Getting hurt in an accident can be devastating, but when another individual is liable for your situation, you may have a hard time retaining calm. Whether it is a traffic collision in Tacoma or a case of surgical error, you must know the ins and outs of personal injury laws in Washington. There’s enough info on the internet, but that’s rarely enough. Each claim/lawsuit is unique in many ways, and you need bespoke solutions. Instead of relying on people with little to no experience, consider seeking legal advice from a lawyer.
Find a local lawyer
While many national law firms are open to taking personal injury claims in Tacoma, it is still better to go for an attorney who is based in your city. They will know the legal process and the various aspects of filing claims in Washington, which can be useful. Local lawyers already have connections, resources, and established relationships, and you don’t need to look for help from others.
Get an assessment – Without a fee
One of the initial steps before filing an injury claim is to determine the worth of your damages. What happened during and after the accident and whether you are at fault are some common factors that can impact the outcome. Your lawyer can check these details and give you a fair and transparent assessment. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay a consultation fee for these meetings, which means you can choose to meet more than one lawyer.
Know the state laws
Washington’s statute of limitations sets a three-year cap for personal injury lawsuits, including car accident cases. However, this doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute to initiate legal action. Always remember that swift action after an accident is critical for recovering evidence and obtaining witness statements. An attorney can explain these details and all relevant laws that need your attention.
No more documentation hassles
Another pertinent reason to look for an attorney is to ease legal steps. From filing the insurance claim to handling documentation and presenting evidence in the proper manner, the injury lawyer will take care of everything. Paperwork is often one of the most challenging tasks for victims.
In summary
If you choose to seek help from an experienced attorney, you still do not need to pay a retainer fee. It is typical for lawyers in Tacoma to work on personal injury cases on a contingency arrangement. You only pay after you recover money.