett within three years of the injury or accident, or else the claimant will be unable to recover compensation. You may need the help of a personal injury attorney to determine the filing deadline and protect your legal rights. While there are exceptions to the statute of limitations, they do not apply to all cases. It is important to note that failure to file within the set time frame may result in the dismissal of your case.

• What are the types of damages one can claim for a personal injury case in Everett?

  Various types of damages can be awarded as a result of a personal injury claim in Everett. Economic damages include medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost income, and long-term disability. Noneconomic damages, such as mental anguish, emotional distress, and physical pain, can also be sought by claimants. In order to recover these damages, the claimant's attorney must prove that the defendant's negligence caused the harm.

• How to choose a personal injury attorney?

  It's crucial to find a personal injury attorney who is experienced, but it's also important to feel comfortable. Take advantage of free consultations and ask questions about how long each candidate has been practicing, how their fee structure works, and who will be handling the majority of the casework (some big firms may hand off routine tasks to paralegals). Above all, find someone who listens well and believes they can achieve an optimal outcome. Still uncertain? Ask friends for referrals and check out online reviews.

• What does a personal injury lawyer do?

  Personal injury attorneys help those who have suffered due to the negligence of others get the compensation they deserve. That may include negotiating settlements with other people, insurance companies, or even government agencies or arguing the case in court. Some attorneys specialize in a certain type of injury, such as auto accidents or birth injuries, while others advocate for almost any injured party.

• What does personal injury law cover?

  In the legal world, "personal injury" is any kind of injury, physical or psychological, that results from the negligence of a person, business, or other entity. While visible or acute injuries such as a broken leg or concussion are among the most obvious types of personal injuries, this category also covers less tangible injuries such as emotional distress and issues such as asbestos exposure that may contribute to long-term problems.

• What are the most common types of personal injury claims?

  Personal injury claims encompass a wide variety of situations ranging from accidents on privately owned property to injuries in the line of duty to whiplash sustained during a commute. These claims may include car accidents, dog bites, slip and falls, medical malpractice, defamation, product defect accidents, premises liability, product liability, workplace accidents, food poisoning at a restaurant, and boating or aviation accidents.

• How do personal injury lawyers get paid?

  Many personal injury lawyers advertise that they don't get paid unless their client does. This is called "working on contingency," meaning the attorney is compensated only if they win their case. These payments are typically percentage based, giving attorneys a predetermined portion of the court-ordered award. Other lawyers may command an hourly rate or combine an hourly rate with a smaller contingency fee.

• How much do personal injury lawyers charge?

  Personal injury lawyer fees can differ from state to state and may be subject to local regulations. In general, personal injury attorneys work under contingency agreements entitling them to 33% of any related settlement or award. Sometimes lawyers use a sliding contingency, charging 33% for awards agreed upon during pre-trial negotiations and raising the fee to 40% once the matter goes to trial.

• When do I need to hire a personal injury lawyer?

  Anytime an injury is known or suspected to be the result of negligence, it's a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney who can offer insight into the validity of a claim and whether or not that claim is worth pursuing legally. A consultation is particularly important if someone has suffered serious injuries that have left them disabled or otherwise impacted their financial future or quality of life.

• Can I file a personal injury claim without a lawyer?

  It's possible to pursue a personal injury claim without an attorney; however, it's best to save self-representation for cases involving minor injuries or are otherwise considered straightforward. Cases that involve serious injuries that are not completely resolved or where liability has yet to be determined are more complex. Those situations can quickly become stressful and time consuming as they require an understanding of tort law, resources for gathering medical records, and time to review photographs and evidence pertaining to the injury and scene of the accident (if applicable). Bringing on an experienced personal injury lawyer could result in a higher reward while giving the injured party more time to concentrate on their physical, mental, and emotional recovery.

• How long does a personal injury lawsuit last?

  The length of time it takes to settle a personal injury lawsuit is highly dependent on a number of factors ranging from the type of case to the length of medical treatment to whether the suit is settled before court or requires a long trial. While most personal injury cases are resolved within two years, more complicated suits could take longer.

• What are the benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer?

  It's tempting to save on lawyer's fees by pursuing self-representation, but there are many benefits to hiring a personal injury lawyer including their years of experience. A good attorney will know how to properly assess your damages, including not just medical bills but other concerns, such as lost wages and pain and suffering, to craft a demand that fully reflects the compensation to which the injured party is entitled. They also have the resources and knowledge necessary to consult with experts, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, properly navigate the legal system, and otherwise ensure the best possible outcome.